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An updated Consumer Reports (by subscription) ranking of new SUVs says you want to avoid getting stuck with a 3-Row SUV you'll regret buying when better, more reliable ones are available. The latest report says you should avoid purchasing the 2023 Ford Explorer, and the 2023 Subaru Ascent is the best under-the-radar pick for families shopping for a 3-Row SUV.
The Ascent is a top pick now because the SUV performed excellently in CR's road tests, has average or better reliability, has crucial advanced safety equipment, and performs well in crash tests from the IIHS. CR says the Kia Telluride is also better than the Ford Explorer.
Check Out This Hot Topic: CR's 10 Best SUVs Without Deal-Breaking Flaws - 3 New Subaru Models Stand Tall
Why should you avoid the 2023 Ford Explorer?
Consumer Reports says, "The Explorer may be a common sight in your neighborhood, but that doesn't mean it's the best choice. While this mediocre SUV ranks near the bottom in the three-row category, it outsells the excellent Kia Telluride by more than 2 to 1. It handles with relative agility, but an overly firm ride, rough shifts, and a noisy engine hurt the Explorer's road-test score. Plus, reliability is well below average."
Why Consumer Reports says the 2023 Subaru Ascent is better for 3-Row SUV shoppers than the 2023 Ford Explorer.
Check Out This Related Story: You Can Now Design The Perfect 2024 Subaru Ascent 3-Row SUV - The Tool Is Here
Consumer Reports says the Ascent is an under-the-radar pick and a good option. "The Ascent is a very functional, easy-to-live-with three-row SUV. Its four-cylinder turbocharged engine delivers ample power and gets 22 mpg overall. The SUV has a plush, steady, and controlled ride, 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. Controls are very straightforward. Automatic emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian detection and AEB highway are standard, but blind spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert are optional."
Our take on the 2023 Subaru Ascent
The Ascent is the best pick for active customers using the SUV for more than a commuter vehicle or family hauler. The Ascent comes with Subaru's Symmetrical all-wheel-drive system on all trim levels. It's not an expensive option.
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 in a cold weather state and will use their vehicle to go further off-road.
Don't Miss This Related Story: 2024 Subaru Ascent SUV Pricing, Model Guide, And The One Trim Level That's Missing
Check out the 2024 Subaru Ascent coming this fall. What is the price of the 2024 Subaru Ascent?
The 2024 Subaru Ascent comes in six trim levels. The Base trim starts at $35,490, and 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).
Consumer Reports says, "Don't get stuck with a 3-Row SUV you'll regret buying." The latest Consumer Reports ranking thinks you should avoid buying the 2023 Ford Explorer, and the 2023 Subaru Ascent is the best under-the-radar pick for families shopping for a 3-Row SUV.
Check Out This Hot Topic: Consumer Reports Says Avoid The 2023 Ford Escape And Buy The 2023 Subaru Forester Instead
Denis Flierl brings over thirty years of combined auto industry and automotive journalism experience to Torque News readers. He is an accredited Rocky Mountain Automotive Press (RMAP) member. The last twelve years have been spent with Torque News, covering Subaru vehicles and the latest news. Check back daily for his expert Subaru analysis. You'll find the latest stories on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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Comments
Hate to say this but stay…
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Hate to say this but stay away from the Subaru Ascent! It has been the absolute worst the vehicle I've ever owned. It's been completely unreliable and has had issues since it reached 3,000 miles. Honestly I believe this car will be the death of me, my teenager daughter has refused to learn to drive with it because she also feels unsafe. Also don't fall for the listed MPG, mine has been 15-18 city or highway. Absolutely the worst SUV
Just hit 35k on my 2021. Not…
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In reply to Hate to say this but stay… by Nathalie (not verified)
Just hit 35k on my 2021. Not a single problem other than some minor head unit issues that went away with a software update a year ago. I get about 23 mpg average, but not much city driving. I lived in a city for the first year and it was about 18-19 then. Not bad for a big car!