CR’s 5 Most Reliable New SUVs Under $30K - Why Subaru Crosstrek Is The Top Pick

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What is the most reliable SUV under $30,000? Consumer Reports says it's the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek. See why it's the number one pick now.

I recently covered the eight Best Small SUVs under $30,000, including the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek. Consumer Reports (by subscription) has an updated ranking of the five most reliable new SUVs under $30,000; the Crosstrek is the top pick again. 

Consumer Reports assembled a list of the most reliable new SUVs under $30,000 based on their predicted reliability score, factoring in road-test performance, and CR recommends them. They also have automatic emergency braking that works at highway speeds, blind spot warning, and rear cross-traffic warning. 

photo credit: Competition Subaru

The 2024 Crosstrek scores are at the top of the list for reliability.

Here are CR's 5 Most Reliable New 2024 model year SUVs under $30,000. The vehicles are ranked in order of their predicted reliability score.

  1. Subaru Crosstrek (87)
  2. Hyundai Tucson (82)
  3. Honda HR-V (74)
  4. Toyota Corolla Cross (69)
  5. Mazda CX-30 (67)

What does CR say about the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek?

"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." 

photo credit: Competition Subaru

"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."  

CR says the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek is also the most reliable Subaru model in the lineup, outscoring Forester and Outback. 

For customers considering the 2024 Crosstrek, here is the updated pricing information.

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 all-new Crosstrek Wilderness?

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

What sets the Crosstrek apart from the other reliable SUVs under $30,000?

As I've said in previous reports, the Crosstrek comes with Subaru's Symmetrical all-wheel-drive and 8.7 inches of ground clearance, which no competitor exceeds (9.3 inches on Wilderness). Crosstrek also comes with X-Mode on Base and Premium trim levels for severe-weather performance and dual function X-Mode on Sport, Limited, and Wilderness trims for extreme off-pavement performance.

For customers with active lifestyles who will use the 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 most reliable subcompact SUV you can buy today. 

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 new Subaru models, here are a few of my top stories you may enjoy. 

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Watch Don't Take Consumer Reports' Advice for Best Subaru Oil Recommendation YouTube video

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.

I’ve got you covered! - I cover all Subaru all the time - It’s called the “Subaru Report.” Check back daily for my expert Subaru analysis!

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photo credit: main image Tucson Subaru