Compare 2027 Subaru Ascent vs. 2027 Kia Telluride in Corpus Christi, TX

Three-Row Midsize SUV Comparison Guide

Finding Your Family's Ideal SUV for Coastal Bend Commutes & Texas Road Trips

Comparing the 2027 Subaru Ascent and the 2027 Kia Telluride gives you a clear look at how both popular family haulers tackle coastal driving conditions. At Hicks Family Subaru in Corpus Christi, TX, we make it simple to compare trims, explore financing, and test-drive the versatile Ascent.

While both crossovers offer spacious seating for up to eight passengers, the 2027 Subaru Ascent delivers the ultimate peace of mind for Texas families. Coming standard with legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, 8.7 inches of ground clearance, standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, and a comfortable, adventure-ready cabin, the Ascent is built for both smooth Crosstown Expressway cruising and rugged coastal trails.

New 2027 Subaru Ascent for Sale in Corpus Christi, TX

Subaru Ascent Snapshot

  • Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive: Superior traction and highway stability built into every trim level at no extra cost.
  • Proven Safety & Driver Assist: Standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology with Pre-Collision Braking and Adaptive Cruise Control.
  • Adventure-Ready Ground Clearance: 8.7 inches of standard ground clearance plus X-MODE with Hill Descent Control for sandy roads.
  • Family-Focused Convenience: Up to 19 cup holders, available Cabin Connect intercom, and stain-resistant StarTex seating options.

Kia Telluride Snapshot

  • Bold Exterior Styling: Boxy, truck-like silhouette with prominent front grille accents.
  • Naturally Aspirated V6 Power: Traditional 3.8-liter V6 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
  • Spacious Interior Layout: Wide cabin design offering comfortable legroom across all three seating rows.
  • Available Dual Displays: High-end trim options featuring dual digital screens across the dashboard.

2027 Subaru Ascent vs. 2027 Kia Telluride Head-to-Head

Comparison Feature 2027 Subaru Ascent 2027 Kia Telluride
Standard Drivetrain Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on every trim level Standard Front-Wheel Drive (FWD); AWD is an extra-cost option
Engine & Performance 2.4L Turbocharged SUBARU BOXER engine (260 hp / 277 lb-ft torque) 3.8L V6 engine (291 hp / 262 lb-ft torque)
Ground Clearance & Rough Terrain Tech 8.7 inches standard clearance + dual-function X-MODE with Hill Descent Control 8.0 inches standard clearance (higher trims offer minor lift)
Max Cargo Volume (Behind 1st Row) Up to 75.6 cu. ft. (with panoramic moonroof) or up to 86.5 cu. ft. maximum space Up to 87.0 cu. ft. total cargo space behind front seats
Standard Active Safety Suite Standard EyeSight Driver Assist with Automatic Emergency Steering & Pre-Collision Braking Standard Kia Drive Wise safety suite with Forward Collision Avoidance
Infotainment Display Standard 11.6-inch SUBARU STARLINK multimedia touchscreen display Standard 12.3-inch touchscreen display screen

Why Midsize Three-Row SUV Specs Matter for Coastal Bend Drivers

Checking out specs side-by-side highlights how these three-row crossovers handle daily life in South Texas. From cruising along Ocean Drive and heading out on I-37 toward San Antonio to navigating beach ramps at Padre Island National Seashore, key Subaru Ascent advantages make a real difference in daily capability, safety, and comfort.

All-Weather AWD Confidence

Standard all-wheel power keeps your vehicle grounded during sudden Gulf coast downpours and on loose sand.

  • 2027 Subaru Ascent: Comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, continuously sending power to all four wheels for maximum stability.
  • 2027 Kia Telluride: Starts as a front-wheel-drive vehicle, requiring you to pay extra to upgrade to all-wheel drive.

Low-End Turbocharged Torque

High low-end torque gives you eager acceleration when pulling heavy loads or merging onto fast-moving highways.

