The 12 Midsize SUVs With The Best 3rd Rows, Subaru Ascent is Now 6th

According to an updated Consumer Reports ranking (by subscription), families looking for a midsize SUV with the best third-row seats have several good choices. But which of the twelve are the best? 

Consumer Reports did the work of finding the best third rows, but they took it a step further.

Consumer Reports says, "This list relies on our expert evaluations of third rows for ease of access and passenger comfort. We've also included our exclusive owner satisfaction and reliability survey data, along with information about safety and fuel economy so that you can make the smartest choice for your needs."

I'll give details on the 2024 Subaru Ascent for families and examine why it's the best for a particular segment of families. But first, here's CR's top twelve list in order of the most-to-least-roomy third-row seat. All are 2024 model-year SUVs.

NOTE: Consumer Reports does not recommend every vehicle on the list. I will show which models CR recommends and which are not.

What does recommended by Consumer Reports mean for new model shoppers?

CR says, “Recommended is a clear indication that the car you're considering meets or surpasses our industry-defining standards across performance, safety, reliability, and owner satisfaction.”

CR's Midsize SUVs With the Best Third-Row Seats

1. Honda Pilot - recommended
2. Toyota Grand Highlander - recommended
3. Volkswagen Atlas - not recommended
4. Kia Telluride -recommended
5. Nissan Pathfinder - not recommended
6. Subaru Ascent - recommended
7. Dodge Durango - not recommended
8. Hyundai Palisade - recommended
9. Mazda CX-90 - recommended
10. Infiniti QX60 - recommended
11. Jeep Grand Cherokee - not recommended
12. Toyota Highlander - recommended

What does Consumer Reports say about the Subaru Ascent?

• Price Range:  $34,395 - $48,695
• CR MPG:  Overall 22 / City 14 / Hwy 32 mpg
• CR ranges the Ascent #8 of 21 Midsized SUVs 3-row

"Getting into the Ascent is easy, thanks to its large doors and low step-in height. The second row slides up out of the way with the flip of a lever, but it leaves only a marginal path, although the grab handles on the top of the second-row seats help with climbing in and out of the way back. The third row is a little tight, as expected from an SUV in this class. The second-row captain's chairs can be moved fore and aft to give third-row occupants a bit more room for toes and legs."

Is the Subaru Ascent a reliable 3-Row SUV? According to Consumer Reports, Ascent is now on its newly recommended models list with improved reliability. See what's improved in my report here.

What Sets The Ascent Apart From The Other 3-Row SUVs?

I've found that the Ascent is the best pick for active customers who use the SUV for more than a commuter vehicle or family hauler. All trim levels come with Subaru's Symmetrical all-wheel-drive system for all-weather performance. It's not an expensive option like others on the list above.

Ascent has 8.7 inches of ground clearance and X-Mode for improved severe weather traction. Ascent Onyx Edition, Limited, Onyx Edition Limited, and Touring models include dual-function X-Mode with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud modes. 

The Ascent is the top pick for customers who live where you'll encounter severe weather and will use their vehicle to get away from the city and to go further off-road. 

If you need to tow a trailer or camper, the Ascent's max tow rating is 5,000 lbs. It is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer engine with 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, so it has the power to go up a high mountain pass with a full load of people and cargo.  

You can check out my 2024 Subaru Ascent SUV Pricing, Model Guide, and The One Trim Level That's Missing report here. 

I would add that Subaru of America asked Subaru Corporation if they could design and build the new Ascent 3-Row because the Subaru Tribeca SUV was too small. The Ascent was designed for Outback and Forester owners whose families had grown and needed a larger vehicle. Subaru wanted to retain those customers instead of losing them to another car brand. Mission accomplished.

What is the price of the 2024 Subaru Ascent?

The 2024 Subaru Ascent has six trim levels: the base trim starts at $35,490, and the Premium trims begin at $38,090. The Ascent Onyx Edition starts at $42,890, the upper Limited starts at $43,190, the Ascent Onyx Edition Limited is priced at $47,890, and the top-trim Touring has a starting MSRP of $49,790. Pricing includes destination and delivery fees ($1,295).

Armen Hareyan, editor-in-chief of Torque News, says, "The Touring trim takes the Ascent's interior to a whole new level. Forget cloth seats; you're getting buttery-soft perforated leather with heated and ventilated options. Plus, the panoramic moonroof bathes the cabin in natural light, making it feel even airier." 

"Speaking of space, the second-row captain's chairs give you VIP treatment, and the third row, while not the biggest, still fits my kids without complaints. Storage cubbies and cup holders are everywhere, perfect for stashing all your family's stuff."

Consumer Reports says the Subaru Ascent is the best under-the-radar pick for families and that you should buy it and avoid the Ford Explorer. Check out my report here before you buy.

Should You Wait For The 2025 Ascent?

The Ascent will get a complete remodel in 2025 if my sources are accurate. Significant new upgrades to the exterior and interior are likely worth waiting a few months to see. I'll bring you the details when the 2025 Ascent upgrades are announced this fall. Stay tuned. 

Why are you checking out the 2024 Subaru Ascent? Click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know.

I am Denis Flierl, a top Torque News reporter since 2012. I’ve invested over 13 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role, working with every major car brand. I am an experienced Rocky Mountain Automotive Press member. You'll find my expert Subaru analysis here. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Tucson Subaru