Which Subaru SUV has the largest cargo space?
Among Subaru’s current SUV lineup, the three-row Ascent offers the most cargo space, with up to about 86 cubic feet of room when the rear seats are folded. This makes it the clear leader for buyers prioritizing maximum loading capacity.
This article examines the cargo capacities across Subaru’s main SUV range, explains how cargo space is measured (behind the rear seats vs. with seats folded), and what those figures mean for everyday use and family trips. Data below reflect current model-year specifications and typical ranges cited by Subaru and automotive guides.
Cargo space by Subaru model
To give readers a practical sense of space, here are the typical cargo volumes you’ll encounter in current Subaru SUVs, noted as space behind the rear seats and the maximum with seats folded where applicable. Values are approximate and can vary slightly by model year and trim.
- Subaru Crosstrek — Behind rear seats: about 20.8 cubic feet; maximum with seats folded: about 55.3 cubic feet.
- Subaru Forester — Behind rear seats: about 28.9 cubic feet; maximum with seats folded: about 76.1 cubic feet.
- Subaru Outback — Behind rear seats: about 32.0 cubic feet; maximum with seats folded: about 75.7 cubic feet.
- Subaru Ascent — Behind third row: about 17.8 cubic feet; maximum with seats folded: about 86.5 cubic feet.
Taken together, the Ascent stands out not only for its three-row versatility but also for delivering the largest overall cargo footprint when you fold the rear seating flat.
What these figures mean for buyers
cargo space shape how you’ll load gear, groceries, and luggage. For families or weekend warriors who routinely haul larger items, the Ascent’s generous maximum cargo volume is a strong selling point. If you don’t need three rows, the Forester or Outback still offer substantial space that’s easy to manage in a smaller footprint.
Key considerations when comparing cargo space
Before you shop, keep these practical tips in mind to maximize usable space and choose the model that fits your needs.
- Consider how often you’ll use the third row. If you rarely need it, a two-row model may offer easier loading with nearly comparable maximum volume when folded.)
- Record the base cargo space you’ll actually use with seats in place, then compare to the maximum figures when folded to gauge real-world capacity.
- Think about access features, such as a flat loading floor and wide hatch opening, which affect how you load bulky items.
In practice, the Ascent’s larger interior unfolds into a more flexible cargo environment, while the Forester and Outback deliver a strong combination of everyday practicality and respectable folding-volume that fits many families’ needs.
Summary
The Subaru SUV with the largest cargo space is the Ascent, offering up to roughly 86.5 cubic feet of cargo capacity with the rear seats folded. For many buyers, this translates to superior versatility for three-row seating when needed and ample loading room for large cargo the rest of the time. Crosstrek, Forester, and Outback provide substantial but smaller maximum cargo spaces, making them excellent choices for those who don’t require a three-row setup.
