Is the NEW 2023 Subaru Ascent a better SUV than a Kia Telluride?

[@terence4427]

I chose the Ascent over the Telluride because comparing apples to apples you get more for your money. Dealers are still charging above MSRP or adding a bunch of add-ons (e.g., paint protector, alarms, etc.) to the Tellurides. Folks while you're out there shopping please remember these new vehicles are depreciating assets. Paying at MSRP or above is not worth it for any brand. There are deals out there especially now that the chip shortage has been resolved. Stay away from Honda, Toyota, Hyundai, and Kia because these vehicles are in high demand, so dealerships are less likely to budge on the MSRP. Go with a less popular brand like Mazda or Subaru because you're likely to get a better deal.

[@rudy_dstroys1821]

I can definitely can confirm this. I have a 2021 Honda Accord 2.0T and felt ripped off afterwards withe pricing. Especially how long they make you wait to do paperwork etc and still have the audacity to sell you more packages for your car. It was my first time leasing a car from a dealership but I learned my lesson. I should have gone with a 2021 Subaru WRX instead, cheaper, lower monthly payments, smaller down payment. Still great amount of room, full coverage insurance cost, same gas mileage. I can go on. Now as my lease is up in a year from now, I'm looking into the Ascent. Looking forward to it

[@liamcarp7113]

Bro have you compared the tech on those brands compare to the Subaru??The Subaru is miles behind with technology and interface. No lie it’s like Toyota and Hyundai are Playstation 5 and the Subaru is Sega Genesis. It’s kind of sad at this point.

[@terence4427]

@@liamcarp7113. I do not disagree with you but have you compared the IIHS crash test scores? Subarus, imo, aren’t the most attractive vehicles but are extremely practical and reliable and that’s why I’ve bought them for years.

[@nascartalksandopinionnewsw8589]

@@terence44272nd safety vehicle in the world Subaru. Volvo is number one

[@IvanAsare-Boahene]

​@@liamcarp7113Sure, the tech is outdated, but the vehicle appeals to drivers not just because of the tech. Subaru is known to be one of the best safety brands out there, if not the best.

[@CaveCreek101]

Hi, I just bought a Subaru Ascent and really love it . I have to correct you on the A/C there’s two ways to change temperature not on the big screen but you missed the red and green arrows to adjust the temperature 👍

[@sths0609]

I do prefer the new front end vs. the previous. It wasn't terrible, but this gives it a more aggressive look and I like it.

[@VinceOda]

Purchased a 23' Ascent Limited exactly like Joe's here (except with the Black Leather Interior) and this Review had very much to do with it, thanks Joe & Lori! New Subie Owners after owning 4Runner, Tahoe, Acadia & Durango with Ascent, so far being one of the best! Great Value and experience @ Subie Dealership, put arrogant Toyota Dealerships with their overpriced Highlanders to shame! Love the fact too we're not driving the same SUV everyone else on the Road is! Thanks again Guys, subscribing to find best next Subie(?) for when our son's old enough to drive here soon!

[@andrewbcaldwell]

Nice choice! The 2023 update made the Ascent extremely competitive and a great value.

[@2isaac31]

I purchased a 2022 Subaru Ascent Onyx edition this past summer. I went with the Onyx because I have small kids and man the interior is holding up nicely. My daughter spilled water and coffee on our first trip into Yosemite National park in the second row. Thankfully standard all season mats are included. I didn’t want any leather in the car since I knew that having little ones it was going to get dirty. I’m happy with my Subaru.

[@joseaguirre1921]

Once you go Accent, There's no substitute!!! I have a 2023 Touring Accent, Our first trip was Solvang it drove beautiful..Go Accent and you'll stand out!!! 👍

[@Redhood-417]

Currently shopping for our next family hauler. It's between 2023 Subaru Ascent and 2023 Honda Pilot. Subaru is my pick. Just waiting on the wife to choose. Haha!

[@smrtguy77777]

I’d also look into the upcoming Toyota Grand Highlander and current Sienna depending how big your family is.

[@lakeseminole]

Own at 2019 Ascent with 60k miles. Outstanding performance, quiet and great build quality. I plan to drive it for at least 250k, no problem. The Ascent is just so comfortable and quiet and you get a lot of value in the car. Two months ago, I had a 2023 Ascent loaner and I was floored at the progression of comfort and drive. The transmission was much smoother, very responsive, the drive was very comfortable. I find it amazing how things progress throughout the years. The maintenance of the Ascent is extremely reasonable. Mainly, just oil and filter changes! My largest expense did not occur until 60k miles and that was around $740. I'm good to go for another 30k miles before I spend any other funds on maintenance. The fit and finish of the Subaru product is exceptional. No cheesy plastic on the doors or dash. I would highly recommend you have a look at the Subaru line.

[@lancefernandes9808]

Subarus will take you well past 250k miles with just regular maintenance. My 2014 outback is still going strong with just tire changes x2 and battery changes x2 and one windshield replacement, and regular maintenance - oil, filters.

