CR Now Says 2 Subarus Are Among The Most Reliable Fuel Stingy New SUVs

With all the two-and-three row SUVs available for shoppers, which ones are the most reliable and fuel efficient? A newly-updated study from Consumer Reports (by subscription) says the 2023 Subaru Outback ranks among the best in the Two-Row SUV category again, and the 2023 Subaru Ascent now ranks among the top models in the Three-Row segment for the first time.

Consumer Reports says the Outback and Ascent are safe, reliable, fuel-efficient, and perfect for around-town drives, commutes, and longer trips. The Outback and Ascent received updates for the 2023 model year, and CR says they like what they see.

Consumer Reports compiled the list of Two- and Three-Row Midsized SUVs that scored well in their road tests, have average-or-better predicted reliability ratings, and get 21 mpg overall or better.

CR’s Most Reliable and Fuel-Efficient New Midsized SUVs

The Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid scores highest in the 2-Row SUV category, scoring 88 points. The BMW X5 is next, with a score of 87. The Subaru Outback ranks third with 80 points, followed by the Toyota Venza (80), Ford Edge (78), Honda Passport (76), Nissan Murano (74), Hyundai Santa Fe (73), Porsche Cayenne (70), and Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport (68).

In the 3-Row SUV category, the 2023 Subaru Ascent makes the list for the first time. The Kia Telluride is number one, ranked with 87 points. It is followed by the Toyota Highlander Hybrid (86), Hyundai Palisade (80), Subaru Ascent (76), Kia Sorento Hybrid (75), and Mazda CX-9 (74).

Is the 2023 Outback reliable?

According to Consumer Reports, the 2023 Subaru Outback should be on your shopping list. They scored the Outback number two of fourteen Midsize SUVs. CR says, “We expect the 2023 Outback will have average reliability compared to the average new car.” This prediction is based on data from the 2020, 2021, and 2022 models.

Is the 2023 Outback fuel efficient?

In Consumer Reports testing, the 260 horsepower, 2.4-liter turbocharged engine in the Outback “gives the wagon effortless acceleration yet still got 24 mpg overall in our tests.”

The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine achieved 28 mpg in their testing. The EPA fuel mileage rating of the 2023 Outback XT 2.4-liter turbo is 22/29 city/highway mpg and 25 combined mpg. The estimated fuel economy of the standard 2.5-liter engine is 26/32 mpg city/highway and 28 combined mpg.

The EPA says the 2023 Outback Wilderness gets an estimated 21/26 city/highway mpg and 23 combined mpg.

What does CR say about the Outback?

CR says, “The Outback is a smart alternative to an SUV. The ride is very comfortable, and the handling is responsive and secure. However, some tasks through the large infotainment screen require more than one step. All versions get the EyeSight safety suite.”

Is the Outback a safe vehicle?

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives the 2023 Subaru Outback the highest Top Safety Pick Plus score in crash tests.

What is the price of the 2023 Subaru Outback?

The 2023 Outback now comes in nine trim levels for U.S. customers; the base trim is priced from $29,620, Premium ($31,920), new Onyx Edition with a 2.5-liter engine ($34,720), Limited ($36,520), Touring ($41,070), Outback Wilderness ($39,670), Onyx Edition XT ($39,820), Limited XT ($40,920), and Touring XT ($43,520). Pricing includes $1,225 destination and delivery fees.

Is the 2023 Ascent reliable?

Consumer Reports says, “We expect the 2023 Ascent will have average reliability compared to the average new car. This prediction is based on data from 2020, 2021, and 2022 models.”

Is the 2023 Ascent fuel efficient?

CR says, “Power comes from a turbocharged four-cylinder that delivers ample power in daily driving and gets 22 mpg overall.”

The 2023 Subaru Ascent base and Premium trim levels get an EPA-estimated 21/27 city/highway mpg and 23 combined mpg. Because they are slightly heavier, the Ascent Limited and Touring trim levels get an EPA-estimated 20/26 city/highway mpg and 22 combined mpg.

What does CR say about the Ascent?

“The Ascent is a very functional, easy-to-live-with three-row SUV. 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 of mopping up bumps. This is not the most agile SUV in corners, but it is ultimately secure at its handling limits. The cabin is quiet, and the second-row captain’s seats are roomy and comfortable. Even the third row is usable for shorter trips.”

Is the Ascent a safe vehicle?

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives the 2023 Subaru Ascent the highest Top Safety Pick Plus score in crash tests.

The 2023 Subaru Outback has ranked among the most reliable and fuel-efficient new SUVs in the Two-Row SUV category. Consumer Reports now says the Ascent scores among the best in the Three-Row SUV category, making the list for the first time.

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Denis Flierl has invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role working with every major car brand. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. Check out Subaru Report, where he covers all of the Japanese automaker's models. More stories can be found on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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