Subaru

The Mazda CX-5 has been a staple in the highly competitive compact SUV segment, and it does battle with industry heavyweights like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Subaru Forester. It is one of Mazda’s most popular models, often accounting for a massive share of the brand’s total annual sales.

The CX-5 has seen several key updates to maintain its competitive edge over the years, and was completely redesigned for the 2026 model years. Aside from significant interior and technology upgrades, the new model now features a massive 15.6-inch touchscreen. We looked into what owners thought of this new model as well as the recently discontinued variant.  

Below is a detailed breakdown of owner satisfaction data over the past five model years based on J.D. Power and Kelley Blue Book (KBB) surveys.

Jared Rosenholtz/Autoblog

Owner satisfaction surveys provide a broad overall view of a vehicle, and include everything from the driving experience, to build quality, reliability and even what the dealership experience was like. Value-for-money, performance, comfort and practicality all play a part in determining the final score, and J.D. Power conducts these surveys annually to determine which models are the most deserving of your hard-earned cash.

The CX-5 is now in its third generation, with the second gen models (2017-2025) finally bowing out. Now powered solely by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, the new CX-5 is far more technologically advanced than its predecessor, but the more powerful turbocharged engine is now only offered in the CX-50 SUV.

Mazda

Model Year

Total Overall Score

Quality & Reliability

Driving Experience

Resale

Dealership Experience

2026

82

82

79

84

82

2025

82

82

79

84

82

2024

82

82

81

84

83

2023

81

82

80

81

82

2022

83

86

82

80

83

The J.D. Power surveys over the past five years show that the CX-5 has been a solid and reliable vehicle, with scores staying in the ‘Great’ category almost across the board. The introduction of the latest model has not seen a dip in any area, that is partially thanks to the shared tech and well-developed platform of the new CX-5.

Mazda

Model Year

KBB Overall Consumer Rating

2026

4.2 / 5.0

2025

4.4 / 5.0

2024

4.4 / 5.0

2023

4.4 / 5.0

2022

4.4 / 5.0

Kelley Blue Book also subdivides its results into sub-segments including performance, styling, value, and reliability. The overall scores were very consistent with the second-generation models, no doubt due to the mature platform and fuss-free mechanical components.

The new CX-5 has dipped slightly overall, but this is to be expected for most first year models, and as the manufacturer deals with the teething issues, the scores tend to trend upwards over the production run.

Mazda

Overall, satisfaction with the Mazda CX-5 has remained impressively stable over the past five years. On J.D. Power, the CX-5 has comfortably hovered in the low-80s in J.D. Power ratings, which are categorized as “Great”.

Resale value has improved steadily over the years, a good sign that the CX-5’s reputation as a solid and durable vehicle is not a temporary anomaly. However, the driving experience scores are slightly lower, likely reflecting the age of the CX-5’s powertrain. Its 187-hp 2.5-liter engine and six-speed automatic may be reliable, but many new rivals offer more power and performance these days.

KBB consumer ratings remained solid at 4.4 out of 5 for most of the second-generation CX-5’s production run, but the newest model has seen a slight drop overall, which should improve as the new model heads into its second full year of production.

Owners consistently praise the CX-5 for its upscale, near-luxury interior material quality. They also frequently highlighted the remarkably quiet cabin, excellent crash safety ratings, and the engaging handling that makes it more fun to drive through corners than an average family SUV.

The primary complaints have revolved around the mediocre fuel economy, slightly cramped rear passenger legroom, and less total cargo capacity compared to some rivals. The 2026 CX-5 has at least remedied the interior space issue as it now offers more space for rear passengers as well as slightly more cargo room.

Honda

When compared to its top competitors, the J.D. Power scores show the Mazda CX-5 to be just below the the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester, which often score 84/100 overall. Superior cargo area, rear-seat space, (aside from the latest generation CX-5) and fuel-efficient hybrid powertrains are where its rivals score higher, while the CX-5 dominates in the aesthetic and driving dynamics departments.

Consumers cross-shopping the CX-5 against the Toyota RAV4 or Kia Sportage often note that the Mazda feels like a class above in terms of cabin insulation, soft-touch materials, and overall smoothness.

Ultimately, the CX-5 holds its ground as the affordable luxury choice of the compact SUV segment. It sacrifices a bit of practicality and gas mileage in exchange for sharper styling, and a premium driving experience. In its latest iteration, the CX-5 remains a well-balanced choice in its segment, all it lacks is a hybrid powertrain which could boost both performance and fuel economy. As it turns out, a hybrid CX-5 is on the cards for 2027…

While the influx of Chinese vehicles can provide buyers with affordable, tech-packed mobility options, it can also put pressure on competing automakers to cut costs to keep up. Regardless of how the situation is viewed, Chinese cars have a strong presence in the automotive landscape, reflected in the number of vehicles eligible for the 2027 World Car of the Year.

