CR’s 10 Fuel-Stingy Models Selling Under MSRP, It’s A Buyers Market For Subaru Forester And Crosstrek

It's a buyer's market at Subaru now, which has not happened since I've covered the brand for over ten years. If you shop for a compact SUV, it could be the best time to buy the 2024 Subaru Forester and 2024 Subaru Crosstrek. 

An updated Consumer Reports (by subscription) ranking reveals the two Subaru SUVs are selling under the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP). Typically, these two models have never shown up on this Consumer Reports list until this year.

Consumer Reports says, "We ranked the vehicles by how good a deal they are, relative to the manufacturer's suggested retail price, by using the percentage of savings from the sticker price. The top model represents the best deal. Each model sells for less than MSRP—even if just barely."

I've listed four of the best fuel-efficient SUVs selling under MSRP that Consumer Reports recommends. To be recommended by CR, they must score well in performance, reliability, owner satisfaction, and safety. 

Lexus UX

• Price Range:  $35,540 - $44,370
• CR MPG:  Overall 37 / City 32 / Hwy 42 mpg
• #2 of 12  Luxury entry-level SUVs

2024 Lexus UX 250h AWD

• MSRP: $36,940
• Average spent under MSRP: $1,194
• Average transaction price: $35,746

Subaru Forester

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

2024 Subaru Forester Premium

• MSRP: $30,295
• Average spent under MSRP: $503
• Average transaction price: $29,792

Kia Niro Electric

• Price Range:  $39,600 - $44,600
• CR MPGE:  Overall 113 / City 126 / Hwy 101 mpge

2024 Kia Niro Electric Wind

• MSRP: $39,600
• Average spent under MSRP: $401
• Average transaction price: $39,199

Subaru Crosstrek

• Price Range:  $25,195 - $32,195
• CR MPG:  Overall 29 / City 20 / Hwy 41 mpg
• #1 of 13  Subcompact SUVs

2024 Subaru Crosstrek Premium AWD

• MSRP: $26,345
• Average spent under MSRP: $241
• Average transaction price: $26,104

I know that it doesn't sound like a significant amount that the Forester and Crosstrek are selling under MSRP, $503 and $241, respectively, but it's not been seen in the recent history of the two models. 

They are selling for less than MSRP now because Subaru's inventory has increased, and they have vehicles sitting on their lots. Subaru retailers need to move the models. And that's good news for shoppers now.

What sets the Crosstrek and Forester apart from the other two models on the list?

The significant differences between the Forester and Crosstrek compared with the other small SUV competition is that they both come standard with:

• Subaru's Symmetrical all-wheel drive for all-weather performance 
• X-Mode for severe weather 
• Dual-function X-Mode on some trim levels for all-terrain capability
• 8.7 inches of ground clearance (9.2 and 9.3 on Forester and Crosstrek Wilderness) 
• EyeSight driver assist safety technology and get top IIHS safety scores
• They are fun to drive on the weekends because of their excellent balance and off-pavement features

It's important to note: You won't pay extra for the all-weather, all-terrain features.

For those looking for a car and not an SUV, I've also included CR's best fuel-efficient cars selling user MSRP. The top model represents the best deal. 

1. Toyota Crown
2. Toyota Camry
3. Lexus ES Hybrid
4. Nissan Altima
5. Hyundai Sonata 
6. Honda Accord Hybrid

NOTE: Special Financing Is Available On Forester

The Consumer Reports ranking did not say that now through May 31, 2024, you can get 2.9% APR financing for 72 months on a new 2024 Forester, with no down payment required. 

The fuel-efficient and affordable 2024 Subaru Forester and 2024 Subaru Crosstrek, which Consumer Reports recommends, can save you gas and money.

I am Denis Flierl, a top Torque News and Subaru reporter since 2012. I’ve invested over 13 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role, working with every major car brand. I am an experienced Rocky Mountain Automotive Press member. You'll find my expert Subaru analysis here. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Tucson Subaru