The ultimate family hauler battle: subaru ascent vs. chevrolet traverse, specs vs. specs

What To Know

  • The Chevrolet Traverse boasts a more advanced infotainment system with a larger 8-inch or 10-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot.
  • The Ascent’s turbocharged engine and CVT combination deliver an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, while the Traverse’s V6 engine gets 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
  • The Ascent offers a rugged exterior, more interior space, and slightly better fuel efficiency, while the Traverse boasts a more advanced infotainment system and a more powerful V6 engine option.

When it comes to choosing a spacious and versatile family vehicle, the Subaru Ascent and Chevrolet Traverse stand out as two top contenders. Both SUVs offer ample seating, advanced safety features, and impressive performance capabilities. But which one is the better choice for your needs? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Subaru Ascent vs. Chevrolet Traverse to help you make an informed decision.

Exterior Design

The Subaru Ascent boasts a rugged and adventurous exterior design, featuring a bold grille, sharp headlights, and muscular body lines. Its sleek roofline and panoramic moonroof add a touch of sophistication.

In contrast, the Chevrolet Traverse exudes a more urban and contemporary aesthetic. Its smooth contours, sweeping roofline, and chrome accents give it a refined and upscale appearance.

Interior Space and Comfort

Both SUVs offer generous interior space for up to eight passengers. However, the Ascent has a slightly larger overall volume, providing more legroom and headroom in all three rows.

Both vehicles feature comfortable and supportive seats, with the Traverse offering slightly more plush cushioning. The Ascent’s heated and ventilated front seats provide additional comfort and convenience.

Technology and Features

The Subaru Ascent comes equipped with a user-friendly infotainment system featuring a 6.5-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. It also offers a suite of advanced safety features, including EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

The Chevrolet Traverse boasts a more advanced infotainment system with a larger 8-inch or 10-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. It also offers a comprehensive array of safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane keep assist.

Performance and Handling

The Subaru Ascent is powered by a standard 2.4-liter turbocharged engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. It comes with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive, providing excellent traction and stability in all conditions.

The Chevrolet Traverse offers a choice of two engines: a 3.6-liter V6 with 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, or a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. It comes with a nine-speed automatic transmission and available all-wheel drive.

Fuel Efficiency

The Subaru Ascent has a slight edge over the Chevrolet Traverse in terms of fuel efficiency. The Ascent’s turbocharged engine and CVT combination deliver an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, while the Traverse’s V6 engine gets 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

Price and Value

The Subaru Ascent has a base MSRP of $33,895, while the Chevrolet Traverse starts at $34,095. Both SUVs offer a wide range of trim levels and options, with the top-of-the-line Ascent Touring XT costing $49,195 and the Traverse High Country starting at $53,600.

The Verdict: Which SUV is Right for You?

The Subaru Ascent and Chevrolet Traverse are both excellent choices for families seeking a spacious and versatile SUV. The Ascent offers a rugged exterior, more interior space, and slightly better fuel efficiency, while the Traverse boasts a more advanced infotainment system and a more powerful V6 engine option.

Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize off-road capability, interior comfort, and fuel efficiency, the Subaru Ascent is a great pick. If you value advanced technology, a more refined interior, and a more powerful engine, the Chevrolet Traverse is worth considering.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Which SUV has more third-row legroom?
A: The Subaru Ascent offers more legroom in the third row than the Chevrolet Traverse.

Q: Does the Subaru Ascent come with a sunroof?
A: Yes, the Subaru Ascent comes with a panoramic moonroof as standard.

Q: Which SUV has a higher towing capacity?
A: The Chevrolet Traverse has a higher towing capacity than the Subaru Ascent, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds compared to the Ascent’s 5,000 pounds.

Q: Is the Chevrolet Traverse available with a diesel engine?
A: No, the Chevrolet Traverse is not available with a diesel engine.

Q: Which SUV has a better warranty?
A: The Subaru Ascent comes with a longer basic warranty than the Chevrolet Traverse, with a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty compared to the Traverse’s 3-year/36,000-mile warranty.