<body><div><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=1zIlVL_0wNhrkVi00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=1zIlVL_0wNhrkVi00" width="1140" height="641" ><figcaption>Mazda</figcaption></figure><p>Japanese vehicles are praised for being some of the most cost-effective options in the automotive world. Regardless of which segment you’re shopping in, you’re likely to find an SUV from the island nation that undercuts a lot of its key rivals. However, with so many trims to choose from, the base model isn’t often the best value for money.</p><p>If you’re shopping for an SUV from Japan, and you’re trying to get the best bang for your buck, chances are you’ve looked at some of the top trims and asked yourself how they can possibly cost so much more than the basic model. Well, sometimes those top trims actually get you the best equipment possible for your money.</p><p>We’ve taken a look at the SUVs that come from Japanese brands and found certain models where climbing up the trim ladder is actually worth it. We detail how much the base model is and how much extra you’re paying and also provide a comprehensive list of the equipment that the premium models feature.</p><p>In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources. The models below have been ranked based on their starting MSRP from most affordable to most expensive.</p><h2><b>10</b> <b>2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness</b> </h2><h2>MSRP: $32,195 </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=1UnPZX_0wNhrkVi00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=1UnPZX_0wNhrkVi00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption>Subaru</figcaption></figure><p>The subcompact Crosstrek starts at $25,195 for the 2024 model year, but the best bang for your buck trims will cost you a little more. The Wilderness trim is our favorite and was a new addition for the 2024 model year, aiming to make the little hatchback crossover a genuine off-road-ready adventure vehicle, something the Japanese brand certainly achieved.</p><h2>Performance Specifications </h2><p>Engine</p><p>2.5-Liter Naturally Aspirated Flat-Four</p><p>Transmission</p><p>CVT</p><p>Horsepower</p><p>182 HP</p><p>Torque</p><p>178 LB-FT</p><p>Driveline</p><p>AWD</p><p>A 152 horsepower four-cylinder is the base offering found on the Crosstrek, with you having to bump up the trim ladder to get the larger, more powerful engine. A CVT is standard across the board, with Subaru adding paddle shifters on top trims, allowing the transmission to do its best impression of a standard eight-speed.</p><h2>Key Trim Features </h2><ul><li>More powerful engine </li><li>Improved eight-speed CVT with paddle shifters </li><li>Increased ground clearance </li><li>Hill-descent control and hill-start assist </li><li>All-terrain tires </li></ul><h2><b>9</b> <b>2024 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium</b> </h2><h2>MSRP: $33,075 </h2><p>The RAV4 is a staple on American roads, being one of the best-selling vehicles on the market right now. It remains pretty unchanged for the 2024 model year. While it starts at $28,675, we'd suggest jumping up to the XLE Premium trim, which offers much more equipment than the base models without adding too much to your balance.</p><h2>Performance Specifications </h2><p>Engine</p><p>2.5-Liter Naturally Aspirated Inline-Four</p><p>Transmission</p><p>8-Speed Automatic</p><p>Horsepower</p><p>203 HP</p><p>Torque</p><p>184 LB-FT</p><p>Driveline</p><p>FWD or AWD</p><p>At the heart of every non-hybrid RAV4, you'll find a 2.5-liter inline-four. It may not be the quickest in its class, but it's certainly enough power for most people looking to take this compact SUV home. An eight-speed automatic is standard, as is front-wheel drive. You can opt for all-wheel drive on the XLE Premium for an additional $970.</p><h2>Key Trim Features </h2><ul><li>Faux-leather upholstery </li><li>Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter </li><li>19-inch wheels </li><li>Dual-zone climate control </li><li>A moonroof </li></ul><h2><b>8</b> <b>2025 Subaru Forester Sport</b> </h2><h2>MSRP: $34,495 </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=4UtP5h_0wNhrkVi00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=4UtP5h_0wNhrkVi00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption>Subaru</figcaption></figure><p>The Forester has gone under the knife and has come out shiny and new for the 2025 model year. It starts at $29,695 for the base model. While the compact SUV comes with a bevy of standard features, we'd still recommend going for the Sport model due to its excellent value for money.</p><h2>Performance Specifications </h2><p>Engine</p><p>2.5-Liter Naturally Aspirated Flat-Four</p><p>Transmission</p><p>CVT</p><p>Horsepower</p><p>180 HP</p><p>Torque</p><p>178 LB-FT</p><p>Driveline</p><p>AWD</p><p>Just like the smaller Crosstrek, the Forester comes standard with a CVT and all-wheel drive. The CVT emulates an eight-speed automatic. At 180 horsepower, the Forester isn't exactly a powerhouse, and it isn't really tuned for engaging driving. However, if a plush ride is what you're after, the Subaru delivers in bucket loads.