[@hwoarang2001]

740 for maintenance at 60k miles? I guess I’ll stop drinking for a week

[@midjo6143]

@@hwoarang2001😂lol

[@byronargueta1026]

Been watching for a while and i am very impressed with how professional your team is, thank you for your hard work,i remember i had my other guys that i follow and now you are one of the ones i try to watch every video. Keep up the great work. Many blessings to you and your family and your team in 2023!!!!

[@RaitisRides]

Wow Byron! That is really awesome! Thank you for letting me share my car passion with you!

[@johnhanson3693]

I have a 2022 ascent which i love. just wish subaru had done two things ; 1) made a totally redesigned new boxer six cylinder engine in natural and turbocharged versions producing 280 and 350 hp . 2) kept a traditional transmission instead of the CVT still trying to get used to it.

[@haroldbeauchamp3770]

Subaru doesn’t have the resources to do those things. Considering that Subaru is and has been a regionally successful car company, they just don’t have the sales figures to design something that requires a massive investment. Subaru invested half of a billion dollars on Jatco cvt’s back in 2003. I don’t see them ditching the cvt’s anytime soon.

[@andylam350]

My brother bought the 2022 Subaru Impreza sedan last year and I've been loving Subaru ever since. I was skeptical about the CVT, but I actually grew to like it. It gives enough power when going uphill even at freeway speeds. It won't win any races but I feel confident passing cars on the freeway and easily gets up to speed. Best part is that it actually feels kind of like an auto. I'm hoping the CVT's in the newer Subaru's are only getting better.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for sharing from your personal experience Andy!

[@helloworld12494]

Not sure why people keep complaining about CVT, I got my Crosstrek done well so far, used to hit 160km/h on the highway and strongly believe it could go beyond that if I wanted. Off road is awesome and don’t forget about snow handling.

[@andylam350]

@Jean Toronto Raptors I love the tech. I went to the snow and once the temperature went below freezing, the computers immediately adapted for potentially icy roads. Kept me at low revs even if I tried to accelerate hard.

[@KameronKDH]

@@helloworld12494 as a car enthusiast, a cvt just doesn't push like your v4, inline, etc, good for economy cars tho

[@inactivemogul403]

The 2022+ subaru cvt has come a long way, even to say (Leading) I'm the industry. Test drive one.

[@ricodeguzman5338]

I got the 2024 Onyx edition in grey/black over a week ago. I made the decision after testing an Atlas, Highlander, Telluride and CX90 (too pricey). You get best bang for the buck with the Subaru with top safety ratings which is big for me, having two kids. My previous car was a CX-9

[@cbijames7]

I'm a Subaru owner and I like the black over the wheels that's what make it a Subaru that's there signature with the black all the way around the bottom it makes it the off-road protection. All their cars have that black on all their suvs vehicles

[@crouchb15]

My 84 y/o grandpa drives one with ventilated seats. My favorite three row, as well as it seems most is the palisade over the grand Cherokee L

[@RaitisRides]

Very cool Ben!

[@Gr8Nuzz]

This continues to stay on my list of potential vehicle choices when I eventually upgrade from my 2012 4Runner. Stop making me decision so hard 😂🤣 all of these videos make me go back and forth a lot

[@joker927]

Sit in all of them. Might seem obvious but I was back and forth for months then I drove each option in this class and realized the choice was easy.

[@Gr8Nuzz]

@@joker927 what did you go with

[@joker927]

@@Gr8Nuzz I bought a Telluride but that's not my point. I spent so much time comparing paper and then when I drove each it was quickly clear which one met my preferences.

[@plmn93]

@@joker927 Exactly. For us it was the Traverse. Don't read too much into what "reviewers" obsessed with caressing soft dashboards think. Think for yourself. No vehicle is perfect, they all have their pros and cons.

[@Corvette1658]

The CVT is awesome my mom had a white 2020 Subaru Outback XT Onyx Edition. And with this engine and transmission. It was nice and smooth. We had it from September of 2019 to July of 2022. We sold it and now my mom drives a 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe.

[@gregorysullivan7913]

I have a 22 Santa Fe Calligraphy and love it.

[@maga6319]

The next gen Santa Fe is going to be boxy and probably be a copy of the Defender from LR.

[@RaitisRides]

I appreciate you sharing that experience!

[@gregorysullivan7913]

@@maga6319 I see that on paper, I guess we will just to have to see the finished product. Maybe I will be happy that I have a 22.

[@DarkJediChrisG-1425]

Not that bad for a Subaru Ascent Joe. I do like the changes that they made for 2023. Great job Stephen. The other 3 SUVs that I want to see for 2023 are: -GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate -Hyundai Palisade XRT -Lincoln Navigator

[@RaitisRides]

I will work on that list for you Chris!

[@DarkJediChrisG-1425]

@Raiti's Rides I believe in ya Joe! You on 🔥 lately as always!!! On Throttle! I know that Lincoln Navigator especially has been a hard one to find for sure.

