Have you ever thought about those big family SUVs? You know, the ones that promise enough room for everyone? The Subaru Ascent, Kia Telluride, and Hyundai Palisade always seem to come up. Honestly, choosing one feels like a big decision. Each one definitely has its good points. They also have a few things that aren’t so great. But let’s really dig into this.
How does the Subaru Ascent stack up for space? What about the Kia Telluride? And what about the price? How does the Subaru Ascent compare to the Hyundai Palisade? We will look at all the little details. This should help you make a smarter choice. Imagine driving off in the perfect family car. That’s what we want, right?
Space: Subaru Ascent vs. Kia Telluride
Thinking about space means thinking about comfort. It’s also about how much stuff you can pack. You need to consider how a car uses its overall size. The [Subaru Ascent](https://www.subaru.com/vehicles/ascent.html) measures 196.8 inches long. It’s 76 inches wide. It stands 58.4 inches tall. This size creates a truly roomy inside. Families and their gear fit very well. It has three rows of seats. Up to eight people can ride in comfort.
Now, let’s look at the [Kia Telluride](https://www.kia.com/us/en/telluride). Its measurements are quite similar. It’s 196.9 inches long. The width is 78.3 inches. It measures 68.9 inches tall. But the Telluride feels a bit different. Its shape appears bigger on the road. It also seats eight passengers comfortably. Its cabin feels more expensive inside. It uses really nice materials. This makes the space feel extra special. Some folks might even say it’s luxurious. It’s quite the sight.
Cargo Capacity
Cargo room is super important for a family SUV. It tells you how practical the vehicle truly is. The Subaru Ascent gives you 86.5 cubic feet of space. That’s with the back seats folded down. The Kia Telluride offers 87 cubic feet. So, it’s just a tiny bit more. But here’s the thing. The Telluride’s cargo floor is flatter. This makes loading and unloading much easier. Imagine sliding a big stroller in! It just glides. No lifting struggle.
Interestingly, the [Hyundai Palisade](https://www.hyundaiusa.com/us/en/vehicles/palisade) is a close rival. It offers around 86.4 cubic feet. So the numbers are very similar for all three. But how you use that space can feel quite different. It truly depends on the design. Think about packing for a big beach trip. A flatter floor could mean less frustration. It’s all about real-world use, isn’t it? Every inch counts when you’re hauling luggage and kids.
Passenger Comfort
Both the Ascent and the Telluride are great for passenger comfort. It’s true. The Ascent’s second-row seats move forward and back. They also recline. This offers great flexibility for families. Kids can stretch out if they need to. Or you can slide them forward for cargo space. That’s super useful. The Telluride’s seats are soft and supportive. They can even come with fancy Nappa leather. That truly adds a touch of class. It feels wonderful.
This is where personal taste really matters. Some people might love the Ascent’s versatility. It adapts to different situations easily. Others might prefer the Telluride’s luxurious feel. It’s like choosing your favorite armchair. You want what feels just right for you. Honestly, both cars do a good job here. It just depends on what makes you happy. What makes *your* family happy?
Subaru Ascent and Hyundai Palisade Price Comparison
Let’s shift gears to price now. Price is a huge part of buying any car. The Subaru Ascent usually starts around $34,000. That’s for the basic model. The Hyundai Palisade starts close to that. It begins at about $35,000. But watch out! Its price can climb very fast. Add some features, and it jumps quickly. High-end Palisade models can go over $50,000. It’s quite a jump. Quite a big jump.
Trim Levels
The Ascent has several options. These include Base, Premium, Limited, and Touring. Each step up adds more features. This helps buyers find a model. It needs to fit their wallet and their needs. For example, the Ascent Limited costs about $41,000. It includes a panoramic moonroof. You also get an upgraded sound system. That’s a nice touch. Music sounds better.
The Palisade also has its own trims. These are SE, SEL, Limited, and Calligraphy. The Calligraphy is the fanciest one. Its price can go past $50,000. This trim offers cool things. You might get a head-up display. Ventilated second-row seats are also available. But the price difference can be big. For people watching their budget, it’s a huge consideration. You really need to think about what features truly matter.
Value for Money
Price isn’t just the sticker number. It’s about the value you get. Subaru cars often hold their value. They keep it better than many other brands. [Kelley Blue Book](https://www.kbb.com/) is a good source for this. They say Subaru models, like the Ascent, rate high. This means the Ascent could be a smart financial choice. It saves you money over time. That’s a good feeling, isn’t it? When you sell it later, you get more back. It truly impacts your long-term budget.
Real-World Usage: Space and Price Impact
Imagine you’re packing up for a family vacation. Your kids, their friends, all the bags! The space in your SUV truly matters. In daily life, people often say smaller cars feel cramped. The Ascent’s generous space feels like a breath of fresh air. It makes long drives much more bearable. My family finds it so relaxing.
But what if your situation is different? Maybe you live in a busy city. Parking spots are always tight there. The Telluride is slightly less wide. That might be more appealing for crowded streets. Its size could make parking easier. It’s really interesting how our personal lives shape our car choices. What works for one family won’t work for another. It makes you wonder, doesn’t it? What are your daily driving needs? Do you commute far? Are city streets your norm?
Expert Opinions on Space and Price
Car experts often share their thoughts on these comparisons. Michael B., an automotive journalist, reviewed the Ascent. He said, “The spacious interior of the Subaru Ascent makes it an excellent choice for families.” That says a lot about its family-friendliness. [Edmunds.com](https://www.edmunds.com/), another big name, praised the Telluride. They highlighted its luxurious cabin. “The Telluride’s interior is one of the best in its class,” they wrote. “It provides a premium feel that rivals luxury brands.”
