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CR’s 13 Three-Row SUVs With The Most Cargo Room, Subaru Ascent Ranks Last But Not Least

How much cargo and luggage space does the 2024 Ascent have? An updated study compares the Ascent with other 3-Row SUVs. Check out the best models here.
2024 Subaru Ascent

Does the 2024 Subaru Ascent have the most cargo and luggage room in the competitive 3-row SUV segment? SUV shoppers needing a vehicle to carry sports equipment, luggage, and cargo have many choices, but which models have the most usable cargo space? Please keep reading, and I'll explain why it's more than cargo space that sets the Subaru Ascent apart from the competition. 

Among 3-Row SUVs recommended by Consumer Reports (by subscription), the 2024 Ascent ranks 13th best out of 13 in an updated ranking. I will explain why it's best for the most active midsize SUV shoppers. 

Related Subaru Cargo Room Content: CR's 6 Two-Row SUVs With the Most Cargo Room, Subaru Outback In Now 5th Best

According to the latest study from Consumer Reports, some 3-Row SUVs have narrow, short, or oddly shaped rear hatch openings and need more usable space. It's not total cubic feet, but the volume enclosed by the SUV's rear box gives consumers a better idea of the cargo you can fit in the back and still get the hatch door closed.

CR's best midsize 3-Row SUVs with the most cargo space are ranked in order of cargo room in cubic feet, with the top performer first.

What Are The Best 2024 Model Year 3-Row SUVs in Cargo Space? Here is a list of the 13 top 3-row SUVs in 2024 with the best cargo space.

  1. Volkswagen Atlas
  2. Rivian R1S
  3. Toyota Grand Highlander
  4. Hyundai Palisade
  5. Kia Telluride
  6. Jeep Grand Cherokee L
  7. Ford Explorer
  8. Nissan Pathfinder
  9. Toyota 4Runner
  10. Dodge Durango
  11. Honda Pilot
  12. Toyota Highlander
  13. Subaru Ascent

What does CR say about the Subaru Ascent?

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

"The roomy Ascent looks like an inflated version of the Forester compact SUV, which isn't a bad thing, given the smaller SUV's great visibility and roomy cabin. Folding down the second-and third-row seats opens up a tad more than 45 cubic feet of usable cargo room. The turbocharged four-cylinder delivers ample power in daily driving and gets 22 mpg overall. We like the Ascent's steady and controlled ride and found that the suspension does an excellent job of mopping up bumps."

"The cabin is quiet, the second-row captain's seats are roomy and comfortable, and adults can use the third-row seat for shorter trips. BSW and RCTW aren't available on the base trim; they're standard on all the other trim levels."

Consumer Reports also ranked the best 2-Row SUVs for cargo space. I’ve included those results here if you don’t need three rows of seats.

What Are The 6 Best 2024 Model Year 2-Row SUVs in Cargo Space?

  1. Jeep Wrangler
  2. Ford Bronco
  3. Ford Edge
  4. Honda Passport
  5. Subaru Outback
  6. Volkswagen Atlas Cross

What does CR say about the Subaru Outback?

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

"Subaru's Outback is a smart alternative to an SUV. Although lower than a typical SUV, it can easily haul long items and has a competitive 37 cubic feet of usable cargo room. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder does the job but can feel strained when quicker speed is needed. The optional 260-hp, 2.4-liter turbo engine has effortless acceleration. 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, and the system must respond faster to inputs. BSW and RCTW are optional."

What sets the Ascent apart from the midsize 3-Row SUV competition?

The Ascent is the best midsize SUV for active customers and people who want to go further off the beaten path.

What Is The Significant Difference Between The Subaru Ascent and Other Midsize SUVs Besides Cargo Space?

The significant difference between the Ascent and the other midsize SUV competitors on the list above is that it comes standard with Subaru's Symmetrical all-wheel drive, X-Mode for severe weather capability, and dual-function X-Mode for all-terrain performance. 

What Is Dual-Function X-Mode in Subaru Ascent?

Dual-Function X-Mode in Subaru Ascent adds extra traction in deep snow and deep mud. The settings can be accessed on the Ascen't touchscreen, allowing you to switch from Snow and Dirt mode to the new Deep Snow and Deep Mud Mode.

Do You Have To Pay Extra For X-Mode and Dual-Function X-Mode?

You won't pay extra for the all-weather and all-terrain features; they are standard features on most trim levels.

Related Ascent Content: 2024 Subaru Ascent SUV Pricing, Model Guide, And The One Trim Level That’s Missing

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.)

Your Turn 

What about you? Do You like the Ascent for carrying your outdoor gear? Let us know in the comments below.

Thanks for reading, everyone. I hope you enjoyed the Subaru Ascent cargo story. See you tomorrow for my latest Subaru Report.

I am Denis Flierl, a top Torque News and Subaru reporter since 2012. I’ve invested over 30 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 The Dirty Subaru website, Dirty Subaru blog, X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

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