2023 Subaru SUVs: A Guide to the Brand’s Latest Crossovers
As the SUV segment grows, more automakers are expanding their offerings and perfecting existing models. With so many crossovers and SUVs on the market, it’s hard to know which is the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Still, Subaru SUVs are almost always a safe bet for their reliability and ruggedness. And every 2023 Subaru SUV comes with all-wheel drive, giving you more utility and value for your purchase.
So, what does each model offer in performance and technology features? Let’s review the lineup of 2023 Subaru SUVs.
2023 Subaru Crosstrek
Starting at $23,645, the Crosstrek is its cheapest 2023 Subaru SUV. This subcompact crossover offers two engine options — the most powerful is a 182-hp four-cylinder. The two lowest trims have a six-speed manual gearbox, while the others use a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
The Subaru Crosstrek seats five riders in a relatively roomy cabin. However, the interior isn’t as fancy as some rivals and doesn’t have the most spacious cargo area. The base model also lacks many advanced safety features unless you swap the manual gearbox for the CVT.
2023 Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester is slightly larger than the Crosstrek and has the same 182-hp four-cylinder as its base engine. Despite the AWD setup, the Forester gets a decent 26/33 mpg city/highway. It also offers more standard safety and convenience features than the Crosstrek, including steering-responsive headlights and smartphone integration.
In addition, the 2023 Subaru Forester has a Wilderness edition for drivers interested in light off-roading adventures. The Wilderness has 9.2 inches of ground clearance and optimized driving modes for mud and deep snow. It also has roof rails, more protective body cladding, and a 3,000-pound towing capacity.
2023 Subaru Outback
According to Torque News, the Subaru Outback was the automaker’s best-selling vehicle for the 2022 model year. It’s technically a modern station wagon rather than a crossover SUV, boasting a generous overall length of over 191 feet. The Outback particularly shines in cargo space, with a maximum capacity of over 75 cubic feet. It also features two rows of wide and supportive seats.
And for 2023, Subaru gave the Outback an updated infotainment system interface to match the rest of its siblings. The Outback also has a suspension optimized for off-roading and offers an optional 260-hp turbo-four engine.
2023 Subaru Ascent
The Subaru Ascent midsize crossover SUV is relatively new to the automaker’s lineup, debuting for the 2019 model year. The cabin offers a good mix of aesthetic appeal and rugged durability, providing seating for up to eight.
It also has a generous maximum cargo capacity of over 85 cubic feet, plus standard roof rails for bulkier items. The 2023 Subaru Ascent boasts refreshed infotainment features, including wireless smartphone integration and a bigger touchscreen.
Despite its larger size over its small crossover siblings, the Ascent still gets only 260 hp from its sole turbo-four engine. Most rivals are more athletic thanks to V6 or V8 power. However, unlike other SUVs, the Ascent’s traction benefits from Subaru’s Active Torque Vectoring function.
Subaru Solterra
The brand’s first all-electric vehicle packs two electric motors producing 215 hp and 249 lb-ft of torque combined. According to Subaru, this model has X-Mode and 8.3 inches of ground clearance, plus available 20-inch wheels.
With those larger wheels, the Subaru Soltera gets 222 miles of electric range. If you stick with the standard 18-inch wheels, the battery can last an estimated 228 miles.
In addition, Solterra boasts a 12.3-inch touchscreen and lots of safety tech, including an optional 360-degree camera system.
