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CR Says Subaru Outback And Ascent Are Loved With Flaws And All

Do Subaru owners love their all-wheel-drive vehicles? An updated report from Consumer Reports says the 2024 Subaru Outback and 2024 Ascent are loved despite their flaws. I will tell you why.
2024 Subaru Outback

Owners told Consumer Reports (by subscrition) in an updated study that they love the two- and three-row models, listed below, flaws and all. Two top-ranked SUVs are the 2024 Subaru Outback midsize SUV and the 2024 Subaru Ascent 3-Row SUV. 

The models here are ranked in order of their owner satisfaction rating—which CR determined based on their owner surveys—starting with the best. CR says each has strengths and weaknesses, but not every model is recommended because of a low test score or below-average reliability. However, some buyers and owners put happiness with their vehicles as a critical priority.2024 Subaru Outback owner driving in the snowNote: The 2024 Outback and 2024 Ascent are recommended models by Consumer Reports. Check my report here.

CR's Best 2024 model year 2-Row SUVs

  1. BMW X5 Plug-In Hybrid
  2. BMW X5
  3. Porsche Cayenne
  4. Lexus RV Hybrid
  5. Toyota 4Runner
  6. Ford Bronco
  7. Genesis GV80
  8. Lexus RX
  9. Subaru Outback

What does CR say about the 2024 Subaru Outback?

  • Price Range:  $28,895 - $42,795
  • CR MPG:  Overall 24 / City 16 / Hwy 32 mpg
  • #2 of 17  Midsized SUVs

"Although its roofline is lower than a typical SUV's, the Outback can easily haul long items and remains a good SUV alternative. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder works fine during regular driving around town but can feel strained when quicker speed is needed. The optional 260-hp, 2.4-liter turbo engine transforms the wagon with effortless acceleration. The ride is very comfortable, and handling is responsive and secure." 

"Some tasks through the large infotainment screen require more than one step, but the system is slow to respond to inputs. Thoughtful details, such as built-in crossbars and a dual-position cargo cover, are nice touches. AEB with pedestrian detection and AEB highway are standard, but BSW and RCTW are optional."

CR's Best 2024 model year 3-Row SUVs

  1. Kia Telluride
  2. Honda Pilot
  3. Volvo XC90
  4. Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  5. Hyundai Palisade
  6. Subaru Ascent
  7. BMW X7

2024 Subaru Ascent with active owners

What does CR say about the 2024 Subaru Ascent?

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

"The Ascent is a very functional, easy-to-live-with three-row midsized SUV. Its turbocharged four-cylinder 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. However, it proved ultimately secure at its handling limits around our track." 

"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. AEB with pedestrian detection and AEB highway are standard, but BSW and RCTW are optional."

MY TAKE

The most interesting thing I see with the Subaru Outback is that six of the nine 2-Row SUVs are luxury models. That makes the Outback midsize SUV a high-value pick for new model shoppers.   

Subaru Outback and Ascent owners can overlook the flaws because no vehicle is perfect. Both models have all-weather performance features and excellent safety scores and are reliable. 

Reliability Is a crucial factor.

In my opinion, the SUVs are top picks because the Outback and Ascent have had fewer recalls in the past year. Subaru's overall recall rate has dropped, which is good news for all new Subaru models.  

This is the latest information regarding the Subaru Outback and Ascent SUVs. 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

How happy are you with your Subaru model? Let us know in the comments below.

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 2024 Subaru Outback: Which One to Buy?

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: Subaru USA

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Comments

Rob C (not verified)    March 3, 2024 - 9:53AM

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I test drove a 2023 Outback Touring XT with 7,000 miles on it at our local Subaru dealer and was disappointed with the brake feel and performance. So much so that I asked them to take it out for themselves after we left. We have a 2022 Legacy Limited XT and it definitely feels better (though not as good as some other midsize sedans we own). The Outback also didn't feel as responsive to the accelerator pedal, but perhaps that's just par for the course, I'm not sure. The ride, seat comfort and apparent build quality were great, however.

Udit Minocha (not verified)    March 3, 2024 - 7:52PM

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I know this article is on model year 2024. However, I love my 2023 Outback I bought Dec 2022. The ride is smooth, could be a little quieter, don't mind the CVT, sometimes I wish the engine had a little more power but the gas mileage is good. Being a GDI ending, I wish it came with an oil catch can.