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Do you want it easy or functional?
Should you consider the Subaru Ascent? Consumer Reports (CR) says yes because it's very functional and easy to live with. You can have both, but before I tell you more reasons why, here is a CR updated ranking (by subscription) of the best 3-Row midsize SUVs for the best fuel mileage and the most reliability.
Consumer Reports (by subscription) has identified the eleven best picks, all of which are three-row midsize SUVs that scored well in road tests, have average or better predicted reliability ratings, and achieve 21 mpg overall or better. The Subaru Ascent, in particular, has been praised for its reliability. Read my detailed Ascent reliability report here to understand why it's a secure and confident choice for your family.
Perfect for around town.
"These dependable models are perfect for around-town drives, commutes, and longer trips," CR says.
The eleven 3-Row non-luxury SUVs recommended by CR scored well in their road tests, which comprise more than 50 objective and subjective evaluations.
What are the best 2-Row SUVs for fuel mileage and reliability? (Spoiler alert) the Subaru Outback ranks #1 among the five best picks. Check out my report here.
Let's top that.
On top of that, CR says they have good reliability and come standard with critical active safety equipment, including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection.
They all come standard with auto emergency braking that works at highway speeds, blind spot warning, and rear cross-traffic warning unless otherwise noted. They also performed well in government and insurance industry crash tests if they were tested. Find out more in my Ascent safety report here and why it scores highest in safety among its competitors.
I've listed the 11 top 3-Row picks from highest to lowest by CR's Overall Score, which is a comprehensive rating that takes into account various factors such as performance, reliability, and safety.
- Toyota Highlander Hybrid
- Kia Telluride
- Hyundai Palisade
- Mazda CX-90
- Mazda CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid
- Toyota Highlander
- Toyota Grand Highlander
- Subaru Ascent
- Kia Sorento Hybrid
- Honda Pilot
- Kia Sorento
What does CR say about the Subaru Ascent family hauler in comparison to other top picks like the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and the Kia Telluride?
- Price Range: $34,395 - $48,695
- CR MPG: Overall 22 / City 14 / Highway 32 mpg
- #8 of 19 Midsized SUVs 3-row
CR says, "The Ascent is a very functional, easy-to-live-with three-row SUV. Power comes from a turbocharged four-cylinder that delivers ample power in daily driving and gets 22 mpg overall. But the jumpy initial takeoff requires some getting used to. The Ascent's plush ride is steady and controlled, and the suspension does an excellent job of mopping up bumps."
"This isn't the most agile SUV in corners, but it's 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. Controls are very straightforward. Auto Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian detection and AEB highway are standard, while blind spot warning and rear-cross traffic warning are standard on all trims except the base model, where they aren't available."
Get out of town.
There are more reasons why Ascent is a top pick.
The 2024 Subaru Ascent is the #8 top choice for new midsize SUV shoppers because, in addition to being reliable and fuel-efficient, the 3-Row family hauler comes with Subaru's excellent Symmetrical all-wheel-drive for all-weather capability, 8.7 inches of ground clearance has X-Mode for severe weather performance and dual-function X-Mode on some trims for all-terrain capability.
The Ascent is designed for the most active customers who want to avoid sitting at home on the weekends this summer. The Ascent is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts who want to get further away from the city.
Wait, there's more.
How comfortable can you get?
Do you want a smooth ride, a quiet interior, supportive seats, comfortable seats, a driving position, and easy access? In an updated Consumer Reports scoring of the most comfortable midsize 3-Row SUVs, surprisingly, the 2024 Subaru Ascent scores the highest in comfort compared with the nine best midsize 3-Row SUVs. Read my Ascent comfort report here.
What does CR say about the unique features of Ascent that set it apart from the rest?
"The Ascent's ride is comfortable to the point of being plush, gliding over or swallowing up any bump, rut, or pothole in its way. Yet its body is always under control, never pitching about over the rough stuff. Open the big, wide doors, and inside, you'll find large, supportive seats that can fit a range of body types. We suggest getting the Premium trim at the least, which has an eight-way power-adjustable cloth driver's seat, while the Limited trim adds power to the front passenger seat and has more supportive leather seating surfaces."
What is the 2024 Ascent pricing?
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).
Consumer Reports says the 2024 Subaru Ascent is among the top fuel-efficient and most reliable 3-Row SUVs you can buy now. It's also the most comfortable of all the top choices.
Which 3-Row midsize SUV are you looking at for your family? Is the Subaru Ascent on your list? 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: Adventure Subaru
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