The World Car Awards have around 100 automotive jurors from across the globe, bringing diverse perspectives to the judging. The current list of candidates consists of 56 models, with Chinese marques accounting for 27 entries – nearly half the field. The pool widens further when other models with Chinese ownership ties, such as the Volvo EX60, are included.

BMW

Those models include BYD Ti7, Changan Nevo Q05, Chery Q, Deepal S05, Deepal S07, Exeed Exlantix ET, Exeed RX, GAC Aion UT, GAC Aion V, Geely EX2, Geely Starray EM-i, iCAUR v23, Jetour G700, Jetour T2, Leapmotor B10, Leapmotor C10, Leapmotor T03, Lepas L6 EV, Lepas L8 PHEV, Lynk & Co 900, Onvo L90, XPeng G6 2026 Edition, XPeng L03, XPeng P7+, and Zeekr 8X. The MG4 EV Urban is also part of this group, given that MG – which has British roots – is fully owned by Chinese automaker SAIC Motor.

The rest of the field includes BMW i3, Buick Electra E7, Chevrolet Aveo, Chevrolet Captiva EV/PHEV, Cupra Raval, DS N°7, Hyundai Bayon, Hyundai Ioniq 3, Hyundai Tucson, Infiniti QX65, Kia EV2, Kia Seltos, Kia Syros EV, Kia Telluride, Lexus ES, Lincoln Corsair, Mazda CX-5, Mazda CX-6e/EZ-60, Mercedes-Benz Electric C-Class, Mercedes-Benz Electric GLC, Mercedes-Benz GLA, Nissan Frontier Pro, Nissan NX8, Polestar 4 SUV, Renault Filante, Subaru Trailseeker, Subaru Uncharted, Volkswagen Atlas/Teramont Pro, and Volvo EX60.

It is also worth noting that every World Car of the Year winner since 2021 has been an all-electric model: the Volkswagen ID.4 (2021), Hyundai Ioniq 5 (2022), Hyundai Ioniq 6 (2023), Kia EV9 (2024), Kia EV3 (2025), and, most recently, BMW iX3 (2026). That streak gives readers a basis for judging whether the organization has done a good job picking its winners, while offering a clue about the kind of vehicle that could take the title this edition.

Hyundai

To qualify, vehicles must meet criteria including annual production of at least 10,000 units, pricing below luxury-car levels in their primary markets, and availability in at least two major markets across two continents between January 1, 2026, and March 19, 2027. They must also be either all-new or significantly new.

This marks the 23rd awards season, with jurors scheduled to test-drive eligible vehicles through January 2027. The top 10 finalists will be announced on January 5, followed by further testing and voting before the winner is revealed on March 24, 2027, at the New York International Auto Show.

Kia

Subaru’s first attempt to win over customers in the three-row crossover SUV market didn’t go very well. That was with the B9 Tribeca, and to say it looked odd would be putting it lightly. Subaru tried to fix that with a facelift, but the damage was done. Thankfully for the brand (and our eyes), the second attempt was much better. The Subaru Ascent pretty much corrected everything that was wrong with the Tribeca, and more.

We’re still in the first generation of this model, which made its world premiere in 2017 for the 2019 model year. Finally, Subaru had a real contender against the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Ford Explorer. Also known as the Evoltis in select markets, the Ascent was given a comprehensive facelift in 2023. For 2026, Subaru adjusted the trims, along with some interior tweaks and a new color.

Subaru

Subaru has lease deals for both eight- and seven-seater versions of the Premium models, giving customers a little more choice. The seven-seater with captain chairs in the middle row can be leased for $335 for 36 months, with $4,434 due at signing. The more practical eight-seater goes for $395 for 36 months, with $4,494 due at signing.

Note that the promos mentioned above are national offers. Rates may differ depending on where you live, but that should be the target monthly payment. Mileage is limited to 10,000 per year, and it’s $0.15 for every mile exceeded. These offers are valid until September 30, 2026.

Subaru

The 2026 Subaru Ascent comes in five trims: Premium, Limited, Limited Bronze Edition, Touring, and Touring Onyx Edition. Prices start at $40,795 for the Premium and go up to $51,995 for the Touring Onyx Edition. Premium and Limited models come in either seven- or eight-seat configurations. Limited Bronze Edition, Touring, and Touring Onyx Edition get captain’s chairs in the second row.

For the 2026 model year, Subaru dropped the standard Onyx Edition to streamline the variants. Meanwhile, the base Premium gets new water-resistant upholstery and black exterior trim. The Touring also gets wood trim inside, and the 2026 model year updates wrap up with the new Sapphire Blue Pearl color option.

But regardless of trim, the Ascent offers only one engine and drivetrain option. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is, of course, standard, and all are powered by a 2.4-liter boxer engine with 260 hp and 277 lb-ft.

