This underrated Japanese 3-row SUV beats Toyota at its own game

Choosing a three-row SUV isn't just about passenger space anymore. For many families, long-term reliability is just as important as comfort, especially when repairs on larger, more complex vehicles can quickly become expensive.

While most buyers gravitate toward the usual segment leaders, there's one Japanese SUV that deserves far more attention. It pairs a strong reputation for dependability with genuine off-road capability, making it an appealing choice for families who need something equally comfortable on the daily commute and weekend adventures.

The Subaru Ascent is an adventurous 3-row SUV with a rep for reliability

Built to last as long as any of its rivals

One of the most important factors when buying a new car is reliability. There are so many cars out there plagued with issues that will cost you thousands if you don't choose wisely. This is particularly true in the three-row mid-size SUV segment, where more car means more potential for things to go wrong. The Subaru Ascent puts many of these worries to rest, with a strong reputation for durability.

Reliability and maintenance costs

• Reliability score: 84/100 (J.D. Power)
• Limited warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles
• Average 10-year maintenance: $8,778

Many might not realize it, but Subaru's reputation for reliability over the last couple of years has been impeccable. In fact, authorities like Consumer Reports have ranked it among the top brands you can buy from if dependability is your main concern. Back in 2024 they claimed top spot, ranking above Toyota and Lexus. The Ascent showcases this strength by scoring 84 out of 100 for quality and reliability on J.D. Power. For comparison, the Toyota Grand Highlander scores

In terms of maintenance, however, the Ascent is not the cheapest out there. This is to be expected of a larger, more complex vehicle. CarEdge estimates that its long-term maintenance costs are about average compared to other popular SUVs. The warranty plan the Japanese automaker offers is pretty standard for the segment as well. Subaru also has a better reputation than most when it comes to honoring their warranties, though.

Subaru offers plenty of space on the inside for the whole family

You get three rows and some surprising luxuries

In our eyes, the Ascent gets overlooked far too often by buyers looking for a three-row SUV. To be fair, the segment is stacked with some tough competition, but we think that the Ascent delivers some really great value for money. It has enough space on the inside for up to eight passengers, and it comes loaded with lots of desirable standard features.

The Ascent is priced well against its rivals

As mentioned, the mid-size three-row SUV segment is a pretty competitive one, with lots of strong options like the Toyota Grand Highlander, Hyundai Palisade, and Kia Telluride. While the Ascent isn't the most affordable option, it still starts close to the segment's top players. What makes the Ascent worth considering is how much equipment it gets, even in the most affordable trim.

While the top trims come with some tempting luxuries, we think that most buyers will find the best value in the base Premium trim. It comes with things like heated front seats, USB-C ports in all three rows, faux-leather upholstery, a strong suite of safety features, and better off-road capabilities than you'd expect.

The third row isn't the largest here

While not class-leading, the Ascent is more spacious than some outlets make it out to be. The third row may be best suited for kids, but adults could squeeze in a pinch. Cargo space behind the third row is pretty decent as well. Build quality is pretty good across the board as well, and you'll find the cabin of the Ascent a nice place to be. Top trims can even be equipped with things like Nappa leather upholstery

As well as nice materials and comfort features, every Ascent gets an 11.6-inch infotainment system. The screen is mounted vertically rather than horizontally. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot are also all included. A six-speaker sound system is standard, but higher trim levels come equipped with a Harman/Kardon sound system which will please audiophiles.

Subaru's family SUV features some strong off-road capability

Rivals are smoother and more powerful, though

Though other three-row SUVs might be a little quicker and more refined, the Ascent has plenty of strengths of its own. Being a Subaru it comes with a pretty great all-wheel drive system that allows it to travel further off the beaten path than most of its rivals. You'll also be relatively impressed with just how efficient it is for such a heavy non-hybrid SUV.

Not the quickest off the line

Under the hood of every 2026 Ascent sits a horizontally opposed turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It doesn't make a ton of power, putting down 260 horsepower. All-wheel drive is, of course, standard, and works wonderfully on a number of loose surfaces. It also, unfortunately, comes standard with a continuously variable transmission, though it does its best impression of an eight-speed auto and can be shifted via paddles on the steering wheel.

The Ascent comes with a number of features that you'll find useful on your outdoor excursions, including Hill Descent Control and a drive mode selector. It also comes with trailer stability assist, and is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds. In general, the mid-size SUV offers a comfortable ride, though both the engine and transmission get quite noisy when pushed.

It might not be the obvious choice, but it's spacious, reliable, and rugged

There is no shortage of three-row family SUVs on the market, which is likely why the Ascent gets so overlooked. However, we think that it is a really solid choice for families looking for a stress-free ownership experience. It is reliable and affordable to maintain, and it delivers more impressive off road capabilities than most of its direct rivals.