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It's getting more challenging with the prices of new vehicles rising to find an affordable new car or SUV, but it's not impossible. U.S. News compiled a list of the best new cars and SUV picks under $25,000 and found twenty models for new car shoppers.
U.S. News Autos cars listed here are ranked according to their overall score, considering the vehicle's performance, interior comfort and quality, safety, and reliability. In the case of a tie, they gave the nod to the model with the lower base price.
Subaru scored three new 2024 models, the Crosstrek subcompact SUV, Impreza compact hatchback, and Legacy midsize sedan. See if one is a good fit for you.
2024 Subaru Legacy - $24,895 | Overall Score: 7.7/10
2023 Toyota Corolla Cross - $23,610 | Overall Score: 7.7/10
2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid - $23,050 | Overall Score: 7.7/10
2024 Subaru Impreza - $22,995 | Overall Score: 7.7/10
2023 Kia Forte - $19,690 | Overall Score: 7.7/10
2024 Subaru Crosstrek - $24,995 | Overall Score: 7.8/10
2023 Nissan Kicks - $20,590 | Overall Score: 7.8/10
2023 Kia Rio - $16,750 | Overall Score: 7.8/10
2024 Honda HR-V - $24,100 | Overall Score: 7.9/10
2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer - $22,100 | Overall Score: 7.9/10
2023 Volkswagen Taos - $24,155 | Overall Score: 8.0/10
2023 Hyundai Elantra - $20,950 | Overall Score: 8.0/10
2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid - $24,550 | Overall Score: 8.2/10
2023 Ford Maverick - $22,595 | Overall Score: 8.2/10
2024 Kia Seltos - $24,390 | Overall Score: 8.4/10
2023 Hyundai Kona - $22,140 | Overall Score: 8.4/10
2023 Kia Soul - $19,890 | Overall Score: 8.5/10
2023 Mazda CX-30 - $22,950 | Overall Score: 8.6/10
2023 Mazda3 - $22,550 | Overall Score: 8.6/10
2023 Honda Civic - $23,750 | Overall Score: 8.7/10
What does U.S. News say about the new 2024 Crosstrek?
U.S. News says, "The Subaru Crosstrek subcompact crossover is fully redesigned for the 2024 model year, but it still has a starting price that sneaks in just under $25,000. The Crosstrek's redesign keeps its best attributes intact; the spacious and comfortable cabin, surefooted driving dynamics, and standard all-wheel drive.”
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"Like most new cars at this price point, the Crosstrek isn't particularly exciting to drive, but its confidence on the road is reassuring, particularly in inclement weather. Subaru also includes plenty of tech and safety features."
What does U.S. News say about the new 2024 Impreza?
"The Subaru Impreza is the brand's entry-level compact car. It's been fully redesigned for 2024 and is now available only as a hatchback. On the upside, Subaru's signature all-wheel drive system still comes standard.”
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"The most affordable versions of the Impreza come only with a 152-horsepower engine, which is lackluster in acceleration. However, the handling is balanced, the ride is smooth, and it's an excellent choice for commuting in all kinds of weather. This spacious and comfortable Subaru also features a user-friendly infotainment system."
What does U.S. News say about the new 2024 Legacy?
"The Subaru Legacy is a good car, though there are better ones. Its two main drawbacks are an underwhelming engine in the base trim that meets our budget cutoff and a menu-heavy infotainment system that can take some time to get used to."
"A couple of attributes help it stand out from the rest of the cars you're about to see, though. First, the Legacy is a midsize sedan. Most cars at this price point are compact or subcompact, so if you're looking for more space, the Legacy is worth a spot on your list. Second, the Legacy comes standard with all-wheel drive, which adds value immediately. Subaru also equips the Legacy with a long list of standard safety features.”
Related Story: The 2024 Subaru Legacy Configurator Is Now Live - Build Your New Model Here
Our take
The three Subaru models come standard with the automaker's Symmetrical all-wheel-drive system for all-weather performance. You won't pay extra for all-wheel-drive like many vehicles listed above.
The sporty Impreza RS is all-new for the 2024 model change and gets a new 2.5-liter engine for driving enthusiasts. It could be Subaru of America's best new model launch this year.
Like the Impreza, the Crosstrek gets a complete redesign and a new Crosstrek Wilderness trim level for outdoor enthusiasts. The Crosstrek is Subaru's most popular model because of its affordability and off-road prowess.
The Crosstrek is built on the Impreza platform, has an additional ground clearance of 8.7 inches (9.3 inches for Wilderness), and is designed for customers with the most active lifestyles.
New car and SUV shoppers have some excellent options under $25,000. Subaru has three all-wheel-drive models that are top picks. The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek and 2024 Subaru Impreza are the best for outdoor and driving enthusiasts.
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Denis Flierl brings over thirty years of combined auto industry and automotive journalism experience to Torque News readers. He is an accredited Rocky Mountain Automotive Press (RMAP) member. The last twelve years have been spent with Torque News, covering Subaru vehicles and the latest news. Check back daily for his expert Subaru analysis. You'll find the latest stories on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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Photo credit: Subaru
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