Subaru

The Ascent was the right SUV at the right time for Subaru. The midsize three-row market is a hot segment right now, and it ticks the right boxes for most folks who need one. At just over $40,000, it offers good value among its peers, and standard all-wheel drive is a huge plus in snowy climes. Plus, there’s no price difference between seven and eight seats, so you won’t be hard-pressed to choose one over the other. Best of all, it’s a Top Safety Pick + awardee from the IIHS, making this one of the safest options to buy.

Subaru

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. The information presented herein is based on manufacturer-provided lease offer information, which is subject to frequent change and may vary based on location, creditworthiness, and other factors. We are not a party to any lease agreements and assume no liability for the terms, conditions, availability, or accuracy of any lease offers mentioned. All terms, including but not limited to pricing, mileage allowances, and residual values, require direct verification with an authorized local OEM dealership. This article does not constitute financial advice or an endorsement of any particular lease or vehicle.

The Subaru Forester is still the brand’s hot-selling model in the US. One reason for that success is the wide range of trims, giving shoppers plenty of options whether they’re after value, comfort, or something a little more adventurous.

For 2027, Subaru isn’t messing with that formula. Most Forester models keep their 2026 price tags, even as Subaru keeps piling on standard features. The base Forester still kicks off at $29,995, and the entry-level Forester Hybrid holds steady at $34,730. No price hikes, too, for the Premium, Premium Hybrid, Sport Hybrid, Limited Hybrid, and Touring Hybrid.

There are two exceptions. The gas-powered Forester Wilderness jumps from $36,995 to $39,495, and the Forester Limited creeps up from $35,995 to $37,595. But before you cry foul, Subaru insists these aren’t just price bumps. Both trims now come loaded with gear that used to cost extra, so you’re actually getting more for your money.

Also, there’s a small $25 increase in destination and handling fees, applied across the range.

Trim

2026 MSRP

2027 MSRP

Change

Base

$29,995

$29,995

$0

Premium

$31,995

$31,995

$0

Premium Hybrid

$34,730

$34,730

$0

Sport (gas)

$34,795

Discontinued

–

Sport Hybrid

$37,930

$37,930

$0

Wilderness

$36,995

$39,495

+$2,500

Wilderness Hybrid

–

$40,495

–

Limited

$35,995

$37,595

+$1,600

Limited Hybrid

$38,995

$38,995

$0

Touring (gas)

$39,995

Discontinued

–

Touring Hybrid

$41,545

$41,545

$0

The biggest addition to the lineup is the all-new 2027 Forester Wilderness Hybrid. It’s the first time Subaru’s rugged Wilderness treatment meets the brand’s next-gen hybrid powertrain. Starting at $40,495, it sits just above the gas-only Wilderness in the lineup.

Just like the gas version, the Wilderness Hybrid packs 9.3 inches of ground clearance, Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, dual-mode X-MODE, chunky Yokohama Geolandar all-terrains, and beefed-up underbody armor. The twist? Under the hood, Subaru’s series-parallel hybrid setup teams a purpose-built 2.5-liter BOXER engine with electric motors and a lithium-ion battery, good for a combined 194 horsepower.

Subaru claims the new hybrid Wilderness sips less fuel but doesn’t sacrifice the go-anywhere grit that’s made the Wilderness badge a hit with buyers who want real-deal trail chops.

Subaru

But wait, there’s more. Subaru has shuffled the Forester deck for 2027. The gas-only Sport and Touring trims are gone, leaving just four gasoline models: Base, Premium, Wilderness, and Limited. Meanwhile, the hybrid side grows to five trims, thanks to the new Wilderness Hybrid joining Premium Hybrid, Sport Hybrid, Limited Hybrid, and Touring Hybrid.

As mentioned, that Wilderness price bump comes with perks. Now you get a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, an 11.6-inch multimedia system with navigation, Harman Kardon audio, and a power rear gate, all standard. Subaru also throws in a heated steering wheel and heated rear seats for 2027.

The Limited trim gets in on the action too, picking up a power rear gate, heated steering wheel, and rain-sensing wipers that used to be extra.

Every 2027 Forester still comes standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, EyeSight driver-assist tech, and at least 8.7 inches of ground clearance. Expect the refreshed Forester lineup to hit Subaru dealers across the US later this fall.

Cole Attisha

Both Subaru and Kia make off-road-optimized trims of their Forester and Sportage compact SUVs, but they are two very different cars. The Forester Wilderness costs $2,695 less than the Sportage X-Pro Prestige, but does it make it the better car? Both have hybrid variants, but not in X-Pro/Wilderness formats, so for this comparison, we pit the two gas-powered off-road rivals against each other, and the outcome is anything but straightforward. We’ve also matched the RAV4 Woodland against the Forester Wilderness to see which comes out on top.

Both cars are modern designs; the current 5th-gen Sportage was redesigned for the 2023 model year and received a facelift last year, while the redesigned 6th-gen Forester launched as a 2025 model. Styling is subjective, but the Forester is reassuringly familiar, with contemporary Subaru styling cues, including sleek LED DRLs and headlights, hexagonal LED fog lights, black wheels, and lots of body cladding.

