If you’re searching for a multipurpose family car, you might want to learn about Subaru Ascent vs. Outback.
It might be tough to choose between the many Subaru SUVs, especially because they all provide great value and extensive standard features in common.
The largest difference between the Ascent and the Outback is size. The new Ascent is a three-row, eight-seat crossover SUV while the Outback is a two-row, five-seat crossover SUV. There are also going to be differences in maneuverability because of this.
People have a lot of trouble with Subarus because they can’t decide which one to choose.
The Japanese car company has indeed stepped up the quality and is making some truly amazing SUVs. The Outback and Ascent are two of the cars that may have people split up.
We know it can be hard to choose between the two. Therefore, we’ve looked at the models with the help of extensive research to help you decide.
Let’s see which SUV is better for you and your family.
The Key Difference between Subaru Ascent and Outback
The Subaru Ascent and Outback are both popular models in the Subaru lineup, but they have some key differences.
One of the most important is that the Outback is a wagon with SUV-like capabilities, while the Ascent is an SUV that offers many similar features as the Outback.
Here are a few key differences between both these vehicles.
Size
There are some key differences between the Subaru Ascent and Outback when it comes to dimensions.
The Ascent is a bit bigger, both in terms of overall vehicle size and interior space.
It’s about the same size as the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, making it one of the biggest mid-size SUVs today.
Exterior Design
Subaru’s newest SUV, the Ascent, is a great car for families who need lots of space and seating.
But how does it compare to another popular Subaru model – the Outback?
Let’s take a look at some of the key exterior differences between these two models so that you can decide which one is right for you.
The first major difference between the Ascent and Outback is their size.
The Ascent is quite a bit taller and wider than the Outback, which means that it’s much more spacious inside.
If you want to seat eight people in an SUV comfortably, then the Ascent is definitely your best bet.
Additionally, it has a larger cargo area, so you can fit more gear when you’re heading out on a road trip.
Another key difference is in their ground clearance. The Ascent has 8.7 inches of ground clearance, while the Outback only has 8.5 inches.
This may not seem like much, but it can make a big difference when you’re driving on off-road terrain or in inclement weather conditions.
Finally, the Ascent has standard roof rails and crossbars, while these features are optional in the Outback.
If you need to carry bulky items like kayaks or bicycles on your roof, this could be an important difference.
Interior Design
The Subaru Ascent and Outback have some key differences when it comes to interior design.
The Ascent has a much more spacious and comfortable interior than the Outback, for starters.
The Ascent also has a higher-quality cabin with more premium materials and is significantly larger than the Outback in terms of passenger and cargo space.
For this reason, it makes sense that the Ascent is more expensive than the Outback.
Another big difference is in the infotainment system.
The Ascent comes standard with Subaru’s STARLINK system, which includes a high-resolution touchscreen display with smartphone integration capabilities.
By contrast, the Outback only offers an infotainment system as an upgrade.
Overall, if you’re looking for a spacious and comfortable interior with excellent premium materials, then the Ascent would be a good choice.
The Outback has a more rugged exterior design and comes standard with all-wheel drive.
It also has a lower starting price than the Ascent. So, if you’re on a budget, the Outback may be a better option.
Performance
The Subaru Ascent is a great vehicle for anyone who wants to be able to haul cargo and tow heavy loads.
Its larger size allows it to have more interior space and storage capacity than other vehicles in the Subaru lineup, making it perfect for family road trips or camping adventures.
Plus, with standard all-wheel-drive as well as a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine, the Ascent has plenty of power to get you up and down hills with ease.
If you’re looking for a vehicle that’s more focused on fuel efficiency, the Outback is a great choice.
Its 2.5-liter boxer engine is smaller and more efficient than the Ascent’s, meaning you’ll save money at the pump.
Plus, with standard front-wheel drive, the Outback is more efficient in terms of traction and stability.
So, if you’re looking for a vehicle that’s easy on your wallet and won’t leave you stranded in the snow, the Outback is a great option.
Comfort and Luxury
There is a big difference between the Subaru Ascent and Outback when it comes to comfort and luxury.
The Ascent is a much more luxurious vehicle, while the Outback is more focused on comfort.
The Ascent has standard features like heated front and second-row seats and a heated steering wheel. It also has a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and an 8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Outback, on the other hand, only has a 6-way manually adjustable driver’s seat and a 7-inch infotainment system.
Safety Features
When it comes to safety, both the Subaru Ascent and Outback offer a variety of features designed to protect you and your passengers.
However, some key differences between the two models are worth considering.
The Ascent comes standard with adaptive cruise control, which can automatically adjust your speed to maintain a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you.
The Outback, on the other hand, requires you to upgrade to a higher trim level in order to get this type of driver assistance technology.
Another safety feature that the Ascent offers is blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, which helps prevent accidents when changing lanes or backing out of your driveway.
The Outback has a similar system, but it’s not standard on all trim levels.
Finally, the Ascent comes with automatic high beam headlights, which can help you see better at night and in low-visibility conditions.
The Outback offers this feature, but you’ll need to upgrade to a higher trim level to get it.
Price and Value
Price is one of the main ways to distinguish between these two models. Generally speaking, the Ascent tends to be more expensive than the Outback.
This is because the Ascent is a newer model, and it offers more features than the Outback.
However, some trim levels of the Outback can be just as expensive as the Ascent.
Final Remarks on Subaru Outback vs. Ascent
Both models offer a lot for their price tag when it comes to value. However, the Ascent has a few extra features that help it stand out.
For example, the Ascent offers three rows for seating and plenty of cargo space, which you can’t get with the Outback.
Additionally, the Ascent is powered by a turbocharged engine that delivers improved performance over the Outback.
Whichever car you end up choosing with drive great, it just depends on the small differences you prefer. Happy driving!
