Adventurous three-row SUVs are a natural choice, but comparing the Kia Telluride vs. Subaru Ascent can be a more challenging part of your decision. However, when you stack these two segment-leading models up against each other, you’ll discover that the new Subaru Ascent takes the SUV-based virtues you look for further.
From the Ascent offering higher MPG ratings to more spaciousness and more standard features at a lower starting price, we’ve assembled the key differences between the Kia Telluride vs. Subaru Ascent.
Kia Telluride vs. Subaru Ascent benefits begin on the inside.
The Subaru Ascent interior has a six-way manual driver’s seat and four-way passenger’s seat on the base level; so does the Kia Telluride interior. Both also have a heated, ventilated 10-way power driver’s seat with higher-end trims and offer standard three-zone climate control and available Harman Kardon® sound systems. However, said sound system in a Subaru Ascent will include 14 speakers, while the Telluride system only gets 10 speakers.
Both models have standard durable cloth upholstery and available supple leather seating trim. However, only the new Subaru Ascent offers water-repellant StarTex upholstery for easy post-adventure cleanup.
The Ascent continues to pull ahead with standard benefits like dual front- and second-row USB ports and Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology.
The Kia Telluride vs. Subaru Ascent interior comparison includes similar safety features in both models and all the connectivity features on your wishlist. However, with its lower starting price and access to high-end features with its lower trim levels, a Subaru Ascent makes it easier to enjoy everything on said wishlist.
The Subaru Ascent stands tall as the largest new Subaru for sale. The Telluride is a similar size but misses out on the beloved spaciousness-first engineering that every Subaru vehicle provides.
Width-wise, the Ascent gives you more city agility, yet Kia Telluride vs. Subaru Ascent interior passenger room can be an easy win for the Ascent. For example, the Kia Telluride provides 40.9 inches of front headroom and 41.4 inches of front legroom, while the Subaru Ascent has 41.3 and 42.2 inches of front headroom/legroom.
Third-row occupants get 31.4 inches (legroom) and 55.3 inches (shoulder room) in a Kia Telluride; they’ll enjoy 31.7 inches and 57 inches, respectively, in a Subaru Ascent.
Kia Telluride vs. Subaru Ascent cargo room shows that a Telluride can store 46 cubic feet behind its second row, while the Ascent fits 43.5 cubic feet of cargo there. Aside from its slight cargo-carrying difference, the Subaru Ascent takes the lead for three-row SUV roominess.
| Engine | 2.4-liter turbocharged SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder engine |
|---|---|
| All-Wheel Drive | Standard |
| Ground Clearance | 8.7 inches |
| Maximum Cargo Capacity | 75.6 cubic feet |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 pounds1 |
| EPA-Estimated AWD Fuel Economy | 21/27 MPG (city/highway)2 |
| Engine | 3.8-liter V-6 engine |
|---|---|
| All-Wheel Drive | Available |
| Ground Clearance | 8.0 inches |
| Maximum Cargo Capacity | 87 cubic feet |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 pounds1 |
| EPA-Estimated AWD Fuel Economy |
19/24 MPG (city/highway)3 |
The Subaru Ascent and Kia Telluride towing capacity are equal; both can tow 5,000 pounds.1
While Kia Telluride and Subaru Ascent towing capacity is a tie, standard all-terrain performance is dominated by the Ascent. Why? The Kia Telluride is FWD and charges you extra for AWD. Meanwhile, the Ascent offers the extra-capable Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system as a standard benefit.
Kia Telluride vs. Subaru Ascent ground clearance shows 8.7 inches for the Ascent and 8.0 inches for the Telluride, letting the Ascent dominate off-road. In addition, the Kia Telluride only offers a 17-degree approach angle and a 20.9-degree departure angle; the Subaru Ascent is better suited to all-terrain tasks with a 17.6-degree approach angle and 21.8-degree departure angle.
Every Subaru Ascent for sale offers a 2.4-liter turbocharged SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder engine; the Kia Telluride offers a bit more pep with a 3.8-liter V-6 engine.
Acceleration is near-equal, but efficiency is not. The Subaru Ascent provides an EPA-estimated 21/27 MPG (city/highway)2 while an AWD-layout Kia Telluride only offers an EPA-estimated 19/24 MPG (city/highway).3
We’ve only touched on some advantages of a Subaru Ascent; there’s a lot more that this three-row adventurer can offer. To experience it all, swing by our Subaru dealer in Kentucky for a test drive.
The Subaru Ascent measures 196.8 inches long and 76 inches wide (without mirrors). This is very similar to the dimensions for the Kia Telluride.
The Kia Telluride is a spacious SUV. However, it has several roominess-related disadvantages when compared to a Subaru Ascent. For instance, the front-seat space in a Kia Telluride involves 40.9 inches of headroom and 41.4 inches of legroom, while the Subaru Ascent provides 41.3 and 42.2 inches, respectively.
The Kia Telluride LX is the base trim, while the EX is the second-highest trim level. The EX trim adds leather upholstery, front-seat heating and ventilation, a smart liftgate, and an extra USB port to the Telluride LX features.
The new model comes in:
1Maximum towing capacity varies by trim level. Trailer brakes may be needed. See your retailer for details.
2EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage will vary with driving conditions and your vehicle’s condition.
3EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits, and your vehicle’s condition. These estimates reflect EPA’s revised coefficients beginning with some 2017 models.
4For details see: https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/subaru/ascent-4-door-suv/2022
