6 Best SUVs Under $30K - Subaru Forester Still Wins Ahead Of New Model Launch

The 2022 Subaru Forester gets a refresh with new exterior styling and a new Forester Wilderness trim, but the 2021 models are still the best Compact SUVs under $30,000. The latest ratings from Consumer Reports (by subscription) still scores the Forester number one overall and the best-rated small SUV for shoppers this fall.

Consumer Reports buys the vehicles and bases the rankings on reliability, safety scores, driving dynamics, and owner surveys. CR says, "The Forester compact SUV delivers the combination of a roomy interior, excellent visibility, commendable fuel economy, simple controls, a comfortable ride, and responsive handling." CR achieved 28 mpg overall, which is among the best in class.

The 2021 Subaru Forester ranks ahead of CR's other choices with a top score of 89. The following best compact SUVs are the Mazda CX-5 (score of 83), Honda CR-V (82), Hyundai Tucson (80), Kia Sportage (81), and Nissan Rogue (76). CR ranks Forester number one among twenty-three compact SUVs.

The 2021 Forester is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. A CVT automatic is the only transmission offered. Is there a downside to the Forester? CR says, "acceleration isn't exhilarating, and the engine's noise isn't the most pleasant."

What is the price of the 2021 Subaru Forester?

The 2021 Forester comes in five trim levels. The 2021 Forester base has an MSRP of $25,845, Premium ($28,845), Sport ($30,445), Limited ($32,445), and Touring ($35,945). Pricing includes $1,050 destination.

Compact SUV shoppers may want to wait for the 2022 Subaru Forester. What are the advantages of getting the refreshed 2022 model change? The 2022 Forester comes with a new roof rail with higher load capacity, a brighter LED interior dome lamp, and new safety technology. All 2022 Forester trims now offer up to 3,000-lb. towing capacity. You can check out our complete 2022 Forester model guide here.

What is the price of the 2022 Forester?

The 2022 Subaru Forester gets a modest price increase and comes in six trim levels; The base Forester starts at $26,320, Premium ($29,320), Sport ($30,890), Limited ($33,000), new Wilderness ($33,945), and Touring ($36,420). Pricing includes destination and delivery fees ($1,125).

The outgoing 2021 Subaru Forester is still ranked the number one compact SUV under $30,000. The 2022 Subaru Forester will likely be ranked just as high with its new safety upgrades. New models should arrive in early 2022. Stay tuned.

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Denis Flierl has invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role working with every major car brand. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. Check out Subaru Report where he covers all of the Japanese automaker's models. More stories can be found on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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