CR’s 15 Most Reliable And Fuel-Stingy New Midsize SUVs And Subaru’s 2 Hot Picks

Which are the most reliable and fuel-efficient 2024 model-year midsize SUVs? An updated Consumer Reports (by subscription) ranking says the 2024 Subaru Outback and the 2024 Subaru Ascent are among the best choices for 2-Row and 3-Row SUV shoppers. I cover the report annually and will tell you why the two Subaru SUVs are your best picks this winter.

The list below features the two- and three-row midsized SUVs that scored well in Consumer Reports road tests, have average or better-predicted reliability ratings, and get 21 mpg overall or better.

These SUVs are all models recommended by CR. That means they scored well in our road tests, which comprise more than 50 objective and subjective evaluations. They also score high in safety technology. 

CR's 15 Most Reliable and Fuel-Efficient 2024 model year Midsized SUVs ranked with the highest scores first.

The Best 2-Row SUVs

1. Subaru Outback
2. Toyota Venza
3. Ford Edge
4. Honda Passport 
5. Nissan Murano

What does CR say about the 2024 Subaru Outback?

• Price Range:  $28,895 - $42,795
• CR MPG:  Overall 24 / City 16 / Hwy 32 mpg
• #2 of 17  Midsized SUVs

CR says, "The Outback is a smart alternative to an SUV. Its 260-hp, 2.4-liter turbo engine gives the wagon effortless acceleration yet still got 24 mpg overall in our tests. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine got 28 mpg in our test of the similar Legacy sedan. 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. All versions get the EyeSight safety suite with standard AEB with pedestrian detection and AEB highway, but both BSW and RCTW are optional."

The Best 3-Row SUVs

1. Toyota Highlander Hybrid
2. Kia Telluride
3. Hyundai Palisade
4. Mazda CX-90
5. Mazda CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid
6. Toyota Highlander
7. Toyota Grand Highlander
8. Subaru Ascent
9. Kia Sorento Hybrid
10. Honda Pilot
11. Kia Sorento

What does CR say about the 2024 Subaru Ascent?

• Price Range:  $34,395 - $48,695
• CR MPG:  Overall 22 / City 14 / Hwy 32 mpg
• #7 of 20  Midsized SUVs 3-row

CR says, "The Ascent is a very functional, easy-to-live-with three-row SUV. Power comes from a turbocharged four-cylinder that delivers ample power in daily driving and gets 22 mpg overall. But the jumpy initial takeoff takes some getting used to. The Ascent's plush ride is steady and controlled, and the suspension does an excellent job of mopping up bumps." 

CR’s 10 Recommended Fuel-Efficient Cars And SUVs And Subaru’s 2 Top Picks @SubaruReport @torquenewsauto photo @SmithtownSubaru#subaru #forester #crosstrek #subaruforester #subarucrosstrek #subaruwildernesshttps://t.co/Z9PV1rkdY9
— Denis Flierl (@DenisFlierl) February 13, 2024

"This isn't the most agile SUV in corners, but it's ultimately secure at its handling limits. The 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. AEB with pedestrian detection and AEB highway are standard, while BSW and RCTW are standard on all trims except the base model, where they aren't available."

MY TAKE

The 2024 Subaru Outback and 2024 Subaru Ascent are top choices for new midsize SUV shoppers because, in addition to being reliable and fuel-efficient, both models come with Subaru's excellent Symmetrical all-wheel-drive for winter-weather capability, 8.7 inches of ground clearance (9.2 inches on Forester Wilderness), have X-Mode for severe weather performance and dual-function X-Mode on some trims for all-terrain capability. 

Subaru Recalls - A First Ever Low For The Car Brand @SubaruReport @torquenewsauto#subaru #outback #forester #ascent #crosstrek #solterra #subarurecallshttps://t.co/v3xOc2lhFs
— Denis Flierl (@DenisFlierl) February 11, 2024

The Outback and Ascent are designed for the most active customers who want to avoid sitting home on the weekends when the snow flies. These two Subaru models are the best picks for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Consumer Reports says the 2024 Subaru Outback is the top 2-Row SUV pick, and 2024 Subaru Ascent is among the best midsize 3-Row SUVs you can buy now.

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

For additional articles related to new Subaru models, here are a few of my top stories you may enjoy. 

My Must-Read Top Picks

• An Insider View, What Subaru Dealers Are Complaining About
• Subaru’s Stratospheric Surge In A Shift To New Electric Vehicles And Hybrids
• Updated CR’s 12 Cars Proven to Go 200K Miles And Beyond And Why No Subarus Make The List

Watch 2024 Subaru Outback: Which One to Buy?

I am Denis Flierl, a 12-year Torque News senior writer with 20+ years of Subaru and automotive journalism experience. I enjoy bringing you, the Subaru fans and customers, the most up-to-date Subaru news, reviews, and new model information. You'll find the latest Subaru stories on the Subaru page. Follow me on my The Dirty Subaru website, Dirty Subaru blog, SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

I’ve got you covered! - I cover all Subaru all the time - It’s called the “Subaru Report.” Check back daily for my expert Subaru analysis!

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photo credit: Subaru USA