What To Know
- When it comes to choosing a mid-size SUV, the Subaru Ascent and the Acura RDX are two of the most popular options on the market.
- The Subaru Ascent has earned a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), while the Acura RDX has earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- The Acura RDX has a slightly better fuel economy rating, with 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway compared to the Subaru Ascent’s 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
When it comes to choosing a mid-size SUV, the Subaru Ascent and the Acura RDX are two of the most popular options on the market. Both vehicles offer a spacious interior, advanced features, and impressive performance. But which one is the right choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Subaru Ascent and the Acura RDX to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Handling
The Subaru Ascent comes equipped with a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The Acura RDX, on the other hand, features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque.
While both engines offer ample power, the RDX has a slight edge in terms of acceleration and top speed. However, the Ascent’s boxer engine provides a smoother and more refined ride.
Fuel Economy
Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for many SUV buyers. The Subaru Ascent returns an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The Acura RDX, meanwhile, gets an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
While the RDX has a slightly better fuel economy rating, the Ascent’s larger fuel tank means that it can travel further on a single fill-up.
Interior and Comfort
Both the Subaru Ascent and the Acura RDX offer spacious and comfortable interiors. The Ascent has seating for up to eight passengers, while the RDX has seating for five.
The Ascent’s interior is designed with practicality in mind, with plenty of storage space and easy-to-use controls. The RDX, on the other hand, features a more luxurious interior with premium materials and a sleek design.
Technology and Features
The Subaru Ascent and the Acura RDX come equipped with a wide range of advanced technology and features. Both vehicles offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, as well as navigation systems and premium audio systems.
However, the RDX has a few features that the Ascent does not, such as a head-up display and a surround-view camera system.
Safety
Safety is a top priority for both Subaru and Acura. The Subaru Ascent has earned a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), while the Acura RDX has earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Both vehicles come equipped with a full suite of advanced safety features, including lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking.
Price and Value
The Subaru Ascent has a starting price of $33,470, while the Acura RDX has a starting price of $40,050. The Ascent offers more value for the money, with a more spacious interior, a more powerful engine, and a lower price point.
The Verdict: Which SUV is Right for You?
The Subaru Ascent and the Acura RDX are both excellent mid-size SUVs. However, the Ascent is the better choice for buyers who prioritize space, value, and off-road capability. The RDX, on the other hand, is the better choice for buyers who prioritize luxury, performance, and fuel efficiency.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which SUV is right for you is to test drive both vehicles and see which one better meets your needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
A: The Acura RDX has a more powerful engine, with 272 horsepower compared to the Subaru Ascent’s 260 horsepower.
Q: Which SUV has a better fuel economy?
A: The Acura RDX has a slightly better fuel economy rating, with 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway compared to the Subaru Ascent‘s 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which SUV has a more spacious interior?
A: The Subaru Ascent has a more spacious interior, with seating for up to eight passengers compared to the Acura RDX‘s seating for five.