What To Know
- The GMC Terrain exudes a bold and rugged exterior, featuring a muscular grille, sharp lines, and a commanding presence.
- In contrast, the Subaru Ascent presents a more sleek and sophisticated design, with a streamlined silhouette, elegant curves, and a distinctive hexagonal grille.
- Both the GMC Terrain and Subaru Ascent have good reliability ratings, but the Ascent has a slight edge in terms of long-term reliability.
The GMC Terrain and Subaru Ascent are two popular midsize SUVs that offer a blend of practicality, comfort, and style. If you’re in the market for a family-friendly SUV, these two vehicles are likely on your shortlist. But which one is the better choice for you? In this detailed comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the GMC Terrain and Subaru Ascent to help you make an informed decision.
Exterior Design: Bold and Rugged vs Sleek and Sophisticated
The GMC Terrain exudes a bold and rugged exterior, featuring a muscular grille, sharp lines, and a commanding presence. In contrast, the Subaru Ascent presents a more sleek and sophisticated design, with a streamlined silhouette, elegant curves, and a distinctive hexagonal grille. The choice between these two design philosophies ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Interior Space and Comfort: Generous Room for Passengers and Cargo
Both the GMC Terrain and Subaru Ascent offer spacious and comfortable interiors. The Terrain provides ample legroom and headroom for all occupants, while the Ascent boasts a generous third row that can accommodate up to three additional passengers. In terms of cargo capacity, the Ascent has a slight edge, with 17.6 cubic feet of space behind the third row compared to the Terrain’s 10.7 cubic feet.
Powertrain and Performance: Refined Power vs Rugged Capabilities
The GMC Terrain offers a choice of two engines: a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four and a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four. The Ascent, on the other hand, is powered by a single 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine. While the Terrain’s engines provide refined power and efficiency, the Ascent’s engine delivers more torque and rugged off-road capabilities.
Fuel Efficiency: A Close Contest
Both the GMC Terrain and Subaru Ascent offer competitive fuel efficiency ratings. The Terrain’s 1.5-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 25 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, while the 2.0-liter engine returns 24 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. The Ascent, with its 2.4-liter engine, delivers 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.
Safety Features: Advanced Technologies for Peace of Mind
Safety is paramount in both the GMC Terrain and Subaru Ascent. Both vehicles come standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Ascent, however, offers a few additional features such as blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Technology and Connectivity: Cutting-Edge Features for Convenience
The GMC Terrain and Subaru Ascent are well-equipped with cutting-edge technology features. Both SUVs offer large touchscreens, smartphone integration, and voice control. The Terrain’s infotainment system is known for its user-friendly interface, while the Ascent’s system features a more intuitive navigation system.
Price and Value: A Matter of Budget and Priorities
Pricing for the GMC Terrain and Subaru Ascent varies depending on trim level and options. The Terrain starts at around $30,000, while the Ascent has a slightly higher starting price of $33,000. When comparing similar trim levels, the Ascent typically offers a more comprehensive list of standard features, while the Terrain may have a lower price point.
Which SUV Is Right for You?
The GMC Terrain and Subaru Ascent are both excellent choices for families seeking a midsize SUV. The Terrain offers a bold exterior, refined powertrain, and competitive fuel efficiency. The Ascent, on the other hand, boasts a spacious interior, rugged capabilities, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs, priorities, and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
#1. Which SUV has better off-road capabilities?
The Subaru Ascent, with its standard all-wheel drive and optional X-Mode, offers superior off-road performance.
#2. Which SUV has a more comfortable ride?
Both the GMC Terrain and Subaru Ascent offer comfortable rides, but the Terrain’s softer suspension may provide a slightly smoother ride on rough roads.
#3. Which SUV has a better infotainment system?
The GMC Terrain‘s infotainment system is known for its user-friendly interface, while the Subaru Ascent’s system features a more intuitive navigation system.
#4. Which SUV is more reliable?
Both the GMC Terrain and Subaru Ascent have good reliability ratings, but the Ascent has a slight edge in terms of long-term reliability.
#5. Which SUV is better for towing?
The Subaru Ascent has a higher towing capacity of 5,000 pounds compared to the GMC Terrain’s 3,500 pounds.