Subaru Ascent vs Kia Telluride: Which 3-Row SUV Is Right for Your Growing Family?

If your family is growing, you may be searching for a spacious, reliable, and safe SUV that can keep up with your lifestyle. Two top contenders in the 3-row SUV market are the 2025 Subaru Ascent and the 2025 Kia Telluride. Both offer impressive features—but which one is the right fit for your family?

At Napleton’s Schaumburg Subaru, we understand how important this decision is. Let’s take a closer look at how these family-friendly SUVs compare when it comes to safety, interior space, performance, and overall value.

Safety First: Peace of Mind Comes Standard

Subaru Ascent:

Safety has always been a Subaru priority. Every 2025 Ascent comes standard with EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, pre-collision braking, and more. The Ascent also earned top marks from the IIHS and features standard all-wheel drive, giving you added traction in all seasons.

Kia Telluride:

The 2025 Telluride also scores well in safety, offering features like forward collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, and lane keeping assist. However, all-wheel drive is optional, not standard—something to consider if your family drives in varying weather conditions.

Winner: Subaru Ascent for its standard AWD and comprehensive safety suite.

Interior Space & Comfort: Room for Everyone

Subaru Ascent:

With seating for up to eight passengers and up to 86.5 cubic feet of cargo space, the Ascent is perfect for carpooling, road trips, or running errands with the entire crew. Available second-row captain’s chairs offer added comfort and easier access to the third row.

Kia Telluride:

The Telluride also seats up to eight and offers a slightly more luxurious cabin feel, with premium finishes available in higher trims. It has 87 cubic feet of max cargo space, just edging out the Ascent in raw numbers.

Tie: Both offer ample room, but the Ascent’s thoughtful layout and wide rear-door openings make child-seat installation a breeze.

Performance & Capability: Ready for the Road Ahead

Subaru Ascent:

Equipped with a turbocharged BOXER® engine, the Ascent delivers 260 horsepower and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity. Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive comes standard, along with X-MODE® for enhanced control on slippery or steep terrain.

Kia Telluride:

The Telluride features a V6 engine with 291 horsepower and also tows up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. While it's powerful, it doesn’t offer the same all-terrain confidence as the Ascent’s AWD system and off-road features.

Winner: Subaru Ascent for its standard AWD and rugged versatility.

Technology & Features: Keeping Your Family Connected

Both vehicles come loaded with family-friendly tech like Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, multiple USB ports, and available Wi-Fi hotspots. Subaru’s STARLINK® Safety and Security system adds remote access and emergency services—a valuable bonus for peace of mind.

The Verdict: Which SUV Is Best for Your Family?

Both the Subaru Ascent and Kia Telluride are excellent 3-row SUVs, but if you’re looking for standard all-wheel drive, top-tier safety features, and versatile performance, the 2025 Subaru Ascent may be the better fit for your growing family.

Test Drive the Subaru Ascent Today at Napleton’s Schaumburg Subaru

Ready to experience the Subaru Ascent for yourself? Visit Napleton’s Schaumburg Subaru today to explore our full inventory of new Subaru models, take a test drive, and speak with our knowledgeable team. We’re here to help you find the SUV that fits your family’s future.

Located in Schaumburg, IL, View Inventory, Schedule a test drive today!