[@RaitisRides]

@@DarkJediChrisG-1425 Yes sir!

[@lauranbrown249]

I just had a Lincoln navigator 2023 with a lot of sensory and electrical issues. Bells and whistles not worth it to me. I don't recommend that car.

[@DarkJediChrisG-1425]

@@lauranbrown249 Gotcha

[@luiselapostolfeliz2421]

I like the Subaru Ascent even though it doesn't have a V6 engine, full LED's a functional corner vents I feel like those things would've been a better addition.

[@luiselapostolfeliz2421]

@@user-jy5fu3og1b Oh, but it doesn't have a 9 speed automatic transmission.

[@luiselapostolfeliz2421]

@@user-jy5fu3og1b Yeah it doesn't have all LED's.

[@normanli7085]

@@user-jy5fu3og1b never but the old outbacks did have 6 cylinders tho

[@jonathansmith1590]

@D B A collaboration with Toyota would be a good thing for an 8-speed auto.

[@decoy916]

It's 2023, and all limited trims need to come with led exterior & interior lights

[@RaitisRides]

You are so very right about that!

[@xL0stKIlah]

Car companies are a joke. Even releasing the same car every year is ridiculous

[@jimblair6458]

One is a Subaru, long known for safety, reliability and resale value. The other is a Kia. Any more questions?

[@williamdrijver4141]

I used to be a fan of hood gas struts, but the traditional hood prop does not amputate your fingers when you are working on / doing maintenance the engine. Plenty of videos online where professional mechanics get stuck with broken fingers, and are unable to reach the hood release.

[@VileSinner666]

I always liked Subaru's body design. They're visually appealing. All wheel drive is great. But I can't stand the fact that most of their vehicles have a CVT transmission. Could've been a 2.5 liter engine rather than a 2.4. At least the interior looks good. Subaru knows how to make a nice interior. Very safe vehicles too.

[@keithkornatoski9162]

Hi Joe ... since my wife has a Sub Forester Sport I better keep my wonky comments to myself ...back in the day (1976) I was deciding between the Civic CVCC 5-Speed and the Forest Green Sub AWD Wagon ,.. and recall the Sub being about $500+ more than the Civic ... went with the Civic ...but the Sub AWD was certainly iconic back in those days ... can't go wrong with a Sub they make quality product ... maybe not the most exciting though ... Thanks Keith

[@RaitisRides]

You are spot on the money Keith.

[@germanium1872]

I'm glad it doesn't have digital gauges. I hate screens instead of actual gauges.

[@windigrin9649]

In 2022 Telluride sold 100,000 and asent 64,000. In both design and performance, the Telluride is the winner. Wouldn't Kia guarantee 10 years because they are confident in quality? Things change!

[@haroldbeauchamp3770]

I dislike Subaru but I have to disagree with you. Kia spent over 1 billion dollars on warranty repairs. Good warranty? Yes. Reliable products? Meh.

[@melistasy]

Ok, how about reliability?

[@easy2120]

My daughter just purchased a 2022 and I am impressed with it.

[@davidp2888]

Dropping a like and a comment for the algorithm.

[@RaitisRides]

You are the man David! I really appreciate you having my back!

[@gpoman9988]

We are considering trading my 2019 Forester for a 2023 Ascent now that we have a 3 year old and a 6 month old. When we go on trips, our Forester is just too small even with a topper.

[@MicahxTv]

my family just got a 2021 subaru ascent and it’s really nice it surprisingly has more features than this new one which i’m very surprised by

[@summrsexclaimed]

this isn’t the top trim

[@stevenyia2778]

@@summrsexclaimed who cares

[@brandonhoun]

The headlights looks luxuriously fancy. 20" wheels and Turbocharger too? Tempting to trade in my 2019 Ascent.

[@jjcastleberry3662]

The flagship Accent is the Touring equipped with ventilated front seats and 120-volt A/C which was missing on the center console of the second-row seats of the Limited trim.

[@teresahunt7649]

I have 120 on my Ascent. 2nd & back area.

[@carolynlambert3161]

Try using the blue and red arrow buttons to change the temperature

[@mrkilroy9167]

No comparison! The Telluride is way better just from a V6 engine standpoint, way nicer materials and no cvt! Subarus start to fall apart big time at 100k miles to 200k miles I will never buy another turbo Subaru again. $6k + every 100k miles making it the most expensive car to maintain I’ve owned.

[@Aerodynamicz1]

As weird as it sounds I like the big and bulky look of this suv. I feel like cars with that suv look are missing aside from the Tahoe and expedition.

[@teresahunt7649]

YES! I really like my Ascent but miss the ride of my Tahoe. Didn't have to worry about high curbs or big bumps in the road. Not complaining just the big thing I miss. Guess I miss the truck feel.

[@alvidasgladstein7830]

Don't you miss Tahoe price tag and MPG ? @@teresahunt7649

[@556suppressor]

Subaru Ascent is the best choice due to the Symmetrical AWD, 277 ft-lbs of torque with the twin scroll turbo, the EyeSight System, and a high resale value. The acceleration is impressive with this vehicle.

