logo
I Have Driven Over 250 Car Models: These Are the 3 Best and Worst for Your Money

I Have Driven Over 250 Car Models: These Are the 3 Best and Worst for Your Money

Yahoo5 days ago
With so many models and options on the market, choosing the right car for your money isn't easy.
The wrong choice leaves you trapped in a money pit, draining your finances with repair costs, poor gas mileage and lack of options to recoup your investment. But the right car purchase serve you well for years with affordable upkeep, great fuel economy and strong resale value.
Find Out:
Check Out:
To help you get the most bang for your buck, we spoke to Melanie Musson, an auto industry expert with AutoInsurance.org, to get her opinion on the car models she thinks are the best value, as well as which are the worst.
Best Values
Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is a compact sedan with great fuel efficiency, with an EPA rating of up to 36 mpg combined for models with the 1.5L turbo engine. The base model 2024 Honda Civic LX has a starting MSRP of $23,950.
Don't let the small size fool you — the Civic's well-designed interior gives you plenty of room for passengers and cargo. Its strong resale value and low maintenance costs make it a smart choice for those seeking a dependable and economical vehicle.
'They have very few problems even when they reach high mileage,' said Musson. 'They're luxurious at a budget price.'
Good To Know:
Honda Odyssey
If you're looking for a minivan, the Honda Odyssey is a great pick. The cavernous interior provides comfortable seating for up to eight passengers, and the powerful V6 engine delivers smooth performance while still achieving a respectable 22 mpg combined. The starting MSRP is $38,240, and it will serve you well for over 200,000 miles with just routine maintenance.
'The Honda Civic and Honda Odyssey are two of the most reliable vehicles,' said Musson. 'Their safety features make you feel secure.'
Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is a rugged midsize SUV with all-wheel-drive capability and solid fuel efficiency at 29 mpg combined. The roomy interior carries a lot of cargo. Subaru is also known for its durability — you should expect it to last well beyond 200,000 miles with proper maintenance.
'Subaru Outbacks are great buys for your money,' Musson said. 'The all-wheel-drive standard feature is hard to beat. The interior has a great, user-friendly design. They're workhorses and will provide reliable service for years.'
Worst Values
Ram 2500/3500 Diesel
If you're in the market for a truck, you may want to think twice about the diesel engine RAM 2500 or 3500. You might be drawn to the macho image of heavy-duty trucks, but diesel engines require more expensive maintenance and repairs.
'One of the worst vehicles for your money is a Ram diesel,' Musson said. 'The parts on a diesel truck are ridiculously expensive. Not every mechanic will work on a diesel, so your options for repair shops are limited. The parts fail, and you'll need repairs frequently.'
But what makes these trucks a bad value is their poor fuel economy. With an estimated 15-20 mpg combined, you'll spend big bucks at the pump. Diesel fuel also tends to be more expensive than gas, which will add up over time.
Land Rover Range Rover
Another worst buy, according to Musson, is the Land Rover Range Rover. While they're undeniably stylish, she says they're a maintenance nightmare.
'Their starting price is high, so you'd expect reliability,' said Musson. 'That's not the case though. They're one of the least reliable vehicles, and they're frustrating when parts start breaking down.'
The starting MSRP for the 2024 model is $107,400. For most buyers, these ​​luxury SUVs just aren't worth the financial pain.
Ford Focus
The Ford Focus has been a popular choice for car buyers on a budget for a long time. Ford has recently stopped making the Focus. You might be tempted to get an even better bargain by picking up a used one. But even for the price, they underperform consistently. One of the main issues is poor reliability.
'Skip the Ford Focus,' said Musson. 'It's a budget car to begin with, so at least you're not spending a ton on the purchase price. However, it's the kind of car that just has a lot of annoying problems like window electronics that stop working and a noisy ride.'
You might get a great deal upfront, but the high likelihood of costly repairs and low resale value make it a poor choice.
More From GOBankingRates
Mark Cuban Warns of 'Red Rural Recession' -- 4 States That Could Get Hit Hard
10 Genius Things Warren Buffett Says To Do With Your Money
7 Tax Loopholes the Rich Use To Pay Less and Build More Wealth
This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: I Have Driven Over 250 Car Models: These Are the 3 Best and Worst for Your Money
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Both the 2025 Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Forester Hybrid Are Winners. But One is a Champ.
Both the 2025 Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Forester Hybrid Are Winners. But One is a Champ.

