Skip to main content

The 5 Best New SUVs For College Students - Subaru Crosstrek Checks That Box Too

What are the best new and used SUVs for college students? Kelley Blue Book (KBB) says the Subaru Crosstrek checks both boxes. Check out the Crosstrek report here.

What are the five best new SUVs for college students? Kelley Blue Book says the Subaru Crosstrek is among the top new models you can buy this year. KBB also says the 2016-2018 Subaru Crosstrek is the best used SUV for college students under $20,000.

KBB’s five best new SUVs for college students are the Honda HR-V, followed by the Subaru Crosstrek, Kia Seltos, Kia Kona, and Kia Soul.

What does KBB say about the Crosstrek?

2023 Subaru Crosstrek best for college students

“Subaru’s go-anywhere Crosstrek comes standard with all-wheel drive (AWD). While the Crosstrek comes with a 6-speed manual transmission, spending an extra $1,350 to get the continuously variable transmission (CVT) adds some key safety features. The CVT-equipped Crosstrek also has a system where you can choose between optimizing fuel economy or power. When equipped with the CVT, fuel economy is better, too. The combined mileage is 30 mpg, compared to 25 mpg with the manual.”

KBB’s best used SUVs for college students under $20,000.

KBB says the 2015 Mazda CX-5 is the top used SUV pick under $20,000, followed by the 2014-2016 Toyota RAV4, 2015-2016 Honda CR-V, 2016-2018 Subaru Crosstrek, 2017-2019 Kia Soul, and 2015-2019 Honda Fit.

2016-2018 Subaru Crosstrek

What does KBB say about the 2016-2018 Crosstrek?

“In 2016, the Subaru Crosstrek dropped the “XV” from its name and received updated styling. This subcompact SUV has impressive ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive, a combination that’s tailor-made for weekend adventure as well as all-season safety. Adding to the safety quotient is the Crosstrek’s Top Safety Pick+ rating for the 2016 and 2018 model years, along with a Top Safety Pick rating for 2017, its available blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert, and EyeSight safety tech. In addition, its diminutive size makes parking on campus or in the city easy. The Crosstrek was all-new for 2018, so seek out this year for standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, more safety features, and more refinement.”

Should you wait for the next-gen 2024 Subaru Crosstrek?

If you can wait, the 2024 Crosstrek will be worth standing by. The Crosstrek gets a complete redesign from the ground up. It will come with improved ride quality, the next-generation EyeSight safety technology, new interior upgrades with more comfortable seats, and new exterior styling changes.

The most rugged and trail-capable Crosstrek Wilderness will be available with an upgraded suspension, all-terrain tires, more prominent wheel arch cladding, a metal front skid plate, unique hex-design LED fog lights, and anti-glare hood decal in a matte-black finish.

What is the price of the 2024 Crosstrek?

The 2024 Crosstrek Base has a starting price of $26,290 (the same MSRP as the 2023 Base model equipped with the Lineartronic CVT automatic transmission).
The 2024 Crosstrek Premium has a starting price of $27,440, Sport ($30,290), and Limited ($32,190). Pricing includes destination and delivery fees ($1,225).

The all-new 2024 Crosstrek Wilderness costs $33,290, including dealer destination and delivery fees.

What are the best new SUVs for college students? Kelley Blue Book says the Subaru Crosstrek is among the five best new SUVs, and the 2016-2018 Crosstrek is among the best used SUVs under $20,000. So the Crosstrek checks both boxes.

You Might Also Like: The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Configurator is Now Live For Customers

Denis Flierl has invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role working with every major car brand. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. Check out Subaru Report, where he covers all of the Japanese automaker's models. More stories can be found on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Subaru Report - We’ve got you covered! Check back tomorrow for more unique, informative SUBARU news, reviews, and previews you can trust.

Leave your comments below, share the article with friends, and tweet it out to your followers!

Photo credit: Subaru USA