Subaru ascent vs. dodge durango: the ultimate three-row suv showdown

What To Know

  • The Dodge Durango, on the other hand, gets 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway with the V6 engine.
  • The Subaru Ascent and the Dodge Durango come equipped with a range of technology and features.
  • The Durango also has a higher payload capacity, with a maximum payload of 1,380 pounds compared to 1,210 pounds in the Ascent.

When it comes to three-row SUVs, the Subaru Ascent and the Dodge Durango are two top contenders. Both offer a spacious interior, impressive performance, and a wide range of features. However, there are some key differences between these two vehicles that may sway your decision. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the details and help you determine which SUV is the right choice for you: the Subaru Ascent vs the Dodge Durango.

Performance and Powertrain

The Subaru Ascent comes standard with a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that provides smooth and efficient power delivery. The Dodge Durango, on the other hand, offers a range of engine options, including a 3.6-liter V6, a 5.7-liter V8, and a 6.4-liter V8. The base V6 produces 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, while the V8 engines offer significantly more power and torque. The Durango is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Fuel Economy

When it comes to fuel economy, the Subaru Ascent has the edge. The EPA estimates that the Ascent gets 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The Dodge Durango, on the other hand, gets 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway with the V6 engine. The V8 engines get even lower fuel economy.

Interior and Space

Both the Subaru Ascent and the Dodge Durango offer spacious and comfortable interiors. The Ascent has a seating capacity of eight, while the Durango can seat up to seven. Both SUVs offer ample headroom and legroom in all three rows. The Ascent has a slightly larger cargo capacity than the Durango, with 18.3 cubic feet behind the third row of seats compared to 17.2 cubic feet in the Durango.

Technology and Features

The Subaru Ascent and the Dodge Durango come equipped with a range of technology and features. The Ascent features a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The Durango has a larger 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with the same smartphone integration features. Both SUVs offer a variety of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.

Off-Road Capability

The Subaru Ascent is known for its excellent off-road capabilities. It comes standard with all-wheel drive and has a ground clearance of 8.7 inches. The Dodge Durango also offers all-wheel drive, but it has a lower ground clearance of 8.1 inches. The Durango is better suited for light off-roading, such as driving on dirt roads or through snow, while the Ascent is more capable of handling more challenging off-road terrain.

Towing and Payload

The Dodge Durango has a higher towing capacity than the Subaru Ascent. The Durango can tow up to 8,700 pounds when properly equipped, while the Ascent can tow up to 5,000 pounds. The Durango also has a higher payload capacity, with a maximum payload of 1,380 pounds compared to 1,210 pounds in the Ascent.

Which SUV is Right for You?

The Subaru Ascent and the Dodge Durango are both excellent three-row SUVs with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Ascent offers better fuel economy, a more spacious interior, and better off-road capabilities. The Durango offers more powerful engine options, a higher towing capacity, and a more user-friendly infotainment system. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and priorities.

What People Want to Know

Q: Which SUV has a better safety rating?
A: The Subaru Ascent and the Dodge Durango have both received good safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Q: Which SUV has a more comfortable ride?
A: The Subaru Ascent is generally considered to have a more comfortable ride than the Dodge Durango, thanks to its softer suspension.

Q: Which SUV has a lower price?
A: The Subaru Ascent has a lower starting price than the Dodge Durango.