  • 2027 Subaru Ascent: Packs a 2.4L Turbocharged BOXER engine delivering 277 lb-ft of torque at low RPMs for smooth towing and merging.
  • 2027 Kia Telluride: Uses a naturally aspirated V6 with 262 lb-ft of torque, requiring higher revs to reach peak pulling power.

Standard EyeSight Safety

Comprehensive driver assistance features act as an extra set of eyes on busy Texas roadways.

  • 2027 Subaru Ascent: Equipped standard with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, renowned for top crash-test performance and safety recognition.
  • 2027 Kia Telluride: Features Kia Drive Wise assistance, though advanced safety tech requires higher-tier trim upgrades.

Beach & Trail Capability

Higher ground clearance keeps your undercarriage safe when navigating rough roads, mud, or deep beach sand.

  • 2027 Subaru Ascent: Features 8.7 inches of ground clearance plus X-MODE for enhanced grip on loose dirt, sand, and slick pavement.
  • 2027 Kia Telluride: Sits lower with 8.0 inches of ground clearance on standard trims, limiting off-pavement performance.

Family Cabin Conveniences

Thoughtfully designed interiors keep passengers happy on quick runs to school or long summer road trips.

  • 2027 Subaru Ascent: Loaded with up to 19 cup holders, available water-repellent StarTex seats, and an 11.6-inch portrait touchscreen.
  • 2027 Kia Telluride: Offers standard cup holders and leatherette seating, with water-resistant upholstery options limited.

Long-Term Value & Resale

Subaru's reputation for durability means your family vehicle holds its value through years of road trips.

  • 2027 Subaru Ascent: Backed by Subaru's proven track record—96% of Subaru vehicles sold in the last 10 years are still on the road today.
  • 2027 Kia Telluride: Offers solid overall initial warranty coverage, though resale value long term can vary across trim tiers.

Why Buy Your SUV at Hicks Family Subaru in Corpus Christi?

Hicks Family Subaru is your premier destination for adventurous new vehicles in Corpus Christi, TX, proudly serving drivers across the entire Coastal Bend region. Our knowledgeable sales specialists know the Subaru Ascent inside and out, making it easy to find the perfect trim, seating configuration, and accessory setup for your family's lifestyle.

When you shop with Hicks Family Subaru, you get transparent pricing, tailored auto financing solutions, fair market trade-in offers, and a factory-certified service center equipped to keep your Ascent running smoothly for years to come. Stop by our Corpus Christi dealership today to test-drive the 2027 Subaru Ascent and experience the Subaru difference firsthand.

SUV Shopping Tips

  • Test-drive desired models on both local Corpus Christi streets and highway stretches to experience smooth turbocharged perofrmance.
  • Test out the 11.6-inch STARLINK multimedia touchscreen and set up wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto during your visit.
  • Fold down the second and third rows with our team to see how easily your beach gear, luggage, or ice chests fit.
  • Ask our finance team about special Subaru lease promotions, competitive APR financing, and trade-in offers.

Which Three-Row SUV Wins for South Texas Families?

The 2027 Subaru Ascent comes out ahead for Coastal Bend drivers thanks to standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, superior ground clearance, standard EyeSight safety technology, and punchy low-end turbocharged torque compared to the 2027 Kia Telluride. Whether you are carpooling around Corpus Christi or packing up for a weekend on Padre Island, the Ascent delivers unmatched versatility, comfort, and safety. Visit Hicks Family Subaru in Corpus Christi, TX, today to test-drive your next family SUV!

2027 Subaru Ascent

The ultimate family adventure SUV with standard Symmetrical AWD, 8.7 inches of ground clearance, standard EyeSight safety, and an 11.6-inch touchscreen display.

View Ascent Inventory

2027 Kia Telluride

A midsize three-row option featuring a standard V6 engine, standard front-wheel drive, and boxy exterior styling.

