What To Know
- The Ascent offers a more spacious second row with more legroom and headroom, while the Explorer has a wider third row.
- The Subaru Ascent has a slight advantage in fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
- The Ford Explorer is a better choice if you value a more powerful engine, a wider third row, and a more advanced safety system.
When it comes to choosing the perfect three-row SUV for your family, the Subaru Ascent and Ford Explorer are two formidable contenders. Both vehicles offer ample space, advanced features, and impressive performance. But which one reigns supreme? In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into every aspect of the Subaru Ascent vs Ford Explorer to help you make an informed decision.
Interior Space and Comfort
Space: The Subaru Ascent has a slight edge over the Explorer in terms of interior space. With 153.5 cubic feet of passenger volume and 17.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, the Ascent provides ample room for passengers and their belongings. The Explorer offers 152.7 cubic feet of passenger volume and 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row.
Comfort: Both vehicles feature comfortable seats with adjustable lumbar support. The Ascent offers a more spacious second row with more legroom and headroom, while the Explorer has a wider third row.
Performance and Handling
Acceleration: The Ford Explorer boasts a more powerful engine, with a 3.3-liter V6 producing 290 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The Ascent, on the other hand, has a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine that generates 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.
Handling: The Subaru Ascent benefits from its symmetrical all-wheel drive system, which provides excellent traction and stability. The Ford Explorer’s rear-wheel drive configuration, with optional all-wheel drive, offers a slightly more engaging driving experience.
Fuel Efficiency
The Subaru Ascent has a slight advantage in fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The Ford Explorer returns 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
Technology and Features
Infotainment: The Ascent features a user-friendly 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The Explorer offers a smaller 8-inch touchscreen with the same connectivity features.
Safety: Both vehicles have a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Explorer has a slight edge with its available Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0 system, which includes hands-free lane centering and adaptive cruise control.
Reliability and Warranty
The Subaru Ascent has a slightly better reliability rating than the Ford Explorer, according to J.D. Power. Both vehicles come with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Price and Value
The Subaru Ascent starts at $33,970, while the Ford Explorer starts at $35,655. The Ascent offers a more spacious interior, better fuel efficiency, and a slightly better reliability rating. The Explorer provides a more powerful engine, a wider third row, and a more advanced safety system.
Which One Is Right for You?
The Subaru Ascent is the better choice if you prioritize interior space, fuel efficiency, and reliability. The Ford Explorer is a better choice if you value a more powerful engine, a wider third row, and a more advanced safety system.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which SUV has a better towing capacity?
A: The Ford Explorer has a higher towing capacity of 5,600 lbs, while the Subaru Ascent has a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs.
Q: Which SUV has a better off-roading capability?
A: The Subaru Ascent has a slight advantage in off-roading capability due to its symmetrical all-wheel drive system.
Q: Which SUV has a more luxurious interior?
A: The Explorer offers a more luxurious interior with higher-quality materials and more soft-touch surfaces.