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How stingy can you get?
If you want the best fuel-stingy SUVs you can save money on right now, an updated ranking from Consumer Reports (by subscription) says the 2024 Subaru Forester and 2024 Subaru Crosstrek are the best choices. Note: This is the most recent information available from CR.
When you shop for a compact SUV, it's a buyer's market at Subaru now. You can read my report on why it's a perfect storm at Subaru here.
Consumer Reports says, "We ranked the vehicles by how good a deal they are, relative to the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP), by using the percentage of savings from the sticker price."
You can have it all.
I've listed the two best fuel-efficient SUVs selling under MSRP that Consumer Reports recommends. CR recommends Forester and Crosstrek because they scored well in performance, reliability, owner satisfaction, and safety, providing you with a reliable and satisfying driving experience.
The Forester and Crosstrek represent the best mainstream (non-luxury) SUV deals now, and they are selling under MSRP.
Subaru Forester
- Price Range: $27,095 - $37,395
- CR MPG: Overall 28 / City 20 / Highway 38 mpg
- #2 of 31 Compact SUVs
2024 Subaru Forester Premium
- MSRP: $30,295
- Average spent under MSRP: $479
- Average transaction price: $29,816
Subaru Crosstrek
- Price Range: $25,195 - $32,195
- CR MPG: Overall 29 / City 20 / Highway 41 mpg
- #1 of 13 Subcompact SUVs
2024 Subaru Crosstrek Premium AWD
- MSRP: $26,345
- Average spent under MSRP: $327
- Average transaction price: $26,018
It doesn't sound like a significant amount that the Forester and Crosstrek are selling under MSRP, $479 and $327, respectively, but this has not been seen in the two models' recent history.
It's good news for Forester and Crosstrek shoppers.
They are selling for less than MSRP now because Subaru's inventory has increased, and they have vehicles sitting on their lots. Subaru retailers need to move the models. And that's good news for shoppers now.
Read my report on why the Crosstrek is now one of CR's top ten SUVs you can buy now. Find out more in my report here.
What is the Forester MSRP?
The Forester has six trim levels: Base ($28,190), Premium ($31,390), Sport ($32,960), Limited ($35,070), Wilderness ($36,015), and Touring ($38,490). Pricing includes destination and dealer fees ($1,295).
What is the Crosstrek MSRP?
For 2024, the Crosstrek is available in Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Wilderness trim levels. The Base trim starts at $26,540.
The 2024 Crosstrek Premium has a starting price of $28,085, Sport ($30,935), and Limited ($32,440). The all-new Crosstrek Wilderness costs $33,540. Pricing includes destination and delivery fees ($1,345).
Why should you check out the Crosstrek and Forester?
The significant differences between the Forester and Crosstrek compared with the other small SUV competition is that they both come standard with:
- Subaru's Symmetrical all-wheel drive for all-weather performance
- X-Mode for severe weather
- Dual-function X-Mode on some trim levels for all-terrain capability
- 8.7 inches of ground clearance (9.2 and 9.3 on Forester and Crosstrek Wilderness)
- EyeSight driver assist safety technology and get top IIHS safety scores
- You can take them off-road because of their excellent balance and off-pavement features
It's important to note that you won't pay extra for the all-weather, all-terrain features. For the most active customers wanting to get further off the grid, you can learn more about Forester and Crosstrek Wilderness trims in my report here.
You really can have it all.
The 2024 Subaru Forester and 2024 Subaru Crosstrek are not only fuel-efficient but also affordable, making them a top recommendation by Consumer Reports. Choosing these models can help you save both gas and money, making them a smart investment for any potential SUV buyer.
Are you planning to buy an SUV this summer? What features of the Forester and Crosstrek are most appealing to you? Click the red 'Add New Comment' link below and share your thoughts with us. We'd love to hear from you.
I am Denis Flierl, a top Torque News reporter 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: Subaru
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