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Sure, the Jeep Wrangler is an off-roading champion that can dominate the wild. However, it lacks refinement for on-road comfort. Subaru SUVs might not be able to keep up on tough trails, but they’re comfortable and drivers noticed the difference. 

Car and Driver provided a list of the top 25 best-selling cars of 2023, and I found a few interesting takeaways. 

For example, the Jeep Wrangler came in 22nd place. It was much lower on the list than expected. It almost didn’t make the list at all. But on that note, at least it got a spot because the Ford Bronco didn’t. 

In 2023, the Wrangler sold 156,581 models, which is a 14% sales decrease compared to 2022. The refreshed 2024 model might help bolster sales. 

Also, two Subaru SUVs have more sales than the Wrangler. Is the off-road king being overlooked for more comfortable, affordable, and efficient options? 

The Subaru Crossktrek came in 21st place with 159,193 sales. It only beat the Wrangler by 2,612 units, but that’s enough for bragging rights. The 2024 model is also more enticing after receiving a significant refresh. 

The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek off-roading
2023 Subaru Crosstrek | Subaru

Then the Subaru Outback landed in 20th place with 161,814 units sold. It was remodeled for 2023 and experienced a 10% sales increase. It beat the Wrangler by 5,233 units. Plus, it defeated the Crosstrek as the most popular SUV in the lineup. 

The 2023 Wrangler has an MSRP of $31,195 and this is for the two-door model. Access the the back seat is a little complicated and space for gear and passengers is limited. 

You can get started with the standard 2023 Crosstrek for $23,645. It’s significantly more affordable and the backseat is easier to access. 

The 2023 Subaru Outback has an MSRP of $28.395. It has more cargo and passenger space than the two-door Wrangler. 

These Subaru SUVs won’t climb rock faces and shouldn’t go on trails reserved for vehicles with 4×4. But they have above-average off-roading capabilities and can comfortably haul families to campsites.

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Staff Writer

Allison Barfield

Allison Barfield joined MotorBiscuit in 2020 and covers all things trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps. Having grown up on a farm in Rock Hill, South Carolina, she’s no stranger to the “Best in Class” truck and SUV debates; people in her hometown were always gathering to help work on vehicles together, and deliberation would naturally arise.

Allison graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Media Arts. She has helped bring awareness to issues Women In Trucking face and has promoted Truckers Against Trafficking, an anti-trafficking NGO.

A fan of creatively dark literature, Allison appreciates the works of Shirley Jackson and Emily Dickenson. She lives in a mountainous area of the country and enjoys off-roading and camping. Her dog, Bruce, often joins her in testing trucks and SUVs for our site.