2024 Consumer Reports Top Picks: Why Subaru Continues to Shine

The automotive industry constantly evolves, driven by new technologies, changing consumer preferences, and an increasing focus on environmental responsibility. In 2024, Consumer Reports released its annual list of top vehicles, recognizing the best models in a variety of categories based on performance, safety, reliability, and value. Once again, Subaru stands out with its two flagship models — the Subaru Forester and the Subaru Crosstrek — both of which earned high praise for their impressive combination of versatility, durability, and safety features.

What Makes the 2024 Consumer Reports Top Picks So Special?

Before diving into the specifics of Subaru’s achievements, it’s important to understand what makes the Consumer Reports Top Picks list such a significant resource for car buyers. This list is not just about rankings; it’s about helping consumers make informed decisions based on a comprehensive set of criteria. Consumer Reports evaluates thousands of vehicles across different categories, considering factors such as:

• Performance: How well does the vehicle perform in terms of acceleration, braking, and handling?
• Reliability: How dependable is the vehicle over the long term? Are there frequent issues or problems with the car?
• Safety: Does the vehicle come equipped with essential safety features like airbags, lane-departure warnings, and automatic emergency braking?
• Owner Satisfaction: How satisfied are current owners with their purchase? Do they experience fewer headaches and enjoy the car’s features?
• Fuel Economy: Given rising fuel costs, does the vehicle offer fuel efficiency or hybrid/EV options that reduce environmental impact?

In 2024, Subaru once again impressed Consumer Reports with the Subaru Forester and Subaru Crosstrek, both of which scored exceptionally well across the board, earning their place among the top picks in their respective categories.

Subaru’s Legacy of Performance, Safety, and Sustainability

For decades, Subaru has built its reputation around a solid foundation of performance, safety, and environmental consciousness. This philosophy has resonated with drivers across the country, from families looking for a reliable daily driver to outdoor enthusiasts seeking rugged, off-road capable vehicles.

Subaru’s Commitment to Performance

Performance in Subaru vehicles is more than just engine power and speed. Subaru vehicles are renowned for their symmetrical all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, which provides enhanced stability and control, particularly on uneven terrain or in adverse weather conditions. This drive system, which is standard in most Subaru models, sets the brand apart from its competitors and makes vehicles like the Subaru Forester and Subaru Crosstrek stand out in their respective categories.

The Subaru Forester is a compact SUV that blends performance with practical design, offering a smooth ride on highways, while still being capable enough to handle trails and rugged landscapes. The Crosstrek, Subaru’s smallest crossover, has a higher ground clearance than many competitors and is equipped with the brand’s trademark all-wheel-drive system, making it perfect for adventure seekers who don’t want to sacrifice comfort for rugged capability.

Subaru’s Safety Innovations

One of Subaru’s defining features is its commitment to safety. Subaru’s vehicles come equipped with a suite of advanced safety technologies that have earned them top marks in crash tests and safety evaluations. These features are an integral part of the brand’s appeal, and they played a pivotal role in earning Subaru’s top spots in Consumer Reports.

Both the Forester and Crosstrek include Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which bundles features like adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane departure warning. Additionally, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Reverse Automatic Braking are standard or available on both models, further enhancing their safety credentials. These technologies not only help keep the driver and passengers safe but also add a layer of convenience and peace of mind.

Environmental Responsibility: Subaru Loves the Earth

Subaru has also long been a leader in environmental sustainability. From producing fuel-efficient vehicles to their zero-waste manufacturing practices, Subaru is committed to minimizing its impact on the planet. In 2024, this commitment has only grown, with models like the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid and the Subaru Forester Hybrid, offering eco-conscious consumers more sustainable options.

Subaru’s dedication to green initiatives extends beyond the cars themselves. The company is also involved in efforts to reduce carbon emissions at their production plants, conserve natural habitats, and promote tree planting through initiatives like Subaru Loves the Earth. Their Crosstrek Hybrid, in particular, has been praised for its ability to offer both traditional driving and the efficiency of hybrid powertrains.

---

2024 Subaru Forester: Why It’s a Top Pick

The Subaru Forester has long been a favorite in the compact SUV category, thanks to its all-wheel-drive capability, ample interior space, and a host of safety features that make it an excellent family vehicle. In 2024, the Forester continues to impress with its blend of practicality, reliability, and off-road capability.

Performance and Capability

At the heart of the Forester is a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that provides a balance of power and efficiency. Paired with Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive and an efficient continuously variable transmission (CVT), the Forester delivers a smooth and confident driving experience both on and off the road. With up to 182 horsepower, the Forester has enough muscle for most driving situations, whether you’re navigating urban streets or exploring rugged mountain trails.

