The Subaru Ascent is comparable to other three-row SUVs that offer spacious interiors, safety features, and all-wheel-drive capability. compare.edu.vn breaks down the Ascent’s competitors, highlighting strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision. Explore alternatives and make the best choice with our detailed analysis of similar SUVs, mid-size SUVs, and family vehicles.
1. What Makes the Subaru Ascent a Unique Choice?
The Subaru Ascent stands out due to its standard symmetrical all-wheel drive, a hallmark of Subaru vehicles, providing enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions. This feature is particularly beneficial for those living in areas with inclement weather or who frequently travel on unpaved roads. Additionally, the Ascent offers a spacious interior with three rows of seating, making it suitable for large families or those who need to transport multiple passengers. Its focus on safety, with features like EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, further enhances its appeal.
The Subaru Ascent is a mid-size SUV with three-row seating, making it a popular choice for families. Its unique selling points include standard all-wheel drive, a reputation for safety, and a comfortable ride. However, the Ascent faces stiff competition in a crowded market segment. Understanding what other vehicles offer similar features and capabilities can help buyers make an informed decision.
2. What Are the Key Features to Consider When Comparing SUVs?
When comparing SUVs, several key features should be taken into account to ensure the vehicle meets your specific needs and preferences.
- Seating Capacity: Determine how many passengers you need to accommodate regularly. Three-row SUVs like the Ascent typically seat seven or eight passengers.
- Cargo Space: Consider the amount of cargo space available, both with the third row up and folded down, to ensure it can handle your typical hauling needs.
- Safety Features: Look for advanced safety technologies such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.
- Fuel Efficiency: Evaluate the fuel economy ratings to estimate your potential fuel costs, especially if you drive frequently or over long distances.
- Technology and Convenience: Assess the availability of features like infotainment systems, smartphone integration, and driver-assistance technologies.
- Price and Value: Compare the MSRP and overall value proposition of different SUVs, considering factors like standard features, warranty coverage, and reliability.
- Performance and Handling: Consider the engine power, handling characteristics, and available towing capacity to ensure the vehicle meets your driving needs.
- Reliability and Maintenance: Research the predicted reliability ratings and maintenance costs to anticipate potential long-term expenses.
3. Which SUVs Offer Similar Seating Capacity to the Subaru Ascent?
Several SUVs offer similar seating capacity to the Subaru Ascent, making them viable alternatives for families needing three rows of seating.
- Honda Pilot: Known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reputation for reliability, the Honda Pilot is a strong competitor in the three-row SUV segment.
- Toyota Highlander: The Toyota Highlander offers a blend of comfort, safety, and fuel efficiency, with an available hybrid powertrain for even better gas mileage.
- Ford Explorer: The Ford Explorer provides a range of engine options, including a powerful EcoBoost engine, as well as a sporty ST variant.
- Kia Telluride: The Kia Telluride has garnered acclaim for its stylish design, upscale interior, and generous list of standard features.
- Hyundai Palisade: Sharing a platform with the Telluride, the Hyundai Palisade offers a similar level of refinement and features, with a slightly different design aesthetic.
- Chevrolet Traverse: The Chevrolet Traverse boasts a spacious interior and ample cargo space, making it a practical choice for large families.
- Mazda CX-9: The Mazda CX-9 stands out for its engaging driving dynamics and premium interior, offering a more sporty and refined experience.
4. How Does the Subaru Ascent Compare to the Honda Pilot?
The Honda Pilot is a popular three-row SUV known for its reliability, spacious interior, and family-friendly features.
| Feature | Subaru Ascent | Honda Pilot |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | Around $34,000 | Around $37,000 |
| Seating Capacity | 7-8 | 8 |
| Fuel Economy | 21 MPG City / 27 MPG Highway | 20 MPG City / 27 MPG Highway (FWD) |
| All-Wheel Drive | Standard | Available |
| Safety Features | EyeSight Driver Assist Technology (Standard) | Honda Sensing Suite (Standard) |
| Cargo Space | 17.8 cubic feet (behind 3rd row), 75.6 cubic feet (with 2nd and 3rd rows folded) | 18.6 cubic feet (behind 3rd row), 87 cubic feet (with 2nd and 3rd rows folded) |
| Engine | 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder | 3.5-liter V6 |
| Horsepower | 260 hp | 280 hp |
- Advantages of the Subaru Ascent: Standard all-wheel drive, potentially lower starting price.
