Why You Should Avoid New Subaru Forester, Crosstrek, Outback Base Trim Levels
- Published
Subaru of America offers the 2022 Subaru Forester, 2022 Crosstrek, 2022 Outback, 2022 Ascent SUVs, and other new models in base trim levels, but how many customers ever buy one? All of Subaru's all-wheel-drive lineup models have a base trim except for the rear-drive 2022 Subaru BRZ. It's the only Subaru model that does not have a base trim level.
The base Subaru trim levels are attractively priced, and they are $1,100 to $3,000 less than the Premium trim level. The base models come with Subaru's Symmetrical all-wheel-drive, standard EyeSight safety technology, Starlink multimedia, and 8.7-inches of ground clearance. Here's why few buyers ever buy one.
The base trims only come with 17-inch steel wheels and more features buyers want, like a power driver's seat, heated seats and mirrors, keyless access, and push-button start. Check out the Forester, Crosstrek, Outback, and Ascent models and see if you would choose the base trim.
What is the price of the 2022 Subaru Forester base?
The 2022 Forester base trim level starts at $26,320, $3,000 less than the Premium ($29,320). Prices include destination and delivery fees ($1,125).
The Forester Premium trim adds Starlink Safety and Security, a 10-way power driver's seat, keyless access with push-button start, sliding panoramic moonroof, 17-inch alloy wheels, and an all-weather package with heated front seats.
Check out the complete 2022 Subaru Forester model guide here.
What is the price of the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek base?
The 2022 Crosstrek base trim level starts at $23,570, $1,150 less than the Premium ($24,720). Prices include destination and delivery fees ($1,125).
The Crosstrek Premium trim adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter handle, fog lights, an all-weather package with heated front seats, Starlink safety and security, and an available 6-way power-adjustable driver's seat.
Check out the complete 2022 Subaru Crosstrek model guide here.
What is the price of the 2022 Subaru Outback base?
The 2022 Outback base trim level starts at $27,845, $2,425 less than the Premium ($30,270). Prices include destination and delivery fees ($1,125).
The 2022 Outback Premium adds Starlink safety and security, Starlink 11.6-inch multimedia plus, a 10-way power driver's seat, an all-weather package with heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and LED fog lights.
Check out the complete 2022 Subaru Outback model guide here.
What is the price of the 2022 Subaru Ascent base?
The 2022 Ascent base trim level starts at $33,420, $2,500 less than the Premium ($35,920). Prices include destination and delivery fees ($1,125).
The 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium adds a second-row bench seat or captain's chairs, 5,000 lbs. towing capacity, Starlink safety and security, all-weather package with heated front seats, 4G LTE Wi-Fi capability, and rear climate control panel.
Check out the complete 2022 Subaru Ascent model guide here.
You’ll get less for a base trim level trade-in
If you choose a base trim level, you will save money, but when it comes time to trade in your Subaru, you will get much less for the base trim. Buyers want the upper trim features and will pay more for a used model to get them.
Why does Subaru even offer a base 2022 Forester, Crosstrek, Outback, and Ascent model? Subaru of America can entice buyers with a low starting price in their advertising. All automakers offer the lowest-priced trim levels, but few buyers want the stripped-down models. Paying more for Subaru's Premium trim levels provides a better value for SUV shoppers.
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Denis Flierl has invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role working with every major car brand. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. Check out Subaru Report where he covers all of the Japanese automaker's models. More stories can be found on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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