Inquire About the Telluride

Interior Utility and Everyday Comfort

Step inside these three-row crossovers to see how thoughtfully they cater to busy family routines. With versatile 7- or 8-passenger seating configurations, second-row captain's chairs or bench seating, easy third-row access, and durable interior fabrics, both crossovers accommodate growing families. Large touchscreen displays, abundant USB charging ports, and multi-zone climate control ensure everyone stays connected and comfortable during hot Texas summers.

2027 Subaru Ascent in Corpus Christi, TX - Hicks Family Subaru
2026 Subaru Ascent Interior
Images shown represent the 2026 model year. 2027 model styling may vary.

Explore Your Next Steps at Hicks Family Subaru

Ready to get behind the wheel of a 2027 Subaru Ascent? Visit Hicks Family Subaru in Corpus Christi today. Our friendly Subaru team is ready to help you compare trim levels, browse color options, check out accessories, and take a test drive.

View Ascent Inventory

Explore our current online inventory of new Subaru Ascent trims, seating configurations, and color choices.

Lease & Financing Offers

Check out competitive Subaru finance incentives, low APR offers, custom lease plans, and online finance applications.

Value Your Trade

Get a fast, accurate trade-in valuation for your present vehicle to put toward your new Subaru Ascent.

Contact Hicks Family Subaru

Get in touch with our Corpus Christi Subaru sales specialists to verify availability or schedule your test drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which 3-row SUV has more cargo space: Subaru Ascent or Kia Telluride?

Both three-row midsize crossovers offer impressive cargo dimensions for family travel. The 2027 Kia Telluride provides up to 87.0 cu. ft. of total cargo volume with the second and third rows folded, while the 2027 Subaru Ascent offers up to 86.5 cu. ft. (or up to 75.6 cu. ft. on models equipped with the panoramic moonroof). The Ascent features a wide liftgate opening and flat-folding seats, making it easy to load luggage, sports gear, and beach coolers.

How do the technology features compare between the Ascent and Telluride?

The 2027 Subaru Ascent comes standard with an 11.6-inch SUBARU STARLINK portrait-oriented touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The 2027 Kia Telluride includes a standard 12.3-inch landscape touchscreen. The Ascent also offers family-friendly tech like the Cabin Connect interior intercom system and up to 19 cup holders designed for long road trips.

Is All-Wheel Drive standard on the 2027 Subaru Ascent and Kia Telluride?

No. Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive comes standard on every single 2027 Subaru Ascent trim level at no additional cost, providing consistent grip and stability. In contrast, the 2027 Kia Telluride comes standard with Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), requiring buyers to pay extra for an AWD upgrade.

Which SUV is better for beach driving and off-pavement adventures in South Texas?

The 2027 Subaru Ascent is better equipped for beach outings and rougher terrain. It boasts 8.7 inches of standard ground clearance along with Subaru's X-MODE system and Hill Descent Control, which optimize engine output and transmission ratios for loose sand, mud, and gravel. The standard Kia Telluride sits lower at 8.0 inches of ground clearance and lacks standard AWD.

How do the engine performance and towing capacities compare?

The 2027 Subaru Ascent features a 2.4-liter Turbocharged SUBARU BOXER engine generating 260 horsepower and a potent 277 lb-ft of low-end torque, mated to a High-Torque Lineartronic CVT. The 2027 Kia Telluride uses a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 making 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Both crossovers offer a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped.

What safety features come standard on the 2027 Subaru Ascent?

Every 2027 Subaru Ascent comes equipped with Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. This includes Pre-Collision Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Keeping System, Automatic Emergency Steering, and Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering. The Ascent has consistently earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.

How many passengers can the Subaru Ascent and Kia Telluride seat?

Both the 2027 Subaru Ascent and 2027 Kia Telluride offer seating for up to 8 passengers with a second-row bench seat, or 7 passengers when equipped with second-row captain's chairs. Both models feature easy-slide second-row seats for simple access to the third row.

Where is Hicks Family Subaru located in Corpus Christi, TX?

Hicks Family Subaru is conveniently located in Corpus Christi, TX, proudly serving three-row SUV shoppers and families throughout the Coastal Bend communities.