</p><h2>Key Trim Features </h2><ul><li>Bronze trim and unique wheels </li><li>Heated seats </li><li>Upgraded 11.6-inch infotainment screen </li><li>Panoramic moonroof </li><li>Water-repellent upholstery </li></ul><h2><b>7</b> <b>2025 Honda CR-V EX-L</b> </h2><h2>MSRP: $35,000 </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=0A2bAy_0wNhrkVi00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=0A2bAy_0wNhrkVi00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption>Honda</figcaption></figure><p>The CR-V ranks among the most popular vehicles in America, and for good reason. This fantastic compact SUV is one of the best value-for-money options in its segment. If you want to get the best out of it, without opting for a hybrid model, you'll want to pick the EX-L. It is a little bit more expensive than the SUV's $30,100 starting price, but its equipment more than justifies the jump.</p><h2>Performance Specifications </h2><p>Engine</p><p>1.5-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four</p><p>Transmission</p><p>CVT</p><p>Horsepower</p><p>190 HP</p><p>Torque</p><p>179 LB-FT</p><p>Driveline</p><p>FWD or AWD</p><p>Every non-hybrid CR-V features the same 190-horsepower engine. This pairs with a super refined CVT along with front-wheel drive as standard. All-wheel drive will set you back an additional $1,500. The CR-V may not be the most engaging vehicle in its segment, but it'll handle any everyday task without any complaints.</p><h2>Key Trim Features </h2><ul><li>Leather upholstery </li><li>Power-operated tailgate </li><li>Larger 9-inch infotainment screen </li><li>Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity </li><li>Wireless phone charging pad </li></ul><h2><b>6</b> <b>2025 Mazda CX-50 Turbo Meridian</b> </h2><h2>MSRP: $40,800 </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=1KEGHA_0wNhrkVi00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=1KEGHA_0wNhrkVi00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption>Mazda</figcaption></figure><p>Mazda has been building a name for itself, delivering vehicles that handle like a dream and are much more luxe than their price tags might suggest. Such is the story of the CX-50. There are a ton of trim levels for the 2025 CX-50, but we'd opt for the Turbo Meridian due to its strong powertrain and genuine additional utility. It does cost quite a bit more than the SUV's $30,300 starting price, though.</p><h2>Performance Specifications </h2><p>Engine</p><p>2.5-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four</p><p>Transmission</p><p>6-Speed Automatic</p><p>Horsepower</p><p>256 HP</p><p>Torque</p><p>320 LB-FT</p><p>Driveline</p><p>AWD</p><p>The 'Turbo' in the Turbo Meridian's name refers to the turbocharged engine that it has under the hood, producing much more than the base model. On premium fuel, it is capable of outputting 250 horsepower. Match this with its superb steering feedback and its finely tuned chassis, and you have a legitimate sports SUV that is really fun to drive.</p><h2>Key Trim Features </h2><ul><li>Turbocharged Engine </li><li>3,500-pound towing capacity </li><li>Panoramic sunroof </li><li>Leather upholstery </li><li>Heated seats </li></ul><h2><b>5</b> <b>2025 Nissan Pathfinder SL</b> </h2><h2>MSRP: $43,260 </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=4M6yk5_0wNhrkVi00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=4M6yk5_0wNhrkVi00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption>Nissan</figcaption></figure><p>The Pathfinder went through a bit of a slump, but it's back to form as a luxurious yet sturdy mid-size SUV. It starts at $37,070 for the 2025 model year, but we'd opt for the more expensive SL trim over the base models, which adds tons of equipment. It gets even better if you buy the $2,990 SL Premium Package, which makes it a genuine luxury vehicle. It also comes much cheaper than the Platinum trim, which will be out of reach for some.</p><h2>Performance Specifications </h2><p>Engine</p><p>3.5-Liter Naturally Aspirated V-6</p><p>Transmission</p><p>9-Speed Automatic</p><p>Horsepower</p><p>284 HP</p><p>Torque</p><p>259 LB-FT</p><p>Driveline</p><p>FWD or 4WD</p><p>The previous generation of the Pathfinder sported the same V-6 that you find under the hood of the current model. Nissan saw their mistake, however, and has swapped out the CVT for a nine-speed automatic transmission. It comes standard with front-wheel drive, with the four-wheel drive model costing an additional $2,000.</p><h2>Key Trim Features </h2><ul><li>Upgraded 9-inch infotainment screen </li><li>360-degree camera </li><li>20-inch wheels </li><li>Bose audio system </li><li>Heated front and rear seats </li></ul><h2><b>4</b> <b>2025 Mazda CX-90</b> </h2><h2>MSRP: $52,950 </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=1BVl5D_0wNhrkVi00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=1BVl5D_0wNhrkVi00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption>Mazda</figcaption></figure><p>The Mazda CX-90 enters its second year on the market, marking a year since it replaced the CX-9 and solidified the brand as a genuine luxury option. This three-row mid-size SUV is as upscale as it gets, yet it starts at an agreeable $37,845. However, we believe the Premium S is the CX-90 in its truest form.