2026 Kia Sportage X-Pro Prestige in Panthera Metal

Kia

The Sportage is arguably more stylish, but also a bit more polarizing, with LED DRL slashes cascading down the front bumper and a wide, toothy grille. It’s also slightly bigger, and sits on a longer wheelbase. It’s due for a redesign for MY2028.

Forester Wilderness

Sportage X-Pro Prestige

Length

182.9 inches

184.4 inches

Wheelbase

105.1 inches

108.5 inches

Width w/o Mirrors

72.4 inches

73.4 inches

Height

69.3 inches

66.9 inches

Wheels

17-inch alloy

17-inch alloy

Tires

All-terrain

All-terrain

Curb Weight

3,675 lbs

3,603 lbs

Off-road specs read as follows:

Forester Wilderness

Sportage X-Pro Prestige

Ground Clearance

9.3 inches

8.3 inches

Approach/Departure Angle

23.5/25.5 degrees

18.9/26.9 degrees

Drivetrain

Full-time Symmetrical AWD w/ active torque vectoring

On-demand AWD w/ center locking diff

Off-Road Drive Modes

X-Mode with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud modes, and hill-descent control

Snow, Mud, and Sand modes, and hill-descent control

The Sportage has a mechanical on-demand AWD system and a center diff that can be locked to distribute drive evenly between the axles. The Forester comes with Subaru’s famed full-time Symmetrical AWD with active torque vectoring and X-Mode.

2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness

Cole Attisha

It has the clear advantage off-road, with a full inch more ground clearance than the Sportage, proactive always-on AWD, skid plates, and front/rear recovery points, but the Sportage still boasts a very good departure angle, and its locking center diff sees it anything but disgraced off-road. Still, this is an easy win for the Forester.

The powertrain race is a close-run thing:

Forester Wilderness

Sportage X-Pro Prestige

Engine

2.5L NA I4 Hybrid

2.5L NA I4

Transmission

CVT

8-speed automatic

Horsepower

180 hp

187 hp

Torque

178 lb-ft

178 lb-ft

0-60 mph

~8.4 – 8.8 seconds

~9.1 – 9.3 seconds

Towing Capacity

3,500 lbs

2,500 lbs

EPA City/Highway/Combined

24/28/26 mpg

23/26/24 mpg

The off-road treatment is only given to the gas-powered Sportages and Foresters, and both have naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engines. They’re not quick in everyday driving, and the powertrains have to work hard when you need to move on. That said, the Forester’s CVT gets it going more smartly, and it posts stronger acceleration times, while also using less fuel than the 8-speed automatic Sportage and can tow a thousand pounds more. Read our driving impressions of the Wilderness here. The Forester wins this section.

The pendulum swings decisively into the Sportage’s direction again, but at a price.

Forester Wilderness

Sportage X-Pro Prestige

Upholstery

Leatherette

Leatherette

Front Seats

Heated, power-adjustable driver’s seat

Heated, ventilated, both power-adjustable

Adaptive Cruise Control

Standard

Standard

Steering Wheel

Manually tilting/telescoping

Heated, leather-trimmed, manually tilting/telescoping

Gauge Cluster

Analog, w/ 4.2-inch display (digital option)

Digital, 12.3 inches

Touchscreen

11.6 inches

12.3 inches

Wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto

Standard

Standard

Navigation

Option

Standard

Outside-view Cameras

180-degree front view

Surround-view

Audio

6-speaker (9-speaker Harman Kardon option)

8-speaker Harman Kardon

Climate Control

Dual-zone w/ rear vents

Dual-zone w/ rear vents

Wireless Charging Pad

Standard

Standard

Sunroof

Panoramic, power

Panoramic, power

Power Liftgate

Option

Standard

Headroom Front / Rear

40.0 / 37.7 inches

37.8 / 38.0 inches

Legroom Front / Rear

43.3 / 39.4 inches

41.4 / 41.3 inches

Cargo Space Rear Seats Up / Down

27.5 / 69.1 cu-ft

39.6 / 74.1 cu-ft

The Sportage X-Pro Prestige offers more features and space than the Forester. It has a digital gauge cluster, a bigger touchscreen, ventilated front seats, a heated and leather-trimmed steering wheel, navigation, a surround-view camera, and premium Harman Kardon audio, but it also provides a significantly larger trunk with the rear seats in use.

2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness

Kristen Brown

It’s huge inside for a compact, and beats even the roomy Forester on rear-seat legroom by almost two inches. The Forester is still commendably spacious, and it’s only the trunk with the seats in use that disappoints somewhat; total space with the seats down comes close to the Sportage.

The Forester has fewer features, but it’s also $2,695 cheaper, so it’s good value for money and more attainable than the near-$40k Kia.

Forester Wilderness

Sportage X-Pro Prestige

XLE

$36,995

$39,690

If you spec the Wilderness with the $2,200 Optional package, you gain a digital gauge cluster, navigation, 9-speaker Harman Kardon audio, and a power liftgate.

