Family SUV Showdown 2025 Subaru Ascent vs 2025 Kia Telluride for Branford CT Families
Family SUVs have one job. They must move people and gear with less stress. For Branford CT families, that means three rows, real cargo space, winter confidence, and enough power for weekend plans. The 2025 Subaru Ascent and the 2025 Kia Telluride both aim to do that job well. This guide breaks down how they compare in real daily use, not showroom talk.
Seating and interior space
The 2025 Subaru Ascent seats up to eight people. If you prefer second row captains chairs, it seats seven. Adults fit comfortably in all three rows. This matters for carpools and growing kids. Subaru lists over 150 cubic feet of passenger space, which gives everyone room to breathe.
Cargo space is another strong point. With the rear seats folded, the Ascent offers about 75 cubic feet of cargo room. Even with the third row in use, there is still space for groceries or sports bags. There is also hidden storage under the cargo floor. This is useful for backpacks or wet gear.
The 2025 Kia Telluride also offers three rows and a roomy cabin. Kia focuses on comfort and materials. Many drivers notice the Telluride feels more upscale inside, especially in higher trims. Legroom is generous in all rows, which helps on longer drives.
Towing and weekend use
The Subaru Ascent can tow up to 5000 pounds when properly equipped. Every Ascent comes with all wheel drive as standard. It also includes Trailer Stability Assist. Power comes from a turbocharged engine with 260 horsepower and strong low end torque.
The Kia Telluride also tows up to 5000 pounds in most trims. In X Pro versions, towing can reach about 5500 pounds. Some trims include a self leveling rear suspension. This helps keep the vehicle balanced when towing.
Simple takeaway: Telluride can tow more in select trims. Ascent gives you all wheel drive on every model without upgrades.
Winter confidence in Connecticut
Winter driving matters in Branford. Snow, slush, and icy mornings are part of life. Every 2025 Subaru Ascent includes Symmetrical All Wheel Drive. Ground clearance is about 8.7 inches. This setup helps in bad weather without choosing extra packages.
The Kia Telluride offers all wheel drive, but it is optional. Some trims add extra ride height and off road tuning. These trims work well, but all wheel drive is not standard across the lineup.
Safety and driver assistance
The Subaru Ascent includes EyeSight Driver Assist Technology as standard. This system helps with adaptive cruise control, lane keeping, and automatic braking. Subaru also focuses on wide windows and good visibility. This helps in school parking lots and tight streets.
The Kia Telluride includes Highway Driving Assist 1.5 for 2025. This system helps with lane position and following distance on highways. It is designed to reduce fatigue on long trips.
Which SUV fits Branford families best
Choose the Subaru Ascent if you want standard all wheel drive, standard safety features, and a simple trim lineup. It is built for New England weather.
Choose the Kia Telluride if you want a more luxury style interior and the option for higher towing in specific trims.
Bottom line
Both SUVs do the family job well. The Subaru Ascent focuses on confidence, winter grip, and durability. The Kia Telluride focuses on comfort, style, and towing strength. Either one can handle school runs, road trips, and Connecticut weather. The right choice depends on what you value most.
