7 New Subaru Models You Can Buy For Less Than $30,000

Which are the most affordable new Subaru models?

A new report from Edmunds says that affordability concerns among American car shoppers aren't going away anytime soon. The report says that nearly half of new-car shoppers want to spend less than $35,000. It's getting harder, but you can find affordable new Subaru all-wheel-drive vehicles under $30,000.

What customers want:

"Among new-car shoppers surveyed by Edmunds, 48 percent said they'd like to spend $35,000 or less on their next vehicle. Fourteen percent said they'd like to spend $20,000 or less on their next vehicle," says Edmunds.

The market reality: 

According to Edmunds data, the average transaction price for a new vehicle was $47,716 in July 2024, and there were nearly zero new vehicle transactions under the $20,000 mark. 

Here are the Subaru models and trim levels that are available for under $30,000. I've also included two more Subaru models and trims that are close to $30,000. 

2024 Subaru Crosstrek

• Base trim - $26,540
• Premium trim - $28,085

2024 Subaru Impreza

• Base trim - $24,115
• Sport trim - $26,510
• RS trim - $29,005

2025 Subaru Legacy

• Base trim - $26,065
• Premium trim - $28,365

Here are two more new 2025 model-year Subaru all-wheel-drive vehicles and trim levels close to $30,000. 

2025 Subaru Outback

• Base trim $30,315

2025 Subaru Forester

• Base trim - $31,115

Note: If you choose the Subaru Base trim level, it lacks some key features you may want. For complete details, check out my report here. 

U.S. News says, "Though new cars are more expensive, on average, than ever before, there are still plenty of budget-conscious options on the market. Before deciding you can't afford a new vehicle, check out our picks for the best crossovers and SUVs that can be purchased for less than $30,000."

In the U.S. News best SUVs under $30,000, they pick the 2025 Subaru Forester and 2024 Subaru Crosstrek.

What does U.S. News say about the 2025 Forester?

"The Subaru Forester is fully redesigned for the 2025 model year and still manages to sneak in just under the $30,000 mark ($29,695). You'll be limited to the base Standard trim, but that's fine since Subaru loads the Forester with features, including a ton of standard advanced safety tech."

"The redesigned Forester is even more spacious and comfortable than the previous generation, improving upon its reputation for impressive cargo capacity and passenger accommodations."

"Every Forester comes standard with Subaru's great all-wheel-drive setup, as well as a continuously variable transmission and a four-cylinder engine."

It's important to note that U.S. News did not include the destination and delivery fees ($1,420), bringing the Forester Base trim level MSRP to $31,115. 

What does U.S. News say about the 2024 Crosstrek?

"With a $30,000 budget, you can afford three of the five trim levels in the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek lineup. That is the base and Premium models, with a 152-horsepower four-cylinder engine, and the Sport, with a much-appreciated upgrade to 182 horsepower."

"All Crosstrek models come standard with all-wheel drive and Subaru's EyeSight package of advanced safety and driver-assistance technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, adaptive headlights with automatic high beams, and forward automatic emergency braking."

"The 2024 Crosstrek earns a position in the upper tier of our subcompact SUV rankings. It offers a five-seat cabin with decent room for passengers and ample space for cargo. Base-trim models have a dual-screen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Higher trims get an 11.6-inch touch screen."

Edmunds says even as the new and used vehicle markets continue to normalize, car shoppers are still facing historically harsh purchasing conditions, and those returning to showrooms for the first time in years will likely experience significant sticker shock. 

"In response, consumers are likely being forced into making trade-offs such as selecting a different brand of vehicle, an older vehicle, or a different-sized vehicle unless they allocate more to their vehicle budget, which isn't always feasible.," says Edmunds.

Subaru's all-wheel-drive vehicles continue to be among the most affordable new models for customers looking to stay under or near the $30,000 mark. The new Subaru Crosstrek, Forester, Outback, Impreza, and Legacy offer unbeatable value for money, especially if you need an all-wheel-drive vehicle. 

Are you considering purchasing a new Subaru model this year? If so, we'd love to hear from you. Click the red Add New Comment link below and share your thoughts with the community.

I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Writer since 2012. I’ve invested over 13 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 X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: New York Auto Show