</p><h2>Performance Specifications </h2><p>Engine</p><p>3.3-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Six</p><p>Transmission</p><p>8-Speed Automatic</p><p>Horsepower</p><p>340 HP</p><p>Torque</p><p>369 LB-FT</p><p>Driveline</p><p>AWD</p><p>This is the first Mazda to utilize their new 3.3-liter inline-six, which is augmented by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. We believe this new platform represents a shift in the brand's goals. They used to simply be playing at being a luxury brand, but there is no denying that the CX-90 feels every bit as refined as its European competitors on the road.</p><h2>Key Trim Features </h2><ul><li>More powerful engine </li><li>Nappa leather </li><li>Heated and ventilated seating </li><li>Bose audio system </li><li>Ambient interior lighting </li></ul><h2><b>3</b> <b>2025 Infiniti QX60 Sensory</b> </h2><h2>MSRP: $59,100 </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=0A3SaQ_0wNhrkVi00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=0A3SaQ_0wNhrkVi00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption>Infiniti</figcaption></figure><p>Infiniti has been doing a lot of work to revitalize its brand, and it's really beginning to pay off. A key example is the QX60 mid-size SUV, which oozes prestige thanks to its striking looks, long list of equipment, and an attractive starting price of $50,200. The Sensory trim takes this to the next level and allows the SUV to go head-to-head with some serious rivals.</p><h2>Performance Specifications </h2><p>Engine</p><p>2.0-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four</p><p>Transmission</p><p>9-Speed Automatic</p><p>Horsepower</p><p>268 HP</p><p>Torque</p><p>286 LB-FT</p><p>Driveline</p><p>FWD or AWD</p><p>The main downside to the QX60 is that it's a little underpowered. They got rid of the 295 horsepower V-6 for this model year, leaving the inline-four as your only choice. Front-wheel drive is standard on all models, with all-wheel drive costing an additional $2,000.</p><h2>Key Trim Features </h2><ul><li>Massaging front seats </li><li>Heated second-row seats </li><li>Air purification system </li><li>17-speaker Bose audio system </li><li>Motion activated liftgate </li></ul><h2><b>2</b> <b>2024 Lexus TX Luxury</b> </h2><h2>MSRP: $60,950 </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=10Pc20_0wNhrkVi00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=10Pc20_0wNhrkVi00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption>Lexus</figcaption></figure><p>The Lexus TX is the rich cousin of the Toyota Highlander, riding on the same platform. It is the brand's three-row mid-size SUV, and it is plenty spacious for the whole family. The TX starts at $55,050 for 2024, but we believe the Luxury trim adds plenty of value to the three-row SUV, with equipment that helps it really shine.</p><h2>Performance Specifications </h2><p>Engine</p><p>2.4-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four</p><p>Transmission</p><p>8-Speed Automatic</p><p>Horsepower</p><p>275 HP</p><p>Torque</p><p>317 LB-FT</p><p>Driveline</p><p>FWD or AWD</p><p>Under the hood of every non-hybrid 2024 TX you'll find a 275 horsepower inline four. It may not be as quick as some of its core rivals, but the star of the show when it comes to any Lexus is ride quality. Front-wheel drive is the standard setup, but you can opt for all-wheel drive for an additional $1,600.</p><h2>Key Trim Features </h2><ul><li>Semi-aniline leather upholstery </li><li>10-way power-adjustable front seats </li><li>Heated rear seats </li><li>Heated steering wheel </li><li>12.3-inch digital gauge display </li></ul><h2><b>1</b> <b>2024 Lexus GX Luxury/Overtrail+</b> </h2><h2>MSRP: $77,250 </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=0xd0WL_0wNhrkVi00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=0xd0WL_0wNhrkVi00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption>Lexus</figcaption></figure><p>The GX was completely redesigned for the 2024 model year, with the nameplate starting a new generation. Its rugged and boxy looks show that while it is plush and comfortable, it's ready to tackle trails. It starts at $64,250, but the premium for either the Luxury or Overtrail+ models is hard to argue with.</p><h2>Performance Specifications </h2><p>Engine</p><p>3.4-Liter Twin-Turbocharged V-6</p><p>Transmission</p><p>10-Speed Automatic</p><p>Horsepower</p><p>349 HP</p><p>Torque</p><p>479 LB-FT</p><p>Driveline</p><p>4WD</p><p>The GX is two machines in one, especially when you compare the Luxury model against the Overtrail+; one is a plush three-row experience with the chops to tackle obstacles, and the other is a no-holds-barred two-row monster that wants to kick up dirt. Either option sounds well worth the money to us.</p><h2>Luxury Trim Key Features </h2><ul><li>Semi-aniline leather upholstery </li><li>10-way adjustable front seats with massage </li><li>Heated and ventilated seats </li></ul><h2>Overtrail+ Trim Key Features </h2><ul><li>Crawl control </li><li>Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System </li><li>33-inch all-terrain tires </li></ul></div></body>

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10 Higher Trim Japanese SUV Models Actually Worth The Premium

Japanese vehicles are praised for being some of the most cost-effective options in the automotive world. Regardless of which segment you’re shopping in, you’re likely to find an SUV from the island nation that undercuts a lot of its key rivals. However, with so many trims to choose from, the base model isn’t often the best value for money.

10 Higher Trim Japanese SUV Models Actually Worth The Premium

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