Three Subaru models are Top-Ranked in KBB Lowest Cost to Own Comparison

Of the many sources to get automotive information, Kelley Blue Book (KBB.com) is unique in providing a 5-year cost-to-own analysis. Once a year, they display the lowest cost-to-own vehicles in each segment. This year, Centennial Subaru is proud to announce that the Forester, Outback, and Ascent were all determined to have the 5-year lowest cost of ownership in their respective categories. 

It is also worth mentioning that these are not exactly niche categories. Compact SUV,  2-row Mid-size SUV, and 3-row Midsize SUV are the largest and most competitive vehicle categories in the industry. It is also worth pointing out that when KBB says “SUV”, they mostly mean car-based crossover models. They have a separate category for off-road SUVs such as the Bronco or Wrangler.

KBB considers figures that are difficult to assess immediately when you are vehicle shopping. Factors they consider include:

• Insurance
• Maintenance costs
• Fuel costs
• Depreciation

The last one, depreciation, is the largest factor and can be difficult to predict. As KBB states: “…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.” It also helped the Subaru models rise to the top because quality, reliability, and durability factors, in combination with the overall desirability of its models, have helped Subaru maintain the highest resale value in the industry, particularly for a non-luxury brand.

Forester on Top of the Most Popular Category in the US

The Forester has long been popular among compact SUV owners even as it competes with sales monsters like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. It has also been a regular on this Lowest Cost to Own winner list. Taking into account the average original cost of the model, the 2023 Forester was figured to have an estimated 5-year cost to own of $37,367. That is $3,365 less than the segment average.

Outback is the Lowest Cost-to-Own Midsize 2-row SUV

This is the 3rd year in a row for the Outback on this list. Even KBB admits that the Outback can be a bit difficult to classify since it is such a wagon-based model. But based on its size, overall interior space, and capability, they concluded that it is best compared against midsize 2-row SUVs such as the Honda Passport or Hyundai Santa Fe. Again, taking into account the average purchase price, KBB figures a 5-year cost to own the Outback of $47,833, which is an eyebrow-raising $8,772 less than the segment average.

Ascent Has the Lowest 5-Year Ownership Cost of Mid-Size 3-Row SUVs

The mid-size 3-row SUV is a very popular choice for a family vehicle and thus, a very competitive segment. Families can also have an infinite number of blows to their budget so a low operating cost can be a very important factor. 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.

It is easy to compare prices but much harder to figure out overall ownership costs for five years to come. But one thing is clear: if overall ownership costs are a concern, the best place to shop in the Las Vegas area is Centennial Subaru.