Forester Wilderness

Sportage X-Pro Prestige

Basic

3 years / 36,000 miles

5 years / 60,000 miles

Powertrain

5 years / 60,000 miles

10 years / 100,000 miles

Complimentary Maintenance

Not included

Not included

The Kia’s 10-year powertrain warranty certainly offers a lot of peace of mind, but Subaru has an excellent reputation for reliability, so the lower coverage shouldn’t cause much concern.

2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness trunk

Subaru

Subarus are expected to be better off-road than their rivals, and this is true for both the Crosstrek and the Forester in their Wilderness guises. If your planning includes weekend adventures, the Forester will do a better job with its superior off-road ability, yet it also performs better than the Sportage, uses less fuel, and tows heavier loads. The Forester is truly spacious inside, so the Sportage’s advantage is moot, but the Kia does have a larger trunk. 

The $2,200 Optional package adds niceties like premium audio, a digital gauge cluster, and navigation to the Forester, while still undercutting the Sportage on price. We’d spec it like this and take the Subaru. It’s a well-rounded car with surprising off-road ability, but user-friendly enough so you can use it every day. It may just be the sweetest Wilderness Subaru makes.

Use the table of contents to jump to a section

The 2027 Subaru Trailseeker midsize electric SUV is back for its second year on the market. It’s the twin of the Toyota bZ Woodland, and much the same car as the smaller Subaru Solterra / Toyota bZ, but with standard AWD, more power, and a longer rear overhang offering more luggage space and pushing it from the compact segment to the bottom of the midsize SUV class.

Dual electric motors, AWD, and 375 hp are the base specs, and there are Premium, Limited, Touring, and Touring w/ Leather trims. A 74.7-kWh battery is good for a range of up to 281 miles and can be charged at up to 150 kW. Being a Subaru, a generous 8.5-inch ground clearance makes it surprisingly competent off-road, and it can even tow 3,500 pounds.

Subaru

The Trailseeker was only launched last year, and Subaru is not making any changes to the 2027 Trailseeker. Its powertrains, equipment, and even its price stay the same as last year

The eagle-eyed will notice that the sheet metal is the same, but Subaru has given the Trailseeker unique front styling to set it apart from not only its Toyota bZ twin, but also from the smaller Solterra on which the Trailseeker is based, although the 6-strip LED DRLs and headlights are clearly carried over. The rear ends are very similar, however.

Heated power-folding side mirrors, a rear ducktail spoiler, a power liftgate, all-LED exterior lighting, rain-sensing wipers, and lower body cladding are standard. The Premium rides on 18-inch alloys, and the other two trims on 20s. The Touring is set apart by a body-color rear spoiler and a panoramic moonroof, and is the only trim with access to two-tone paint.

2026 Subaru Trailseeker

Subaru

You have to set the leather-trimmed squircle steering wheel just right to see the high-set 7.0-inch configurable gauge cluster over the top of the rim, and standard features include keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, StarTex leatherette upholstery, heated front seats, a rotary shift knob, and dual wireless charging pads. The Limited gains an auto-dimming rearview mirror, power front seats, and a heated steering wheel and rear seats. 

Since the wheelbase is the same as the Solterra, interior space is the same too, with a reasonable 35.3 inches of second-row legroom. The extra length comes from the rear overhang, which accommodates 30.4 – 31.3 cu-ft with the rear seats up and 71.8 – 74.0 cu-ft with them down.

The 14.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, HD Radio, cloud-based navigation, SiriusXM, Wi-Fi, four USB-C charging ports, and a 6-speaker audio system. The Limited upgrades to an 11-speaker Harman Kardon audio system and also gets a surround-view camera.

2026 Subaru Trailseeker interior

Subaru

The 2027 Subaru Trailseeker’s price has not increased for the new model year. 

Trim

Price

Base trim: Premium

$39,995

Top trim: Touring

$46,555

Best value trim: Limited

$43,995

The mid-range Limited trim offers the best value, adding features like 20-inch wheels, power front seats, a heated steering wheel and rear seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, 11-speaker Harman Kardon audio, and a surround-view camera to the Premium for $4K.

Engine

HP

Transmission

Drivetrain

0-60 mph

Dual Electric Motors

375 hp

Single-speed automatic

Symmetrical AWD

4.3 seconds

Configuration

City

Highway

Combined

Range

Trailseeker AWD (18-inch)

126

107

117

281 mi

Trailseeker AWD (20-inch)

125

103

114

274 mi

A NACS charging port gives access to Tesla Superchargers, but the 150-kW maximum DC charging speed means charging from 10 to 80% will take 28 minutes, which is longer than the class average.

