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Subaru Outback, Crosstrek Stand Tall In Vincentric Best Value Awards

What are the best Subaru models with the lowest depreciation and insurance costs? Vincentric says the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek and 2024 Subaru Outback are the best in their class.
2024 Subaru Outback, 2024 Subaru Crosstrek

The 19th annual Vincentric Best Fleet Value in America Awards were announced, with Subaru earning two awards, both repeat winners for multiple years. I'll give you the Vincentirc details on the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback and why their analysis may be flawed.

But first, Vincentric says, "Other noteworthy winners included the Subaru Crosstrek and Subaru Outback, which both earned their seventh triumph in their segments and were aided by having the lowest depreciation and insurance costs in their class."

The Subaru Crosstrek Base Trim Level Wins The Best Compact SUV

Contributing factors:

  • Won 23 of 28 lifecycle cost scenarios
  • Lowest Depreciation Cost in its Class
  • Lowest Insurance Cost in its Class
  • Outperformed 233 Competitor Trims

The Subaru Outback Base Trim Level Wins The Best Mid-Size SUV

Contributing factors:

  • Won all 28 lifecycle cost scenarios
  • Lowest Depreciation Cost in its Class
  • Lowest Insurance Cost in its Class
  • Outperformed 216 Competitor Trims

How Does Vincentric Determine The Winners?

Vincentric says they performed a cost of ownership analysis measuring over 3,000 vehicle configurations based on typical fleet use. Using eight different cost factors: depreciation, fees and taxes, financing, fuel, insurance, maintenance, opportunity cost, and repairs. Each vehicle was evaluated in all 50 states plus D.C. using 28 different lifecycle scenarios. Winners were identified by determining which vehicles had the lowest fleet lifecycle cost in most scenarios within their segment. 

Why The Crosstrek Base and Outback Base Trims Are Not Your Best Value Picks.

From my perspective covering Subaru models, the base trim levels are not the best value for new model shoppers. 

The Good And The Bad

The base Subaru trim levels are attractively priced, and they are $1,150 (Crosstrek) to $2,210 (Outback) less than the Premium trim level. The base models have Subaru's Symmetrical all-wheel-drive, standard EyeSight safety technology, Starlink multimedia, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance. 

Here's why only some buyers ever buy one.

The base trims only come with black 17-inch wheels and more features buyers want, like a power driver's seat, heated seats and mirrors, keyless access, and push-button start. 

What is the price of the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek base?

The 2024 Crosstrek base trim level starts at $26,540, $1,545 less than the Premium ($28,085). Prices include destination and delivery fees ($1,345).

The Crosstrek Premium trim adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter handle, fog lights, an all-weather package with heated front seats, Starlink safety and security, and an available 6-way power-adjustable driver's seat.

Check out the complete 2024 Subaru Crosstrek model guide here.

What is the price of the 2024 Subaru Outback base?

The 2024 Outback base trim level starts at $30,240, $2,300 less than the Premium ($32,540). Prices include destination and delivery fees ($1,345).

The 2024 Outback Premium adds Starlink safety and security, Starlink 11.6-inch multimedia plus, a 10-way power driver's seat, an all-weather package with heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and LED fog lights.

Check out the complete 2024 Subaru Outback model guide here.

So, I would say 2024 Subaru Crosstrek and 2024 Subaru Outback shoppers should check out the Premium trim levels. They offer the best value and still have the lowest depreciation and insurance costs. 

Don't Leave Yet, IT'S YOUR TURN

Are you shopping for a new Subaru Crosstrek or Outback? Which trim level do you like the best? Click on the Add New Comment link below and let us know.

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

Before you go, watch There's A Perfect Storm Brewing At Subaru YouTube video. 

I am Denis Flierl, a top Torque News and Subaru reporter since 2012. I’ve invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role, working with every major car brand. I am an experienced Rocky Mountain Automotive Press member. You'll find my expert Subaru analysis here. Follow me on X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

I’ve got you covered! - I cover all Subaru all the time. 

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Photo credit: Tucson Subaru

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Comments

Max (not verified)    April 23, 2024 - 11:47AM

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I shopped for a Crosstrek Premium, extensively, bought in Oct 2023. Your description sounds “off” - this trim does not come standard with all weather pkg w/heated seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel. Those are in expensive optional packages.

Also tis paragraph, as worded, if referring to Crosstrek Base, is also wrong and lacks mentioning other differences between it and tge Premium trim: “ The base trims only come with black 17-inch wheels and more features buyers want, like a power driver's seat, heated seats and mirrors, keyless access, and push-button start.”