Buying a new Subaru Ascent might seem like a good idea. After all, it’s a three-row Subaru SUV, and what’s not to like about that? But, as it turns out, the Subaru Ascent might not be the best three-row SUV out there. So instead of settling for this year’s new model, you should probably consider buying one of these alternatives to the Subaru Ascent instead.

The Kia Telluride is the perfect alternative to the Subaru Ascent

You’ve probably heard all about the Kia Telluride. It’s won plenty of awards and has left both Consumer Reports and Car and Driver pretty impressed. While Consumer Reports gave it near-perfect scores across the board, Car and Driver says that the Kia Telluride offers up “unrivaled levels of luxury and remarkable utility.”

But what is it really that makes the Kia Telluride the perfect alternative to the Subaru Ascent? Well, first off, it’s much more reliable than the Ascent. While the Ascent earned a one out of five predicted reliability rating from Consumer Reports, the Telluride earned a perfect five out of five. The Telluride also did slightly better in road tests and earned a higher customer satisfaction rating.

The Chevy Traverse is a cheaper alternative to the Subaru Ascent

Maybe it’s the Subaru Ascent’s price tag that’s giving you pause. After all, a base model will run you a minimum of $32,295. While that’s certainly not bad, for some it might be out of their budget. Unfortunately, the Ascent only gets more expensive from there too. Upgrade to the Ascent Premium and you’ll be spending $34,795. Opt for the Ascent Limited and be prepared to spend at least $39,595. And for a fully-loaded model? You’ll be spending upwards of $45,445.

For a cheaper alternative to the Subaru Ascent, consider taking a gander at the Chevy Traverse. Much like the Ascent, this year’s Traverse is a family-friendly three-row SUV. But unlike the Subaru Ascent? This year’s model boasts a pretty manageable base price of $29,800.

Now, it is worth mentioning that at its most expensive, the Traverse will have you spending more than the Ascent. Fortunately, there are several less expensive trim levels to choose from. So if you’re worried about the price? The Traverse offers no shortage of affordable options. 

Check out the Mazda CX-9 for a three-row SUV that’s fun to drive

According to Car and Driver, when it comes to actually driving the Subaru Ascent, you should anticipate a comfortable, albeit noisy driving experience. The hulking SUV handles rough surfaces pretty well but, Car and Driver reports, it does struggle with noise at highway speeds. For a more enjoyable alternative to the Subaru Ascent? Car and Driver recommends checking out the Mazda CX-9.

Unlike this year’s Subaru Ascent, the CX-9 is the perfect pick for drivers “who value athletic handling and driver engagement.” Car and Driver reports that its standard four-cylinder engine managed a class-competitive result in its acceleration testing and, all in all, “is clearly the driving enthusiast’s family hauler.”

You don’t have to settle for the Subaru Ascent

If the Subaru Ascent isn’t the right fit for you, that’s ok. There are several alternatives to the Subaru Ascent that are worth considering. So if you aren’t ready to settle for the Subaru Ascent? Don’t worry, because you don’t have to.