Yahoo

time5 hours ago

  • Yahoo

Both the 2025 Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Forester Hybrid Are Winners. But One is a Champ.

Subaru is directly competing with the Toyota RAV4 hybrid after finally producing the Forester hybrid. Both are excellent, but I don't think Toyota has much to worry about… Yet. The Toyota RAV4 has been a hybridized hit since 2016. The system was so good, it helped Toyota sell millions upon millions of the economical SUV. In 2022, the RAV4 broke records by selling 1 million units globally. The Toyota RAV4 has plenty of competition, like the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, the Kia Sportage Hybrid, and the Honda CR-V Hybrid. It also competes with the Mazda CX-50 hybrid (which uses the same hybrid system), and finally, a decade after the first RAV4 hybrid model year, the Subaru Forester Hybrid has entered the fray. Unlike the Crosstrek hybrid of 2019, which used an older Toyota system, the 2025 Subaru Forester hybrid is mostly Subaru's doing. Toyota was there to help develop the system, but Subaru engineers were at the helm this time—creating a hybrid SUV with a true, mechanical AWD system. Subaru may have shown up fashionably late to the compact AWD hybrid SUV party, but she's here to disrupt the numbers and show people what she's made of. Is it enough to top the charts? After driving both back-to-back, here's what I think. This story is 100% human-researched and written based on actual first-person knowledge, extensive experience, and expertise on the subject of cars and trucks. The Forester is Priced Fairly, But the Toyota Has More Options For the Toyota RAV4 hybrid, there are seven trims, ranging from the base LE to the plush Limited. Prices range from $32,600 to $40,905 MSRP, making it a very cost-effective choice for a wide range of buyers. The Forester hybrid has four trims, starting with the Premium Hybrid and going up to the Touring, ranging from $36,385 to $43,295 MSRP. That price range is fair for both SUVs, especially compared to their competitors. The Kia Sportage ranges from $30,290 to $40,390, and the Hyundai Tucson starts at $34,960 and goes up to $42,790. The Honda CR-V hybrid's base price is $35,630, while the top-tier price is $42,250, and the Mazda CX-50's pricing is $33,970 to $40,050. Therefore, the Subaru is the most expensive option out of the best AWD hybrid SUVs. Of course, this is all based on MSRPs—the dealer is who sets the final price—but it raises an important question: do the options and AWD system justify the price?The Subaru's AWD System is More Capable, But at a Cost I'll explain the differences between the RAV4 hybrid's AWD system and the Subaru Forester hybrid's simply: the Subaru's AWD system is permanently active, while the Toyota's is 'on demand.' When slipping isn't detected, the Toyota's electronic rear axle—which isn't physically connected to the front axle with a driveshaft like the Subaru—doesn't see 50% of the engine's power. Instead, it's front-wheel drive biased, so it's more FWD until computers and sensors determine a 50:50 split is needed. So, it's no surprise that the Subaru was incredibly poised and ready for off-road driving. Toyota's system is still effective in slippery conditions, especially in 'Trail' mode, but it's not as rugged as Subaru's, making the Subaru more appealing for those who want to push their Forester to the limits (especially with X-MODE). But a more robust system that can't be shut off or have power diverted to save mileage is thirsty. When I was driving the Forester hybrid, I averaged 29.5 mpg. In the Toyota, I saw 36.2 mpg, and 36.3 when I put it in Eco mode. That's a very significant difference. Granted, 29.5 mpg combined is a vast improvement over the gas-powered version of the Forester, and impressive for a truly AWD SUV. And it should be noted that a majority of my driving was around town. Bend doesn't have a freeway with speeds higher than 45 mph; otherwise, I'm sure mileage would have been much Far as Space is Concerned, the Subaru Felt Roomier If we look at cargo space figures, the Toyota offers more space. Behind the rear seats, it has 37.6 cubic feet of space. The Subaru has technically less at 26.9 cubic feet, but after having both back-to-back, the Subaru felt bigger. The rear passengers had more legroom, and the taller ceiling means more stacking capabilities. When the rear seats are folded down, though, the Forester has more space at 74.2 cubic feet compared to the Toyota's 69.8 cubic feet. What I also noticed was that a taller roof meant larger windows, which helped open up the interior, let in more natural light, and provide a much better view of the world around me. The large sunroof was a bonus, too, since my toddlers got to enjoy looking up at the trees while we played around off-road. The RAV4 also had a large sunroof, but the lower seating position combined with the smaller