Coverage

Duration

Basic

3 years / 36,000 miles

Powertrain

5 years / 60,000 miles

EV Battery

8 years / 100,000 miles

Complimentary Maintenance

Not included

Pros:

• Standard AWD and 375-hp dual-motor powertrain

Cons:

• Maximum range of 281 miles trails class leaders

More of an electric Outback than a real midsize SUV, the Trailseeker is the upsized Solterra many people wanted, and impresses with its 3,500-pound towing capacity, 375-hp AWD powertrain, 4.3-second 0-60 sprint, and ample 8.5-inch ground clearance, which makes it surprisingly handy off-road.

The 281-mile maximum range trails the class, though, and the rather slow 150-kW DC charging means you’d have to wait longer at charging stops, but at least the NACS port means you have access to the vast Tesla Supercharger network. Overall, the Trailseeker is a competent electric SUV that delivers what the Subaru faithful expects.

Subaru

• Toyota bZ Woodland

Subaru built the 2018 WRX STI Type RA as a limited-edition farewell to the EJ257-powered STI in America, capping production at just 500 units. This one, finished in Crystal White Pearl, is now looking for a new home. It’s racked up 33,000 miles, still rocks the six-speed manual, and keeps all the factory goodies – think forged BBS wheels, carbon-fiber roof, and Brembo brakes. You even get the original numbered plaque: #386 out of 500.

Bring a Trailer

According to Classic.com, the 2018 WRX STI Type RA is currently pegged at a market value of $37,474. In the past year, five of these have changed hands, with prices swinging from $26,200 all the way up to $46,500. The average? $35,690.

Mileage definitely matters here. Some cars sold with as little as 11,000 miles, others with as much as 50,000. A few low-mileage examples found new owners in 2026, showing just how much buyers care about what’s on the odometer.

Bring a Trailer

With 33,000 miles, this one sits right in the middle of the pack. The auction’s at $21,000 right now, with several days left on the clock – so there’s still plenty of time for the bidding to heat up and get closer to what clean, well-kept Type RAs have been fetching lately.

This Type RA keeps all the factory bits that made it special. It’s finished in Crystal White Pearl, with a Carbon Black leather and Ultrasuede interior set off by red accents. The original 19-inch gold BBS forged wheels are still there, along with a carbon-fiber roof, adjustable carbon-fiber rear wing, Brembo brakes, heated Recaro seats, an STI performance exhaust, and Subaru’s trick Driver-Controlled Center Differential all-wheel drive.

Bring a Trailer

Under the hood, you get Subaru’s turbocharged 2.5-liter EJ257 flat-four, good for 305 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. The Type RA didn’t just stop there – it got a revised ECU, beefier pistons, sodium-filled exhaust valves, a redesigned air intake, and a high-flow exhaust, all to set it apart from the regular STI.

Bring a Trailer

The seller says the Carfax is clean – no accidents, no damage. There’s a ding on the passenger-side rear door and some curb rash on the right-rear wheel, but nothing major. The odometer reads about 33,000 miles, with the current owner adding roughly 9,000 of those since 2021.

Bring a Trailer

Specification

Detail

Make

Subaru

Model

WRX STi Type RA

Year

2018

Mileage

33,000 miles

Engine

Turbocharged 2.5-liter EJ257 flat-four

Power

305 horsepower, 290 lb-ft

Transmission

Six-speed manual

Drive Type

All-wheel drive with Driver-Controlled Center Differential and limited-slip differentials

Exterior Color

Crystal White Pearl

Interior Color

Carbon Black leather and Black Ultrasuede with red accents

Production Number

#386 of 500

Interested in this 2018 Subaru WRX STI Type RA? View the listing here.

The Type RA was Subaru’s most hardcore, track-focused WRX STI you could buy in the US before the EJ-powered STI bowed out. RA stands for “Record Attempt,” and Subaru went all-in on lighter weight, sharper handling, and extra durability. The carbon-fiber roof drops the center of gravity, and those forged BBS wheels help shave off unsprung weight.

Bring a Trailer

Compared to a regular WRX STI, the Type RA got engine tweaks for better performance when you’re really pushing it, plus some unique exterior touches – Cherry Blossom Red accents, black mirror caps, and that adjustable rear wing. Only 500 were made, which is why Subaru fans and collectors are always on the lookout for these.

You don’t see a numbered, low-mileage WRX STI Type RA pop up for sale every day. With 33,000 miles, this one has actually been driven – not just parked in a garage – but it’s still low-mileage for an eight-year-old performance sedan.

The auction’s just getting started, and the current bid is still well below what these usually go for. It’ll be interesting to see where the final price lands, especially since this car is rare, has a clean history, and is mostly stock.

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only. We are not a dealership or broker. All vehicle specifications, pricing, and availability are subject to change without notice. We are not responsible for typographical errors, omissions, or the accuracy of the provided information. Please verify all details directly with the seller.

There are several factors to consider when buying a new vehicle, and one of the most important yet largely overlooked aspect is safety. Unlike things like styling, in-car tech or performance, a vehicle’s safety systems aren’t the sort of thing that can be appreciated, admired or even experienced, unless something untoward is about to happen.