- Advantages of the Honda Pilot: Higher horsepower, slightly more cargo space, strong reputation for reliability.
5. In What Ways Does the Subaru Ascent Compete with the Toyota Highlander?
The Toyota Highlander is another strong contender in the three-row SUV segment, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and available hybrid powertrain.
| Feature | Subaru Ascent | Toyota Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | Around $34,000 | Around $36,000 |
| Seating Capacity | 7-8 | 7-8 |
| Fuel Economy | 21 MPG City / 27 MPG Highway | 21 MPG City / 29 MPG Highway (FWD) |
| All-Wheel Drive | Standard | Available |
| Safety Features | EyeSight Driver Assist Technology (Standard) | Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (Standard) |
| Cargo Space | 17.8 cubic feet (behind 3rd row), 75.6 cubic feet (with 2nd and 3rd rows folded) | 16 cubic feet (behind 3rd row), 84.3 cubic feet (with 2nd and 3rd rows folded) |
| Engine | 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder | 3.5-liter V6 or 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid |
| Horsepower | 260 hp | 295 hp (V6), 243 hp (Hybrid) |
- Advantages of the Subaru Ascent: Standard all-wheel drive.
- Advantages of the Toyota Highlander: Available hybrid powertrain, strong reputation for reliability, higher horsepower (V6).
6. How Does the Ford Explorer Stack Up Against the Subaru Ascent?
The Ford Explorer offers a range of engine options and a more rugged design, appealing to those who prioritize performance and towing capability.
| Feature | Subaru Ascent | Ford Explorer |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | Around $34,000 | Around $36,000 |
| Seating Capacity | 7-8 | 6-7 |
| Fuel Economy | 21 MPG City / 27 MPG Highway | 21 MPG City / 28 MPG Highway (RWD) |
| All-Wheel Drive | Standard | Available |
| Safety Features | EyeSight Driver Assist Technology (Standard) | Ford Co-Pilot360 (Standard) |
| Cargo Space | 17.8 cubic feet (behind 3rd row), 75.6 cubic feet (with 2nd and 3rd rows folded) | 18.2 cubic feet (behind 3rd row), 87.8 cubic feet (with 2nd and 3rd rows folded) |
| Engine | 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder | 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, or 3.3-liter V6 hybrid |
| Horsepower | 260 hp | 300 hp (2.3L), 400 hp (3.0L), 318 hp (Hybrid) |
- Advantages of the Subaru Ascent: Standard all-wheel drive.
- Advantages of the Ford Explorer: More engine options, higher horsepower, greater towing capacity.
7. What Are the Similarities and Differences Between the Subaru Ascent and the Kia Telluride?
The Kia Telluride has quickly become a favorite in the three-row SUV segment, praised for its stylish design, upscale interior, and value for money.
| Feature | Subaru Ascent | Kia Telluride |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | Around $34,000 | Around $35,000 |
| Seating Capacity | 7-8 | 7-8 |
| Fuel Economy | 21 MPG City / 27 MPG Highway | 20 MPG City / 26 MPG Highway (FWD) |
| All-Wheel Drive | Standard | Available |
| Safety Features | EyeSight Driver Assist Technology (Standard) | Kia Drive Wise (Standard) |
| Cargo Space | 17.8 cubic feet (behind 3rd row), 75.6 cubic feet (with 2nd and 3rd rows folded) | 21 cubic feet (behind 3rd row), 87 cubic feet (with 2nd and 3rd rows folded) |
| Engine | 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder | 3.8-liter V6 |
| Horsepower | 260 hp | 291 hp |
- Advantages of the Subaru Ascent: Standard all-wheel drive.
- Advantages of the Kia Telluride: More cargo space, higher horsepower, often praised for its design and interior.
