Which are the best small SUVs for used car shoppers for about $25,000? An updated ranking from Consumer Reports (by subscription) says the 2019 to 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is the top pick, and for a bit more, the 2022-2023 Crosstrek should be on your list. Keep reading, and I will explain why it's your best choice among all the top models.
The vehicles listed below performed well in the Consumer Report's road tests when they were new and had consistent above-average reliability for multiple years, according to our surveys of CR members. They are recommended because they are reliable, affordable, and equipped with modern safety features.
CR's Best Small SUVs $20,000 to $25,000
What does CR say about the 2019-2021 Subaru Crosstrek?
CR says, "This generation of the Crosstrek is quiet, has a smooth ride, and got 29 mpg overall in our tests. Look for a model with the optional EyeSight suite of advanced safety systems."
Other Good Choices
- Acura RDX 2016-2018
- BMW X3 2018
- Buick Envision 2019-2020
- Cadillac XT5 2019
- Honda CR-V 2019-2020
- Honda HR-V 2021-2022
- Kia Sportage 2021-2022
- Lexus NX 2016-2017
- Lexus NX 2019
- Mazda CX-30 2022-2023
- Mazda CX-5 2021-2022
- Toyota RAV4 2020
- Toyota RAV4 Hybrid 2018
- Volvo XC40 2019-2020
CR’s 10 Most Reliable Fuel-Stingy Used Compact SUVs And Subaru’s 3 Winning Picks @SubaruReport @torquenewsauto#subaru #crosstrek #crosstrekhybrid #foresterhttps://t.co/wopcEMQPaX
— Denis Flierl (@DenisFlierl) February 16, 2024
CR's Best Small SUVs, $25,000 to $30,000, listed alphabetically
- Acura RDX 2020
- Buick Envision 2020
- Honda CR-V 2021-2022
- Honda HR-V 2023
- Lexus NX 2019-2020
- Lexus NX Hybrid 2019
- Lexus UX 2020-2021
- Mazda CX-5 2023
- Subaru Crosstrek 2022-2023
- Toyota RAV4 Hybrid 2017-2018
- Toyota RAV4 2021-2022
- Volvo XC40 2021
MY TAKE
There are five reasons why the 2019-2023 Subaru Crosstrek is a top choice for used SUV shoppers and is the best choice this winter.
- It's fuel efficient
- Crosstrek comes with Subaru's excellent Symmetrical all-wheel-drive for winter-weather capability
- 8.7 inches of ground clearance
- X-Mode for severe weather performance
- Dual-function X-Mode on Sport and Limited trims for all-terrain capability
The Crosstrek is designed for the most active customers who want to avoid sitting home on the weekends when the snow flies. The Subaru Crosstrek is the best small SUV pick for outdoor enthusiasts.
The One Subaru Hot Hatch That’s Selling Under MSRP @SubaruReport @torquenewsauto#subaru #impreza #subaruimpreza #imprezasport #imprezarshttps://t.co/EEx6gWYhC5
— Denis Flierl (@DenisFlierl) February 18, 2024
Consumer Reports says the 2019-2023 Subaru Crosstrek is ranked the #1 subcompact SUV among all small SUVs.
Thanks for reading, everyone. I hope you enjoyed the used Subaru Crosstrek story. See you tomorrow for my latest Subaru Report.
For additional articles related to new Subaru models, here are a few of my top stories you may enjoy.
My Must-Read Top Picks
- New Subaru Crosstrek, WRX Are The Best Residual Value Picks Again
- CR’s 6 Best Used 2-Row SUVs And Why Subaru Outback Is The Top Pick
- Subaru’s Surprise Winner And Its 6 Losers To Start The New Year
Watch 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Review - Crossover or Lifted Impreza?
I am Denis Flierl, a 12-year Torque News senior writer with 20+ years of Subaru and automotive journalism experience. I enjoy bringing you, the Subaru fans and customers, the most up-to-date Subaru news, reviews, and new model information. You'll find the latest Subaru stories on the Subaru page. Follow me on my The Dirty Subaru website, Dirty Subaru blog, SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.
I’ve got you covered! - I cover all Subaru all the time - It’s called the “Subaru Report.” Check back daily for my expert Subaru analysis!
Please leave your comments below, share the article with friends, and post X to your followers!
photo credit: Subaru USA