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The 6 Most Satisfying Compact SUVs And Why Subaru Forester, Crosstrek Beat 3 Trendy Hybrids

Which Subaru models are owners the happiest with? An update report from Consumer Reports says the 2024 Subaru Forester and Crosstrek are the most satisfying. See which two top hybrid models from Toyota and Honda they just beat.
2024 Subaru Crosstrek, 2024 Forester

For compact SUV shoppers, which models are owners the happiest with? I cover the top picks for customers, and according to an updated report from Consumer Reports, the 2024 Subaru Forester and the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek are the most satisfying to their owners. 

Only one model tops the Forester and Crosstrek, and they beat three hot hybrid models. Check out the results. CR says these models are smart choices that make their owners happy and perform well in their tests.

2024 Subaru Forester in the snow

The models below are ranked according to their owner satisfaction rating, which Consumer Reports determines based on their owner surveys, starting with the best. All performed well in their tests and are recommended.

The 6 Most Satisfying 2024 Model Year Compact SUVs

  1. Toyota RAV4 Prime
  2. Subaru Forester
  3. Subaru Crosstrek
  4. Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid
  5. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
  6. Honda CR-V Hybrid

As you can see, the Forester and Crosstrek beat three trendy hybrid trims. Hybrids are selling exceptionally well because of their fuel efficiency. However, owners say the non-hybrid Subaru models are more satisfying according to CR's owner surveys. 

2024 Subaru Crosstrek driving in the snow

An all-new 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid is coming. Check out my report here. 

What does Consumer Reports say about the 2024 Forester?

Subaru Forester 2024

  • Price Range:  $27,095 - $37,395
  • CR MPG:  Overall 28 / City 20 / Hwy 38 mpg
  • #2 of 31  Compact SUVs

"The widely sold Forester delivers a satisfying combination of a roomy interior, excellent visibility, commendable fuel economy, simple controls, a comfortable ride, and responsive handling. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder CVT returns 28 mpg overall in our tests, among the best in class." 

"But acceleration isn't exhilarating, and the engine's noise isn't the most pleasant. The cabin is roomy, with a particularly generous rear seat and very easy access. AEB with pedestrian detection and AEB highway are standard, but BSW and RCTW are optional."

What does Consumer Reports say about the 2024 Crosstrek?

Subaru Crosstrek 2024

  • Price Range:  $25,195 - $32,195
  • CR MPG:  Overall 29 / City 20 / Hwy 41 mpg
  • #1 of 12  Subcompact SUVs

"The Crosstrek got an evolutionary redesign for 2024. It's still essentially a raised Impreza hatchback with a very comfortable ride, standard all-wheel drive, and decent cargo room for the class. Responsive handling, mostly simple controls, and a practical but not fancy interior round out the package." 

"Acceleration from the standard 2.0-liter engine is tepid and gets loud when pushed; the optional 2.5-liter has more oomph. The newly optional power driver's seat with adjustable lumbar support is a major improvement. BSW and RCTW are available only on higher trims."

MY TAKE

I have written a lot about Subaru needing new hybrid SUVs. Subaru Corporation is slow to bring new hybrid trims, but they are working on them now. 

The first Subaru SUV hybrid will be the remodeled 2025 Forester compact SUV. I recently wrote about the model being leaked from the Subaru dealer's meetings. But the next-generation Forester Hybrid is still a year away from making its U.S. launch.

Next is the Outback Hybrid trim level. Subaru gives the Outback a complete remodel for the 2025 model year, and the Japanese automaker is expected to provide the Outback with a new Hybrid trim. Still, it's yet to be confirmed by Subaru of America. 

The third-generation Subaru Crosstrek should also get a hybrid trim level, but the subcompact SUV hybrid has yet to be announced by Subaru. 

Subaru Corporation is collaborating with Toyota now on its new hybrid technology for Forester and its other models. It will be an improved version of what the Crosstrek PHEV offered. 

If Toyota gives Subaru the excellent hybrid technology it uses in the RAV4 Hybrid and RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid, the Forester Hybrid will be a hot new compact SUV for Subaru of America's retailers. 

As you can see from CR's owner surveys, the non-hybrid 2024 Subaru Forester and 2024 Subaru Crosstrek beat three trendy hybrid trims. 

This is the latest information regarding the Subaru Forester and Crosstrek. I'll keep you updated with any new Subaru hybrid information.

Until then, visit torquenews.com/subaru regularly and bookmark the page for my latest updates.

What about you? Would you be more interested in a Subaru Forester or Crosstrek Hybrid if it were offered? Let us know in the comments below.

Thanks for reading, everyone. I hope you enjoyed the Subaru Forester and 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 The Best Cars of 2024 | Talking Cars with Consumer Reports

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 blog, SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, 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

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