8. How Does the Hyundai Palisade Compare with the Subaru Ascent?
The Hyundai Palisade shares many similarities with the Kia Telluride, offering a similar level of refinement and features, but with its own distinct styling.
| Feature | Subaru Ascent | Hyundai Palisade |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | Around $34,000 | Around $36,000 |
| Seating Capacity | 7-8 | 7-8 |
| Fuel Economy | 21 MPG City / 27 MPG Highway | 19 MPG City / 26 MPG Highway (FWD) |
| All-Wheel Drive | Standard | Available |
| Safety Features | EyeSight Driver Assist Technology (Standard) | Hyundai SmartSense (Standard) |
| Cargo Space | 17.8 cubic feet (behind 3rd row), 75.6 cubic feet (with 2nd and 3rd rows folded) | 18 cubic feet (behind 3rd row), 86.4 cubic feet (with 2nd and 3rd rows folded) |
| Engine | 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder | 3.8-liter V6 |
| Horsepower | 260 hp | 291 hp |
- Advantages of the Subaru Ascent: Standard all-wheel drive.
- Advantages of the Hyundai Palisade: More cargo space, higher horsepower, often praised for its upscale interior.
9. What Distinguishes the Chevrolet Traverse from the Subaru Ascent?
The Chevrolet Traverse is known for its spacious interior and generous cargo capacity, making it a practical choice for large families.
| Feature | Subaru Ascent | Chevrolet Traverse |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | Around $34,000 | Around $34,000 |
| Seating Capacity | 7-8 | 7-8 |
| Fuel Economy | 21 MPG City / 27 MPG Highway | 18 MPG City / 27 MPG Highway (FWD) |
| All-Wheel Drive | Standard | Available |
| Safety Features | EyeSight Driver Assist Technology (Standard) | Chevy Safety Assist (Standard) |
| Cargo Space | 17.8 cubic feet (behind 3rd row), 75.6 cubic feet (with 2nd and 3rd rows folded) | 23 cubic feet (behind 3rd row), 98.2 cubic feet (with 2nd and 3rd rows folded) |
| Engine | 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder | 3.6-liter V6 |
| Horsepower | 260 hp | 310 hp |
- Advantages of the Subaru Ascent: Standard all-wheel drive.
- Advantages of the Chevrolet Traverse: More cargo space, higher horsepower.
10. In What Aspects Does the Mazda CX-9 Outperform or Underperform the Subaru Ascent?
The Mazda CX-9 offers a more sporty and refined driving experience compared to many other three-row SUVs.
| Feature | Subaru Ascent | Mazda CX-9 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | Around $34,000 | Around $35,000 |
| Seating Capacity | 7-8 | 7 |
| Fuel Economy | 21 MPG City / 27 MPG Highway | 22 MPG City / 28 MPG Highway (FWD) |
| All-Wheel Drive | Standard | Available |
| Safety Features | EyeSight Driver Assist Technology (Standard) | i-Activsense Safety Technology (Standard) |
| Cargo Space | 17.8 cubic feet (behind 3rd row), 75.6 cubic feet (with 2nd and 3rd rows folded) | 14.4 cubic feet (behind 3rd row), 71.2 cubic feet (with 2nd and 3rd rows folded) |
| Engine | 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder | 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 260 hp | 227 hp (Regular Fuel), 250 hp (Premium Fuel) |
- Advantages of the Subaru Ascent: Standard all-wheel drive, more seating capacity.
- Advantages of the Mazda CX-9: More engaging driving dynamics, often praised for its premium interior.
11. What Are the Key Differences in Safety Features Among These SUVs?
When it comes to safety, all of these SUVs offer a comprehensive suite of features designed to protect occupants and prevent accidents. However, there are some key differences in the specific technologies and their availability.
- Subaru Ascent: Comes standard with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane keep assist.
- Honda Pilot: Features Honda Sensing Suite as standard, which includes similar features to EyeSight, such as collision mitigation braking, road departure mitigation, and adaptive cruise control.
- Toyota Highlander: Equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ as standard, which includes pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, and full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control.
- Ford Explorer: Offers Ford Co-Pilot360 as standard, which includes blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping system, pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, and rear view camera.
- Kia Telluride: Comes standard with Kia Drive Wise, which includes forward collision warning, lane keeping assist, blind-spot collision avoidance assist, and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist.
- Hyundai Palisade: Features Hyundai SmartSense as standard, which includes forward collision-avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, blind-spot collision avoidance assist, and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist.
- Chevrolet Traverse: Equipped with Chevy Safety Assist as standard, which includes automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, forward collision alert, and front pedestrian braking.
- Mazda CX-9: Offers i-Activsense Safety Technology as standard, which includes Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Smart Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning System, and Lane-Keep Assist System.
