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What are the best SUVs under $30,000? According to an updated Consumer Reports scoring (by subscription), the 2023 Subaru Forester and 2023 Subaru Crosstrek are now the number one and number two best SUVs in their latest ratings.
Why are the Subaru Forester and Crosstrek ranked so high by Consumer Reports? They are CR's top two choices because they offer good performance, are safe, and are fuel-efficient. Reliability is a critical factor in the Consumer Reports' scoring.
Consumer Reports' nine best SUVs under $30,000
In order of ranking from best to last, CR says the 2023 Subaru Forester is still the best under $30,000, with a score of 87 points. The 2023 Crosstrek is second-best with 84 points. They are followed by the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid (83), Nissan Rogue (81), Kia Sportage Hybrid (80), Mazda CX-50 (78), Toyota Corolla Cross (77), Hyundai Tucson (77), and Mazda CX-5 (77).
What does Consumer Reports say?
Consumer Reports ranks Forester the best SUV for its "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 yields 28 combined city/highway 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 particularly generous rear seat and very easy access," CR says.
Consumer Reports ranks Crosstrek as the second best SUV because it's" an appealing option for buyers who want a small, versatile SUV. It delivers good fuel economy, 29 mpg overall, from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a continuously variable transmission."
All Crosstreks deliver impressive ride comfort along with competent and enjoyable handling on curvy roads," says CR. The Crosstrek isn't very quick, though, and when drivers mash the throttle to accelerate, the engine gets loud. A more powerful 2.5-liter is a newly available option.
Are the Forester and Crosstrek reliable?
CR says, "We expect the 2023 Forester and the 2023 Crosstrek will be more reliable than the average new car." Both 2023 models have a predicted reliability score of 4/5.
Are the Forester and Crosstrek good in the snow?
Forester and Crosstrek come standard with all-wheel-drive, 8.7-inches of ground clearance, and X-Mode for improved severe weather traction. Forester also offers a new Wilderness trim level for customers who want to get further off the grid. The Forester Sport and Crosstrek Sport and Limited offer dual-function X-Mode with Deep Snow and Mud settings.
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What is the price of the 2023 Forester?
All 2023 Forester trim levels increased by $550 in price, including destination and delivery. The 2023 Forester comes in six trim levels; The Base Forester starts at $27,620, Premium ($30,620), Sport ($32,190), Limited ($34,300), Wilderness ($35,245), and Touring ($37,720). Pricing includes dealer fees ($1,225).
What is the 2023 Forester fuel mileage?
All Forester compact SUV trim levels come with standard all-wheel drive and an EPA-estimated 29 combined mpg and 26/33 city/highway mpg. A 2.5-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine powers the Forester.
What is the price of the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek?
2023 Subaru Crosstrek trim levels get a $600 price increase. The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek now comes in six trim levels for U.S. customers. The base trim is priced from $24,870, Premium ($26,020), Special Edition ($27,970), Sport ($29,220), Limited ($30,720), and Crosstrek Hybrid ($38.070). Prices include destination and delivery fees ($1,225).
What is the Crosstrek fuel mileage?
The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek with the new 2.5-liter Boxer engine comes with 30 more horsepower and gets an EPA estimated fuel mileage of 27/34 city/highway mpg and 29 combined mpg. The Crosstrek with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine gets an EPA-estimated 28/33 mpg and 30 combined mpg.
What are the Forester and Crosstrek safety scores?
The 2022 Subaru Forester compact SUV earned the Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek scored the Top Safety Pick award.
The 2023 Subaru Forester is the number one compact SUV under $30,000 in the latest Consumer Reports rankings. The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek is the number two overall SUV. CR says they are the two best 2023 models for new SUV shoppers looking for affordable and reliable options.
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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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