[@JJones2011]

nope.... anything especially at this price with a CVT is an automatic no.

[@teresahunt7649]

Yes. The turbo is great. Much more zip than my 2016 Outback. Now guys & gals u can't compare it to the power of my 2014 Tahoe @ 16 mpg.

[@haroldbeauchamp3770]

Best choice for a mechanic too. He’ll be making lots of money off of you for Subaru repairs.

[@teresahunt7649]

@@haroldbeauchamp3770 Wrong again.

[@haroldbeauchamp3770]

@@teresahunt7649 no ma’am. Had a fleet of Subaru Foresters several years back for my business. They all had a myriad of issues. Failed cvt’s, overheating, blown head gaskets, wheel hub failures, oil leaks and consumption. My personal mechanic warned me against buying Subaru’s and I paid the price, quite literally.

[@StarBitt97]

Subaru is ALWAYS better than Kia…

[@mjg1544]

That’s a matter of opinion

[@liamcarp7113]

Why is the tech in this shitbox still stuck in 2005?!? Just shameful Subaru.

[@mjg1544]

@@liamcarp7113 Honda is not much better. All of the newer tech goes to Acura and is still behind everyone else.

[@liamcarp7113]

But Honda tech is still Better and they are constantly improving where Subaru has plateaued. . Also Hondas expensive vehicles are not CVTs. They also make far superior engines And trans. Subarus are also ugly as hell. We aren’t talking luxury my man. Stay on course. Focus bro focus.

[@limpnewdoll7434]

"I had too many kids, I don't know where to put them!" 😂😂

[@RaitisRides]

Some have that challenge.

[@wyattbell9713]

There's so much potential for the Ascent and other Subaru's if they'd move away from the CVT. I drive a 2021 Forester Sport, and as much as I love most things about it, the CVT drives me nuts. But, I'm digging the updated front facia on the '23 models

[@truckercowboyed2638]

Well maybe that's because you don't understand how to drive the cvt you can't just mash the gas you have to ease into it for smooth engagement.

[@wyattbell9713]

@Trucker Cowboy Ed I'm fully aware of how to drive a CVT, seeing as I've been driving it for 2 years. I'd still prefer a true automatic, and I wish Subaru would go that route.

[@russellparr9252]

@@truckercowboyed2638 having to "understand" how to drive a CVT is a big L in my book. Every CVT I've driven was garbage regardless of manufacturer. Either a manual or a standard auto is better than a CVT any day of the week, and nothing performance oriented should ever have a CVT. The fact that they put it in the WRX is just plain stupid. I love my '05 WRX, but now that they've trash-canned the STi and put CVTs in everything, I'll probably never own another new Subaru.

[@terrytekify]

is it just me or did the ascent actually manage to get uglier in this refresh? this new design language does the ascent no favors and it's now just almost giving off pontiac aztek vibes to me. the pre facelift version definitely looked better than monstrosity.

[@RaitisRides]

Yeah it seems a little too over the top for sure!

[@jackykimes]

I don’t see the Aztec vibes. Elaborate?

[@armandocortez9995]

Are on crack

[@ML_1515]

Looks better in darker colors

[@VinceOda]

Matter of Opinion but Aztec - seriously?!? Not only was the Pontiac Aztec voted unanimously as one of the Ugliest of All Time but was just an all around bad car - poor quality control & fuel economy and not to mention gutless engine. '23 Ascent is the Safest midsize 3-row SUV, roomier more comfortable & quieter ride offering better value than Toyota Highlander. Also will outrun Highlander, Telluride & Palisade. Everyone has their own Opinion but monstrosity might be overdueing it and yes I'm a little sensitive...you get that way spending +$40k for a Vehicle

[@gregsuarez1309]

Interesting fact about the 2023 Ascent: with both seats folded down, you can fit 85 Krispy Kreme dozen boxes, or 200 (!) half-gallon containers of Reeses Cup ice cream. The fuel tank can hold 211 cans of Mountain Dew and the exhaust can hold 130 Push Pops.

[@tedunguent156]

No one does it better than you, Joe. Always a pleasure to watch your videos.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for being so supportive!

[@wantapgt]

Him and redline reviews are the best in the biz!

[@suthius85]

@wantapgt Joe, Sofyan, and Alex have the best personalities, IMO.

[@ManoliGreek2640]

What the heck NO ventilated seats for nearly a $50,000 dollar vehicle??? That’s a disgrace.

[@brucestedman917]

I really like your excellent evaluation of Subaru products. Your videos work well for owners (I'm on my sixth Subaru) and potential Subaru buyers. I do want to make a comment (you can yell at me if you want) ... I've presented hundreds of planetarium shows and in almost everyone I tell the story relationship of Pleiades and the Subaru emblem as I bring up the images on the dome (and they can look at my car). Anyway, Pleiades (Subaru) is an open star cluster in the constellation Taurus.

[@SuperFitness12]

The only one that comes close to the Telluride is the Palisade!!! Awesome vehicles.