windows made it slightly harder to see out of. Both SUVs, too, come with ample aftermarket support so roof rails, crossbars, and cargo boxes or baskets can be installed for added Power is Important, Toyota is On Top No trim level of either the Toyota RAV4 or the Subaru Forester hybrid comes with a turbo. And neither SUV is known for its track capabilities. However, it should be noted that if power is factored into a buying decision, the RAV4 is not power-shy. Combined with the battery pack, the Toyota generates 219 horsepower. It's no F1 car, but it's pretty quick off the line and has just enough power to pass slow trucks (safely, of course). The Subaru Forester hybrid produces a combined 194 horsepower, and Subaru says the battery improves acceleration by 10 to 15%. I immediately noticed an improvement in acceleration and handling over the gas-only Forester, but it's still pretty slow compared to the RAV4. No one buys a hybrid for the power in the pedal, but the RAV4 had a lot more spirit compared to the Subaru's Interior Is More Open and Tech-Forward As I mentioned before, the high seating position paired with the large windows made it super easy to see out of. Especially since there wasn't a tablet sticking up over the dashboard line. Subaru's 12-inch infotainment screen is nicely integrated into the center console, so everything's easy to access and see. Now, I do have a bone to pick with whoever decided to bury a majority of the controls in the screen, but I at least appreciate that they're easy to manipulate and see, even with a phone mirroring program in use. Toyota's interior was much more no-nonsense, which I liked. But the typical Toyota issues with connectivity quickly showed themselves, while I didn't have a single issue with Android Auto in the Subaru. I do prefer the sound system in the Subaru, too. Both utilize traditional shifters, and have easy-to-read digital gauges that can be customized and manipulated fairly easily. But, I liked the differing colors and textures in the Subaru better. The RAV4 I drove was the XSE model, which came in the beautiful Calvary Blue with the black leather interior and blue accent stitching, which was very complementary. But the wide-open and colorful interior of the Subaru was much more Families, the Forester Hybrid Feels like Home The Toyota RAV4 hybrid is popular for several excellent reasons: it's easy to drive, easy to pack the family into, the mileage is impressive, and it's very cost-effective. The car seats were easy to install, there was plenty of room for them and their toys, and the sunroof was adored. Just like the Forester. However, the first thing my oldest said when she climbed into the Forester was how big the windows were, and the lower entry point made it easy for her to climb in and out of. The lower entry point and bigger doors made their car seats even easier to install over the Toyota, too. The upper tether point was just on the back of the seat, and it was so easy to access and secure that I didn't even need to open the trunk. Loading the truck was also easier thanks to the lower entry, making Costco trips a breeze, and unloading the groceries even easier. It felt like a more seamless addition to my family with littles, and dog owners would appreciate it, too. The Toyota's seats were leather with a fabric center, which helped the seats keep their shape after I installed car seats in it, which was a huge perk to me. The Forester's seats were a leatherette material, which was super easy to keep clean, but definitely suffered creases from their car seats.I Recommend Both, But for Different Reasons If someone were cross-examining either AWD hybrid SUV solely for the hybridization, the Toyota wins every time. Toyota's been making and refining its hybrid systems for decades, and now, on its fifth generation, the hybrid system is—dare I say it—superior to just about any other hybrid system out there. The RAV4 hybrid gets 36.2 mpg combined because Toyota's got hybrids down to a simple science, while other automakers are playing catch-up. Subaru benefits from having Toyota's engineers on speed dial, but this is the first model year of the Forester hybrid, and that always makes me wary. Now, if someone were looking at the two based on the AWD capabilities or passenger space, I'd wholeheartedly suggest test-driving the Subaru. Similar to my logic with Toyota, Subaru's been making its legendary AWD system for decades. They know better than to fix what isn't broken, and the Forester hybrid shows that. Yes, it's thirsty, but it's a testament to the system's capabilities and rigidity over an 'e-axle.' All that is to say that both are excellent choices, and I wouldn't harshly judge anyone who bought one instead of the other. Even as family SUVs, I was sad to see both of them go. Now, let's hope Subaru takes notes and gets an Outback hybrid out. Both hybrids will sell like hot cakes.

