If there’s one thing for certain, it’s that the midsize SUV marketplace is crowded with choices. However, not all of the models stand out. In fact, some of them lag behind in terms of technologies and favorite family amenities.

The 2025 Subaru Ascent is considered a good SUV by reviewers like JD Power. This same reviewer also considers the Hyundai Santa Fe to be a good buy in its class. You could easily spend the same amount of money on either one. So the question is: what do you get for your money? Get answers in this friendly question-and-answer format.  

Do All Midsize SUVs Have a Third Row?

No, not all midsize SUVs come with a third row. When comparing them, you should know that some have only two rows, like the Honda Passport. If you do want more seats, look carefully at how many seats are packed into a midsize. Hint: 7 is a more reasonable answer than 8!

The Hyundai Santa Fe gained a third row with its recent upgrades. This allows it to seat up to 7 with only two seats on the back row. For many, it just seems reasonable to ask only two people to get into the very back. Calligraphy and Calligraphy Hybrid editions seat six with middle-row captain’s chairs.  

The 2025 Ascent is a three-row midsize SUV, making it the biggest Subaru with the most seats at a Phoenix Subaru dealership. These midsize utes seat up to 8 people. Or, you can choose captain’s chairs, reducing seating to seven. Either way, three people will have to crowd into the back row.  

How Big is a Midsize SUV?

Midsize SUVs typically range in length from about 185 to over 200 inches. The best ones offer a versatile balance of passenger and cargo space, perfect for navigating Phoenix and its sprawling suburbs while still having room for all your desert adventures.

At the curb, the Ascent has a bigger footprint. It measures 196.8 inches long compared to 190.2 inches for the Santa Fe. That means the Ascent will be trickier to park and maneuver in tight spaces.  

How does that translate inside? The Santa Fe can claim 42.3 inches of second row legroom compared to 38.6 inches for the Ascent. On the third row, the Ascent seats three with 31.7 inches of legroom while the Santa Fe seats two with 30 inches of legroom.  

Due to the Santa Fe’s shape, it ends up with more total cargo volume than the longer Ascent. It measures approximately 79.6 cu ft in the Hyundai and 75.6 cu ft in the Subaru, behind the first row. When designing the Santa Fe, Hyundai engineers gave it an especially huge tailgate. The goal was to make it a “terrace-like space” for tailgating, hauling, and even camping!  

Which Midsize SUVs Offer a Hybrid Powertrain?

The hybrid option is rarer than you might think in 2025. You’ll find hybrids of the Hyundai Santa Fe, Toyota Highlander, Kia Sorento, and luxury Lexus TX. Some, such as the Mazda CX-90 Hybrid, are not full hybrids and don’t achieve the same type of savings as the Santa Fe with its 36 mpg fuel economy.

The Subaru Ascent is one of many three-row midsize SUVs that do not offer a hybrid option. This is very limiting for drivers who want lower ownership costs or who want to drive a green SUV. That’s an important fact to keep in mind before shopping at an Avondale Subaru dealer.  

Do Midsize SUVs Get Good Gas Mileage?

Some midsize SUVs can offer impressive fuel efficiency, especially with modern powertrains. There’s no reason to suffer at the gas pump anymore when you can choose a fuel efficient midsize. Even better, choose a midsize hybrid and enjoy the space you need while saving every day.

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe delivers better gas mileage (29 mpg) than the Subaru Ascent (26 mpg), and with the Santa Fe's available hybrid powertrain, you'll experience even greater fuel savings (36 mpg), which is a significant advantage whether you are driving across Phoenix or headed out of state to the Colorado Rockies or California beaches.  

What to Look for When Buying a Midsize SUV?

When buying a midsize SUV, shoppers are eager to find value for their money. They want something spacious with comforting amenities. They need the latest technologies to stay connected and safe on Phoenix roads. Only the Hyundai Santa Fe can promise to fulfill those needs while offering the most trim level choices, lower ownership costs and the best warranty coverage (at no extra cost). Find out more in this 2025 Santa Fe Review.

Before you head to a Phoenix Subaru dealer, remember the Ascent offers fewer trim levels and only one powertrain. There’s no hybrid to save you money. Furthermore, Subaru warranties are much shorter than Hyundai’s class-leading coverage.  

What are the Best 3-row Midsize SUVs?

For families in Phoenix seeking the best 3-row midsize SUV, look no further than the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe. It stands out for its exceptional value, robust warranty, and elevated comfort, making it a compelling choice over rivals like the Subaru Ascent, Honda Pilot, or Toyota Highlander.

The Santa Fe truly redefines what a family SUV can be. Find out for yourself. Schedule a test drive at Earnhardt Hyundai in North Scottsdale. We are your Phoenix Hyundai dealer!

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