Three Subarus Top Their Segments in KBB 2023 Cost-to-Own Study

Cost-to-Own may not be the first item you calculate when shopping for a new car or SUV. However, insurance, maintenance and resale cost are some of the most important factors when beginning your car ownership journey. Fortunately, Kelley Blue Book (KBB.com) covers that for you. They calculate 5-year cost-to-own estimates of all new models sold in the US, and each year they publish the results. Among the results are the models in each vehicle segment with the lowest cost-to-own estimates. Subaru of Rochester always looks forward to this study because Subaru models are frequently named at the top of their categories. This year is no different, as the Forester, Outback, and Ascent were all cited as having the lowest 5-year cost-to-own amounts in their respective segments.

Those respective segments are some of the largest and most competitive in the industry. In fact, the best-selling and most competitive segment is the Forester’s Compact SUV category. The 2-row Mid-size SUV and 3-row Midsize SUV categories for Outback and Ascent, respectively, are not far behind. These SUV models are generally crossovers and car-based platforms as KBB has a separate Off-Road SUV category for dedicated off-road-focused models such as Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco.

The factors KBB takes into account in their five-year cost-to-own findings include: 

• Original model cost (averaged across the model line)
• Insurance
• Maintenance costs
• Fuel costs
• Depreciation
  

Depreciation is the largest factor and the one you have the most control over based on how well you maintain your vehicle and how long you keep it. Brand reputation also plays a part and gives Subaru a leg up since the quality, reliability, and durability of its models contribute to Subaru having one of the highest resale values for a non-luxury brand. Trim level and options can also make a difference based on this KBB statement: “…choosing a slightly pricier model can save you money in the long run. And that also means less expensive cars can cost more over time.”

Forester Leads Compact SUVs for Three Years Straight

The Forester led all compact SUV models this year, last year, and the year before that, beating out segment sales leaders like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Nissan Rogue. Even four years ago, this honor was in the Subaru family with the 2019 Crosstrek. Taking into account the average original model cost, the 2023 Forester has an estimated 5-year cost-to-own of $37,367. That is $3,365 less than the segment average.

Outback First in Midsize 2-row SUV For the Fourth Straight Year

Since 2019, the Outback has topped its segment in this list. Standing out for its wagon roots, its size, overall interior space, and capability put it firmly in the Midsize 2-row SUV category, where it beats out models such as the Honda Passport or Nissan Pathfinder. The expected 5-year ownership costs KBB figured for the Outback average out to $47,833, which is an astounding $8,772 less than the segment average.

Ascent Wins its First Lowest 5-Year Ownership Cost of Mid-Size 3-Row SUVs

Subaru’s largest SUV beat out past winners such as the Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander to have the lowest cost-to-own estimates in the competitive 3-row SUV segment. The Ascent was figured to have an overall 5-year cost-to-own cost of $47,833, which is $5,087 less than the segment average.

The cost of ownership is an important consideration when buying your next new SUV. Subaru models rate highly in this area, so you can be confident of low cost-of-ownership for any model found in the Subaru of Rochester showroom.