Is there a perfect used SUV under $25,000? I'll answer that question by describing where the 2021 Subaru Forester and the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek fit in your search.
There are many good choices for used SUV shoppers, but which one is the best? Toyota and Honda dominate the top four picks, which is not a surprise. Many are still on the road, and they are reliable models.
The 2021 Subaru Forester and the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek are also included in Kelley Blue Book's 10 Best Used SUVs Under $25,000. Forester is number five, and Crosstrek comes in the 8th spot. Are they the best picks?
Related Content: CR’s 9 Most Popular Used SUVs, Why Subaru Forester, Outback Are Your Best Picks Now
First, I've listed KBB's best used SUVs in order of their ranking.
What Are The Best Used SUVs Under $25,000?
- 2017 Toyota Highlander
- 2019 Honda Pilot
- 2019 Honda CR-V
- 2019 Toyota RAV4
- 2021 Subaru Forester
- 2021 Mazda CX-5
- 2020 Kia Telluride
- 2022 Subaru Crosstrek
- 2020 Hyundai Kona Electric
- 2019 Buick Enclave
What does KBB say about the #5 2021 Subaru Forester?
"The 2021 Subaru Forester is roomy for its size, comes standard with plenty of advanced safety features, and is rated at 33 mpg on the highway. The boxy profile makes for a spacious cargo area and plenty of headroom, while the 8.7 inches of ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive make easy work of snow or dirt roads."
What does KBB say about the #8 2022 Subaru Crosstrek?
"With impressive cargo space for its size, off-road capability, and a pet-friendly interior, the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek is a great choice for the outdoorsy set. It's practical, too, with impressive safety scores and standard safety features. For our money, consider the Sport or the fully loaded Limited.
Related Forester and Crosstrek Story: The 13 Most Reliable SUVs Under $30K, Why Subaru Forester, Crosstrek Get Top Rankings
Why Are the Subaru Forester and Crosstrek the best picks?
For the most active used SUV shoppers, the Forester and Crosstrek are standouts.
Both models come standard with Subaru's excellent Symmetrical all-wheel-drive technology. This technology has evolved over fifty years and works best in severe weather. You don't need to go off-road to take advantage of it.
A higher ride height (8.7 inches) means the driver and passenger can get in and out easily, and you'll have a better view of the road than the other models listed above.
Are you looking for a safe SUV? Look no further. The Forester and Crosstrek achieved the top safety scores with the IIHS.
The Boxer engine sits low in the chassis. Both Subaru SUVs have superior driving dynamics in situations when you need to make a quick maneuver. In spite of their taller ride heights, the two models are extremely stable vehicles.
Are they the best picks?
For active customers who need a safe, reliable small SUV, they are the top picks for used car shoppers.
Subaru Reveals Plans For New Rugged Models By Filing 12 U.S. Patents @SubaruReport @torquenewsautohttps://t.co/k6JsLOBi29#subaru #outback #forester #crosstrek #trailhead #trailseeker #highroad #outsider pic.twitter.com/4EWrArXh9T
— Denis Flierl (@DenisFlierl) March 20, 2024
In other Subaru News, Check out Subaru Reveals Plans For New Rugged Models By Filing 12 U.S. Patents.
Thanks for reading, everyone. See you tomorrow for my latest Subaru Report story.
I am Denis Flierl, a top Torque News and Subaru reporter since 2012. I've invested over 30 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 The Dirty Subaru website, Dirty Subaru blog, X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.
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