Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the 2023 Subaru Ascent and give you the lowdown on its third-row seating. If you're in the market for a family-friendly SUV, understanding the comfort and space of the third row is super important. We'll cover everything from accessibility to legroom, so you can make an informed decision. Let's get started!

Third-Row Access and Ease of Use

When it comes to SUVs with three rows, getting into that back row can sometimes feel like an acrobatic feat. But fear not! The 2023 Subaru Ascent aims to make this as painless as possible. The second-row seats are designed to slide and tilt forward, creating a decent-sized opening for passengers to climb into the third row. This mechanism is relatively easy to operate, even for kids. However, it’s worth noting that some adults might still find it a bit of a squeeze, especially if they're not particularly flexible.

For parents with young children, installing car seats in the second row can sometimes complicate access to the third row. Luckily, Subaru has thought about this. The Ascent's design allows the second-row seats to tilt and slide forward even with some car seats installed. Of course, this depends on the size and type of car seat, but it’s a thoughtful feature that can save a lot of hassle. Once you're back there, you'll find that Subaru has included some helpful touches, like grab handles and small storage compartments, to make the experience a bit more comfortable. These little details can make a big difference, especially on longer trips.

Now, let's talk about the nitty-gritty. The Subaru Ascent 2023 has a few different configurations for the second row, including bench seating and captain's chairs. If you opt for the captain's chairs, it creates a clear pathway to the third row, which can be a major plus for families with older kids who can buckle themselves in. Keep in mind that choosing captain's chairs reduces the overall seating capacity from eight to seven, so it's a trade-off to consider based on your family's needs. Bench seating, on the other hand, maximizes passenger space but can make accessing the third row a bit more challenging.

Subaru also includes features like wide-opening doors, which provide ample room to maneuver when getting in and out of the vehicle. This is especially helpful when you're loading and unloading kids, groceries, or other cargo. And let's be honest, anything that makes life a little easier is a win in our book. Overall, Subaru has put a lot of thought into making the third-row access as user-friendly as possible, but it’s always a good idea to try it out for yourself to see if it meets your specific needs.

Third-Row Legroom and Comfort

Alright, let's get down to the real deal: legroom and comfort in the third row of the 2023 Subaru Ascent. This is where many three-row SUVs fall short, but the Ascent actually holds its own pretty well. Adults can fit back there, but let’s be real, it’s cozier for kids or smaller adults on longer journeys. The Ascent provides around 31.7 inches of legroom in the third row. While this might not sound like a ton, it’s adequate for shorter trips or for accommodating younger passengers. If you regularly need to transport adults in the third row, you might want to manage expectations a bit.

One thing that helps with comfort is the reclining feature of the third-row seats. This allows passengers to adjust the seatback angle, which can make a significant difference on longer rides. Plus, the Ascent includes amenities like cupholders and storage nooks in the third row, which are always appreciated. These little conveniences can help keep passengers comfortable and organized, reducing the likelihood of complaints during road trips. Also, the inclusion of air vents in the third row is a major plus. This ensures that everyone stays cool (or warm) regardless of where they're sitting in the vehicle.

Headroom is another factor to consider, and the Ascent offers a decent amount in the third row. Taller passengers might feel a bit cramped, but overall, it’s manageable. The design of the roofline contributes to the headroom, and Subaru has done a good job of maximizing the available space. The seat cushioning and support are also worth mentioning. While it’s not the most luxurious seating you’ll find, it’s adequate for most passengers. The seats are reasonably comfortable, even on longer drives, which is a big plus for families who spend a lot of time on the road. Of course, individual preferences vary, so it’s always a good idea to test it out for yourself.

To make the most of the third-row space, consider adjusting the second-row seats to find the sweet spot for everyone. When the second-row seats are positioned further forward, it creates more legroom for third-row passengers. Communication is key here – make sure everyone is comfortable before hitting the road. Ultimately, the comfort of the third row in the 2023 Ascent is a mixed bag. It’s not the roomiest option on the market, but it’s certainly not the worst. For families with kids, it’s generally sufficient, but for regularly transporting adults, you might want to consider other options or manage expectations.