But safety isn’t just about passive and active driver assistance systems, it’s also about how a car handles and brakes, and whether the onboard technology aids or distracts you. Consumer Reports has compiled a new Safety Verdict rating based on a much broader range of factors than most generic safety assessments cover.

IIHS/YouTube

Consumer Reports has conducted a comprehensive safety assessment of 29 car brands, rating them on several factors from emergency handling to driver assistance systems and IIHS crash test performance. The results below apply to each brand as a whole and have been divided into what percentage of each model range fits into the Basic, Better, and Best categories.

Lucid Motors

A Basic rating means that a vehicle meets all of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) federal motor vehicle safety standards but falls short on several of CR’s core safety requirements.

A Better rating means that the vehicle has scored at least an average or higher score on CR’s independent braking, emergency handling, and routine handling tests, and a passing score on the rollaway prevention test. It also helps to have a curb weight over 2,500 pounds (but not too heavy as that can impact handling) as lighter vehicles tend to fare worse in collisions with heavier cars.

To achieve a Best rating requires every trim in that particular range to have standard highway-speed Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), blind spot warning (BSW), and rear cross traffic warning (RCTW). In addition the controls and infotainment system need to be straight-forward and not distracting, and the crash rating performance needs to be high in specific IIHS tests.

Top Ten Brands For Safety

Ranking

Mazda

1st

Genesis

2nd

Acura

3rd

Lincoln

4th

Hyundai

5th

Honda

6th

Nissan

7th

Audi

8th

Subaru

9th

Kia

10th

Mazda tops the charts thanks to fitting the vast majority of its model range with a full complement of safety systems, having dashboards and infotainment systems that are straight-forward to use, and vehicles that are dynamically competent in emergency situations. Genesis and Acura also score well, with none of their models falling into the Basic category. Some big manufacturers slot in way down the list, and this can be due to a variety of factors.

Auto manufacturers with a range of models differing wildly in pricing and size can often deliver mixed results, and Audi, Kia, and Toyota fall into these categories. Their budget models bear very little in common with the range toppers, and so will have varying results when it comes to overall safety.

Even if a manufacturer has a mix of ratings within its model range, picking a model with a ‘Best’ safety rating will still result in a very safe vehicle. However, the lower you go in the overall rankings, the more important it is to make sure you pick the right model from that range.

Just because a vehicle has all the latest safety devices doesn’t automatically mean that it is going to score top marks. If the dashboard layout is awkwardly placed, major controls require navigating through sub-menus, or the vehicle exhibits poor handling during emergencies, it will be penalized. As CR explained, Tesla vehicles perform well in crash tests and have solid crash-prevention tech, but the central screen that drivers have to interact with for the vast majority of functions pulls it down the rankings.

“If controlling climate or audio functions distracts you from the task of driving, that’s a strike against safety,” says Jake Fisher, senior director of auto testing at CR.

Some automakers also don’t include essential safety features as standard, making them optional or available only on higher trims. Others may have a range comprised mostly of large, cumbersome SUVs or trucks which will need more space to stop and have poor handling. Smaller vehicles can more easily avoid road hazards, but being too small also isn’t ideal, as they will suffer against a larger vehicle in the case of a serious impact.

Mazda

While the data above refers to individual brands rather than individual models, the basics that make for a safe car are clear to see. If your vehicle has a comprehensive suite of safety features, performs well in IIHS crash testing, has nimble handling and doesn’t force you to take your eyes off the road for basic functions, then it is more likely to help keep you safe int eh case of an accident, and hopefully make it easier to prevent one happening in the first place.

When proving that horsepower isn’t everything in building the fastest car, the McMurtry Spéirling is undoubtedly among the prime examples. This all-electric hypercar features a unique twin-fan system capable of generating 2,000 kg (4,400 lb) of downforce, enough to hold the car upside down at a standstill like Spider-Man. On the track, that means maximizing grip, limiting wheelspin, and improving cornering.

Fittingly, such a vehicle was recently featured by Travis Pastrana, an American professional racecar driver and stunt performer. For a guy like Pastrana, who has competed in rally racing, performed the first double backflip on a motorbike, and jumped out of a plane without a parachute, new thrills may be harder to come by. Yet he was ecstatic driving a Spéirling prototype at Dunsfold Aerodrome in England, home to the Top Gear test track.

Pastrana started slowly to get a feel for the car, including its steering and braking. Eventually, he unleashed the full power of the McMurtry Spéirling, which comes from two electric motors delivering 1,000 horsepower, in a drag race against unusual opponents, including a quad bike and a motorized unicycle. He could be seen giggling, something enthusiasts can relate to when going for a full send, before clocking a quarter-mile run in under eight seconds at 160 mph.

Speaking about the McMurtry Spéirling, the 11-time X Games gold medalist called it the fastest car he had driven, saying, “You can do things you can’t do with any other vehicle… I’m going faster than I’ve gone in any vehicle I’ve ever driven in my entire life.”

