CR Says Refreshed Subaru Forester Is One Of 4 Best New Cars Under $30,000

What are the best small SUVs under $30,000? According to Consumer Reports (by subscription), the 2022 Subaru Forester is ranked number one overall in recent tests and surveys.

Why is the refreshed Subaru Forester ranked highest by Consumer Reports? CR says it's the top choice because the small SUV offers good road-test performance; it gets top safety scores, reliability, fuel efficiency, and owner satisfaction.

photo credit: Competition Subaru

The scores are based on CR's most recent tests and owner surveys. The Forester scores number one compact SUV of twenty-five models with a top score of 90, outscoring the top-selling Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V.

Consumer Reports ranks the 2022 Forester the best compact SUV for its "combination of a roomy interior, excellent visibility, commendable fuel economy, simple controls, a comfortable ride, and responsive handling."

photo credit: Competition Subaru

The 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."

CR goes on to say, "The cabin is roomy, with a particularly generous rear seat and easy access. The controls are simple to use, including an infotainment system that's also compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay."

What is the price of the 2022 Subaru Forester?

For the 2022 model change Forester 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).

Subaru Crosstrek and Legacy also score among the top new models

Consumer Reports says the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek is also a top pick in the small SUV category under $30,000. The 2022 Subaru Legacy scores one of the best midsize cars under $30,000 in the latest rankings.

In the latest Consumer Reports rankings, the 2022 Subaru Forester is number one of twenty-five models with a top score of 90. CR says it's now one of the top-10 best new cars in 2022.

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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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Photo credit: main image Competition Subaru