KBB’s 10 Best Used AWD Vehicles Under $20K And Subaru’s 3 Top Picks

What are the best used Subaru models you can buy now that are affordable? It can be challenging because Subaru vehicles hold their value better than most cars. I have covered the best used cars according to Consumer Reports. Here are the ten best-used models from Kelley Blue Book that are under $20,000. 

Kelley Blue Book's 10 Best Used All-Wheel-Drive Vehicles Under $20,000 with their explanation. 

1. 2018 Subaru Outback

With standard AWD and the interior space of a crossover SUV but in a more refined, better-handling wagon body style, the 2018 Outback is one of Subaru's many affordable, capable AWD vehicles.

2. 2016 Toyota RAV4

Available as a hybrid for the first time in 2016, this model-year RAV4 also features more standard safety equipment and parking aids than previous models.

3. 2016 Honda CR-V

While the CR-V was not yet available as a hybrid in 2016, it still manages an impressive 27 mpg combined with Honda's Real Time AWD system.

4. 2015 Toyota Highlander

The 2015 Highlander's mix of comfortable ride quality, spacious cabin layout, and confident, safe driving manners make it a favorite of families everywhere and a great choice for winter weather when equipped with optional AWD.

5. 2017 Subaru Crosstrek

With standard AWD across all trims, the 2017 Crosstrek provides high ground clearance and a compact, nimble, and practical hatchback-meets-SUV body style.

CR Says A Lightly Used Subaru Crosstrek Gives You The Best Bang For Your Buck @SubaruReport @torquenewsauto#subaru #crosstrek #subarucrosstrekhttps://t.co/NdEcNoq0Ch
— Denis Flierl (@DenisFlierl) December 8, 2023

6. 2016 Mazda CX-9

The 2016 CX-9 lets you have it all without breaking the bank, as this 3-row SUV with seating for seven is also stylish, upmarket, and fun to drive.

7. 2019 Ford Fusion

As one of the newest vehicles on the list, the 2019 Fusion sedan has substantial value for its feature set and is a perfect choice for those who don't want or need an SUV.

8. 2021 Mazda3

If you want a sporty compact car with AWD, the 2021 Mazda3 features excellent steering response, an elegant interior, impressive reliability, and your choice of sedan or hatchback form.

9. 2018 Nissan Rogue

While it may not be as top-of-mind as some competitors, the 2018 Rogue is just as capable and an even better value, offering similar equipment, space, and functionality in a newer package – and it's also available as a hybrid.

10. 2019 Subaru Impreza

As the go-to choice for many who live in snowy climates, the feature-laden 2019 Impreza is a bargain in either sedan or hatchback/wagon body styles.

What sets the 2018 Subaru Outback, 2017 Subaru Crosstrek, and 2019 Subaru Impreza apart from the other seven top KBB picks? In addition to having Subaru's excellent Symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, the Outback, and Crosstrek come with 8.7 inches of ground clearance. 

Why is the extra ground clearance essential?

The higher ride height is essential for driving in deeper snow, sand, and mud. Even if you don't take your vehicle off-road, many colder climates have more snow accumulation. 

KBB’s 10 Best New AWD Vehicles Under $30K And Subaru’s 3 Top Picks @SubaruReport @torquenewsauto#subaru #outback #forester #legacy #crosstrek #subaruawdhttps://t.co/C0YS0Nmnk0
— Denis Flierl (@DenisFlierl) December 22, 2023

The higher ride height makes the Outback and Crosstrek easier to get in and out. You won't be climbing up like in many tall SUVs and won't have to pull yourself up to get out.  

Here are my reports on the 2018 Subaru Outback, 2017 Subaru Crosstrek, and 2019 Subaru Impreza when they were new. 

2018 Subaru Outback

The 2018 Subaru Outback received refreshed styling, an updated, quieter cabin, and improved driving dynamics. It had new headlights and redesigned door mirrors with improved aerodynamics and reduced wind noise. All Outback trim levels had a new tire pressure monitoring system with individual wheel pressure display. The cabin was quieter with the addition of noise-reducing laminated front-side glass and side mirrors that are more aerodynamic. You can read my complete report here.

2017 Subaru Crosstrek

The 2017 Crosstrek had a new Special Edition Pure Red model. It's a limited edition Subaru Crosstrek crossover, and only 1500 were available in the U.S. It's based on the 2.0i Premium. If you like red, it comes splashed with the "Pure Red" color all over the exterior. It also came with matching foldable mirrors with integrated turn signals. Here is my complete report. And my report on the 2016 new model upgrades includes features found on the 2017 Crosstrek.

2019 Subaru Impreza

The 2019 Impreza compact sedan and 5-Door hatchback models received a minor refresh with four upgrades over the outgoing model. The 2019 Impreza now comes standard with the Tire Pressure Monitoring System with individual wheel pressure display on all trims. 

The base 2.0i CVT model offered Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology and dual rear USB ports standard on Premium and above. Limited trim models were equipped with standard EyeSight, including High Beam Assist and Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB). Here is my complete report. 

Thanks for reading, everyone. I hope you enjoyed this used Subaru Outback, Crosstrek, and Impreza story. See you tomorrow for my latest Subaru Report.

For additional articles related to the best used Subaru models, here are a few of my top stories you may enjoy. 

My Must-Read Top Picks

• Consumer Reports Says Subaru Outback Is Your Best 10-Year-Old SUV Pick
• CR Says 2 Subaru SUVs Are Best Used Picks - Why Buying New Is Better Now
• The IIHS, CR Say Subaru Has 4 Used Models Under $20K Best For Teen Drivers

Watch the Best Used Cars for Teens 2023 | Consumer Reports

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!

Please leave your comments below, share the article with friends, and post X to your followers! 

photo credit: Subaru USA