What To Know
- The Ascent features a user-friendly touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, as well as standard features such as a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
- Safety is paramount for family vehicles, and both the Subaru Ascent and Acura MDX have received top ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- The Ascent offers a slight edge in fuel efficiency, interior space, and reliability, while the MDX boasts a more premium infotainment system and a wider range of standard features.
In the realm of family-oriented SUVs, two titans stand tall: the Subaru Ascent and the Acura MDX. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of space, comfort, and performance, making them ideal choices for discerning families. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Subaru Ascent and Acura MDX, helping you make an informed decision that best meets your needs.
Performance
Under the hood, the Subaru Ascent boasts a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine that delivers 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This potent engine provides ample power for everyday driving and effortless passing maneuvers. The Acura MDX, on the other hand, offers a choice of two powertrains: a 3.5-liter V6 with 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, or a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 with 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. While the MDX’s V6 engines offer slightly more power, the Ascent’s turbocharged boxer engine provides superior low-end torque for a more responsive driving experience.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for family vehicles. The Subaru Ascent returns an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive models achieve slightly lower fuel economy at 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. The Acura MDX with the 3.5-liter V6 engine achieves 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while the 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 model returns 16 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. Overall, the Subaru Ascent offers a slight advantage in fuel efficiency, especially with its front-wheel drive configuration.
Interior Space and Comfort
Both the Subaru Ascent and Acura MDX offer spacious and comfortable interiors designed to accommodate families of all sizes. The Ascent boasts a roomy cabin with ample headroom and legroom in all three rows of seating. The MDX provides comparable interior dimensions, but the Ascent offers a slight edge in cargo space, with 17.8 cubic feet behind the third row compared to 15.8 cubic feet in the MDX. Both vehicles feature comfortable seats with supportive cushions and adjustable lumbar support.
Technology and Features
The Subaru Ascent and Acura MDX come equipped with a suite of advanced technology and features to enhance convenience and safety. The Ascent features a user-friendly touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, as well as standard features such as a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The MDX offers a more premium infotainment experience with a larger touchscreen display and a more intuitive interface. It also boasts a wider range of standard features, including a navigation system, heated front seats, and a power liftgate.
Safety
Safety is paramount for family vehicles, and both the Subaru Ascent and Acura MDX have received top ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Ascent earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by IIHS. The MDX also received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by IIHS. Both vehicles offer a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning.
Reliability and Maintenance
Reliability and maintenance costs are important considerations for any vehicle, especially for family SUVs. The Subaru Ascent has a reputation for exceptional reliability, with few reported problems and low maintenance costs. The Acura MDX has also proven to be a reliable vehicle, but it may have slightly higher maintenance costs due to its premium features and more complex powertrain options.
Which SUV is Right for You?
The Subaru Ascent and Acura MDX are both excellent choices for families seeking a spacious, comfortable, and well-equipped SUV. The Ascent offers a slight edge in fuel efficiency, interior space, and reliability, while the MDX boasts a more premium infotainment system and a wider range of standard features. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Which SUV has more horsepower?
A: The Acura MDX with the 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine has more horsepower (355 hp) than the Subaru Ascent (260 hp).
Q: Which SUV has better fuel economy?
A: The Subaru Ascent with front-wheel drive has better fuel economy (20 mpg city/26 mpg highway) than the Acura MDX (19 mpg city/26 mpg highway with the 3.5-liter V6 engine).
Q: Which SUV has more cargo space?
A: The Subaru Ascent has more cargo space (17.8 cubic feet behind the third row) than the Acura MDX (15.8 cubic feet behind the third row).
Q: Which SUV has a better infotainment system?
A: The Acura MDX has a more premium infotainment system with a larger touchscreen display and a more intuitive interface.
Q: Which SUV is more reliable?
A: The Subaru Ascent has a reputation for exceptional reliability, with few reported problems and low maintenance costs.