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7 Best 3rd Row SUV Seats - Consumer Reports Says Subaru Ascent Is A Top Pick

Does the 2023 Subaru Ascent have a roomy third row? A new ranking from Consumer Reports gives it a top score in third-row roominess. Check the seven best 3-Row SUVs with the roomiest rear accommodations.

Which midsize 3-Row SUVs have the roomiest third-row accommodations? Midsize SUV shoppers looking for a comfortable, roomy cabin and third row can buy something other than a luxury car to get it. A recent study from Consumer Reports (by subscription) identifies the seven roomiest rear-seat non-luxury midsize SUVs you can buy today.

The newly-upgraded 2023 Subaru Ascent scores among the best in its class and gets recognition from Consumer Reports for the first time in this area. Because it's hard for shoppers to determine how roomy a vehicle's third row is in a short test drive without the kids, Consumer Reports dug into its extensive test results and road-test scores to find the SUVs with the best third-row seating.

2023 Subaru Ascent
2023 Subaru Ascent third row seating

All seven models are recommended, which means they scored well in road tests, have good reliability, are available with automatic emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian detection, AEB that works at highway speeds, blind spot warning (BSW), and rear cross-traffic warning (RCTW); and performed well in crash tests.

Consumer Reports Seven roomiest rear seat 3-Row SUVs

The Honda Pilot ranks number one overall, and in alphabetical order, the Chevrolet Traverse, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, Subaru Ascent, and Toyota Highlander are also good choices in the midsize SUV category.

2023 Subaru Ascent
photo credit: Tucson Subaru

What does CR say about the 2023 Ascent?

"The Ascent 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. Both AEB with pedestrian detection and AEB highway are standard. But BSW and RCTW aren't available on the base trim; they're standard on all the other trim levels."

What is the price of the 2023 Ascent?

The 2023 Subaru Ascent base starts at $35,120, and Premium trims begin at $39,180. The Ascent Onyx Edition starts at $42,520, the upper Limited starts at $42,820, the new Ascent Onyx Edition Limited is priced at $47,520, and the top-trim Touring has a starting MSRP of $49,420. Pricing includes destination and delivery fees ($1,225).

What sets the Ascent apart from the other midsize 3-Row SUVs?

The Ascent comes standard with Subaru's Symmetrical all-wheel-drive, 8.7 inches of ground clearance, and X-Mode for improved off-pavement, snow/mud, and dirt road capability. Ascent also gets the highest Top Safety Pick+ crash scores from the IIHS.

Among midsize SUVs in the new side crash test conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Ascent was one of the models earning the highest "Good" rating.

Should you wait for the 2024 Ascent?

The 2024 Subaru Ascent gets new safety upgrades.

The 2024 Ascent features Subaru's latest EyeSight safety technology, including a Wide-Angle Mono Camera. Subaru says the enhanced EyeSight driver assist system operates more smoothly and in an extended range of conditions. The improvements are a result of a wider field of view, updated control software, and the addition of an electric brake booster.

How much did the 2024 Subaru Ascent trim levels increase in price?

The Base trim gets a $370 price increase, Premium +$370, Onyx Edition +$370, Limited +$370, Ascent Onyx Edition Limited +370, and Touring +$370. The 2024 Ascent arrives this fall.

Does the newly-upgraded 2023 Subaru Ascent have the best third-row roominess? A new ranking from Consumer Reports gives it a top score in the midsize non-luxury SUV category. It's now recommended and among the best for the roomiest rear accommodations.

You Might Also Like: The New 2024 Subaru Ascent SUV Pricing, Model Guide And The One Trim Level That’s Missing

Denis Flierl has invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role working with every major car brand. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. Check out Subaru Report, where he covers the Japanese automaker's models. More stories can be found on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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Photo credit: Tucson Subaru