You don't have to stop doing fun things.
Just because a new baby is on the way or has just arrived, it doesn't mean you have to give up the fun things you did before. With some adjustment and acclimation to your new baby, you can still buckle them up in your new small SUV and continue exploring.
Newsweek has announced its best new vehicles for your lifestyle: New Parents Awards. Among the ten top picks, two hot Subaru models stand out—the all-new Subaru Crosstrek and the redesigned Subaru Forester, designed to cater to the needs of active new parents like you.
I'll explain why they are the best for the most active new parents. But first, here are Newsweek's top ten best models this year. All are 2024 model-year vehicles except for the new next-gen 2025 Forester. It just arrived at retailers. Check out my report here.
- Honda CR-V - 8.5
- Honda HR-V - 7.7
- Toyota Prius Prime - 7.6
- Subaru Crosstrek - 7.5
- Nissan Rogue - 7.5
- Volvo CX40 Recharge - 7.4
- Hyundai Ioniq 5 - 7.3
- Ford Maverick - 7.3
- Subaru Forester - 7.1
- Lincoln Corsair - 7.1
What does Newsweek say about the 2024 Crosstrek?
"With ample passenger and cargo space and standard all-wheel drive, the Subaru Crosstrek ticks many boxes for New Parents. It also wins points for being able to go a particularly long distance between fill-ups and being easily equipped with a rooftop storage box. Subaru's driver assistance and safety technology suite helps families get from Point A to Point B safely. And, it starts at just a budget-friendly smidge over $25,000."
2024 Crosstrek pricing.
The Crosstrek is available in Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Wilderness trim levels. The base model starts at $26,540.
The 2024 Crosstrek Premium starts at $28,085, Sport ($30,935), and Limited ($32,440). Wilderness costs $33,540. It's important to note that these prices include destination and delivery fees ($1,345), which are standard across all models.
Read my new report on why the Crosstrek retains its value best among all small SUVs here.
What does Newsweek say about the 2025 Forester?
"Long known for producing some of the safest vehicles on the market, the newly redesigned Subaru Forester continues that legacy. It comes standard with all-wheel drive and a long list of safety and driver assist technology. It has 8.7 inches of ground clearance for going over rough terrain while the 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto."
I would add, Subaru's safety technology provides you with the confidence and security you need as a new parent.
2025 Forester pricing.
The 2025 Forester comes in five trim levels: Base ($31,090), Premium ($33,390), Sport ($35,890), Limited ($37,390), and Touring ($38,490). Pricing includes destination and dealer fees ($1,395).
The 2024 Forester Wilderness carries over with a starting price of $36,265. Destination and Delivery ($1,345)
Speaking of Wilderness.
If you want to get further away from the city and off the grid, check out the all-new Crosstrek Wilderness vs. Forester Wilderness in my report here. These models are not just for driving, they are for embarking on exciting adventures, designed for the most active new parents.
Both models come with features that set them apart from the models above in this report.
Here are nine things that set it far apart from the competition.
- Off-Road Wheels with All-Terrain Tires
- Subaru 2.5-liter Boxer engine and revised drivetrain gearing
- 9.3 Inches of ground clearance for Crosstrek, 9.2 inches for Forester
- Standard dual-function X-Mode provides settings that can optimize traction for varying conditions, including dirt, deep snow, and mud.
- 3,500-pound towing capacity Crosstrek, 3,000 lbs Forester
- Standard roof rails for carrying additional gear up top
- Anti-Glare hood design
- Water-Repellent StarTex upholstery
- Subaru Starlink multimedia with standard 11.6-inch touchscreen
Subaru of America offers the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek and all-new 2025 Forester SUVs for new parents who are outdoor enthusiasts. They are different from every other vehicle on the top models listed above. If you are looking to keep your active lifestyle, check them out.
I am Denis Flierl, a top Torque News reporter since 2012. I’ve invested over 13 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role, working with every major car brand. I am an experienced Rocky Mountain Automotive Press member. You'll find my expert Subaru analysis here. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.
Photo credit: Competition Subaru