12. How Do the Infotainment Systems Compare in These SUVs?
The infotainment systems in these SUVs vary in terms of screen size, features, and user-friendliness.
- Subaru Ascent: Features a STARLINK multimedia system with a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and available navigation.
- Honda Pilot: Offers an infotainment system with a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and available navigation and Wi-Fi hotspot.
- Toyota Highlander: Equipped with a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Amazon Alexa integration, and available navigation and JBL premium audio system.
- Ford Explorer: Features a SYNC infotainment system with a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, FordPass Connect with Wi-Fi hotspot, and available navigation and B&O sound system.
- Kia Telluride: Offers a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, available navigation, and Harman Kardon premium audio system.
- Hyundai Palisade: Equipped with a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, available navigation, and Harman Kardon premium audio system.
- Chevrolet Traverse: Features a Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system with a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, available navigation, and Bose premium audio system.
- Mazda CX-9: Offers a Mazda Connect infotainment system with a display screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, available navigation, and Bose premium audio system.
13. Which of These SUVs Offer the Best Fuel Economy?
Fuel economy is an important consideration for many SUV buyers, especially those who drive frequently or over long distances.
- Toyota Highlander Hybrid: Offers the best fuel economy in the segment, with an EPA-estimated 36 MPG combined.
- Mazda CX-9: Provides relatively good fuel economy for a non-hybrid SUV, with an EPA-estimated 25 MPG combined.
- Honda Pilot: Offers competitive fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 23 MPG combined (FWD).
- Ford Explorer Hybrid: Provides decent fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 27 MPG combined (RWD).
- Subaru Ascent: Offers reasonable fuel economy for a three-row SUV with standard all-wheel drive, with an EPA-estimated 23 MPG combined.
- Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade: Offer similar fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 22 MPG combined (FWD).
- Chevrolet Traverse: Provides slightly lower fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 21 MPG combined (FWD).
14. What Are the Towing Capabilities of These SUVs?
Towing capacity is an important consideration for those who need to haul trailers, boats, or other heavy loads.
- Ford Explorer: Offers the highest towing capacity in the segment, with a maximum of 5,600 pounds when properly equipped.
- Dodge Durango: Provides a strong towing capacity, with a maximum of 8,700 pounds when properly equipped.
- Chevrolet Traverse: Offers a decent towing capacity, with a maximum of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
- Honda Pilot: Provides a respectable towing capacity, with a maximum of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
- Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade: Offer similar towing capacities, with a maximum of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
- Subaru Ascent: Offers a reasonable towing capacity, with a maximum of 5,000 pounds.
- Toyota Highlander: Provides a lower towing capacity compared to some competitors, with a maximum of 5,000 pounds.
- Mazda CX-9: Has a relatively low towing capacity compared to some competitors, with a maximum of 3,500 pounds.
15. How Do the Cargo Space Dimensions Compare Across These Models?
Cargo space is a crucial factor for families and individuals who frequently transport luggage, groceries, sports equipment, or other bulky items.
| SUV | Cargo Space Behind 3rd Row (cu ft) | Cargo Space Behind 2nd Row (cu ft) | Total Cargo Space (cu ft) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chevrolet Traverse | 23 | 57.8 | 98.2 |
| Ford Explorer | 18.2 | 47.9 | 87.8 |
| Kia Telluride | 21 | 46 | 87 |
| Hyundai Palisade | 18 | 45.8 | 86.4 |
| Toyota Highlander | 16 | 48.4 | 84.3 |
| Honda Pilot | 18.6 | 55.9 | 87 |
| Subaru Ascent | 17.8 | 47.5 | 75.6 |
| Mazda CX-9 | 14.4 | 38.2 | 71.2 |
16. What Are the Drivetrain Options Available in These SUVs?
The drivetrain options available in these SUVs vary, with some offering standard all-wheel drive and others providing it as an available option.
- Subaru Ascent: Comes standard with symmetrical all-wheel drive, which provides enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions.
- Honda Pilot: Offers front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option.
- Toyota Highlander: Offers front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option.
- Ford Explorer: Offers rear-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option.
- Kia Telluride: Offers front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option.
- Hyundai Palisade: Offers front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option.
- Chevrolet Traverse: Offers front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option.
- Mazda CX-9: Offers front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option.
