Skip to main content

11 Best SUVs For Short Drivers, Why Subaru Outback Is The Best New Pick, Forester The Best Used Model

What are the best SUVs for shorter drivers? Here is the updated list from KBB. They say the 2024 Subaru Outback and 2019-2022 Forester are among the best. See why they are the best.  
2024 Subaru Outback

Kelley Blue Book (KBB) lists the best Cars and SUVs for shorter drivers. KBB says the 2024 Subaru Outback midsize SUV and the 2019-2022 Forester compact SUV are among the best new and used models, respectively. I will explain why and give five reasons why the two Subaru models are the best. 

KBB's experts say, "Most of our picks only offer some of our sought-after features. Instead, each brings multiple ones. We put a big emphasis on seating height. Most drivers appreciate the higher seating position of SUVs. From our experience, shorter drivers fall within that majority. So, you will find that most of our listed picks are SUVs." 

First, I will only list KBB's SUVs since most buyers are looking for one that offers more utility. I will rank them from the best. All are 2024 model year vehicles. Then, keep reading, and we'll look at the best-used SUVs for shorter drivers.

  1. Hyundai Santa Fe
  2. Honda CR-V
  3. Nissan Rogue 
  4. Mazda CX-30
  5. Kia Soul
  6. Chevrolet Equinox
  7. Subaru Outback
  8. Volkswagen Taos

What does KBB say about the 2024 Subaru Outback?

  • Best Value for Short People: $33,940 (Premium trim + Option Pkg OP13)
  • Starting Price: $30,240 | Expert Rating: 4.6
  • Combined Fuel Economy: 26 mpg

"Because it's more than a wagon but not quite an SUV, the Subaru Outback defies being pigeonholed. Although the Outback is a solid pick for this list, we'd pony up the extra cash for the Premium grade. We like Outback's standard all-wheel drive, a rich group of standard driver aids, and impressive fuel economy. Granted, the 8.7-inch ground clearance makes its step-in higher than a regular passenger car, but it does come with grab handles. Other standard features include automatic climate control, LED headlights, remote keyless entry, a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto."

Related Content: Consumer Reports Best Cars For Short Drivers - 3 Subaru Models Are Top In Class

"From our recommended list, the base trim level includes an elevated ride height, solid visibility, a manually adjusted driver's seat with height adjustment, and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel with system controls. Opting for the Premium trim adds a 10-way power-adjustable driver'sdriver's seat. Tacking on the OP 13 option package with the hands-free power liftgate, blind-spot monitoring, and more will set you back another $1,400."

Next, let's look at the best-used SUVs recommended by KBB. I have listed them from the best first.

  1. 2019-2022 Subaru Forester
  2. 2018-2021 GMC Yukon
  3. 2018-2020 Audi SQ5

What does KBB say about the 2019-2022 Subaru Forester?

  • Price Range: $19,000-$30,000 | Expert Rating: 4.3-4.6
  • Combined Fuel Economy: 29 mpg

KBB's experts say, "Subaru did a total Forester redesign for 2019. Every Forester comes with AWD, yet it still gets an estimated 29 mpg in combined city/highway driving. Moreover, we like Forester for its interior room, smooth ride, and affordable Price. We recommend sticking with the Limited grade, which our pricing reflects. It comes with steering-responsive auto on-off LED headlights, an 8-inch touchscreen, dual-zone automatic climate control, and keyless entry with push-button start."

"Among our recommended features are an elevated seating position, solid visibility, a power liftgate, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel with system controls, and a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat."

Here is why I think the Outback and the Forester are the best picks for shorter drivers of all the models listed. 

1. Both models come standard with Subaru's excellent all-wheel drive. You won't pay extra for its all-weather performance. 

2. Both SUVs come standard with Subaru's X-Mode for extreme weather performance, so you won't be stuck on the side of the road in the snow.

3. Both models have 8.7 inches of ground clearance and a higher ride height. Shorter drivers will be able to slide in and out more easily than taller and bigger SUVs. 

4. Both SUVs have a Boxer engine that sits lower in the engine compartment. That means the hood is lower, and shorter drivers will have a better view of the road. 

5. Subaru vehicles are affordable. Subaru is a value brand, and you won't pay luxury car prices, as some are considerably more expensive on KBB's list. 

Thanks for reading, everyone. I hope you enjoyed this Subaru Outback and Forester report. See you tomorrow for my latest Subaru Report.

SUBARU NEWS

The 2021 Subaru Forester and the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek are included in Kelley Blue Book's 10 Best Used SUVs Under $25,000. Are they the best picks? Check out the answer here.

How much cargo and luggage space does the 2024 Subaru Outback and Ascent have? An updated study compares the Outback and Ascent with other 2-and-3-Row SUVs. Check out the best models here.

What are the best SUVs for seniors? Kelley Blue ranks all new models and says the 2024 Subaru Ascent is among the best new models, and the Subaru Forester is the best used SUV. Find out all the models here.

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.

I’ve got you covered! - I cover all Subaru all the time. 

Please leave your comments below, share the article with friends, and post X to your followers! 

Photo credit: Tucson Subaru

Automotive News
Subaru
Subaru Forester News
Subaru Outback News and Reviews