It seems to me these experts capture the general feeling. People in the car world tend to agree. Space and price are important. They connect deeply with how you use the vehicle. They also impact how you feel about your car. I believe these reviews give a clear picture. They show what each SUV does best. It really helps to hear from those who test drive everything.
Historical Context: Evolution of Family SUVs
To understand today’s family SUVs, we need to look back a bit. A few decades ago, minivans were king. Or you had big, boxy SUVs. They were the main family vehicles. But then, crossovers came along. They changed everything for the better. They offered SUV looks with car-like handling. It was a winning combination.
The Subaru Ascent arrived in 2018. It filled a gap for Subaru. They needed a three-row SUV. One that truly met family needs. Then, the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade came out in 2019. They showed a big shift. Cars were becoming more spacious and full of features. These new models shook up the market completely. They made older brands step up their game. This competition has helped us, the buyers. We now have better options. That’s a real win for families everywhere! We should be happy about that.
Future Trends in Family SUVs
What’s next for family SUVs? Honestly, I am excited to see. Car makers are always adapting. Electric vehicles, or EVs, are a growing trend. We might see more hybrid family SUVs soon. Or even fully electric ones! Subaru is already playing with hybrid tech. They’re moving in that direction slowly.
Also, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) are now common. These help keep us safe. Families want vehicles that are big. But they also want safety first. As technology keeps improving, expect even more. We’ll get better safety features. Engines will be more efficient. Connectivity options will get even cooler. Think about screens everywhere! These cars will make life on the road easier. They will truly transform the driving experience.
FAQs: Addressing Common Concerns
Here are some common questions. Hopefully, these answers help you out!
Which SUV has better safety ratings?
Both the Subaru Ascent and Kia Telluride are very safe. They both get high ratings. The [National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)](https://www.nhtsa.gov/) rates them. So does the [Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)](https://www.iihs.org/). The Ascent regularly gets a five-star overall rating from NHTSA. That’s top marks! Safety is really important.
Is the Subaru Ascent all-wheel drive?
Yes, it is! The Subaru Ascent comes with all-wheel drive. That’s standard on every model. This is a huge plus. Especially if you live somewhere with rough weather. Think snow or heavy rain. It offers real peace of mind.
How does fuel efficiency compare?
The Subaru Ascent gets good mileage. The EPA estimates 21 miles per gallon in the city. On the highway, it gets 27 miles per gallon. The Kia Telluride is quite similar. It offers about 20 mpg in the city. And 26 mpg on the highway. Both do well for their size. Not bad at all.
Are there any significant differences in warranty coverage?
There is a difference, yes. Subaru offers a basic warranty for 3 years or 36,000 miles. Their powertrain warranty is 5 years or 60,000 miles. Hyundai gives a longer warranty. Their basic warranty is 5 years or 60,000 miles. Their powertrain warranty is a generous 10 years or 100,000 miles. That’s some peace of mind for sure.
Does the Ascent offer a hybrid option?
Currently, the Subaru Ascent is not available as a hybrid. However, Subaru does offer hybrid options in other models. They are moving towards more electrified vehicles. It’s possible for the future! We might see it soon.
How do these SUVs perform off-road?
Subaru has a reputation for off-road ability. The Ascent has good ground clearance. Its standard all-wheel drive helps it. It handles mild off-road trails well. The Telluride and Palisade are more for pavement. They are not really built for tough trails. Stick to paved roads with those.
What about infotainment systems?
The Ascent has a user-friendly system. It includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Telluride and Palisade have larger screens. They feel more modern. They also offer more advanced features. For example, a larger touchscreen can be very nice.
Are there notable differences in interior noise?
Many reviews say the Telluride and Palisade are quieter. They have better cabin insulation. The Ascent is good, but might have a bit more road noise. Especially at highway speeds. It’s a minor point for most.
How easy is third-row access?
All three SUVs offer good access. They have second-row seats that slide. They also tilt for easy entry. The Ascent’s wide door openings help a lot. The Telluride and Palisade also make it simple. Kids can get in easily.
Do any of them offer a panoramic sunroof?
Yes, you can get a panoramic sunroof! It’s an option on higher trims. The Subaru Ascent Limited and Touring trims offer it. The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade also have it. It lets in so much light. It feels wonderful.
What are the towing capacities?
The Subaru Ascent can tow up to 5,000 pounds. This is pretty good for its class. The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade also tow around 5,000 pounds. Always check your specific model’s rating. It’s important for safety.
How do their driver-assistance features compare?
Subaru’s EyeSight system is standard on the Ascent. It includes adaptive cruise control. It also has lane keeping assist. The Telluride and Palisade have similar systems. These are also standard. They offer features like blind-spot monitoring. Both brands prioritize safety.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
So, in the end, the Subaru Ascent and Kia Telluride are quite impressive. They offer great space and features for families. The Hyundai Palisade gives you competitive pricing. It’s true. Picking the right SUV depends totally on you. What are your specific needs? What do you prefer? What’s your budget?
Knowing the differences in space and price helps. It guides your decision process. Imagine driving off in a vehicle that truly fits your family. It meets every single need. I am eager to see how you navigate this choice. Finding the right SUV for your lifestyle is a big deal. I am happy to help provide any more insights. Just ask as you move forward. Families truly deserve comfort, safety, and value in their cars. So, whether you lean towards the Ascent, Telluride, or Palisade, know this. Each one brings its own unique advantages. They really cater to the modern family.
