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CR’s Most Reliable 3-Year-Old Cars, SUVs - Subaru Crosstrek, Legacy Hit The Sweet Spot

What are the best 3-year-old cars and SUVs you can buy now? See why an updated Consumer Reports rating says the Subaru Crosstrek and Legacy are among the best for shoppers.

With the shortage of new 2022 Subaru Crosstrek subcompact SUVs and Legacy sedan models, what are the best 3-year-old cars and SUVS you can buy this spring? An updated list from Consumer Reports (by subscription) says the Crosstrek and Legacy are among the best small SUVs and midsize sedans. CR says the two models hit the sweet spot because they get top reliability ratings, safety scores, and excellent fuel mileage.

In the small SUV category, the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek is rated one of the most reliable and gets the best road scores. Consumer Reports says owners get a 29 mpg overall city/highway mpg.

2019 Subaru Crosstrek, 2019 Subaru Legacy
photo credit: Timmons Subaru / @emily_deee

The EPA rates the Subaru Crosstrek with the 2.0-liter engine at 27/33 city/highway and 29 combined mpg with the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) automatic.

What is the price of a used 2019 Subaru Crosstrek?

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek came in four trim levels: Base, Premium, Limited, and new plug-in Hybrid. CR says the price ranges from $24,225 to $29,975 for a three-year-old model depending on the trim, miles, and condition.

2019 Subaru Crosstrek, 2019 Subaru Legacy

What sets the Crosstrek apart?

Whatever trim level you choose, the Crosstrek comes with Subaru’s standard Symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, 8.7-inches of ground clearance, and X-Mode for more severe all-weather capability.

CR says, “The Crosstrek delivers good fuel economy, impressive ride comfort, and competent handling. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is mated to a CVT and returned 29 mpg overall, which is quite good. The seats are short on lumbar support, but the rear seat is roomy. The infotainment system is easy to use.”

Along with the Subaru Crosstrek, the other top-rated three-year-old small SUVs listed alphabetically are the Buick Envision, Honda CR-V, Lexus NX, Mazda CX-5, and Nissan Rogue Sport.

2019 Subaru Crosstrek, 2019 Subaru Legacy

In the midsize sedan category, the 2019 Subaru Legacy is rated one of the best and scores high in reliability and gets the best road scores. Consumer Reports says owners get a 27 mpg overall city/highway mpg. The EPA rates the Legacy 25/34 city/highway and 29 combined mpg with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and 20/28/23 with the 3.6-liter engine.

What is the price of a used 2019 Subaru Legacy?

The 2019 Legacy 2.5i came in base, Premium, Sport, and Limited trims, and the six-cylinder Legacy 3.6R in Limited trim. CR says the price ranges from $24,300 to $31,075 for a three-year-old model.

What sets the Legacy apart?

Whatever trim level you choose, the Legacy also comes with Subaru’s standard Symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, gets top safety crash scores from the IIHS, and delivers all-weather capability in snow and ice.

CR says, “The Legacy does everything well. It’s one of the best-riding sedans available, handling is impressive, and the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine returns 26 mpg overall, impressive given the standard all-wheel drive. The spacious and quiet cabin provides plenty of room for the driver, has a large rear seat and simple controls.”

Along with the Subaru Legacy, the other top-rated three-year-old midsize sedans listed alphabetically are the Honda Accord, Mazda 6, Toyota Avalon, and Toyota Camry.

With the shortage of new 2022 Subaru models, Consumer Reports says the most reliable three-year-old models you can buy right now are the Subaru Crosstrek and Legacy sedan. The two vehicles add an extra level of all-weather capability that sets them apart from the other top models.

You Might Also Like: New Or Used? Why A New Subaru Crosstrek May Not Be Your Best Buy Now

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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