That’s a huge compliment from someone who has driven countless fast cars, including a NASCAR Toyota Camry at the 2023 Daytona 500 and a 670-horsepower Subaru Brataroo 9500 Turbo for a Gymkhana film.

McMurtry

Beyond this test drive, the McMurtry Spéirling has achieved several feats. Chief among these is the outright Goodwood Festival of Speed hillclimb record of 39.08 seconds, set by Max Chilton in 2022. Pastrana saw that run and initially thought the footage was sped up. The Spéirling’s time remains quicker than that of every other car that has attempted the hillclimb, including those with roughly twice the horsepower, like the 2,107-horsepower Rimac Nevera R.

The fan-assisted model also posted a 55.9-second lap time at Dunsfold Aerodrome, beating the previous record holder, a 2004 Renault R24 Formula 1 car, by about three seconds.

Now, McMurtry is bringing the electric hypercar to customers with the Spéirling Pure, a track-only production car limited to 100 examples. Pricing starts at approximately $1.3 million before taxes and options, with deliveries expected to begin later this year.

McMurtry

Throw enough money at it, and practically any car can last for hundreds of thousands of miles. But it turns out that some brands have a much higher chance of doing so than others. A new study by iSeeCars analyzed 395 million vehicles to find out which car brands have the best chance of reaching 250,000 miles. Unsurprisingly, Japanese brands dominated the study, but the gap between two of them—Toyota and Subaru—was unexpectedly large.

Related: The World’s Highest-Mileage Cars Share One Reliability Secret

Toyota

Any car that can reach 250,000 miles has achieved something rare, especially if it has done so without major maintenance or repairs. At that stage, most cars will be facing major transmission and engine wear, worn axles, bad shocks, and many other worn or failing parts.

In the study, Toyota was the top-ranked brand, with a 19.7% chance of its vehicles reaching 250,000 miles or beyond. That’s more than three times the industry average (a 5.4% chance). Below is a look at the top 10 brands in the study, with the four top spots all being Japanese automakers.

Rank

Make

% Chance of Lasting 250,000+ Miles

Compared to Average

1

Toyota

19.7%

3.7x

2

Lexus

14.4%

2.7x

3

Honda

13.3%

2.5x

4

Acura

9.5%

1.8x

5

GMC

5.8%

1.1x

6

Mazda

5.3%

1.0x

7

Lincoln

4.7%

0.9x

8

Ram

4.2%

0.8x

9

Ford

4.1%

0.8x

10

Cadillac

3.9%

0.7x

What you may notice is that Subaru is one of the only Japanese brands missing from the top 10. Despite a reasonable reliability reputation and a range of adventure-focused vehicles, Subaru only landed at 14th. Its vehicles have only a 2.8% chance of lasting until 250,000 miles, far behind Toyota.

Subaru

In fairness, Toyota does have a wide range of tough, body-on-frame SUVs and trucks, including the Tacoma, Tundra, and 4Runner. These rugged vehicles are known to stay on the road for ages. Still, Subaru is well off the pace of other Japanese brands.

At the other end of the spectrum, Fiat, Jaguar, Mini, and Maserati were ranked at the very bottom.

Related: 5 Simple Habits Can Help Your Car Last For Decades

Subaru

The iSeeCars team analyzed data for over 395 million cars, with their odometer readings calculated at each yearly age. A proprietary model based on these average mileages was developed, which produced an estimation of the probability that each car would survive to a certain point. The study excludes heavy-duty vans and other models with insufficient data. 

“The odds of reaching the 250,000-mile milestone for each specific model and generation were calculated and then averaged across each brand’s entire lineup, weighing the results by how common each model is on the road,” said iSeeCars.

What’s also noticeable is how far ahead the top 4 Japanese brands are compared to the rest of the industry.

“Reaching 250,000 miles is an exceptionally high bar for any vehicle, which makes the distinction among the four highest-ranked brands meaningful,” said iSeeCars Executive Analyst, Karl Brauer. “Toyota, Lexus, Honda and Acura don’t just lead the list, they substantially outperform the average vehicle’s chances of reaching that high-mileage threshold.”

Toyota

Recent studies show that many Americans are keeping their cars longer than planned, as a new car is simply out of reach financially. While nobody wants to keep a car beyond 200,000 miles, some drivers don’t have a choice, so it helps to choose brands with a reputation for durability at high mileage.

Interestingly, longevity doesn’t necessarily correlate with reliability ratings. For instance, Ram is one of the longest-lasting brands, but it ranks almost dead last in predicted reliability scoring from Consumer Reports. A Ram pickup may have solid bones, but it will likely require much more intensive maintenance than an equivalent Toyota, which Consumer Reports ranks as number 1. In the same study, Subaru ranked second for reliability, behind only Toyota.

For anyone considering buying a high-mileage car, you can minimize risk by searching for brands that rank highly across multiple studies. Even that is no replacement for a vehicle that lacks a comprehensive service history.

Related: Subaru Vs. Toyota Reliability: The Gap Is Smaller Than You Think