Subaru’s reputation for building versatile, rugged, and reliable vehicles has made it a go-to brand for adventurers and families alike. Subaru SUV models have a cult-like following, with many buyers staying loyal to the brand for years. For 2024, Subaru has brought all these qualities to the table with an impressive lineup of SUVs designed to tackle everything from urban commutes to off-road excursions. Whether you’re after a spacious three-row for family road trips or a compact EV for city driving, Subaru offers a model for every need – but which is the best Subaru SUV?
Subaru
Subaru is the car making division of the Japanese transport company, Subaru Corporation, and it’s one of the largest in the world. It was founded in 1953, preceded by the Nakajima Aircraft Company, and today manufactures vehicles known for their boxer engines, symmetrical all-wheel drive systems, and pedigreed history.
- Founded
- 15 July 1953
- Founder
- Chikuhei Nakajima
- Headquarters
- Ebisu, Shibuya, Japan
- Owned By
- Subaru Corporation
- Current CEO
- Atsushi Osaki
In this ranking, we’ll break down the best Subaru SUV models for 2024 using our CarBuzz BuzzScores. From the brand-new all-electric Solterra to the beloved Crosstrek, we’ll highlight what makes each model stand out – and touch on a few areas where they could improve. Ready to find out what the best Subaru to buy is? Let’s dive in.
CarBuzz has collected information on the 2024 range of SUVs from Subaru directly. Any other sources used have been noted at the end of the article. Models have been ranked according to their
BuzzScore
, appearing in order from lowest to highest rated, to help you determine which Subaru is best for you.
5 Subaru Solterra
BuzzScore: 7.1/10
2024 Subaru Solterra
- Base MSRP
- $44,995
- Engine
- Electric
- Horsepower
- 215 hp
- Torque
- 249 lb-ft
- Exterior Design
- Performance
- Fuel Efficiency
- Interior & Cargo
- Infotainment & Features
- Reliability
- Safety
- Value For Money
Subaru is known for its tough, outdoorsy vehicles, but the 2024 Subaru Solterra marks the brand’s first entry into the growing world of fully electric SUVs. Built in collaboration with Toyota, the Solterra shares its platform with the bZ4X, but combines Subaru’s classic all-wheel-drive capability with eco-friendly, zero-emissions driving. It’s no off-roader, though, and our test drive review of the Solterra showed a few areas where the brand will need to improve on it in the future.
Inside, the Solterra boasts a relatively high-tech interior, complete with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a spacious cabin thanks to its flat-floor design. Safety features like Subaru’s EyeSight driver assistance suite come standard, ensuring peace of mind on the road. However, its range of 220 miles is underwhelming compared to many competitors in the EV space, especially for those planning longer trips. Charging speeds aren’t class-leading either, and public fast-charging infrastructure can be limited depending on where you live. For Subaru fans wanting to go green, the Solterra is a decent start, but it still has room to grow.
- Strengths: All-electric, great for Subaru loyalists transitioning to EVs, decent off-road performance.
- Weaknesses: Limited range, slow charging, some interior materials feel less premium than rivals.
4 Subaru Outback
BuzzScore: 7.5/10
2024 Subaru Outback
- Base MSRP
- $28,895
- Engine
- 2.5L Flat 4 Gas
- Horsepower
- 182 hp
- Exterior Design
- Performance
- Fuel Efficiency
- Interior & Cargo
- Infotainment & Features
- Reliability
- Safety
- Value For Money
The 2024 Subaru Outback strikes a great balance between a capable SUV and a station wagon. It’s a favorite among Subaru loyalists for its combination of everyday practicality and rugged, off-road ability. With up to 9.5-inches of ground clearance, standard symmetrical AWD, and an available turbocharged engine, the Outback is ideal for adventurers who need a vehicle that can handle both grocery runs and backwoods trails. The Outback’s interior is well-appointed, offering plenty of cargo space and tech features like a large touchscreen, wireless smartphone charging, and optional Nappa leather upholstery. Subaru’s latest EyeSight safety features also come standard, keeping you and your passengers safe during every drive.
However, the base 2.5-liter boxer engine leaves a lot to be desired, especially when it comes to highway acceleration. While the turbocharged version offers better performance, it’s only available on the higher trims, making it pricier. Additionally, the continuously variable transmission (CVT), although efficient, can make the driving experience feel less engaging than competitors with traditional automatic transmissions.
- Strengths: Spacious cargo area, available turbocharged engine, great off-road capability.
- Weaknesses: Base engine is underwhelming, CVT lacks driving engagement.
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3 Subaru Ascent
BuzzScore: 7.5/10
2024 Subaru Ascent
- Base MSRP
- $34,395
- Engine
- 2.4L Turbo Flat 4 Gas
- Horsepower
- 260 hp
- Torque
- 277 lb-ft
- Exterior Design
- Performance
- Fuel Efficiency
- Interior & Cargo
- Infotainment & Features
- Reliability
- Safety
- Value For Money
Its wide range of affordably priced trims are sure to appeal to the adventurous family set. If you want a rugged, comfortable SUV that’s not fussy or overdone, then you’ll be pleased with the Ascent.
