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5 Reasons Why The Subaru Crosstrek Is Your Best Used SUV Pick Under $25K

Which is the best Subaru SUV for used car shoppers? Check out the Subaru Crosstrek and why it's your best pick this winter.

Which are the best small SUVs for used car shoppers for about $25,000? An updated ranking from Consumer Reports (by subscription) says the 2019 to 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is the top pick, and for a bit more, the 2022-2023 Crosstrek should be on your list. Keep reading, and I will explain why it's your best choice among all the top models.

The vehicles listed below performed well in the Consumer Report's road tests when they were new and had consistent above-average reliability for multiple years, according to our surveys of CR members. They are recommended because they are reliable, affordable, and equipped with modern safety features

2019 Subaru Crosstrek on the trail

CR's Best Small SUVs $20,000 to $25,000

What does CR say about the 2019-2021 Subaru Crosstrek? 

CR says, "This generation of the Crosstrek is quiet, has a smooth ride, and got 29 mpg overall in our tests. Look for a model with the optional EyeSight suite of advanced safety systems."

2020 Subaru Crosstrek side view

Other Good Choices

  • Acura RDX 2016-2018
  • BMW X3 2018
  • Buick Envision 2019-2020
  • Cadillac XT5 2019
  • Honda CR-V 2019-2020
  • Honda HR-V 2021-2022
  • Kia Sportage 2021-2022
  • Lexus NX 2016-2017
  • Lexus NX 2019
  • Mazda CX-30 2022-2023
  • Mazda CX-5 2021-2022
  • Toyota RAV4 2020
  • Toyota RAV4 Hybrid 2018
  • Volvo XC40 2019-2020

CR's Best Small SUVs, $25,000 to $30,000, listed alphabetically

  • Acura RDX 2020
  • Buick Envision 2020
  • Honda CR-V 2021-2022
  • Honda HR-V 2023
  • Lexus NX 2019-2020
  • Lexus NX Hybrid 2019
  • Lexus UX 2020-2021
  • Mazda CX-5 2023
  • Subaru Crosstrek 2022-2023
  • Toyota RAV4 Hybrid 2017-2018
  • Toyota RAV4 2021-2022
  • Volvo XC40 2021

2021 Subaru Crosstrek on a hillMY TAKE

There are five reasons why the 2019-2023 Subaru Crosstrek is a top choice for used SUV shoppers and is the best choice this winter.

  1. It's fuel efficient 
  2. Crosstrek comes with Subaru's excellent Symmetrical all-wheel-drive for winter-weather capability 
  3. 8.7 inches of ground clearance 
  4. X-Mode for severe weather performance 
  5. Dual-function X-Mode on Sport and Limited trims for all-terrain capability 

The Crosstrek is designed for the most active customers who want to avoid sitting home on the weekends when the snow flies. The Subaru Crosstrek is the best small SUV pick for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Consumer Reports says the 2019-2023 Subaru Crosstrek is ranked the #1 subcompact SUV among all small SUVs.

Thanks for reading, everyone. I hope you enjoyed the used Subaru Crosstrek 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. 

My Must-Read Top Picks

Watch 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Review - Crossover or Lifted Impreza?

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 blogSubaruReportAll Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierlFacebook, 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