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What is the best small SUV under $30,000 you can buy this year? According to Consumer Reports (by subscription) recent tests and surveys, the 2022 Subaru Forester is ranked number one overall for its fuel mileage and top safety scores and costs less than the average new car today.
Consumer Reports says Forester is the top choice because the small SUV offers good road-test performance, reliability, and owner satisfaction. The Forester scores number one compact SUV of twenty-two models with a top score of 90, outscoring the top-selling Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. The scores are based on CR's most recent tests and owner surveys.
Consumer Reports says, "This popular small SUV delivers a combination of 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 yielded best-in-class fuel economy."
The Forester is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. A CVT automatic is the only transmission offered. Is there a downside to the Forester? CR says, "acceleration isn't exhilarating, and the engine's noise isn't the most pleasant."
CR says, "The cabin is roomy, with a particularly generous rear seat and easy access. The simple controls include an infotainment system compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay."
What is the price of the 2022 Subaru Forester?
Even with the recent price increase, Forester is affordable. The 2022 Forester comes in six trim levels; The Base trim starts at $27,070, Premium ($30,070), Sport ($31,640), Limited ($33,750), new Wilderness ($34,695), and Touring ($37,170). Pricing includes destination and delivery fees ($1,175).
What is the 2022 Forester fuel mileage?
The refreshed 2022 Subaru Forester compact SUV comes with standard all-wheel drive and gets an EPA estimated 29 combined mpg and 26/33 city/highway mpg. A 2.5-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine powers the Forester.
Subaru Crosstrek and Legacy also score among the top new models
Consumer Reports says the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek is also a top pick in the small SUV category under $30,000. The 2022 Subaru Legacy scores the best midsize car under $30,000 in the latest rankings.
Should customers wait for the 2023 Subaru Forester?
There will be price increases on all 2023 Subaru Forester models because of the rise in supply and parts costs. Look for the 2023 Forester to get about a $600 price increase across all trim levels.
Wait for the 2024 Subaru Forester
If customers wait, the 2024 Subaru Forester compact SUV gets a complete remodel with the exterior, interior, and possible engine upgrades. Stay tuned.
You Might Also Like: Subaru Owners Reveal The New Model They Love Most And One They Like The Least
Denis Flierl has invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role working with every major car brand. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. Check out Subaru Report where he covers all of the Japanese automaker's models. More stories can be found on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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Comments
I owned a Subaru Forester
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I owned a Subaru Forester 2016. It was a nice vehicle for few years but within 4 years with only slightly over 60K miles when warranty was expired, all the heat shields started rattling making horrible noise. I took it to dealer they said front axel need to be replaced which cost more than $2,500. Then now the wheel bearing were making load noise and changing two of them cost more than $900. I found the material and durability of Suburu 2016 Forester is low quality. I asked my mechanic if this is common in Subaru Forester. He said they have lots of similar complaints in this brand of vehicle. The vehicle has only 82k miles on it but I have spent lots of money already on it and now decided to trade in soon and will never buy a Subaru again!!
I have always loved my
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I have always loved my Subarus until I bought a 2016 with the CVT transmission. To me, the slow acceleration is a safety issue. Also, buyers need to know that a new transmission cost almost $8,000 to replace. On $27,000 car, this is not a feasible expense. Lucky for me, my transmission was fixed by the lower valve body being replaced for $1,600. However, it is sluggish and just doesn't seem right. I'm surprised it was voted number 1 by consumer reports. Due to a costly transmission that is not holding up, it definitely is weird. I also know a couple of people whose transmission have done the same thing as mine. They also feel their cars do not run like they did before. . Although I feel Subaru has some great features I love, sadly the CVT transmission has me looking elsewhere for my next car. ☹️