– Nicole Wakelin, CarBuzz
When it comes to family-sized SUVs, the 2024 Subaru Ascent is a solid choice with seating for up to eight passengers. Sitting at the top of Subaru’s lineup, this three-row SUV is designed with families in mind, offering an impressive 19 cupholders, plenty of cargo space, and easy access to the third row. Its standard AWD and 8.7 inches of ground clearance also make it a capable choice for those who need to handle snow, rain, or rough terrain. The Ascent comes packed with technology, including a vertical 11.6-inch infotainment screen and Subaru’s suite of EyeSight safety features. Inside, the cabin is spacious, with available features like leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and heated seats to elevate comfort levels.
However, the Ascent’s 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, while adequate, can feel a little strained when the vehicle is fully loaded with passengers and cargo, or when towing. Some competitors, such as the Kia Telluride, offer more powerful engines at this price point. In addition, the interior materials, particularly in lower trims, don’t quite measure up to the more premium feel found in some rivals, as we found in our drive review.
- Strengths: Roomy interior, standard AWD, plenty of family-friendly features.
- Weaknesses: Engine can feel underpowered when fully loaded, some interior materials feel cheap.
Related
Family Hauler Showdown: 2024 Subaru Ascent Vs. 2025 Honda Pilot
Both of these SUVs have three rows of seating and room for cargo – and neither breaks the bank. But the clear differences point to a winner…
2 Subaru Forester
BuzzScore: 8.1/10
2024 Subaru Forester
- Base MSRP
- $27,095
- Engine
- 2.5L Flat 4 Gas
- Horsepower
- 182 hp
- Torque
- 176 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
- Exterior Design
- Performance
- Fuel Efficiency
- Interior & Cargo
- Infotainment & Features
- Reliability
- Safety
- Value For Money
The 2024 Subaru Forester continues to be a top choice for those seeking a compact SUV that doesn’t skimp on space or capability. The Forester is a great all-around SUV renowned for its spacious cabin, excellent visibility, and advanced safety features. Subaru’s standard AWD and 8.7 inches of ground clearance make the Forester a solid off-road contender, while its smooth ride ensures it’s just as comfortable on the highway. The Forester offers excellent cargo capacity, with up to 74.4 cubic feet of storage with the rear seats folded down. Inside, Subaru’s latest infotainment system keeps drivers connected with ease, and available heated rear seats make it a favorite for families in colder areas.
Despite its many strengths, the Forester suffers from the same problem as other Subaru SUVs as its 2.5-liter engine lacks excitement, delivering modest acceleration that could leave some drivers wanting more. Its fuel economy is competitive for the class, but some competitors offer more powerful engine options that don’t compromise efficiency. Still, for most buyers, the Forester’s practicality and value make it a top pick.
- Strengths: Spacious and practical, top-tier safety features, reliable.
- Weaknesses: Lacks power compared to some competitors, limited engine options.
1 Subaru Crosstrek
BuzzScore: 8.3/10
2024 Subaru Crosstrek
- Base MSRP
- $25,195
- Engine
- 2.0L Flat 4 Gas
- Horsepower
- 152 hp
- Exterior Design
- Performance
- Fuel Efficiency
- Interior & Cargo
- Infotainment & Features
- Reliability
- Safety
- Value For Money
Taking the top spot on our list is the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek, a crossover SUV that checks all the boxes for urban drivers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The Crosstrek’s size makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, yet it still offers up to 9.3 inches of ground clearance in the Wilderness trim, standard AWD, and optional all-terrain tires, making it a capable off-roader when adventure calls.
Outdoor people have an affinity for Subaru, and the Crosstek has served the brand and its customers for the last two generations as an entry-level crossover capable of real adventure and off-road acumen.
For 2024, the Crosstrek comes with several engine options, including a 2.0-liter and 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engines, and an available plug-in hybrid for those looking to maximize fuel efficiency. The Crosstrek’s ride is smooth and comfortable, with upgraded suspension for a more refined driving experience. Subaru’s EyeSight safety suite comes standard, and the interior offers plenty of advanced tech, including an intuitive infotainment system and an available Harman Kardon sound system.
One drawback is that the base engine lacks the punch some drivers might expect, and the lack of a turbocharged option on lower trims might leave performance enthusiasts looking elsewhere. However, with its excellent balance of affordability, capability, and technology, the Crosstrek remains the most well-rounded Subaru SUV for 2024.
- Strengths: Compact size, excellent off-road capability, available hybrid option.
- Weaknesses: Base engine lacks power, no turbo option on lower trims may deter buyers.
Related
Subaru Crosstrek Generations: Everything You Need To Know In One Place
Subaru’s compact hatch on stilts provides a cost-effective subcompact crossover experience that even includes a off-road capable Wilderness trim.
Summary
When it comes to the best Subaru SUVs, every model offers something unique, whether it’s the spacious practicality of the Ascent, the all-electric future of the Solterra, or the adventure-ready compact Crosstrek. For families, the Ascent and Forester are excellent choices, offering plenty of space and safety features. The Outback is perfect for those who need a vehicle that can transition effortlessly between daily driving and off-road adventures. But if you’re looking for the best all-around Subaru SUV, the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek takes the crown. Its blend of urban agility, off-road capability, and modern tech make it a standout in the lineup.
Sources:
Subaru