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The Most Popular Used Cars Now - Subaru Models Are Not On The List

The list of the best-selling used cars in America is out and does not include any Subaru models. What does it mean for used Subaru model shoppers?
2019 Subaru Outback

What are the most popular used cars? A new updated ranking from iSeeCars reveals the most popular used model is the Ford F-150 pickup. No surprise there. What about the most popular used Subaru models? No Subaru vehicles are on the list, but that's good news for used Subaru shoppers.

The more popular a used model is, the higher the price. It's simple supply and demand. I have covered used Forester, Crosstrek, and Outback SUVs extensively, and they are still among the most popular used Subaru models, but they will likely be easier to find or cheaper in 2024.

2019 Subaru Outback sitting on a hill

"Trucks have been so dominant in the U.S. market for so long that it's strange to see the Ram lose its top-three ranking, even to an SUV as popular as the Chevrolet Equinox," said Karl Brauer, iSeeCars Executive Analyst. "This shift reflects the jump in gas prices during 2023, which led many consumers to move away from large trucks and SUVs and into smaller, more fuel-efficient models."

There's good news for used Subaru shoppers this winter.

The good news is that used Subaru prices have dropped from their record highs in the past two years. Edmunds says that used car prices fell 5.5 percent over the 12 months ending in the third quarter "as the pandemic's aftershocks on the auto market have faded."

2018 Subaru Forester in the snow

There's also good news for new Subaru shoppers this winter.

According to Kelley Blue Book, the average new Subaru model price dropped from December 2022 ($36,834) to December 2023 ($35,327), a decrease of 4.1 percent ($1,507).  

The Subaru Forester, Crosstrek, and Outback are the most popular because they come with Subaru's excellent all-wheel-drive system and are affordable and fuel-efficient. 

2018 Subaru Crosstrek rear view

What are the best used Subaru model years?

According to an updated ranking from Consumer Reports, a used Subaru Crosstrek gives shoppers the best bang for their buck. 

CR created the guide of small SUVs most likely to fulfill your needs without breaking down and soaking you with ­repair bills. They picked vehicles that are reliable, affordable, and equipped with modern safety features. A lightly used Crosstrek won't cost you more money down the road. 

Consumer Reports says a 2022-2023 Crosstrek gives you the biggest bang for your buck. According to surveys of CR members, the Crosstrek performed well in their road tests when they were new and had consistent above-average reliability for multiple years. 

Consumer Reports says, "The Crosstrek delivers good fuel economy and impressive ride comfort. Its handling is competent and enjoyable. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is mated to a continuously variable transmission; this combination works fine and gets 29 mpg overall, which is quite good. A more powerful 2.5-liter is a newly available option."

My take.

Small SUV shoppers looking for a "go-anywhere" vehicle should look at the Crosstrek. It offers Subaru's Symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, 8.7 inches of ground clearance (more than the competition), X-Mode for all-weather capability, dual-function X-Mode for all-terrain ability (Crosstrek Sport and Limited), and excellent fuel mileage. It gets the top safety scores from the IIHS and NHTSA. 

The Subaru Forester and Outback are good picks for used SUV shoppers if you need more cargo room. Both vehicles have excellent all-weather and severe-weather capabilities. 

Make sure to have any used Subaru model you're considering thoroughly inspected by a certified Subaru mechanic before you sign on the dotted line.

Thanks for reading, everyone. I hope you enjoyed the used Subaru 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 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Limited Review - The Engine Makes All The Difference!

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: Subaru USA

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