The ultimate guide to kia telluride vs. subaru ascent in snowy conditions

Winter driving can be a daunting task, especially when navigating treacherous snow-covered roads. When it comes to choosing a reliable vehicle for such conditions, the Kia Telluride and Subaru Ascent emerge as top contenders. Both SUVs boast impressive capabilities, but which one reigns supreme in the realm of snowy adventures? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each vehicle to determine the ultimate winter warrior.

Performance in the White Stuff

Ground Clearance: The Telluride and Ascent offer ample ground clearance, essential for traversing snow-covered obstacles. The Telluride boasts a ground clearance of 8.0 inches, while the Ascent provides 8.7 inches, giving it a slight edge in deep snow.

All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Both SUVs come standard with AWD systems, ensuring optimal traction and stability on slippery surfaces. However, the Telluride’s Dynamax™ AWD system features a locking center differential, providing enhanced grip when encountering severe snow conditions.

Snow Mode: The Telluride and Ascent feature dedicated Snow Mode settings that optimize their performance in snowy conditions. These modes adjust throttle response, transmission shifting, and stability control to maximize traction and minimize wheel spin.

Traction and Stability

Snow Tires: While both vehicles can be equipped with snow tires, the Ascent comes standard with all-season tires that are designed to perform well in various weather conditions. The Telluride, on the other hand, requires snow tires as an optional upgrade.

Traction Control: Both SUVs feature advanced traction control systems that help maintain control on slippery surfaces. The Telluride’s Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control System (TCS) work together to prevent wheel spin and maintain stability. The Ascent’s Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) system serves a similar function, ensuring optimal handling in snow.

Interior Comfort and Convenience

Heated Seats and Steering Wheel: Both the Telluride and Ascent offer heated front seats and steering wheels, providing warmth and comfort on frigid winter drives. The Telluride, however, offers heated second-row seats as an optional feature, while the Ascent only provides them on higher trim levels.

Dual-Zone Climate Control: Both SUVs feature dual-zone climate control, allowing the driver and front passenger to adjust the temperature independently. The Telluride’s system includes rear-seat vents for enhanced comfort throughout the cabin.

Cargo Space: When it comes to cargo space, the Telluride offers a cavernous 21 cubic feet behind the third row, expandable to 87 cubic feet with all seats folded down. The Ascent provides 17.6 cubic feet behind the third row and 86.5 cubic feet with all seats folded, making it slightly less spacious.

Safety and Reliability

Safety Features: Both the Telluride and Ascent have earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). They feature a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.

Reliability: The Telluride and Ascent have both received high marks for reliability from J.D. Power and Associates. However, the Telluride has a slightly higher predicted reliability rating, indicating fewer potential issues over time.

Fuel Economy and Cost

Fuel Economy: The Telluride and Ascent offer comparable fuel economy in the city and on the highway. The Telluride’s EPA-estimated fuel economy is 18/24 mpg (city/highway), while the Ascent’s is 18/25 mpg.

Cost: The base price of the Telluride is slightly lower than that of the Ascent. However, the Ascent offers more standard features, such as all-season tires and a larger touchscreen display.

Conclusion: The Winter Warrior of Choice

After carefully comparing the Kia Telluride and Subaru Ascent in various snow-related aspects, we can conclude that both vehicles are highly capable performers in winter conditions. The Telluride’s locking center differential and optional heated second-row seats give it a slight edge in severe snow conditions, while the Ascent’s standard all-season tires and slightly higher ground clearance make it a more versatile option. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on individual preferences and specific driving needs.

FAQ

Q: Which vehicle has better fuel economy in the snow?
A: Both vehicles offer comparable fuel economy in snowy conditions.

Q: Does the Subaru Ascent come with snow tires as standard?
A: No, the Ascent comes standard with all-season tires. Snow tires are available as an optional upgrade.

Q: Which SUV has a larger cargo capacity?
A: The Kia Telluride offers a slightly larger cargo capacity than the Subaru Ascent.

Q: Is the Telluride’s AWD system more advanced than the Ascent’s?
A: Yes, the Telluride’s Dynamax™ AWD system features a locking center differential, providing enhanced grip in severe snow conditions.

Q: Which vehicle has a higher predicted reliability rating?
A: The Kia Telluride has a slightly higher predicted reliability rating from J.D. Power and Associates.