Subaru’s 2 High-Scoring Reliable New Models Under $30,000

Does Subaru have the most reliable and affordable models? A new report from Consumer Reports says the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek and 2024 Subaru Impreza are the most reliable picks for new model shoppers that won’t break your budget. Here are the best pics.

Affordable and reliable

I recently reported that Subaru has seven new models you can buy for less than $30,000. Check out my report here. Despite the increasing challenge, a few new models are still available. How reliable are the most affordable Subaru all-wheel-drive vehicles?

According to an updated report from Consumer Reports, the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek and 2024 Subaru Impreza are not just reliable; they are the most reliable high-scoring picks for new model shoppers. 

Consumer Reports says, “A less expensive vehicle that’s less than reliable isn’t good for your budget, even if it’s under warranty. That’s because repair costs come out of your wallet when the warranty ends. And that’s why we ranked the most reliable new cars and SUVs you can buy for less than $30,000. These models won’t bleed you dry at the mechanic’s shop.”

I’ve listed CR’s top reliable picks by category in order of their Overall Score, and CR recommends all. That means they scored well in their road tests, which comprise more than 50 objective and subjective evaluations by CR.

Consumer Reports has sixteen top picks across four vehicle categories. 

The most reliable 2024 model year Small Sedans and Hatchbacks under $30,000. 

1. Toyota Prius
2. Kia Niro
3. Mazda 3
4. Subaru Impreza 
5. Toyota Corolla
6. Hyundai Elantra
7. Toyota Corolla Hybrid
8. Toyota Corolla Hatchback

The reliable 2024 model year Subcompact SUVs under $30,000.

1. Subaru Crosstrek
2. Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid
3. Honda HR-V
4. Toyota Corolla Cross
5. Mazda CX-30

The reliable 2024 model year Compact SUVs under $30,000.

1. Hyundai Tucson
2. Mazda CX-5

The reliable 2024 model-year Pickup Truck under $30,000.

1. Ford Maverick

What does CR say about the 2024 Subaru Impreza hatchback?

• Price Range:  $22,995 - $27,885
• CR MPG:  Overall 29 / City 19 / Hwy 42 mpg
• #7 of 18  Compact cars

CR says, “The redesigned 2024 Impreza isn’t radically different from the previous version, but it received a number of updates. It now comes only as a practical hatchback without a sedan body style. The standard engine is a rather weak 152-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder that barely gets the job done. Fuel economy is a decent 29 mpg overall, which is commendable for a vehicle with full-time all-wheel drive. The new RS has a livelier 182-hp, 2.5-liter engine.” 

“Both engines are matched to a continuously variable transmission that simulates shifts for a more natural feel. The ride is comfortable and composed, handling is capable and secure, and the cabin isn’t too loud, barring some rather flagrant engine noise. The interior is a no-frills affair, and the new infotainment system is user-friendly. BSW and RCTW aren’t available on the base trim and are optional on the Sport, but adding them doesn’t push the price above $30,000.”

What does CR say about the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek subcompact SUV?

• Price Range:  $25,195 - $32,195
• CR MPG:  Overall 29 / City 20 / Hwy 41 mpg
• #1 of 11  Subcompact SUVs

CR says, “The Crosstrek got an evolutionary redesign for 2024. It’s still essentially a raised Impreza hatchback with a very 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. 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. While BSW and RCTW are optional on the Premium trim, adding them keeps the price below $30,000.”

Why should you consider buying a 2024 Subaru Crosstrek or 2024 Impreza?

• The Subaru brand is known for its standard Symmetrical all-wheel-drive tech on every model. The Crosstrek and Impreza can handle any weather and severe weather you will encounter. 
• Subaru is known for its EyeSight driver assist safety tech on every model. The Crosstrek and Impreza are among the safest new models you can buy, and the Impreza earned the Top Safety Pick award. The Crosstrek should follow. You can find out more about it in my report here. 
• The Crosstrek and Impreza, in addition to their other qualities, also boast excellent fuel mileage. 

The remodeled 2024 Subaru Crosstrek with a 2.5-liter engine boasts an impressive EPA-estimated fuel mileage of 26/33 city/highway mpg and 29 combined mpg.  

The 2024 Crosstrek Base and Premium trim levels with the 2.0-liter engine get 27/34 mpg and 29 combined mpg with the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) automatic. 

With the newly-retuned 2.5-liter Boxer engine, the Impreza RS has an EPA-estimated fuel mileage rating of 26/33 city/highway mpg and 29 combined mpg.

The 2024 Impreza 2.0-liter engine gets slightly better fuel mileage and has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 27/34 city/highway mpg and 30 combined mpg.

The Crosstrek is for outdoor enthusiasts.

The 2024 Crosstrek has all the equipment needed to go off-road. It has 8.7 inches of ground clearance, X-Model for severe weather performance, and dual-function X-Mode on some trims for all-terrain performance.

The 2024 Crosstrek now offers the Wilderness trim level with 9.3 inches of ground clearance and extra off-road upgrades for off-road adventures and getting further off the grid. Read my Wilderness report here.

Conclusion:

The newly-remodeled Subaru Crosstrek and Impreza are not only reliable and affordable under $30,000, they come with the automaker’s Symmetrical all-wheel-drive, EyeSight safety tech, and have superior all-weather and all-terrain performance capability, and they are fuel-efficient.  

The complete 2024 Crosstrek pricing and model guide is in my report here. The 2024 Impreza pricing and model guide is in my report here.

I encourage you to comment using the red 'Add new comment' link below. 

I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Writer since 2012. I’ve invested over 13 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 my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Tucson Subaru