Additionally, the Forester offers impressive fuel efficiency, averaging 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, making it one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in its class. This combination of power, handling, and fuel economy has helped it maintain its popularity among eco-conscious consumers.

Interior and Comfort

The Forester has a spacious interior that can comfortably accommodate passengers and cargo. With 39.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 76.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, it offers ample room for everything from groceries to camping gear. The cabin is well-designed, with user-friendly technology and high-quality materials throughout.

Subaru has also made significant upgrades to the technology in the 2024 Forester, including a new, larger 8-inch touchscreen that comes standard, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. These features enhance the convenience and connectivity of the vehicle, making it easier to stay connected on the go.

Safety Features

As with all Subaru models, the Forester comes equipped with Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and pre-collision braking. It also includes blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and reverse automatic braking, making it one of the safest vehicles in its class.

---

2024 Subaru Crosstrek: A Redesigned Champion

The Subaru Crosstrek is Subaru’s smallest crossover, but don’t let its size fool you — it’s built for adventure. With a redesigned 2024 model, the Crosstrek improves on its already impressive attributes, combining ruggedness with a more refined interior and better technology.

Performance and Efficiency

The Crosstrek offers a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine as the standard powertrain, which is efficient and provides sufficient power for city driving and off-road excursions. It also comes with all-wheel drive as standard, allowing it to handle snow, dirt roads, and rainy conditions with ease. The Crosstrek Hybrid offers a 2.0-liter engine paired with an electric motor, providing both the efficiency of an electric vehicle and the ruggedness Subaru is known for.

With an EPA rating of 28 mpg city/33 mpg highway for the non-hybrid model, the Crosstrek is one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in its class. The hybrid version offers even better efficiency, helping eco-conscious drivers reduce their carbon footprint.

Interior and Features

The 2024 Crosstrek boasts a more refined and modern interior. The upgraded 8-inch touchscreen now comes standard, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Subaru has also improved the seating materials and interior finishes, creating a comfortable and pleasant environment for both driver and passengers.

Cargo space is generous for a subcompact SUV, offering 20.8 cubic feet with the rear seats up, and more with the seats folded down. This flexibility makes the Crosstrek ideal for both city commutes and weekend getaways.

Safety

As with all Subaru models, the Crosstrek is packed with advanced safety features. The EyeSight system, which includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane-keep assist, is standard on most trims. Additionally, the Crosstrek comes with blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and reverse automatic braking, making it an excellent choice for safety-conscious buyers.

---

Subaru’s Vision for the Future

Subaru’s success in 2024 Consumer Reports’ Top Picks is a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality, reliability, and sustainability. But Subaru’s story doesn’t end here. With an increasing focus on electrification, autonomous driving technologies, and sustainability initiatives, Subaru is preparing for an even brighter future.

Electric Future with Subaru

Subaru is actively working on expanding its hybrid and electric vehicle offerings, with the Subaru Solterra, an all-electric SUV, leading the way. The brand is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and investing in greener technologies to align with the global movement toward a more sustainable automotive industry.

---

Visit Stevens Creek Subaru for Your Next Subaru

If you’re ready to experience the 2024 Subaru Forester or 2024 Subaru Crosstrek, come by Stevens Creek Subaru in San Jose. Our team is here to assist you in finding the perfect Subaru model to suit your lifestyle. Whether you’re after a safe, reliable family vehicle or a rugged, adventure-ready SUV, we have the perfect Subaru for you.

Conclusion

Subaru continues to impress in 2024 Consumer Reports’ Top Picks, with the Forester and Crosstrek standing out for their performance, reliability, and safety features. These vehicles are perfect examples of Subaru’s commitment to creating cars that not only excel on the road but also make a positive impact on the environment. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a Subaru enthusiast, now is the perfect time to discover what makes Subaru the right choice for your next vehicle.

Visit Us Today!

Stevens Creek Subaru

Tags: 2024 Subaru Forester, 2024 Subaru models, Bay Area Subaru, best SUVs 2024, Consumer Reports Top Picks, Cupertino Subaru, San Jose Subaru, Santa Clara Subaru, Stevens Creek Subaru, Subaru adventure cars, Subaru all-wheel drive, Subaru Crosstrek 2024, Subaru Crosstrek hybrid, Subaru Crosstrek redesign, Subaru dealership San Jose, Subaru eco-friendly vehicles, Subaru for families, Subaru Forester performance, Subaru Forester reviews, Subaru Forester vs Crosstrek, Subaru hybrid cars, Subaru reliability, Subaru reliability ratings, Subaru safety features, Subaru safety technologies, Subaru vehicles, Subaru’s commitment to the environment
Posted in San Jose Subaru Dealer | No Comments »