Consumer Reports’ 8 Best Small SUVs Under $30K - Subaru Crosstrek Is The Top Pick

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What is the best small SUV under $30,000? Consumer Reports says it's the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek. See why and if it's a good pick for you.

I recently covered the best new cars and SUVs under $30,000 and Subaru's two standout picks, Forester and Outback. But it did not include the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek. The Crosstrek is listed as the best of eight small SUV picks for buyers. 

Consumer Reports (by subscription) assembled a list of the best new SUVs under $30,000 based on their overall score, factoring in road-test performance, owner satisfaction, predicted reliability, and safety.

CR says the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek is a recommended model because it scored the highest in all categories. After the destination charge, taxes, and fees, its price is below $30,000.

The Subaru Crosstrek beats an impressive field of small SUVs. Here are the other seven models by CR that the Crosstrek beats. 

  1. Subaru Crosstrek
  2. Honda HR-V
  3. Hyundai Tucson
  4. Kia Seltos
  5. Mazda CX-30
  6. Nissan Rogue
  7. Toyota Corolla Cross
  8. Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid

Why does CR say the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek is the best small SUV?

CR says, "The Crosstrek got an evolutionary redesign for 2024. It's still essentially a raised Impreza hatchback with a comfortable ride and standard all-wheel drive. Acceleration from the standard 2.0-liter engine is leisurely, and we got 29 mpg overall in our tests." 

"The optional 2.5-liter has more power and better acceleration. When full power is needed, engine noise is pronounced, but the sound isn't a deal breaker. Responsive handling, user-friendly controls, and a practical interior round out the package." 

"Paddle shifters by the steering wheel allow convenient engine braking in mountainous environments. The newly optional driver power seat with adjustable lumbar support is a major upgrade. The EyeSight driver assistance system is now standard and includes AEB with pedestrian detection, although BSW and RCTW are available only on higher trims."

Consumer Reports says the 2024 Crosstrek is ranked the #1 of 14 Subcompact SUVs. 

What is the 2024 Crosstrek fuel mileage?

The remodeled 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Sport and Limited trims with the 2.5-liter get an EPA-estimated 26/33 city/highway mpg and 29 combined mpg. The 2024 Wilderness trim gets an EPA-estimated 25/29 city/highway mpg and 27 combined mpg. 

The 2024 Crosstrek Base and Premium trims with the 2.0-liter engine get an EPA-estimated 27/34 mpg and 29 combined mpg with the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) automatic.

What is the 2024 Crosstrek pricing?

For 2024, the Crosstrek will be available in Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Wilderness trim levels and 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).

What is the price of the Crosstrek Wilderness?

The all-new 2024 Crosstrek Wilderness costs $33,290, including dealer destination and delivery fees ($1,295).

My Take

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek outperforms the other top small SUVs because of its excellent Symmetrical all-wheel-drive and X-Mode system.

What does X-Mode do?

X-Mode optimizes engine output and transmission ratio, increases all-wheel drive system engagement, and uses enhanced control of the VDC system to reduce individual wheel spin, providing optimal traction on low-friction surfaces. Sport, Limited, and Wilderness models include dual-function X-Mode with a Deep Snow/Mud setting. 

If you have an active lifestyle and use your small SUV for more than a city commuter and grocery hauler, check out the next-generation 2024 Subaru Crosstrek. Consumer Reports says it's the number one pick for small SUV shoppers this fall and winter. 

Thanks for reading, everyone. I hope you enjoyed this Subaru Crosstrek story. See you tomorrow for my latest Subaru Report.

For additional articles related to the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek, here are a few of my top stories you may enjoy. 

My Must-Read Top Picks

Watch 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness Review and Off-Road Tests by Driving Sports TV

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.

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photo credit: Subaru USA