2021 Subaru Ascent vs. 2021 Toyota Highlander: Which Three-Row SUV Does Consumer Reports Recommend?

by Gabrielle DeSantis

When the Subaru Ascent first debuted, Consumer Reports gave it some pretty high ratings. In fact, the organization rated it as one of the best three-row SUVs at the time. But these days? The 2021 Toyota Highlander is giving the Subaru Ascent a run for its money. As a matter of fact, when it comes to comparing these two three-row SUVs, Consumer Reports says that the Toyota Highlander makes for the better pick. Let’s find out why.

2021 Subaru Ascent vs. 2021 Toyota Highlander: Which three-row SUV earned better ratings?

2021 Toyota Highlander | Toyota

There’s no beating around the bush here. Consumer Reports gave the 2021 Toyota Highlander a significantly higher overall score than the 2021 Subaru Ascent. While the organization gave this year’s Highlander an 84 overall score, the Ascent could only manage a 60 overall score.

Those scores don’t tell the whole story, however. While the Highlander did earn a better overall score, the Ascent does have the edge when it comes to road tests. However, when it comes to reliability? Well, that’s where the Highlander shines. While the 2021 Subaru Ascent earned the lowest possible predicted reliability rating, the 2021 Toyota Highlander secured a Very Good predicted reliability rating. 

Now, both three-row SUVs did earn a Very Good predicted owner satisfaction rating. Consumer Reports predicts that owners of both SUVs will be happiest with their driving experience, comfort, and styling. But when it comes to buying either three-row SUV again? While 72% of Ascent owners would rebuy the SUV, an impressive 78% of Toyota Highlander owners said the same.

2021 Subaru Ascent vs. 2021 Toyota Highlander: Safety is key in these three-row SUVs

RELATED: Only 1 2021 Subaru SUV Missed Out on Consumer Reports Recommendation

Chances are, if you’re shopping for a three-row SUV, you’re shopping for a new family hauler. If that’s the case, then standard safety features are likely very important to you. The good news is that both three-row SUVs come well-stocked with sought-after safety features. 

Take, for example, the 2021 Toyota Highlander. This year’s model is standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which includes confidence-inspiring safety features like a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert, lane tracing assist, and road sign assist. According to the IIHS, the 2021 Toyota Highlander is also a Top Safety Pick+. The NHTSA gave it a five-star overall safety rating too.

As for the 2021 Subaru Ascent? It comes standard with a pre-collision braking system, pre-collision throttle management, lane departure and sway warning, and advanced adaptive cruise control with lane-centering. Much like the Highlander, the NHTSA gave the Ascent a five-star overall safety rating. Meanwhile, the IIHS tapped it as a Top Safety Pick+.

2021 Subaru Ascent vs. 2021 Toyota Highlander: Interiors compared

RELATED: The 2021 Toyota Highlander Is the Toyota SUV Owners Love the Most

Now, let’s talk about which three-row SUV has the better interior. According to Consumer Reports, the 2021 Subaru Ascent boasts a “plush, steady ride that’s more comfortable than we’ve found in some luxury vehicles.” Its seats are comfortable, as are its optional second-row captain’s chairs. The interior does, however, feature a good amount of plastic. For some, that might be a deal-breaker.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, boasts a compliant and controlled ride. Getting in and out of it is easy enough, and, according to Consumer Reports, accommodations are pretty comfortable regardless of your height or weight. Its rear seats also boast more legroom and headroom than the Ascent. 

Which new three-row SUV is the right fit for you? 

In the end, the 2021 Toyota Highlander is the better choice. While the 2021 Subaru Ascent has plenty to offer new SUV shoppers, the Toyota Highlander earned much better ratings than the Subaru Ascent and is significantly more reliable. Not to mention, unlike the Ascent, it’s recommended by Consumer Reports. But does that mean the Highlander is the right three-row SUV for you? To find out, we recommend getting behind the wheel for a test drive.

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Full-Size Pickup Trucks Are Mysteriously Absent from Consumer Reports’ 10 Top Picks of 2021

by Gabrielle DeSantis

The full-size pickup truck segment is among the most popular on the market. From farm trucks on dirt roads in the countryside to urban commuting to carpools in suburbia. It’s more and more common to see a full-size truck in your neighbor’s driveway. But full-size pickup trucks are mysteriously absent from Consumer Reports’ 10 Top Picks of 2021. 

Toyota Tundra | Toyota

There are several great cars, crossover SUVs, and even a midsize pickup truck. However, not one model from the full-size truck category made the cut. Consumer Reports says that “these exceptional models meet our very highest standards for performance, safety, reliability, and more.” 

The best full-size pickup truck according to Consumer Reports 

a 2021 ram 1500 pickup truck from the full-size truck segment on display at an auto show.
Ram 1500 pickup truck Scott Olson/Getty Images

So, Consumer Reports didn’t place a big truck on its top 10 list. That doesn’t mean that there aren’t any models from the full-size pickup truck segment to which the publication awarded praise. In fact, two trucks share the top spot from Consumer Reports. 

