Consumer Reports 9 Most Popular New SUVs - It Now Includes Subaru’s Hottest Model

What are the most popular new SUVs you can buy today? Consumer Reports (by subscription) has nine of the most researched new models hot with new car shoppers. The vehicles here represent the top car model pages on CR.org. 

A previous CR ranking included two of Subaru of America's (SOA) SUVs, among the best-selling vehicles in its all-wheel-drive lineup. They are the 2023 Subaru Forester compact SUV and the 2023 Subaru Outback midsize SUV. But they surprisingly left out SOA's number-one selling SUV, the hot Subaru Crosstrek subcompact SUV.

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CR now includes Subaru of America's most popular and all-new remodeled 2024 Subaru Crosstrek in an updated ranking. 

Many of these models sit at the top of CR's vehicle rating charts because of their high Overall Score, which means they've scored well in their road tests, have good reliability, come with critical active safety features, and performed well in crash tests.

Here are the ten most popular new cars and SUVs on CR.org. The vehicles are listed in order of popularity, with the most researched model at the top.

The most popular model is the Honda CR-V, followed by the Subaru Forester at number two, and the Subaru Outback is number three. The Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V Hybrid, Toyota Highlander, Mazda CX-5, Subaru Crosstrek, Kia Telluride, and Toyota Camry (not an SUV) follow them.

What does CR say about the number two most popular new SUV, the Subaru Forester?

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"This popular compact SUV combines a roomy interior, excellent visibility, commendable fuel economy, simple controls, a comfortable ride, and responsive handling. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder combined with the continuously variable automatic transmission yields 28 mpg, among the best in class."

"But acceleration isn't exhilarating, and the engine's noise isn't the most pleasant. The cabin is roomy, with a remarkably generous rear seat and easy access. The controls are simple to use, including an infotainment system compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. "

The 2023 Forester is sold out, new 2024 pricing has been announced, and new models will arrive this fall. What is the price of the 2024 Subaru Forester?

All 2024 Forester trim levels increased by $770 in price, including destination and delivery. The Forester comes in six trim levels: The Base Forester starts at $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 does CR say about the number three most popular new SUV, the Subaru Outback? 

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"Subaru's Outback is a smart alternative to an SUV. Although lower than a typical SUV, it can easily haul long items. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder does the job but can feel strained when quicker speed is needed. The optional 260-hp, 2.4-liter turbo engine transforms the wagon with effortless acceleration. The ride is very comfortable, and handling is responsive and secure."

"Some tasks through the large infotainment screen require more than one step, but the system is slow to respond to inputs. Thoughtful details, such as built-in crossbars and a dual-position cargo cover, are nice touches. The Wilderness model has a higher ground clearance."

The 2024 Subaru Outback pricing has been announced, and new models arrive this fall. What is the price of the 2024 Subaru Outback?

For the 2024 model year, the Outback will be available in nine trim levels. The Base is priced at $30,190, Premium ($32,490), Onyx Edition ($37,400), Limited ($37,090), Touring ($41,640), Onyx Edition XT ($40,655), Wilderness ($41,255), Limited XT ($41,490), and Touring XT ($44,090). In addition, destination and delivery fees are included in the price above ($1,295).

What does CR say about the number eight most popular new SUV, the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek? 

"The Crosstrek got an evolutionary redesign for 2024. The EyeSight driver assistance system is now standard and includes AEB with pedestrian detection, although BSW and RCTW are available only on higher trims. It's still essentially a raised Impreza hatchback with a comfortable ride and standard all-wheel drive, responsive handling, user-friendly controls, and a practical interior round out the package. Acceleration from the standard 2.0-liter engine is leisurely; the optional 2.5-liter has more oomph. Engine noise is pronounced with strong acceleration but isn't a deal breaker."

What is the price of the 2024 Crosstrek?

For 2024, the Crosstrek is 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). The Crosstrek Wilderness costs $33,290, including dealer destination and delivery fees ($1,295). The Wilderness trim arrives this winter.

Consumer Reports says the 2023 Subaru Forester, 2023 Subaru Outback, and now the all-new 2024 Subaru Crosstrek are three of the nine most popular new SUVs representing CR.org's top car model pages.

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Denis Flierl brings over thirty years of combined auto industry and automotive journalism experience to Torque News readers. He is an accredited Rocky Mountain Automotive Press (RMAP) member. The last twelve years have been spent with Torque News, covering Subaru vehicles and the latest news. Check back daily for his expert Subaru analysis. You'll find the latest stories on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 

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