Cargo Space Behind the Third Row

Okay, so you've got your passengers all settled in, but what about their stuff? Let's talk cargo space behind the third row of the 2023 Subaru Ascent. This is a critical factor for families who need to haul groceries, sports equipment, luggage, and all the other essentials of daily life. The Ascent offers about 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. While this isn't the most generous amount in the three-row SUV class, it’s enough for a decent grocery run or a few pieces of luggage. You might need to get creative with your packing, but it’s definitely usable space.

One of the clever things about the Ascent is the way the cargo area is designed. It’s relatively deep and wide, which makes it easier to load and unload items. Plus, there are tie-down hooks and cargo nets to help secure your belongings and prevent them from sliding around during transit. This can be a lifesaver when you're carrying fragile items or just want to keep things organized. If you need more cargo space, the third-row seats can be easily folded down to create a much larger area. With the third row folded, the Ascent offers a whopping 75.6 cubic feet of space. This is more than enough for larger items like furniture, camping gear, or sports equipment.

The folding mechanism for the third-row seats is straightforward and easy to use. You can quickly convert the Ascent from a passenger-hauling machine to a cargo-carrying beast in a matter of seconds. This flexibility is a major selling point for families who need a vehicle that can adapt to their changing needs. Additionally, the Ascent includes a rear liftgate that can be power-operated on some trims. This is a convenient feature that makes loading and unloading cargo even easier, especially when your hands are full. The liftgate can also be adjusted to a lower height, which is helpful for shorter individuals or when parking in garages with low ceilings.

To maximize cargo space, consider using storage containers or packing cubes to organize your belongings. This can help you fit more items into the available space and keep everything neat and tidy. Also, take advantage of the under-floor storage compartment in the cargo area. This is a great place to stash smaller items or valuables that you want to keep out of sight. Overall, the cargo space behind the third row of the 2023 Ascent is adequate for most families. It might not be the largest in its class, but it’s well-designed and functional. And with the ability to fold down the third-row seats, you can easily expand the cargo area when needed. So, whether you're hauling groceries, luggage, or sports equipment, the Ascent has you covered.

Final Verdict: Is the Ascent's Third Row Right for You?

So, after taking a comprehensive look at the third row of the 2023 Subaru Ascent, what’s the final verdict? Well, it really depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you're primarily looking for an SUV to transport kids, the Ascent's third row is generally adequate and comfortable enough for shorter trips. The access is relatively easy, and the available amenities like cupholders and air vents add to the convenience. However, if you frequently need to transport adults in the third row, you might want to consider other options with more legroom and headroom.

The Ascent's third row is a mixed bag. It's not the most spacious or luxurious option on the market, but it's also not the worst. It offers a decent balance of comfort, convenience, and cargo space. And with the ability to fold down the third-row seats, you can easily adapt the Ascent to your changing needs. Ultimately, the best way to determine if the Ascent's third row is right for you is to test it out for yourself. Bring your family along for a test drive and see how everyone fits in the third row. Pay attention to the legroom, headroom, and overall comfort. And don't forget to check out the cargo space behind the third row to make sure it meets your needs.

Consider your family's lifestyle and how you plan to use the third row. If you're primarily transporting kids, the Ascent is likely a good fit. But if you frequently need to transport adults, you might want to explore other options. Also, think about the features that are most important to you. Do you prioritize easy access, ample legroom, or maximum cargo space? Once you've identified your priorities, you can make an informed decision about whether the 2023 Subaru Ascent is the right SUV for your family.

In conclusion, the Subaru Ascent 2023 offers a functional and versatile third-row seating option that caters well to families. While it may not be the roomiest in its class, its thoughtful design, ease of access, and flexible cargo space make it a strong contender in the three-row SUV market. So, go ahead and give it a try – you might just find that it's the perfect fit for your needs!