The 2021 Ram 1500 and the 2021 Toyota Tundra each earned a 63/100 overall score. Each of these pickup trucks shines in different areas. The 2021 Ram 1500 wowed reviewers, earning a fantastic road test score of 83/100. 

On the other hand, the 2021 Toyota Tundra earned a high reliability score of 80/100. Each of the trucks earn good marks (4 out 5) for owner satisfaction. Still, neither of these pickup trucks landed a spot on the 10 Top Picks of 2021. 

There’s only one pickup truck among the 10 Top Picks of 2021

a red Honda Ridgeline driving on a country road
2021 Honda Ridgeline | Honda

RELATED: The Least Expensive 2021 Porsche Model Is Surprisingly Affordable

There is, however, one pickup truck that made the list. The 2021 Honda Ridgeline is the only pickup on the 10 Top Picks of 2021 list. It’s not really surprising that this truck earned a place here. 

The 2021 Honda Ridgeline is a midsize or compact pickup truck. With a smaller footprint and admirable road manners, this is the right truck for driving in the city. It’s built on the same platform as the Honda Pilot, and offers enough capability for most weekend adventures. 

What are the best cars and crossovers of 2021?

A red 2021 Toyota Prius with nothing behind it
2021 Toyota Prius | Toyota

According to Consumer Reports’ 10 Top Picks of 2021, in terms of “performance, safety, reliability,” etc. the best car under $25,000 is the 2021 Toyota Corolla. The 2021 Mazda CX-30 earned a place as the best subcompact SUV under $25,000. 

Then, the 2021 Toyota Prius and the 2021 Toyota Camry are on the list for the Top Picks priced between $25,000-$35,000. The best crossover SUV in this price bracket is the 2021 Subaru Forester. 

a green subaru outback with bikes on top climbing a forested hill
Subaru Outback | Subaru

For between $35,000-$45,000, the 2021 Subaru Outback is one of the best, along with the 2021 Kia Telluride crossover SUV and the 2021 Honda Ridgeline midsize pickup. Then in the highest $45,000-$55,000 price bracket are the 2021 Lexus RX and the electric 2021 Tesla Model 3. 

No full-size pickup trucks in the 10 Top Picks

a blacked out 2021 kia telluride SUV driving on the road in the city
2021 Kia Telluride Nightfall Edition | Kia

When it comes to the 10 Top Picks of 2021, there aren’t any large SUVs or pickups built on a truck platform. Always the practical guide, Consumer Reports steers us toward more fuel-efficient vehicles with softer on-road handling. Maybe the fact that there aren’t any full-size pickup trucks on Consumer Reports’ 10 Top Picks list isn’t that mysterious after all. 

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The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Is Cheaper Than Other Models

by Gabrielle DeSantis

It’s a great time to save money by leasing the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe instead of the gas-powered options. While sometimes you have to read the fine print for leasing a vehicle carefully, the Jeep Wrangler 4xe provides a real deal. 

Save by leasing the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe 

2021 Jeep wrangler 4xe | Jeep

According to InsideEVs, you can save by leasing the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe instead of the gas-powered Wrangler. The deal works out to provide much more value and allows you to give the plug-in hybrid a try without buying it. 

But your time to save is running out. This deal currently only lasts until the end of May. You can lease the 2021 Wrangler Unlimited Sahara 4xe for just $249 a month for 36 months, with $3,900 due at signing. This deal is for California, but other states have similar options. 

In Michigan, you can lease the 4xe for $262 per month with $3,995 down. Around Chicago, you can lease the 4xe for $259 per month with $3,499 down. The leases include 10,000 miles per year, which is average among today’s leasing promotions.  

The Jeep Wrangler 4xe starts at around $50,000. The Wrangler Unlimited Sahara 4xe that is leasing for cheap begins at about $52,230. The gas-powered Jeep Wrangler starts at about $30,000, and it costs around $300 per month with $4,000 down to lease. It costs more to lease despite having an MSRP that’s $11,000 less than the 4xe. 

Is the Jeep Wrangler 4xe a good SUV? 

RELATED: Is the Jeep Wrangler 4xe Worth the Extra Cash?

Yes, the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe is an excellent SUV to consider. It’s the second most potent Jeep in history. Only the Wrangler Rubicon 392 has more power with its V8 engine, but it’s a little thirsty. 

The 4xe has a gas-powered turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine and plug-in hybrid technology that combine to create 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. The Rubicon 392 has a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 that provides 470 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. 

With the 4xe, you get an EPA-estimated electric range of 21 miles and about 49 MPGe. The Rubicon 391 gets an EPA-estimated 13 mpg in the city and up to 17 mpg on the highway. The EPA estimates that the 4xe will save $1,940 worth of fuel compared to using a non-hybrid Wrangler for 15,000 miles. 