17. What Is the General Consensus on the Reliability of Each SUV?
Reliability is a crucial factor for many car buyers, as it can impact long-term ownership costs and overall satisfaction.
- Toyota Highlander: Generally regarded as one of the most reliable SUVs in its class, with a strong track record for dependability.
- Honda Pilot: Known for its solid reliability, with many owners reporting few issues over the long term.
- Subaru Ascent: While Subaru has a good reputation for reliability, the Ascent has had some reported issues in its early years, but recent models appear to be more reliable.
- Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade: Have gained a reputation for good reliability in recent years, with many owners praising their dependability.
- Chevrolet Traverse: Has a more mixed reputation for reliability, with some owners reporting issues with the transmission and other components.
- Ford Explorer: Has also had a mixed reputation for reliability, with some owners reporting issues with the infotainment system and other features.
- Mazda CX-9: Generally regarded as a reliable SUV, with many owners praising its build quality and dependability.
18. How Do the Base Engines Compare in Terms of Power and Performance?
The base engines in these SUVs vary in terms of power and performance, with some offering more horsepower and torque than others.
- Chevrolet Traverse: Offers the most powerful base engine, a 3.6-liter V6 producing 310 horsepower.
- Ford Explorer: Comes standard with a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower.
- Toyota Highlander: Equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower.
- Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade: Share a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower.
- Honda Pilot: Features a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower.
- Subaru Ascent: Comes standard with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 260 horsepower.
- Mazda CX-9: Equipped with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 227 horsepower on regular fuel or 250 horsepower on premium fuel.
19. Which Models Offer a Hybrid Variant for Enhanced Fuel Efficiency?
For buyers who prioritize fuel efficiency, several of these SUVs offer a hybrid variant.
- Toyota Highlander Hybrid: Offers the best fuel economy in the segment, with an EPA-estimated 36 MPG combined.
- Ford Explorer Hybrid: Provides decent fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 27 MPG combined (RWD).
20. What Are the Typical Maintenance Costs Associated with Each SUV?
Maintenance costs can vary depending on the make and model of the SUV, as well as the specific maintenance schedule and repair needs.
- Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot: Generally have lower maintenance costs due to their strong reliability and readily available parts.
- Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade: Offer competitive maintenance costs, with many owners reporting reasonable expenses.
- Subaru Ascent: May have slightly higher maintenance costs due to its standard all-wheel-drive system and potentially more specialized parts.
- Ford Explorer and Chevrolet Traverse: Can have higher maintenance costs due to their more complex systems and potentially less predictable reliability.
- Mazda CX-9: Offers relatively reasonable maintenance costs, with many owners praising its build quality and dependability.
21. How Does the Availability of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) Differ?
Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) have become increasingly common in modern vehicles, offering a range of features designed to enhance safety and convenience.
- Standard ADAS: All models listed come standard with a suite of ADAS features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
- Specific System Names: Each manufacturer has its own name for its ADAS suite, such as Subaru’s EyeSight, Honda’s Honda Sensing, Toyota’s Safety Sense, Ford’s Co-Pilot360, Kia’s Drive Wise, Hyundai’s SmartSense, Chevrolet’s Chevy Safety Assist, and Mazda’s i-Activsense.
- Feature Variations: While the core features are similar, there may be variations in the specific capabilities and performance of each system.
- Availability of Advanced Features: Some models may offer more advanced ADAS features, such as lane centering assist, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and parking assist, either as standard or optional equipment.
22. How Do the Warranty Packages Compare Across These Brands?
Warranty coverage is an important consideration for new car buyers, as it can provide peace of mind and protection against unexpected repair costs.
- Basic Warranty: Most manufacturers offer a basic warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship for a specified period or mileage, typically 3 years or 36,000 miles.
- Powertrain Warranty: Many manufacturers also offer a longer powertrain warranty that covers the engine, transmission, and other key components, typically for 5 years or 60,000 miles.
- Kia and Hyundai: Stand out with their longer warranty coverage, offering a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
- Subaru: Offers a standard 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
- Toyota and Honda: Offer similar warranty coverage to Subaru, with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
- Ford and Chevrolet: Offer a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
- Mazda: Offers a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
23. Which Models Have the Best Resale Value?
Resale value is an important consideration for car buyers, as it can impact the overall cost of ownership and the amount of money you recoup when you sell or trade in the vehicle.