[@NJLegalPodcasting]

I’ve decided to order the Ascent with the Touring trim. Thanks for the great video!

[@dalehuhtala9285]

Doesn't seem to be in the same league as the Telluride...a bit cheaper but you definitely don't get what you don't pay for! Great job at highlighting some of the shortcomings while staying positive and always making any vehicle look good! ;)

[@terence4427]

The Telluride doesn't have the best resale value and most Kia dealers are still charging for add-ons and market adjustments.

[@ghilliemanreviews]

Kia will break down.

[@incharini]

Kia won’t break down because it’ll be stolen well before that! 😂

[@dalehuhtala9285]

Kia won't break down more than anything else. Lots of haters out there... In Canada, we don't have any theft issues with Kia or Hyundai because we insist all imports must have immobilizers installed.

[@andrewbcaldwell]

While everyone has their own priorities when it comes to choosing a car, the Subaru is cheaper, safer, with a more capable AWD. Plus Subaru of America is very strict with their dealers when it comes to pricing to ensure that dealers don’t put markups on their vehicles. Can’t say the same about Kia with the Telluride, sadly.

[@ahill209]

The 4 cyl engine is a show stopper for me. About the same power as the Telluride's 3.5 L V6, but the gas mileage is the same. I have a 2023 Telluride EX and I've been getting about 21.8 mpg in all around driving. I've got 26 mpg highway. More convenience features on my Telluride for less cost. I guess it would depend on how much the dealer adds to the price. My Kia dealer really wanted to add a lot of extra costs to my purchase.

[@thekingandi1705]

It's 4 cylinder is faster than your V6 btw...

[@brandonhoun]

The Japanese Subaru is more reliable than those Korean cars.

[@ahill209]

@@thekingandi1705 Subaru Ascent 0-60 time is 7.8 sec. Kia Telluride X-Line is 6.8 sec.

[@thekingandi1705]

@A Hill Actually, Redline reviews got a 6.14 0-60 time so again, your V6 is slower than the 4 cylinder in the Subaru... kzbin.info/www/bejne/j4eqeqeMeNiiatE @13:40

[@ahill209]

@@thekingandi1705 whoopee! Enjoy your Subaru.

[@garymuma9935]

Hey Joe, I love your reviews. Thanks a bunch. It would be cool if you actually answer the question of which car is better. I’ve noticed lately that you ask is this car better than this car but then you don’t actually answer it at the end of the video. It would be nice if you would give your take on your own question, otherwise it just seems like click bait. Thanks a bunch!

[@RaitisRides]

Hi Gary! Thank you for your support. My titles are Essential Question. When I used to be a high school history teacher this was a successful teaching strategy in the classroom. I pose the question, and you the viewer watch the review and then you the viewer answer the question for yourself.

[@Steelers2841]

I would buy it Built in Lafayette, Indiana Give it a Huge Advantage over both Kia and Hyundai looks Very Aggressive too 😎

[@RaitisRides]

I am glad that you like this one Derrick or I should say Big Papi!

[@trletts]

@@RaitisRides Kia is built in Georgia...so...

[@stellantistom6881]

Happy Friday Joe! Ascent time!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Tom! You are the best!

[@stellantistom6881]

@@RaitisRides ;D

[@annpanos7545]

I live in MA and definitely enjoyed watching this video. Super informative and funny with the dad jokes! I will purchasing my new Ascent Onyx Limited today. Thanks so much!

[@devilslide01]

I have a Forester with a CVT. Has it been an issue, besides the get up and go-no. Do I worry about it constantly especially with the 100K warranty rapidly approaching- you betcha

[@FlyingSugarCat]

I just saw one of these at the gas station. Didn't even recognize this model as I never heard of it.

[@macmichaelhenson-rogers9850]

Love my 2020 Ascent Limited! Wouldn’t mind some of the 2023 upgrades, but mine is paid for 😅

[@JesusHernandez-gh7wl]

Any problems yet ?

[@macmichaelhenson-rogers9850]

@@JesusHernandez-gh7wl Nothing crazy. Only thing was new pads and turned rotors at 16k miles, but there was a TSB for it. No cost to me. Very happy after 2.5 yrs and 32k miles.

[@presentowner3198]

Mindbuildingsolutions approved! Excellent video and content.

[@byronargueta1026]

I will consider this one if it had traditional automatic not a cvt. Pass !!! Great review

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that I can bring it to you Byron!

[@jmsquirrel2]

Exactly. I don't want any vehicle with a CVT. Especially not a big heavy 3 row with a CVT. It's just a major problem waiting to happen.

[@akhere07]

What is a CVT?

[@subashsivakumaran2012]

Excellent review as usual. Keep up the good work

[@jeffreyatkins1668]

Let's not forget the highlander hybrid. In my opinion the highlander is best in class.

[@Mav646]

My wife just purchased a 2023 ascent onyx and I disagree about the flat 4 being lower in the chassis because it feels very too heavy and has a lot of body roll but she did just come from her 2020 Sti!