Both the 2025 Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Forester Hybrid Are Winners. But One is a Champ.
Both the 2025 Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Forester Hybrid Are Winners. But One is a Champ.

Yahoo

time5 hours ago

  • Yahoo

Both the 2025 Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Forester Hybrid Are Winners. But One is a Champ.

Subaru is directly competing with the Toyota RAV4 hybrid after finally producing the Forester hybrid. Both are excellent, but I don't think Toyota has much to worry about… Yet. The Toyota RAV4 has been a hybridized hit since 2016. The system was so good, it helped Toyota sell millions upon millions of the economical SUV. In 2022, the RAV4 broke records by selling 1 million units globally. The Toyota RAV4 has plenty of competition, like the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, the Kia Sportage Hybrid, and the Honda CR-V Hybrid. It also competes with the Mazda CX-50 hybrid (which uses the same hybrid system), and finally, a decade after the first RAV4 hybrid model year, the Subaru Forester Hybrid has entered the fray. Unlike the Crosstrek hybrid of 2019, which used an older Toyota system, the 2025 Subaru Forester hybrid is mostly Subaru's doing. Toyota was there to help develop the system, but Subaru engineers were at the helm this time—creating a hybrid SUV with a true, mechanical AWD system. Subaru may have shown up fashionably late to the compact AWD hybrid SUV party, but she's here to disrupt the numbers and show people what she's made of. Is it enough to top the charts? After driving both back-to-back, here's what I think. This story is 100% human-researched and written based on actual first-person knowledge, extensive experience, and expertise on the subject of cars and trucks. The Forester is Priced Fairly, But the Toyota Has More Options For the Toyota RAV4 hybrid, there are seven trims, ranging from the base LE to the plush Limited. Prices range from $32,600 to $40,905 MSRP, making it a very cost-effective choice for a wide range of buyers. The Forester hybrid has four trims, starting with the Premium Hybrid and going up to the Touring, ranging from $36,385 to $43,295 MSRP. That price range is fair for both SUVs, especially compared to their competitors. The Kia Sportage ranges from $30,290 to $40,390, and the Hyundai Tucson starts at $34,960 and goes up to $42,790. The Honda CR-V hybrid's base price is $35,630, while the top-tier price is $42,250, and the Mazda CX-50's pricing is $33,970 to $40,050. Therefore, the Subaru is the most expensive option out of the best AWD hybrid SUVs. Of course, this is all based on MSRPs—the dealer is who sets the final price—but it raises an important question: do the options and AWD system justify the price?The Subaru's AWD System is More Capable, But at a Cost I'll explain the differences between the RAV4 hybrid's AWD system and the Subaru Forester hybrid's simply: the Subaru's AWD system is permanently active, while the Toyota's is 'on demand.' When slipping isn't detected, the Toyota's electronic rear axle—which isn't physically connected to the front axle with a driveshaft like the Subaru—doesn't see 50% of the engine's power. Instead, it's front-wheel drive biased, so it's more FWD until computers and sensors determine a 50:50 split is needed. So, it's no surprise that the Subaru was incredibly poised and ready for off-road driving. Toyota's system is still effective in slippery conditions, especially in 'Trail' mode, but it's not as rugged as Subaru's, making the Subaru more appealing for those who want to push their Forester to the limits (especially with X-MODE). But a more robust system that can't be shut off or have power diverted to save mileage is thirsty. When I was driving the Forester hybrid, I averaged 29.5 mpg. In the Toyota, I saw 36.2 mpg, and 36.3 when I put it in Eco mode. That's a very significant difference. Granted, 29.5 mpg combined is a vast improvement over the gas-powered version of the Forester, and impressive for a truly AWD SUV. And it should be noted that a majority of my driving was around town. Bend doesn't have a freeway with speeds higher than 45 mph; otherwise, I'm sure mileage would have been much Far as Space is Concerned, the Subaru Felt Roomier If we look at cargo space figures, the Toyota offers more space. Behind the rear seats, it has 37.6 cubic feet of space. The Subaru has technically less at 26.9 cubic feet, but after having both back-to-back, the Subaru felt bigger. The rear passengers had more legroom, and the taller ceiling means more stacking capabilities. When the rear seats are folded down, though, the Forester has more space at 74.2 cubic feet compared to the Toyota's 69.8 cubic feet. What I also noticed was that a taller roof meant larger windows, which helped open up the interior, let in more natural light, and provide a much better view of the world around me. The large sunroof was a bonus, too, since my toddlers got to enjoy looking up at the trees while we