- Toyota Highlander: Typically holds its value very well, thanks to its strong reputation for reliability and dependability.
- Honda Pilot: Also tends to have good resale value, due to its solid reliability and popularity among families.
- Subaru Ascent: May have slightly lower resale value compared to some competitors, but it still holds its value reasonably well, especially in areas where all-wheel drive is highly valued.
- Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade: Have seen their resale values increase in recent years, thanks to their growing popularity and positive reviews.
- Ford Explorer and Chevrolet Traverse: Can have more variable resale values, depending on factors such as condition, mileage, and market demand.
- Mazda CX-9: Typically holds its value reasonably well, thanks to its premium interior and engaging driving dynamics.
24. What Are the Available Interior Trim and Upholstery Options?
The interior trim and upholstery options can vary widely across these SUVs, allowing buyers to customize the look and feel of their vehicle.
- Base Models: Typically come with cloth upholstery and basic trim materials.
- Higher Trim Levels: Offer upgrades such as leather upholstery, premium trim accents, and contrast stitching.
- Specific Options: Some models may offer unique interior options, such as wood trim, metal accents, or special upholstery patterns.
- Color Choices: The available interior color choices can also vary, allowing buyers to select a color scheme that suits their preferences.
25. How Do the Third-Row Seats Compare in Terms of Comfort and Space?
The comfort and space of the third-row seats can be an important consideration for families who frequently transport passengers in the back.
- Chevrolet Traverse: Generally regarded as having one of the most spacious and comfortable third rows in the segment.
- Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade: Also offer relatively comfortable third-row seating, with decent legroom and headroom.
- Honda Pilot: Provides a reasonably comfortable third row, although it may be a bit tight for taller adults.
- Ford Explorer: Has a somewhat smaller third row compared to some competitors, but it can still accommodate children and smaller adults.
- Subaru Ascent: Offers a decent third row, but it may be a bit cramped for taller passengers on longer trips.
- Toyota Highlander: Has a relatively small third row, which is best suited for children or smaller adults.
- Mazda CX-9: Has a smaller third row compared to some competitors, making it more suitable for occasional use.
26. What Are the Key Factors Driving Consumer Decisions in This SUV Segment?
Several key factors drive consumer decisions in the three-row SUV segment.
- Safety: Is often the top priority for families, with buyers seeking models that offer a comprehensive suite of safety features and good crash test ratings.
- Reliability: Is another crucial factor, with buyers wanting a vehicle that is dependable and requires minimal maintenance.
- Space and Comfort: Are important considerations, with buyers seeking models that offer ample passenger and cargo space, as well as comfortable seating.
- Fuel Economy: Is also a factor, especially for those who drive frequently or over long distances.
- Value for Money: Is a key consideration, with buyers seeking models that offer a good balance of features, performance, and price.
27. How Does the Subaru Ascent Address the Needs of Modern Families?
The Subaru Ascent is designed to address the needs of modern families by offering a combination of safety, space, and versatility.
- Standard All-Wheel Drive: Provides enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions, making it a good choice for families who live in areas with inclement weather.
- Spacious Interior: Offers three rows of seating and ample cargo space, making it suitable for large families or those who need to transport multiple passengers.
- Safety Features: Comes standard with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes a range of advanced safety features designed to help prevent accidents.
- Family-Friendly Features: Offers a variety of family-friendly features, such as multiple USB ports, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a rear-seat entertainment system.
28. What Are Some Common Complaints About the Subaru Ascent?
While the Subaru Ascent has many positive attributes, there are also some common complaints that potential buyers should be aware of.
- Fuel Economy: Some owners have reported that the Ascent’s fuel economy is lower than the EPA estimates.
- Infotainment System: Some owners have found the infotainment system to be slow or difficult to use.
- Transmission: Some owners have reported issues with the transmission, such as rough shifting or hesitation.
- Third-Row Access: Some owners have found it difficult to access the third row, especially for adults.
29. Are There Any Known Recalls or Common Issues with the Subaru Ascent?
It’s important to research any known recalls or common issues with the Subaru Ascent before making a purchase.
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): The NHTSA website provides information on recalls and investigations related to the Subaru Ascent.
- Online Forums and Owner Reviews: Online forums and owner reviews can provide valuable
