It’s already been a decade since Subaru brought its wildly successful Crosstrek nameplate to the market. While the Crosstrek hasn’t been around as long as models like the Outback and Forester, it’s already beating the two Subaru cornerstones in resale value.

Outback and Forester lead their segments, but Crosstrek remains on top

Kelley Blue Book ranks the Crosstrek as one of the top 10 best overall resale value vehicles of 2023.

The publication released its annual resale value ratings for 2023, and Subaru earned several top spots. Both the Forester and Outback trail behind the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek.

But That’s not a knock against the two larger SUVs. In fact, Kelley Blue Book rated the Subaru Outback as the best resale value two-row midsize SUV and the Subaru Forester as the best resale value compact SUV. The publication estimates the two models will retain 57.8 percent and 60.6 percent of their MSRPs, respectively.

Both the Outback and the Forester have loyal followings and strong sales records. Yet, the two still lag behind their smaller Crosstrek sibling in resale value.

Crosstrek ties Jeep Wrangler, ranks number 10 for resale value among all 2023 models

Kelley Blue Book’s resale value estimate for the 2023 Crosstrek is 61 percent of its MSRP. It’s a touch higher than the other two segment-leading Subarus. The Crosstrek shares its spot in the top 10 overall resale value vehicles with the Jeep Wrangler – a nameplate famous for long-term value.

Does Subaru hold better resale value than Toyota?

Subaru models like the 2023 Crosstrek offer excellent projected resale value, according to Kelley Blue Book. But while the brand does lead specific segments, it doesn’t top the overall resale value list. That honor still belongs to Toyota trucks. The Tundra and Tacoma rank first and second for resale value, respectively, while the 4Runner ranks sixth overall.

Why is Subaru resale value so high?

Subaru models like the Crosstrek consistently rank among the best vehicles for resale value. They often beat models from brands that look better on paper. After all, Subaru isn’t known for being the most technically advanced brand. So why do its models hold their value so well?

For starters, Subaru has some unique performance advantages. The brand’s signature symmetrical all-wheel drive system has a reputation for being one of the best in the business. And it’s standard on most models. As a result, Subaru has gained a reputation for being one of the best brands for winter performance. Drivers are willing to pay a premium for that peace of mind in many parts of the country.

Subaru has also invested considerable time and resources to develop a strong brand identity. Drivers associate models like the Crosstrek and Outback with a specific lifestyle – an essential factor in many people’s buying decisions.

Finally, Subaru was among the first brands to capitalize on the crossover takeover. It’s produced light-duty SUVs and wagons for decades, building a loyal following through that time. Subaru drivers tend to stick with Subaru, and that promotes high resale value.