What To Know
- The 4Runner is renowned for its exceptional off-roading capabilities, boasting a rugged body-on-frame construction, a powerful V6 engine, and advanced traction systems like Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select.
- It features a unibody construction, a turbocharged flat-four engine, and X-Mode, a system that optimizes traction and stability in off-road conditions.
- The Ascent, on the other hand, offers more interior space, better fuel economy, and a more comfortable ride, making it ideal for families and adventurers who prioritize comfort and versatility.
In the realm of rugged off-roading and spacious family adventures, the Toyota 4Runner and Subaru Ascent stand as two formidable contenders. Both vehicles offer a blend of capability, comfort, and versatility, but each comes with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the depths of these two adventure machines to determine which one reigns supreme in the battle of Toyota 4Runner vs Subaru Ascent.
Off-Roading Prowess
4Runner: The 4Runner is renowned for its exceptional off-roading capabilities, boasting a rugged body-on-frame construction, a powerful V6 engine, and advanced traction systems like Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select. It can conquer challenging trails, navigate steep inclines, and traverse rough terrain with ease.
Ascent: While not as off-road-focused as the 4Runner, the Ascent still offers respectable off-roading performance. It features a unibody construction, a turbocharged flat-four engine, and X-Mode, a system that optimizes traction and stability in off-road conditions. It can handle light trails and snowy roads with confidence.
Interior Space and Comfort
4Runner: The 4Runner provides ample interior space for passengers and cargo. It has a spacious cabin with comfortable seats and plenty of legroom. However, the cargo area is somewhat limited due to the vehicle’s rugged design.
Ascent: The Ascent excels in interior space, offering a roomy cabin with three rows of seating and a generous cargo area. The seats are well-cushioned and provide excellent support, making it ideal for long road trips.
Safety Features
4Runner: The 4Runner comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Toyota Safety Sense P, which includes lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. It also offers blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Ascent: The Ascent also boasts a robust safety package, featuring Subaru‘s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. It also offers blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as standard.
Towing and Payload Capacity
4Runner: The 4Runner has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,500 pounds. This makes it suitable for towing small to medium-sized trailers or hauling heavy gear.
Ascent: The Ascent’s towing capacity is slightly lower at 5,000 pounds, but its payload capacity is higher at 1,625 pounds. This makes it a good choice for towing larger trailers or hauling heavy equipment.
Fuel Economy
4Runner: The 4Runner’s fuel economy is not its strong suit, with an EPA-estimated 17 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway.
Ascent: The Ascent offers better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. Its turbocharged engine and continuously variable transmission contribute to its improved efficiency.
Price and Value
4Runner: The Toyota 4Runner starts at $37,540 for the base SR5 trim. Higher trims offer more features and capabilities, but the price can climb quickly.
Ascent: The Subaru Ascent starts at $33,895 for the base trim. It offers a good balance of features and value, with higher trims offering more luxury and convenience.
Which Vehicle is Right for You?
The Toyota 4Runner and Subaru Ascent are both excellent vehicles with unique strengths and weaknesses. The 4Runner is the ultimate choice for off-road enthusiasts who demand ruggedness and capability. The Ascent, on the other hand, offers more interior space, better fuel economy, and a more comfortable ride, making it ideal for families and adventurers who prioritize comfort and versatility.
Summary Table:
| Feature | Toyota 4Runner | Subaru Ascent |
| — | — | — |
| Off-Roading Prowess | Exceptional | Respectable |
| Interior Space and Comfort | Ample | Roomy with Three Rows |
| Safety Features | Comprehensive | Robust |
| Towing and Payload Capacity | 5,000 lbs / 1,500 lbs | 5,000 lbs / 1,625 lbs |
| Fuel Economy | 17 mpg city / 20 mpg highway | 21 mpg city / 27 mpg highway |
| Price and Value | Starts at $37,540 | Starts at $33,895 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which vehicle is better for families?
A: The Subaru Ascent offers more interior space, better fuel economy, and a more comfortable ride, making it the better choice for families.
Q: Which vehicle has better off-roading capabilities?
A: The Toyota 4Runner has exceptional off-roading capabilities with its rugged construction and advanced traction systems.
Q: Which vehicle is more affordable?
A: The Subaru Ascent has a lower starting price than the Toyota 4Runner.