What vehicle is comparable to the Subaru Ascent?
Several midsize three-row SUVs are comparable to the Subaru Ascent, with the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, and Mazda CX-90 standing out as the strongest rivals.
The Subaru Ascent is a practical, family-friendly midsize SUV with standard all‑wheel drive, seating for up to eight, and a strong safety feature set. In this segment, buyers typically weigh interior quality, space, efficiency, and price across a handful of well-rounded competitors. Below is a detailed look at the closest rivals and how they compare.
Notable rivals in the segment
These models compete most directly with the Ascent for space, practicality, and value.
- Honda Pilot — roomy interior with flexible seating, strong V6, AWD available, good resale; tends to offer strong value, though top-end interior materials may trail some rivals.
- Toyota Highlander — versatile powertrains including a reliable hybrid, solid reliability, strong resale, and usable third row; AWD available.
- Hyundai Palisade — premium-feeling interior, spacious three-row cabin, user-friendly tech, strong warranty; typically more features for the money and AWD available.
- Kia Telluride — high-value interior, roomy and comfortable, smooth ride, strong safety/tech; AWD optional; praised for design and practicality.
- Mazda CX-90 — upscale interior and refined driving dynamics; available as a three-row with a premium feel; higher price and, in some trims, more limited third-row space than Palisade/Telluride.
Concluding paragraph: These rivals cover a spectrum of priorities—from luxurious ambience to practical space and value. The best pick depends on whether you prioritize interior refinement, cargo capacity, fuel economy, or a balance of features for families.
Quick comparisons by category
To help shoppers compare quickly, here is a snapshot of how these models stack up on common criteria.
- Drivetrain and performance: Ascent comes standard with all-wheel drive and a 2.4L turbo engine; Highlander offers AWD with a hybrid option; Palisade/Telluride use V6 or turbo engines; CX-90 uses a 3.3L turbo inline-6 with hybrid assist; Pilot and Pathfinder rely on V6 engines.
- Interior and space: Palisade/Telluride typically lead for interior quality and third-row space; Pilot and Highlander offer generous space but may not feel as upscale; CX-90 aims premium; Ascent emphasizes practicality with a well-designed, accessible cabin.
- Safety and technology: All provide modern infotainment and driver-assistance suites; Subaru EyeSight, Toyota Safety Sense, Hyundai/Kia Safety Sense are common; Apple CarPlay/Android Auto are standard across these models.
Concluding paragraph: The right choice hinges on whether you value premium interior feel, maximum third-row comfort, or strongest value. A test drive across several rivals will reveal which model best fits your family’s needs.
Why the Ascent remains competitive
The Ascent remains compelling for buyers who prioritize year-round all-wheel-drive capability, straightforward ownership, solid safety scores, and a practical cabin without a premium-price tag. Its balance of space, traction, and reliability keeps it in the running amid a crowded field.
Summary
In short, the closest competitors to the Subaru Ascent include the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, and Mazda CX-90, with Nissan Pathfinder and Ford Explorer offering additional alternatives in the same class. The best choice depends on your priorities—interior quality, seating comfort, all-weather capability, or value—so a hands-on test drive across several models is the most effective way to decide which vehicle best suits your needs.
Which is bigger, Chevy Traverse or Subaru Ascent?
Yes, the Chevy Traverse is larger than the Subaru Ascent in terms of length and width, offering more cargo space behind the third row and with all seats folded down. However, the Ascent is slightly shorter, which can make it easier to maneuver and park.
| Feature | Chevrolet Traverse | Subaru Ascent |
|---|---|---|
| Length | Longer (e.g., 204.49 inches) | Shorter (e.g., 196.8 inches) |
| Width | Wider | Narrower |
| Cargo Space (Behind 3rd Row) | More (e.g., 22.9 cubic feet) | Less (e.g., 17.8 cubic feet) |
| Max Cargo Space (All Rows Down) | More (e.g., 97.6 cubic feet) | Less (e.g., 75.6 cubic feet) |
| Maneuverability | More challenging to park and handle | Easier to maneuver and park |
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How does the Ascent compare to other SUVs?
Performance & Capabilities. The Subaru Ascent is the only SUV against the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Hyundai Palisade that comes standard with symmetrical all-wheel drive. Drive confidently over challenging terrain and changing road conditions without paying extra, like in competing models.
What vehicles are comparable to a Subaru Ascent?
Cars similar to 2025 Subaru Ascent
- 2025 Subaru Ascent. #11 in Large SUVs. Get Your Price.
- 2025 Hyundai Palisade. #2 in Large SUVs.
- 2024 Kia Telluride.
- 2025 Honda Pilot. #2 in Large SUVs. Get Your Price.
- 2025 Toyota Highlander. #2 in Large SUVs.
- 2025 Ford Explorer. #13 in Large SUVs. Get Your Price.
What is the most reliable Subaru SUV?
The most reliable Subaru SUVs are the Forester and Crosstrek, consistently praised for their long-term dependability and performance. The Outback also receives high marks for reliability, especially newer models, making it another excellent choice for a reliable SUV. For a three-row option, the Ascent is rated as reliable by Consumer Reports, though it is a newer model and has to prove its long-term durability.
Top reliable Subaru SUVs
- Forester: Often cited as a top reliable model, the Forester's reputation is built on a history of dependability. It is a compact SUV known for its robust design and lasting performance, with some models predicted to exceed 200,000 miles with proper maintenance.
- Crosstrek: Praised as a highly reliable and dependable small SUV, the Crosstrek is a popular choice for its balance of ride quality, fuel efficiency, and capability.
- Outback: Known for its blend of SUV practicality and car-like comfort, the Outback is another highly reliable Subaru SUV. Newer models, particularly the 2023 and 2025 versions, are specifically recognized for their long-term dependability and safety features.
- Ascent: For those needing a larger, three-row SUV, the Ascent is considered a reliable option. It has received a strong rating from Consumer Reports, though as a relatively newer model, its long-term durability is still being established compared to the Forester and Outback.
Other reliable Subaru models
- Used Models: Certain years of the Forester, Crosstrek, and Outback are considered very reliable used SUVs due to the rectification of issues in early generations. The 2020 Crosstrek, for example, has a strong reputation for dependability and has low complaint numbers for its model year.
- Newer Models: Newer models are continually being tested. For instance, the 2024 Outback and 2024 Forester receive excellent ratings, while the 2025 Crosstrek is considered dependable, and the Ascent is deemed reliable.
- Electric Vehicle (EV) Models: The Solterra, Subaru's EV model, is a newer entry into the market. Early indicators show strong build quality and few issues, making it a potentially reliable option.