[@williamwood1776]

Hi Joe, you are missing one key element when comparing the Ascent to the Kia/Hyundai products: It's a Subaru. The longevity of the Subaru brand dwarfs the competition...when the Telluride is in the junk yard 6 years from now (or stolen, due to lackluster engineering), the Subaru will just be broken in. This outweighs any extra little "feel good" feature that might be lacking on the Subaru. The Ascent is also one of the safest cars on the road...as is the whole Subaru line-up. Seems like Subaru is putting $$ on the important stuff...and Kia/Hyundai on the feel-good-about-it stuff. Great review. Love your channel.

[@seldom2bseen]

Naw it will be there also because they rust out so bad and quick

[@huyentran-qe4pu]

@@haroldbeauchamp3770 cheap welding cars should not be compared with subaru or toyota, kia or hyundai should only be compared with byd

[@GoHighOctane500LC]

Great review as always ! Subaru's reliability and quality are more important than Kia's additional features. On the plus side I like the look and functionality of the seats, integrated info system (with the exception of the silver framing ) and the fact this is no electromobile (thankfully). To live with a vehicle long term, styling is important to me. Most styling departments found a new fetish in the front corners. These here are somewhat reminiscent of a mutilated hammerhead shark (cancer maybe ?). 😃 The last few years front end could be called dead end (styling). I wish designers went back to evolution like Porsche does instead of trying to outdo each other.

[@Michael-ur5qb]

Subaru came out 2 spots above Kia with Acura in between. I wouldn’t say that’s a huge win or gap.

[@GoHighOctane500LC]

@@Michael-ur5qb That is a surprisingly small difference. My choice would be Acura RDX, I have great experience with Acura. It seams a lot of people don't understand the long term liability they get into.

[@kathywong3567]

I don’t think so, CVT is killing Subaru.

[@noob.168]

@@kathywong3567 Yet no one that owns one is actually complaining. The world would be stuck with biplanes if old people still ran this world.

[@glennduquette]

@@kathywong3567 The CVT in the Ascent was an issue in 2019, and 2020. They resolved the issue starting in 2021. The 2022 (and now 2023) has been pretty reliable.

[@williamdrijver4141]

Please stop complaining and nagging about light bulbs. Often, the "old fashioned" (and proven) stuff works, and is easy and cheap to replace or repair.

[@jodiedavis5258]

The choice is easy. The Telluride is leading this sector of vehicles. All others are only trying to follow. Telluride all the way!!!

[@RaitisRides]

If you can track one down for sure!

[@stevenyia2778]

Interesting opinion there 🤔

[@Mgoblagulkablong]

the lower trims are great valuue for customers who need AWD

[@orange8270]

I hope they come up with wilderness edition?!!?😢

[@ghost-4230]

I think the “all new grill” was the only change I didn’t spot at first. I like the car though. I can’t decide if I like the old or the new one better

[@Enrique_PC]

How people are going to choose this over thr Telluride? I do not think so.

[@brokeboy87]

Alot of Tellurides still have long wait times, and dealerships are still marking them up, so it undercuts Kia's value position.

[@RaitisRides]

Variety is the spice of life!

[@RaitisRides]

So very true Floyd!

[@brokeboy87]

The Kia Telluride is still king of the affordable 3-row SUVs. The Subaru Ascent is still average in comparison to its rivals.

[@RaitisRides]

This seems to be the case!

[@PaulSmith-ko6vz]

The biggest advantage the Ascent has over the Telluride and Palisade is the fact that it's made in Japan.....period.

[@hml3672]

I don't like the edges on the hood, they should turn down rather than end with the thin edge. Wheels are great. I like the chrome rather than aluminum all around the car. Overall I like the Ascent. Turbo is nice. I drove a Porsche for a while.

[@bryanduncan6255]

We'd like to see it compared to the new 23 Honda Pilot. Please! is that comparison or the full review and test drive of the new Pilot coming? thanks..

[@kathleenrohloff232]

Nice video ! Been a Forester Touring owner for some time and love the car's features but HATE the rough ride on older city streets. Now looking at the Ascent for better ride but you never mentioned the handling/noise on city streets or country roads. Your comments would be appreciated for sure. Right now I find the Ascent nice but 20" tires with an aspect ratio of 50 gives the car a rough ride on those streets. You can get a better ratio of 60 on the lower end models but that's not where I want to be for $47K.

[@VinceOda]

Unfortunately part of the Price you Pay when upgrading to the more expensive trims in most vehicles today. Bought the '23 Ascent Limited (20" Wheels) back in May and we love it. Comfortable & quiet ride, one of my wife's favorites coming from a Toyota Camry SE. Only test drove Toyota Highlander Limited (we will only buy Subaru, Toyota or Honda) and was much more comfortable in the Ascent. Not that we didn't like the Highlander but being older, we appreciated the ride better in the Ascent plus we got a heck of a better value - Panoramic Sunroof & Harmon Kardon Stereo, than the Highlander. Highly recommend the '23 Ascent especially since my new thing is counting all the Highlanders on the Road everyday...at least a dozen everyday, half of them in white...which Toyota charges over $400 more for too!

