All the Best Subaru Compact SUVs
Subaru’s smallest SUV is the Crosstrek, but the Forester will suit those who need more space. Learn more about these compact SUVs here.
Written by Tiffany Leung
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
The Subaru Forester’s recent facelift gives it more style with an interior that remains practical and comfortable for outdoor adventures. As Subaru’s true compact SUV, the Forester is a solid choice for customers who prefer boxy styling and upright seating positions.
The Subaru Crosstrek may be the automaker’s smallest SUV, but the outdoorsy facade is only skin deep. The car-based design won’t be enough for those looking for an off-road adventure, which is why the automaker offers another compact SUV—the Forester. If you’re looking to get a new, compact, and affordable Subaru SUV, you can get started with your research here.
In this article, we’ll explore all the Subaru compact SUV offerings. While the focus will be on what’s available brand-new, we’ll also outline Subaru’s other small cars that you can take into consideration. If you make it to the end, there will be a tip to help you save on
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2022 Subaru compact and subcompact SUV models
Currently, Subaru offers four compact SUVs, with two of the models being Crosstreks. Let’s take a closer look at the options.
2022 Subaru Crosstrek ($24,320 MSRP)
The
Subaru Crosstrek
is the company’s smallest and most car-like compact SUV. After all, it’s basically the Subaru Impreza with a higher ground clearance! The Crosstrek gives off an outdoorsy vibe but maintains swift car-like handling. The gas-powered engine is also fuel efficient to help customers cut down on gas costs. However, this may not be the SUV for those who are looking for a stylish interior, as function is prioritized over form in typical Subaru fashion.
Edmunds rates the Crosstrek with a score of 7.9/10 which is considered good and ranks it #5 out of 19 extra-small SUVs. It also has scores of 8/10 from Car and Driver. The Crosstrek scores the highest on J.D. Power with an 83/100 on J.D. Power and is considered third on their list of Best Compact and Small SUVs of 2022—ranking above the
Toyota Corolla Cross
.Highlights of the Crosstrek include:
- Sleek outdoorsy style
- Car-like steering and ride quality
- Higher ground clearance to handle more terrains
- Spacious seating for its size
- Comfortable interior for improved ride quality
- Models with front crash prevention and specific headlights received the IIHS 2022 Top Safety Pick award
- EPA rating of 30/28/33 mpg (combined/city/highway)
- Models from $24,320 to $29,420 MSRP
Weaknesses of the model include:
- Base engine has slow acceleration on the highway
- Cargo space smaller than competitors
- Underwhelming handling and driving experience
- Tall height results in noticeable body roll during turns
- Not a true SUV
2022 Subaru Crosstrek Plug-in Hybrid ($36,770 MSRP)
If you want to save even more on fuel, we’re happy to say that the Crosstrek Plug-in Hybrid is available. With the 8.8-kWh battery and electric motor, this electrified Crosstrek can travel 17 miles on a single charge.
The Crosstrek Plug-in Hybrid ratings are the same as the regular Crosstrek on both Edmunds and Car and Driver.
Highlights of the Crosstrek Plug-in Hybrid include:
- Sportier styling after the refresh
- Faster zero-to-sixty mph time compared to the regular engine
- Well-tuned suspensions make for a more stable ride
- Can charge in two hours on a 240-volt outlet
- Many standard features for the price point
- IIHS 2022 Top Safety Pick
- EPA rating of up to 90 MPGe combined
- Ample cabin space for front and back passengers
Weaknesses include:
- Electric-only range is only 17 miles
- Interior materials can feel cheap
- Seats do not fold down flat
- Hybrid model has a higher cargo floor
MORE:
Subaru tune-up cost
2022 Subaru Forester ($27,070 MSRP)
For those who are looking for an adventurous yet compact SUV, the Subaru Forester will fit the bill. Aside from being underpowered, the Forester has great off-road specs. This includes standard all-wheel drive, an above-average ground clearance level, and a ton of standard safety features.
Edmunds rates this compact SUV a 7.9/10, which is considered good on their scale. Car and Driver gives the Forester an 8/10.
Highlights of the Forester include:
- Rugged look and feel with a comfortable cabin
- Standard all-wheel drive
- Abundance of standard driver-assist features
- Higher-than-average ground clearance enhances off-road capability
- Generous storage capacity
Weaknesses include:
- Lackluster acceleration due to an underpowered engine
- Tow rating limits practicality
2023 Subaru Solterra ($46,220 MSRP)
The up-and-coming Subaru Solterra is the automaker’s first all-electric compact SUV with a similar size to the Forester. The Soltera is the love child of Subaru and Toyota and is estimated to have a driving range between 222 and 228 miles.
This brand-new EV is unrated on Edmunds but has received a 7.5/10 from Car and Driver.
Highlights of the Solterra include:
- Standard all-wheel drive
- Light off-road capabilities with a comfortable ride quality
- Many standard driver-assist features
- All-electric engine that produces 215 hp
- Futuristic interior design
Weaknesses include:
- Driving range is on the low end for an EV
- Difficult to adjust to a natural driving position
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Other small Subaru models
The four models above are Subaru’s smallest current SUV offerings. However, the automaker also has other compact vehicles that should also be kept on your radar. We’ve listed the rest of the compact vehicles below.
- Subaru Impreza($20,815 MSRP): Subaru’s compact sedan comes standard with all-wheel drive. It’s an affordable option with nimble handling but lacks power for those who want a spirited drive.
- Subaru Legacy($24,490 MSRP): Subaru’s traditional family sedan with a spacious cabin, standard all-wheel drive, and plenty of driver-assistance features.
- Subaru BRZ($28,990 MSRP): Subaru’s affordable and fun-to-drive entry-level sports car that can satisfy thrill-seekers. Also Subaru’s smallest car.
Other vehicles available include:
What is Subaru’s smallest SUV?
The Subaru Crosstrek is the smallest SUV sold by Subaru but the Forester isn’t too far behind. Below is a size comparison of the 2022 models:
Subaru Crosstrek | Subaru Forester | Subaru Solterra | |
|---|---|---|---|
Wheelbase | 104.9 inches | 105.1 inches | 112.2 inches |
Passenger volume | 107.6 cubic feet | 108 cubic feet | 95.7 cubic feet |
What is Subaru’s cheapest SUV?
If you’re looking for the most affordable new compact SUV option from Subaru, the Crosstrek will fit your bill. However, depending on the trim, there is some pricing overlap with the Forester.
How to save on Subaru insurance
The benefit of getting a compact SUV is lower insurance premiums. However, this will also depend on what model you settle on. Subaru’s hybrids and performance models will be more expensive due to the higher repair costs.
If you’re looking to lower your
Subaru Crosstrek insurance costs
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