played around off-road. The RAV4 also had a large sunroof, but the lower seating position combined with the smaller windows made it slightly harder to see out of. Both SUVs, too, come with ample aftermarket support so roof rails, crossbars, and cargo boxes or baskets can be installed for added Power is Important, Toyota is On Top No trim level of either the Toyota RAV4 or the Subaru Forester hybrid comes with a turbo. And neither SUV is known for its track capabilities. However, it should be noted that if power is factored into a buying decision, the RAV4 is not power-shy. Combined with the battery pack, the Toyota generates 219 horsepower. It's no F1 car, but it's pretty quick off the line and has just enough power to pass slow trucks (safely, of course). The Subaru Forester hybrid produces a combined 194 horsepower, and Subaru says the battery improves acceleration by 10 to 15%. I immediately noticed an improvement in acceleration and handling over the gas-only Forester, but it's still pretty slow compared to the RAV4. No one buys a hybrid for the power in the pedal, but the RAV4 had a lot more spirit compared to the Subaru's Interior Is More Open and Tech-Forward As I mentioned before, the high seating position paired with the large windows made it super easy to see out of. Especially since there wasn't a tablet sticking up over the dashboard line. Subaru's 12-inch infotainment screen is nicely integrated into the center console, so everything's easy to access and see. Now, I do have a bone to pick with whoever decided to bury a majority of the controls in the screen, but I at least appreciate that they're easy to manipulate and see, even with a phone mirroring program in use. Toyota's interior was much more no-nonsense, which I liked. But the typical Toyota issues with connectivity quickly showed themselves, while I didn't have a single issue with Android Auto in the Subaru. I do prefer the sound system in the Subaru, too. Both utilize traditional shifters, and have easy-to-read digital gauges that can be customized and manipulated fairly easily. But, I liked the differing colors and textures in the Subaru better. The RAV4 I drove was the XSE model, which came in the beautiful Calvary Blue with the black leather interior and blue accent stitching, which was very complementary. But the wide-open and colorful interior of the Subaru was much more Families, the Forester Hybrid Feels like Home The Toyota RAV4 hybrid is popular for several excellent reasons: it's easy to drive, easy to pack the family into, the mileage is impressive, and it's very cost-effective. The car seats were easy to install, there was plenty of room for them and their toys, and the sunroof was adored. Just like the Forester. However, the first thing my oldest said when she climbed into the Forester was how big the windows were, and the lower entry point made it easy for her to climb in and out of. The lower entry point and bigger doors made their car seats even easier to install over the Toyota, too. The upper tether point was just on the back of the seat, and it was so easy to access and secure that I didn't even need to open the trunk. Loading the truck was also easier thanks to the lower entry, making Costco trips a breeze, and unloading the groceries even easier. It felt like a more seamless addition to my family with littles, and dog owners would appreciate it, too. The Toyota's seats were leather with a fabric center, which helped the seats keep their shape after I installed car seats in it, which was a huge perk to me. The Forester's seats were a leatherette material, which was super easy to keep clean, but definitely suffered creases from their car seats.I Recommend Both, But for Different Reasons If someone were cross-examining either AWD hybrid SUV solely for the hybridization, the Toyota wins every time. Toyota's been making and refining its hybrid systems for decades, and now, on its fifth generation, the hybrid system is—dare I say it—superior to just about any other hybrid system out there. The RAV4 hybrid gets 36.2 mpg combined because Toyota's got hybrids down to a simple science, while other automakers are playing catch-up. Subaru benefits from having Toyota's engineers on speed dial, but this is the first model year of the Forester hybrid, and that always makes me wary. Now, if someone were looking at the two based on the AWD capabilities or passenger space, I'd wholeheartedly suggest test-driving the Subaru. Similar to my logic with Toyota, Subaru's been making its legendary AWD system for decades. They know better than to fix what isn't broken, and the Forester hybrid shows that. Yes, it's thirsty, but it's a testament to the system's capabilities and rigidity over an 'e-axle.' All that is to say that both are excellent choices, and I wouldn't harshly judge anyone who bought one instead of the other. Even as family SUVs, I was sad to see both of them go. Now, let's hope Subaru takes notes and gets an Outback hybrid out. Both hybrids will sell like hot cakes.

