CR’s 13 Most Reliable, Fuel-Efficient 3-Row SUVs, Subaru Ascent Does It All

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Which new midsize 3-Row SUVs are the best? If you want fuel-efficient and reliable, here are the thirteen best picks by Consumer Reports and why the Subaru Ascent does it all. I'll explain what it does for active families.

There are many choices for 3-Row SUV shoppers; which one does it all?

There are many good choices in the new 3-Row midsize SUV category. There are so many that, in an updated ranking from Consumer Reports (by subscription), they have recommended thirteen models worthy of your consideration. 

Consumer Reports does the heavy lifting, so you don't have to spend hours wading through all the myriad options and research online. The thirteen models I've listed below are all recommended by CR. I'll go further and explain why the Subaru Ascent does it all. 

The three-row midsized SUVs scored well in Consumer Reports road tests, have average or better-predicted reliability ratings, and get 21 mpg overall or better. If you are also looking at 2-Row midsize SUVs, I've also included five of the best 2-Row picks in my report below. 

When you are looking for any new vehicle, reliability is always a top consideration. 

Consumer Reports says, "These midsize SUVs are dependable models and are perfect for around-town drives, commutes, and longer trips."

Before I explain what sets the Subaru Ascent apart from the other top picks, here is what CR says about its choices. 

CR says, "When it comes to do-it-all family vehicles, the midsized SUV reigns supreme. Opt for a three-row version, and you can carry enough stuff for a weeklong vacation for a family of five or take six passengers to all the activities you can schedule. It can operate as a mobile office or, on weekends, it can be the perfect tailgating vehicle."

CR recommends these SUVs, which are all mainstream (non-luxury) 2024 model-year SUVs. I've listed them by their Overall Score.

The Best mainstream three-row SUVs

  • Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  • Kia Telluride
  • Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid
  • Hyundai Palisade
  • Mazda CX-90 
  • Mazda CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid
  • Toyota Highlander
  • Toyota Grand Highlander
  • Subaru Ascent
  • Honda Pilot
  • Kia Sorento Hybrid
  • Hyundai Santa Fe
  • Kia Sorento

What does CR say about the Subaru Ascent?

"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. Automatic emergency braking 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."

Should you consider the 2025 Subaru Ascent? 

The 2025 Ascent is essentially the same as the previous year's model, with the addition of two new trim levels. The Base trim level has been removed for the 2025 model year, and Subaru has introduced the 2025 Ascent Bronze Edition and 2025 Ascent Onyx Edition Touring. Please refer to my detailed report here for a comprehensive understanding of these changes. 

I've included the 2025 Ascent pricing and trim levels for shoppers. 

The Ascent Premium starts at $40,215, Onyx Edition ($43,615), Limited ($47,415), Bronze Edition ($48,415), Touring ($50,415), and Onyx Edition Touring ($51,415). Pricing includes destination and delivery ($1,420).

What makes the Ascent stand out among the rest?

Does the Ascent do it all? 

No vehicle can be the do-all, be-all for all families. If you want more than a city commuter or grocery hauler, pick the Ascent. It's designed for the most active families. 

Of course, it comes with Subaru's excellent Symmetrical all-wheel-drive technology and X-Mode for severe weather. But there's more for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Some Ascent trim levels offer Subaru's dual-function X-Mode for all-terrain capability. A quick explanation of X-Mode is it delivers more extreme weather and rugged terrain capability. Read my report here for complete details on how the off-road system works. 

The Ascent's features and capabilities make it a reliable and comfortable companion for outdoor adventures. 

The Ascent is designed for the most active families who won't be staying at home this fall and winter. It's an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts planning road trips away from the city lights for camping, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking. 

All Ascent trims are powered by a 2.4-liter Boxer engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The Ascent will pull a high mountain pass with little effort, with a full load of people and your gear. 

If you want comfort, pick the Ascent.

When it comes to comfort, the Subaru Ascent is a clear winner. Consumer Reports praises the current-generation Ascent for its comfort, and it's easy to see why. The spacious interior, plush ride, and thoughtful design elements make every journey a relaxing experience.

Check out the nine best SUVs in comfort and find out why CR gives the Ascent the highest scores in my report here. 

When will the new 2025 Ascent be available for customers?

Subaru of America says the newly upgraded 2025 Subaru Ascent 3-Row family hauler arrives in Subaru retailers this fall. Stay tuned for more updates.

If you don't need three rows of seats, which are the best 2-Row midsize SUVs?

I've included the Consumer Reports top 2-Row midsize SUV category picks from my previous report. Among the five best new Two-Row midsize SUVs, one model stands out. The Subaru Outback reigns supreme above the best, according to Consumer Reports. It's the best of five for fuel efficiency and reliability, and more sets it apart from the rest.

I've listed CR's most reliable fuel-efficient rated mainstream 2-Row SUVs in order of their Overall score. 

  1. Subaru Outback
  2. Toyota Venza
  3. Ford Edge
  4. Honda Passport
  5. Nissan Murano

What does CR say about the #1 ranked Subaru Outback?

"The Outback is a smart alternative to an SUV. Its 260-hp 2.4-liter turbo engine gives the wagon effortless acceleration, yet it still got 24 mpg overall in our tests. The base 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine got 28 mpg in our test of the similar Legacy sedan. 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. Both blind spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning are optional."

The 2025 Outback is a carry-over from the previous year, with few changes, so it's also a recommended model by CR and received the highest scores. 

Here is my updated report for more information on the 2025 Subaru Outback. 

Are you shopping for a 2- or 3-row midsize SUV? Are you considering the Ascent or Outback? Click the red Add new comment link below and let us know.

I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Writer 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