Subaru’s Adventure All-Stars: Forester and Crosstrek Dominate Consumer Reports’ 2026 Top Picks!

Hey Subaru fans and adventure seekers! If you’re like me, you live for those epic road trips where the pavement ends and the fun begins. Well, buckle up because Subaru just dropped some seriously exciting news that’s got the off-road community buzzing. The 2026 Subaru Forester and Crosstrek have once again snagged spots on Consumer Reports’ Annual 10 Top Picks list – and they’re not just participating; they’re owning it!

Let’s start with the legendary Subaru Forester. This beast has earned its 13th consecutive Top Pick as the Best Compact SUV. Thirteen years in a row? That’s not luck; that’s Subaru engineering at its finest! Consumer Reports raved about its comfy ride, top-notch safety ratings, spacious interior, and that unbeatable Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system that tackles snow, mud, or whatever Mother Nature throws your way. And get this – the new Forester Hybrid amps up the fuel efficiency, making it even more desirable for those long hauls with your furry co-pilot (because who doesn’t love a dog-friendly Subaru?). Starting at just $29,995 MSRP, it’s ready to hit the trails right now.

2026 Subaru Forester| Subaru

Not to be outdone, the plucky Subaru Crosstrek is back for its third straight year as the Best Subcompact SUV. Reviewers called it out for returning “even more positive attributes” in 2026, including a next-gen hybrid powertrain that’s perfect for city zips and weekend escapes. They loved its versatility, smooth handling, added ground clearance, and that signature Subaru grit. Available in trims like Base, Premium, Sport, Sport Hybrid, Limited, Limited Hybrid, and the rugged Wilderness, it starts at $26,995 MSRP. Whether you’re navigating urban jungles or actual forests, the Crosstrek is your go-to for fun without the fuss.

This marks the third year both models have shared the spotlight on the list, proving Subaru’s commitment to affordable, capable, safe, and downright enjoyable vehicles. As Jeff Walters, President and COO of Subaru of America, put it: “Consumer Reports selects only a small number of vehicles each year for its Annual 10 Top Picks, and we’re honored again to have two Subaru vehicles make the list. The Subaru Forester and Subaru Crosstrek are affordable, capable, safe, and comfortable vehicles, and reflect our commitment to delivering exceptional value for customers.”

And hey, Subaru isn’t stopping there – they were named the Best Automotive Brand for 2025 by Consumer Reports, with seven recommended models including the Ascent, BRZ, Crosstrek, Forester, Impreza, Outback, and WRX. It’s all part of the Subaru Love Promise, where they’re not just building cars; they’re making the world a better place with zero-landfill plants, wildlife habitats, and over $340 million donated to causes we all care about.

So, if you’re in Fayetteville or anywhere else craving that Subaru adventure vibe, head to your local dealer and check these out. Who knows? Your next epic story might start behind the wheel of a Forester or Crosstrek. What’s your favorite Subaru memory? Drop it in the comments – let’s keep the fun rolling!