13 Most Reliable SUVs Under $30K, Why Subaru Forester, Crosstrek Get Top Rankings

Does Subaru make reliable vehicles? According to a new report from U.S. News and J.D. Power data, the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek and 2024 Forester are among the top picks, and you don't need to spend more than $30,000. 

I cover all Subaru reliability rankings, and the Crosstrek subcompact SUV and Forester compact SUV are consistent top picks from Consumer Reports. I will show you what J.D. Power says about the new Forester and then what a global award says about it. I will also explain what sets the SUVs apart from the rest.  

Related Story: CR’s 10 Most Reliable Fuel-Stingy Used Compact SUVs And Subaru’s 3 Winning Picks

The SUVs have the highest predicted reliability scores among models that cost less than $30,000. Each pick has a J.D. Power score in the 80s or above. Based on predicted reliability scores, I've listed the SUVs from lowest to highest and included each model's base price.

Most Reliable 2024 model year SUVs Under $30,000 

• Mazda CX-5: $29,300 | J.D. Power Reliability Score: 82/100
• Honda HR-V: $24,600 | J.D. Power Reliability Score: 82/100
• Hyundai Kona: $24,250 | J.D. Power Reliability Score: 82/100
• Subaru Crosstrek: $25,195 | J.D. Power Reliability Score: 83/100
• Kia Sportage: $27,190 | J.D. Power Reliability Score: 83/100
• Kia Sportage Hybrid: $28,590| J.D. Power Reliability Score: 83/100
• Subaru Forester: $27,095 | J.D. Power Reliability Score: 84/100
• Hyundai Venue: $19,900 | J.D. Power Reliability Score: 85/100
• Buick Encore GX: $25,600 | J.D. Power Reliability Score: 87/100
• Kia Seltos: $24,490 | J.D. Power Reliability Score: 87/100
• Kia Soul: $20,190 | J.D. Power Reliability Score: 87/100
• GMC Terrain: $28,700 | J.D. Power Reliability Score: 88/100
• Chevrolet Equinox: $26,600 | J.D. Power Reliability Score: 90/100

What does J.D. Power say about the Crosstrek?

"Subaru redesigned the Crosstrek for the 2024 model year, giving it a fresh face and updated features. This subcompact SUV has standard all-wheel drive, so it's excellent for drivers needing a vehicle with solid traction on slick roads. The cabin has adult-friendly seating in both rows. With 54.7 cubic feet of maximum cargo room, the Crosstrek has excellent cargo capacity for a subcompact hauler."

"The base engine is weak, so we recommend upgrading to the optional 182-horsepower four-cylinder. Subaru backs the 2024 Crosstrek with a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.”

Related Content: 5 Reasons Why The Subaru Crosstrek Is Your Best Used SUV Pick Under $25K

What does J.D. Power say about the Forester?

"Standard all-wheel drive makes the Forester ideal for drivers who live in parts of the country that get lots of rain, ice, or snow. This compact SUV has a relaxed ride and confident driving dynamics. Its four-cylinder engine gets the job done in city driving but loses steam on the highway and makes a ruckus under heavy throttle."

"With 74.2 cubic feet of maximum cargo room, the Forester is at the front of its class regarding cargo capacity. All models have a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.”

CR’s 10 Compact SUVs With The Most Cargo Space - Subaru Forester Is 5th Best @SubaruReport @torquenewsauto https://t.co/oBR3OwSbC8#subaru #forester #subaruforester #foresterwilderness pic.twitter.com/Jl1cKcxgKI
— Denis Flierl (@DenisFlierl) March 22, 2024

Forester Gets A Global Award

Another prestigious global ranking comes from Subaru Russia, which announced that the 2024 Forester is the reliability leader among all vehicles sold in Russia. 

Taking into account parallel imports, the Subaru Forester compact SUV was recognized as the most reliable car of the year in Russia among all car brands represented in the country.

The study "Ratings of the Auto of the Year in Russia" occurred from October 20, 2023, to February 29, 2024. The announcement says, "In surveys, respondents chose the best car models based on their key consumer qualities. The "Ratings" project is not just statistics but a deep reflection of consumers and an important information source for all car enthusiasts."

Forester And Crosstrek Are Best For Outdoor Enthusiasts

In my twenty years of covering Subaru, there are other things new SUV shoppers should know.

The 2024 Subaru Forester and Crosstrek are a top choice for used SUV shoppers because, in addition to being affordable, the small SUVs come with: 

• Subaru's excellent Symmetrical all-wheel-drive for all-weather capability 
• 8.7 inches of ground clearance
• X-Mode for severe weather performance 
• Dual-function X-Mode on some trims for all-terrain capability
• Wilderness trim levels for getting further off the grid 

The Crosstrek and Forester are designed for the most active customers who want to get off the beaten path this spring and summer. Both Subaru models are the best small SUVs for outdoor enthusiasts.

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.

Photo credit: Subaru