2026 Subaru Crosstrek Review, Pricing, and Specs
2026 Subaru Crosstrek Review, Pricing, and Specs

Car and Driver

time20 hours ago

  • Car and Driver

2026 Subaru Crosstrek Review, Pricing, and Specs

Overview The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek subcompact SUV is an automotive antihero of sorts, shifting the focus away from performance and instead prioritizing core capabilities like standard all-wheel drive, reasonable fuel efficiency, and comfortable (if sparse) cabin appointments. Power comes from a 180-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine that funnels its torque to all four wheels via an unexciting but serviceable continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). It can't be considered quick, and its handling can feel a bit languid, but those are not its primary missions. On the other hand, the Crosstrek offers up to 9.3 inches of ground clearance, enough to back up its rugged pretensions—we've driven it in mild off-road situations and walked away impressed. Though it may lack the contemporary style of the Mazda CX-30 or Volkswagen Taos, its endearing charm is hard to dismiss. Expert Tip: Subaru introduced a Crosstrek Hybrid for 2026. A cosmetic twin of the standard Crosstrek, it shares its spunky style but claims to offer improved city fuel efficiency. What's New for 2026? The 180-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder is now standard across the lineup, including the base model, which previously used a 152-hp 2.0-liter four. Crosstrek Limited and Wilderness trims get a heated steering wheel as standard equipment. Pricing and Which One to Buy The price of the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek starts at $28,415 and goes up to $35,215 depending on the trim and options. Base $28,415 Premium $29,415 Sport $32,045 Limited $34,415 Wilderness $35,215 0 $10k $20k $30k $40k $50k $60k We recommend the Premium trim. Its nominal upcharge unlocks the larger 11.6-inch infotainment display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and roof rail cross bars. Engine, Transmission, and Performance Engine: 180-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder 180-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder Transmission: Continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) Continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) Drivetrain: All-wheel drive All models come with a 180-hp 2.5-liter four; a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is the only transmission option. As on most other Subaru models, all-wheel drive is standard. The Crosstrek's chassis isn't taking cues from Subaru's sporty WRX sports sedan. We'd called its on-road personality "relaxed." It's a soft-riding crossover, and while its cornering capabilities are likely far more than its intended buyer will ever exploit, it doesn't offer the same level of driving enjoyment as the Mazda CX-30or the Volkswagen Taos. The Crosstrek can probably do more off-roading than those crossovers though, as it boasts at least 8.7 inches of ground clearance and comes with hill-descent control and hill-start assist features. The Wilderness trim offers 9.3 inches of ground clearance and wears more aggressive all-terrain tires. During our initial test drive, we sampled some of the Crosstrek's capabilities on some rutted two-tracks and light off-road trails in Joshua Tree National Park outside Palm Springs, California. On those sorts of trails, it does just fine. 0–60-MPH Times C/D 60-mph Test: 8.1 seconds (Limited); 8.6 seconds (Wilderness) In Comparison: Chalk up the Wilderness model's slower acceleration to its all-terrain tires and rugged styling. Still, the similar Mazda CX-30 with the base non-turbo engine also required 8.1 seconds to hit 60. The turbocharged CX-30 did it in a tidy 5.8 seconds. View Photos Michael Simari | Car and Driver Towing and Payload Capacity Max tow rating is set at 1500 pounds for all but the Wilderness trim, which is rated for 3500 pounds. Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG C/D 75-mph Highway Fuel-Economy Test: 36 mpg 36 mpg EPA City Rating: 25-27 mpg 25-27 mpg EPA Highway Rating: 29-33 mpg The EPA hasn't released any fuel economy information for the 2026 Crosstrek yet, but the 2025 model earned ratings as high as 27 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, and 29 mpg combined for models equipped with the now-standard 2.5-liter engine. For more information about the Crosstrek's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website. Interior, Comfort, and Cargo First Row: Comfortable utility is the theme here. Despite its subcompact dimensions, the Crosstrek's front passenger compartment has plenty of room for people of nearly all dimensions. Controls are easy to access, and the seats hide no sharp edges or pinch points. There's 42.9 inches of legroom and 39.8 inches of headroom. That's more than the CX-30's 41.7 and 38.1 inches, respectively. Second Row: The Crosstrek utilizes a 60/40 split-folding second row seatback. The seat cushions are satisfactory for most uses but lack the supportive padding found in more premium brands that take the pinch out of longer drives. The Crosstrek's 36.5 inches of rear passenger legroom are about average for the class. Cargo Capacity: With 20 cubic feet of cargo room behind the second row and 55 cubes with it folded down, the Crosstrek easily beats out the CX-30 (20 and 45 cubes, respectively). In C/D testing, the Crosstrek fit 7 carry-on bags behind the second row, and 22 with it folded. View Photos Michael Simari | Car and Driver Infotainment and Connectivity Infotainment: 7-inch touchscreen (standard), 11.6-inch touchscreen (optional) Connectivity: Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (standard), wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (optional) Audio System: 4-speaker stereo (standard); 6-speaker stereo (optional); 10-speaker Harmon Kardon stereo (optional) The base model makes do with a 7-inch screen, wired CarPlay and Android Auto, a four-speaker stereo, and a USB-A port alongside a 3.5mm audio jack. Moving to the Premium trim bumps you up to the larger touchscreen while adding wireless connectivity, six-speaker audio, and four USB ports (two front and two rear), making its reasonable price increase feel like a bargain. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features Every Crosstrek comes with Subaru's latest EyeSight driver-assistance feature bundle as standard. Available emergency steering is bundled with blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert. For information about the Crosstrek's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include: Standard Safety Features: Adaptive cruise control, automated braking, lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist Adaptive cruise control, automated braking, lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist Optional Safety Features: Automatic emergency steering, blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert Warranty and Maintenance Coverage Subaru's warranty coverage is exactly in line with that of most of its competitors. Limited Warranty: Three years or 36,000 miles Three years or 36,000 miles Powertrain Warranty: Five years or 60,000 miles Five years or 60,000 miles Complimentary Maintenance: None C/D Test Results and Specs We test every vehicle we can. Data in the chart below may be for a different model year if the model remained unchanged from when we last tested it. Specifications Specifications 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness Vehicle Type: front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door wagon PRICE Base/As Tested: $33,540/$35,810 Options: Option package (Harman/Kardon audio system, power moonroof, 10-way power driver's seat), $2270 ENGINE DOHC 16-valve flat-4, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection Displacement: 152 in3, 2498 cm3 Power: 182 hp @ 5800 rpm Torque: 178 lb-ft @ 3700 rpm TRANSMISSION continuously variable automatic CHASSIS Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink Brakes, F/R: 12.4-in vented disc/11.2-in vented disc Yokohama Geolander A/T G015 225/60R-17 99T M+S 3PMSF DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 104.9 in Length: 176.4 in Width: 71.7 in Height: 63.6 in Passenger Volume, F/R: 55/4 ft3 Cargo Volume, Behind F/R: 55/20 ft3 Curb Weight: 3447 lb C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 8.6 sec 1/4-Mile: 16.7 sec @ 83 mph 100 mph: 27.5 sec Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec. Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 8.7 sec Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 4.6 sec Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 6.3 sec Top Speed (C/D est): 120 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 175 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.81 g C/D FUEL ECONOMY Observed: 22 mpg 75-mph Highway Driving: 27 mpg 75-mph Highway Range: 440 mi EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/City/Highway: 27/25/29 mpg C/D TESTING EXPLAINED More Features and Specs

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store