10 Roomiest Midsize SUVs - Why Subaru Outback, Ascent Are Your Top Picks

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What are the best midsize SUVs for new model shoppers? If you're looking for roomy and comfortable, here's the list of the best models for 2024. The 2024 Subaru Ascent is now the eighth best; Outback is tenth. See why they are a must for active customers.

 

Here's a list of the best for new SUV shoppers looking for the roomiest, most comfortable midsize SUVs that get good fuel mileage. Consumer Reports (by subscription) updated the list, which includes the 2024 Subaru Ascent and 2024 Subaru Outback, which I will give customers complete details on. 

The midsize SUVs were measured for interior space and calculated cargo room by checking how many suitcases and duffel bags could fit in the back and by having testers of various shapes and sizes repeatedly get into and out of both the front and rear seats.

Below, I've listed the ten most comfortable and spacious midsize SUVs in order of their roominess and CR's scores for comfort and ease of access.

  1. Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  2. Toyota Grand Highlander
  3. Kia Sorento Hybrid
  4. Kia Telluride
  5. Hyundai Palisade
  6. Toyota Highlander
  7. Kia Sorento
  8. Subaru Ascent
  9. Mazda CX-90
  10. Subaru Outback

photo credit: NFL Subaru 

What does CR say about the 2024 Subaru Ascent?

"The Ascent is a very functional, easy-to-live-with three-row SUV. Its four-cylinder turbo engine delivers ample power in daily driving and gets 22 mpg overall. The jumpy initial takeoff takes some getting used to, however. The Ascent's plush ride is steady and controlled, and the suspension does an excellent job mopping up bumps." 

"Handling agility is not an Ascent strength; the steering is vague, and the body leans noticeably when pushed through corners, but it proved to be ultimately secure at its handling limits. The cabin is quiet, and the second-row captain's chairs are roomy and comfortable. Even the third row is usable for shorter trips, and folding both rows opens up just over 40 cubic feet of cargo room. Blind spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning are optional."

photo credit: NFL Subaru 

What does CR say about the 2024 Subaru Outback?

"Yes, it looks more like a raised wagon than an SUV, yet the Outback is a formidable competitor, thanks to its solid feel and very comfortable ride that outshines even some luxury SUVs. The elevated ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive help make the Outback ready to tackle light off-road duties. With the second-row seat folded flat, there is 37 cubic feet of cargo room." 

"We were impressed with its handling agility in our accident avoidance maneuver, which simulates swerving around a vehicle or an obstacle on the road. The standard four-cylinder engine gets good fuel economy but becomes loud when pushed; the uplevel 260-hp turbo engine in the XT trim gives the Outback effortless punch and a quieter demeanor."

MY TAKE

I think it's essential for customers to know these additional things about the Ascent and Outback midsize SUVs. 

1. The Ascent and Outback are reliable. In a recent iSeeCars reliability ranking, the Outback is the most reliable Subaru model, and the Ascent is the third best. You can read my report here.

2. Ascent and Outback get high road test scores. The Ascent gets the best road test score of 90/100. The Outback scores 89/100 on the road test score. CR runs vehicles through a battery of tests and uses vehicles they purchase directly from Subaru. 

3. All Ascent and Outback trim levels come standard with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist safety technology. EyeSight has been proven to reduce crashes, and both SUVs keep their occupants safer from injury than other models on the list. The Ascent recently earned the highest Top Safety Pick+ award, and the Outback is a Top Safety Pick winner from the IIHS. You can read my new Subaru safety report here.

4. Subaru Symmetrical all-wheel-drive. I've tested the new Ascent and Outback, and the vehicle's Symmetrical all-wheel-drive technology is excellent if customers drive in snow and extreme weather, as I do in Colorado. 

5. The SUVs are the best for customers with active lifestyles. I recommend both Ascent and Outback for active customers who will be driving the SUVs off-pavement. All trim levels have 8.7 inches of ground clearance and X-Mode for low-traction surface capability.

6. Subaru dual-function X-Mode. Outback Onyx Edition models include dual-function X-MODE with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud modes. Outback Wilderness models include advanced dual-function X-MODE with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud modes and low- and medium-to-high-speed functions.

Ascent Onyx Edition, Limited, Onyx Edition Limited, and Touring models include dual-function X-MODE with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud modes.

photo credit: NFL Subaru 

7. The Subaru Outback Wilderness. For the most active customers, the 2024 Outback Wilderness includes added off-road features, including a Low Speed / Low Ratio Gradient Control and 9.4 inches of ground clearance. 

As I've compared the models, you won't find any of Ascent's or Outback's upgrades on any midsize SUVs listed above. 

The 2024 Subaru Ascent and Outback are big enough to carry all your cargo and gear when camping, Overlanding, hiking, snowboarding, or kayaking. This spring, they're the best choice for the most active new midsize SUV shoppers.  

This is the latest information regarding the Subaru Outback and Ascent. I'll keep you updated with any new information.

Until then, visit torquenews.com/subaru regularly and bookmark the page for my latest updates.

Your Turn

What about you? Are you checking out the Outback or Ascent? Let us know in the comments below.

If you are interested in a compact SUV, here are the 11 Roomiest Most Comfortable Compact SUVs, Subaru Forester Is Now 4th Best.

Thanks for reading, everyone. I hope you enjoyed the Subaru Outback and Ascent story. See you tomorrow for my latest Subaru Report.

For additional articles related to new Subaru models, here are a few of my top stories you may enjoy. 

My Must-Read Top Picks

Watch BEST Subaru to BUY! 2024 Subaru Outback Wilderness Review

I am Denis Flierl, a 12-year Torque News senior writer with 20+ years of Subaru and automotive journalism experience. I enjoy bringing you, the Subaru fans and customers, the most up-to-date Subaru news, reviews, and new model information. You'll find the latest Subaru stories on the Subaru page. Follow me on my The Dirty Subaru website, Dirty Subaru blog, SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

I’ve got you covered! - I cover all Subaru all the time - It’s called the “Subaru Report.” Check back daily for my expert Subaru analysis!

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photo credit: NFL Subaru