Why the Subaru Crosstrek is a Smart Buy (Despite Looking Like an Insect)
Crosstrek Sales are Soaring
Let's dive into some numbers:
Subaru sold about 20,000 Crosstreks last month
Year-to-date sales are at a whopping 115,000
They're on track to beat last year's 159,000 total
Compared to its rivals, the Crosstrek is crushing it. Honda's HR-V is a close second with just over 100,000 sold, but Subaru is likely to come out on top this year.
Inventory and Trim Levels
Currently, Subaru has about 16,000 Crosstreks in stock, which is on par with Honda's HR-V inventory. When shopping, you'll mainly see three trim levels:
Premium
Limited
Wilderness
Pro tip: The Wilderness trim might look cool, but its practicality is questionable. Stick with the Premium or Limited for the best value.
Pricing and Discounts
Let's focus on the Premium AWD model, which has a middle-of-the-road MSRP of $28,839. Here's what you should aim for:
Target discount: 6-8% off MSRP
Ideal selling price: Around $27,108 (about $1,500-$2,000 off)
While Subaru doesn't often offer rebates, they currently have a 3.9% financing deal for up to 72 months.
Lease vs. Buy
The lease program for the Crosstrek isn't terrible:
63% residual at 36 months
12,000 miles per year
.00233 money factor
No lease cash
However, when you crunch the numbers, leasing might not be the best option. A Premium AWD with a 6% discount would cost about $353/month (not including tax) on a lease.
The Used Crosstrek Conundrum
You might be tempted to look at used Crosstreks, but be warned - the prices are surprisingly high. For example, 2021 models with under 40,000 miles are listing around $23,000. When you can get a brand new one for about $28,000, the used option doesn't make much sense.
The Verdict: Buy New and Finance
After considering all the options, here's the smart move:
Buy a new Crosstrek
Finance at 3.9% for 72 months (but aim to pay it off in 60 if possible)
Enjoy your quirky, reliable, and surprisingly lovable Subaru
Conclusion
The Subaru Crosstrek might look like a ladybug at first glance, but don't let that fool you. With its strong sales, competitive pricing, and solid financing options, it's a smart choice for anyone in the market for a compact SUV. Just remember to negotiate for that 6-8% discount, and you'll be cruising in your new Crosstrek in no time.
Ready to start shopping for your Crosstrek? Don't forget to use the data and tips from this post to get the best deal possible. Happy car hunting!