If you use the Level II Jeep Branded Charger, you can fully charge the Wrangler 4xe’s battery in two hours instead of 12 with the Level I charging cable that’s included. Also, the regenerative braking feature charges the battery as you decelerate and come to a stop. 

Can the Jeep Wrangler 4xe go off-roading? 

The rear end of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe
2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe | Jeep

Heck yes, the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe is a great off-roader. The 4xe can ford water up to 30 inches deep! All of its high-voltage components are sealed and waterproof. Protective underbody skid plates also allow you to drive over rocks and other obstacles on the trail with confidence. 

The Selec-Speed Control manages your speed in 4LO while you go up inclines, declines, and obstacles. Engine torque and brake pressure are automatically applied to provide a consistent and secure speed with minimal driver input. 

There is a Sway-Bar Disconnect system, Tru-Lock electronic locking differentials, an 84:1 crawl ratio, steel bumpers, rock rails, and more to provide an unmatched capability for adventuring. It might be time to give the 4xe a spin while you can save by leasing it.

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2019 Subaru Forester’s Reliability Rating From J.D. Power Makes the Recalled Car Look Even Worse

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Recalls are never good for a car’s reputation. Depending upon the recall’s severity and how the manufacturer handles it, consumers might shy away from a car or even a brand. For example, the 2019 Subaru Forester‘s reputation took a hit in April when a recall revealed the compact SUV could endanger occupants. Unfortunately for dealers trying to unload their used-car inventory, J.D. Power’s recent reliability rating makes the 2019 Subaru Forester look even worse.

The recent 2019 Subaru Forester recall

Subaru recently announced two recalls. The first includes approximately 405,000 2019 Foresters and Crosstreks. The automaker initiated the recall as concerns arose that the rear suspension bolts — specifically those on the rear stabilizer bracket — could come loose, damaging other vehicle components. Dealerships will inspect the affected models and retorque any loose bolts. Owners can call 844-373-6614 for more information.

Indeed, this recall isn’t ideal for the 2019 Subaru Forester, already subject to windshield problems. Subaru’s second recent recall doesn’t help matters. That recall involves 466,025 2018 and 2019 Crosstreks and 2017 to 2019 Imprezas. Dealerships will work on the engine control module’s programming, as the unit could leave the ignition coil energized long enough for short circuits and blown fuses to occur.

The Subaru Forester is a popular SUV thanks to its power, performance, handling, and affordability. Consumers like the Forester because it’s generally a reliable all-wheel-drive SUV they can get them and their families from point A to point B, whether on the pavement or off-road. Unfortunately for dealers, an influential source — J.D. Power — found the 2019 Forester unreliable.

The 2019 Subaru Forester’s reliability ratings

U.S. News shows the 2019 Subaru Forester’s reliability rating is a below-average 2.5/5. J.D. Power ratings are well-regarded throughout the automotive industry. They can give prospective buyers even more reason to like a car or look elsewhere.

The low rating is partly because the 2019 Forester has seen three recalls. The first concerns those suspension bolts. The second involves about 10,000 2019 Forester and Crosstrek vehicles. Subaru realized an electronic power steering component could short-circuit, increasing a driver’s crash risk. The third recall, affecting 51,613 2019 Crosstreks, Foresters, and Ascents, resulted from the PCV valve’s potential to break apart. Pieces could enter the engine, leading to a loss of power.

In general, below-average reliability ratings could torpedo a car’s resale value. However, the 2019 Subaru Forester still boasts a high resale value, J.D. Power reports. Despite its flaws, this compact crossover is excellent in other ways.

The 2019 model offers plenty to recommend it

Though the 2019 Subaru Forester has its share of issues, it’s an affordable SUV for around $24,000 to $30,000. It also performs and handles well on or off-road, with responsive steering and minimal body lean. All trims come standard with AWD and a 2.5-liter F4 engine producing 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque. Though that’s not the most potent engine, it’s really all you need for a vehicle that handles as well as the Forester.

And while the exterior is similar to previous Foresters, the 2019 model’s interior is roomy, with more legroom and 76.1 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats down. It also comes with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Pandora, and SiriusXM Satellite Radio. Plus, several upgraded technology options are available, such as a nine-speaker sound system and navigation services.

Further, the Forester comes equipped with Subaru’s impressive EyeSight suite of advanced safety features. And the optional Starlink Safety Plus package is ideal for keeping families safe in case of an accident.

Overall, the 2019 Subaru Forester isn’t the most reliable vehicle on the road. If you opt for one, you might face repair and maintenance challenges. However, this popular SUV has plenty of plusses and is worth a hard look.

RELATED: Scoot Into These 2 Subarus Consumer Reports Rates High for Short Drivers

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