[@rockyshoresstudios4987]

My buddy had an Ascent, it had a complete engine failure. Subaru gave them a temp demo while they figure it out. The Demo had issues as well. Long story short Subaru bought out that failed Ascent and he switched to a VW.

[@huyentran-qe4pu]

@@haroldbeauchamp3770 did you spend your life slandering subaru, did subaru eat all of your family's food, or are you driving cheap, unsafe, poor quality welding cars

[@seikocitizenwatches]

In the snow-belt regions, I trust Subaru patented Symmetrical AWD more than any other AWD system out there.

[@haroldbeauchamp3770]

Land Rover, Jeep, Ford, Mitsubishi, are all phenomenal with their 4x4 capabilities. Garbage cvt, no low range, no locking differentials, no way I’d get a Subaru over a proper 4x4 system.

[@david197o]

Most people don't require low range or a locking differential driving down a snow covered highway - all those things you mentioned might be great off roading though, for sure. The cvt is actually very smooth, more so than our Bronco's 10 speed transmission@@haroldbeauchamp3770

[@fenrirslip]

I think that Subaru models have been getting uglier in recent years in the front. This is especially true with the new Outback, Legacy, and WRX. Not to mention, there's an overuse of plastic on the exterior. I get that Subaru has a history in rally racing, but most people aren't going to take their car off-road. Even if you have a Wilderness model, you're likely not going to take it off the pavement. The technology in new Subaru vehicles is also subpar in my opinion. Subaru would likely be at the bottom of my list if I was searching for a NEW car from a Japanese automaker, which is a shame really.

[@RaitisRides]

Things have definitely changed with Subaru!

[@truckercowboyed2638]

Actually they have better technology especially the eyesight camera and adaptive cruise control...the cladding actually protects the paint on the outback

[@fenrirslip]

@@truckercowboyed2638 I get that the cladding protects stuff, but the way they styled it just doesn't look good imo.

[@jraheemjefcoat429]

@@fenrirslip You're right! There's no justifying that styling! At least the Telluride has a Range Rover stance. I don't even see Millenials and Gen Z drivers flocking to this generic looking Ascent.

[@kathywong3567]

CVT maybe good for outback and forester.but it’s definitely not for a large SUV like ascent.

[@JaeBTundra1]

Can you review the new Subaru Legacy sport? Thanks for the video.

[@edwardlaw797]

Is it still louder than the Outback? Outback is quieter year after year it's one of the 10 quietest cars by US News now.

[@haroldbeauchamp3770]

I had a 2020 Outback as a rental in Denver and if that POS is considered quiet then US News must be on drugs.

[@edwardlaw797]

@@haroldbeauchamp3770 my experience is with xt limited That I own. Can’t say the same about lower trims. Higher trims limited and touring only have acoustic glasses front and windshields. Better insulation. Just checked us news their updated list has outback again… now 15 quietest car list. The noise level needs to be measured when cruising at 90mph in Texas for 5 hrs at a time not while acceleration the underpowered base 4. Outback limit cruise setting at 90.

[@byronmcgee4118]

Love my 2021 Limited, my second one. Have had no problems

[@Drackleyrva]

Great video! How do you turnoff the auto stop/start feature?

[@david197o]

Our 2023 Ascent premium doesn't have auto start/ stop, thankfully.

[@00typer1071]

We are picking up our 2023 Ascent in the same exact spec in few weeks! 7 passenger, Limited with Tech in white. :) Hands down best bang for the buck when it comes to family vehicles! Great review as always! 🍺

[@teresahunt7649]

That's what I said when I got my 2021! Unbeatable value. Also use mine as my 2nd pu truck when needed. Dog hauler. Plant transporter. Grandkids shuttler. Unlimited uses. Still rides & handles like the expensive ones. About best gas milage of any especially 4WD.

[@lancemartin1153]

We pick ours up in 2 weeks. Went with the Touring because that’s what what coming next. Nothing on the lot.

[@blissfuljoy6049]

Do you still like it?

[@Theonestrongbusleader]

This will be my first SUV! Brilliant job Joe.

[@imwjamie]

Don't

[@mattmekhaeil]

The ascent doesn’t touch anything against the telluride. Got better technology, interior way nicer, got a NA V6. These engines are starting to go away 😢. Best of all doesn’t have a cvt

[@RaitisRides]

Great points Matt!

[@huyentran-qe4pu]

subaru has: better chassis, safer car, better interior and exterior quality, kia : more economical and efficient machine there are: less durable cars, crap and all imported from China Driving a car is about safety and comfort, not cheap technology

[@scoobybopbop]

I'm torn between ascent onyx and honda passport. Which one should i pick?

[@lakeseminole]

Love your comments but let's be real. What third row seat, in any suv, was meant to accommodate an adult?

[@Steve23-392]

Great work, always extremely informative and thorough. Definitely best car reviews as they are very detailed and informative and include the all important Zonk , y’all do a excellent work.

[@tonymanzi3358]

Never would I Get an Accent over the Telluride!!!

[@ksorsomeplace]

Needs some more "wow!" in the looks department. That steering (I've tried it) is too light for me. It felt like the steering wheel wasn't connected at all to the physical wheels! Strongly prefer either some bright metal trim around the wheel well openings or none. The black plastic (what is with the black cladding? what is it supposed to evoke?) just doesn't appeal to me.

[@jordanasuncion1442]

I like the refresh except the headlight looks like Lexus still like my 2022 Ascent headlight everything else good job Subaru.

[@RaitisRides]

Yeah I can totally see where you came from with that comment!

[@kipperrd8964]

I feel like they said they need to compete with palisade and telluride and then said “screw it, let’s just make this instead”. Except for maybe size, Not even in the same category as the other two.

[@2020-c8y]

it feels so lazy of some brands to still put old fashion turning signals instead of the full LED package and specially on a vehicle of $47,000, is a huge turn off! And the biggest thing is that there’s no reason or excuse to not implement them, is it an option on this at least?

[@livefreeordiehard8898]

Can anyone confirm how reliable Subaru CVT is in recent years? I can live with the big screen with no physical buttons but I do want my transmission to last at least 100k miles.

[@ryanolson4525]

I have a 2018 Crosstrek Limited with the CVT and am going on 90,000 miles without any issues.

[@david-yj4qw]

mine died at 103,000 miles - warrantee is 100k

[@plmn93]

In the Ascent, dismal.

[@haroldbeauchamp3770]

Subaru cvt’s are only as good as the maintenance you perform. If you change the cvt’s fluid every 30k miles, you’ll reach 200k easily. After that, Subaru’s tend to fall apart.

[@gpoman9988]

The new generation of CVTs are very good. I put a ton of miles on a 2019 Forester and zero tranny issues (never even changed fluid.)

[@senimu]

I know boxer is better balanced (vs I4) - would you say it will last longer? Especially in turbocharger version, compared to Turbo I4 ?

[@infidel24]

After 4 yrs with our Nissan pathfinder, I'm done with anything with a cvt. I know it's a bigger vehicle, but cvt's are supposed to help with gas mileage. I'd say 12 mpg isn't good enough. I can understand it with my old V8 touareg. All companies that use these cvt tranny's, they need to stop being cheap and lazy. We've owned 4cyl altimas as well. The cvt did nothing for those either. Our 09 VW CC got better fuel mileage than either of the wife's Altima's did. And I drove the hell out of that car. And I know I complain about mpg, but I'll never go the ev route. There's no such thing as clean cobalt used for the batteries. And there's not enough of it in the world to provide batteries for all the ev's they want to force on us. Sorry for getting political.

[@kevinoconnor3891]

Hey Joe, love your videos, trying to decide on the ascent or pathfinder rock creek, so tough, love different features in each, which one did you like better and what would you choose if you had to pick one?

[@haroldbeauchamp3770]

The Pathfinder without hesitation. The Nissan VQ V6 is one of the worlds most reliable and admired engines ever made. Also the ZF 9 speed is phenomenal on this application. Subaru just can’t compete.

[@kevinoconnor3891]

@@haroldbeauchamp3770 ended up with a hyundai palisade, had to go with what was in stock

[@haroldbeauchamp3770]

@@kevinoconnor3891 i understand! I think it was a wise choice over the Subaru.

[@2012Edger]

0:40 Subaru Eyesight will not work well during snow storms and some rain storms.

[@RaitisRides]

I don't think anything will work well in that situation.

[@Dawn191]

I like Subaru 👍 brand. This is my next vehicle. You are very detailed 👌 But can you talk about the steel frame and the steel bars in the door panels..I think that selling point can boost up the reliability of the safety if you were ever T Boned in this car. This car has saved many lives. That is why I am going to buy this vehicle 😍❤💯Good job Subaru 👏

[@teresahunt7649]

My 2021 got 5 star safety. Not sure what the new one is.

[@haroldbeauchamp3770]

Reliability and safety are two massively different things. Subaru has always been a below-average vehicle for reliability. Quirky, unreliable cvt, engines that consume oil, thin and cheap windshield, valve guide leaks, faulty fuel pumps. The list goes on and on. The problem? Kia isn’t any better! 😂

[@inactivemogul403]

The heating and cooling functions can be operated with touch to talk on the steering wheel.

[@mikeydan]

would like to ask a question here, if you can answer, great- considering an Ascent as a tow vehicle, I am seeing it can handle up to 5k lbs. yet, a lot of what I am reading is that CVT is not good for towing. Thoughts? thanks much- Mike

[@jakes5530]

Anything with a CVT is automatically bottom of my shopping list until proven otherwise.

[@huyentran-qe4pu]

actually people like you won't be able to buy anything from subaru, people like you just look at the looks, buy another car and be happy with it, because your vision only suits it