Fuel efficiency vs performance: deciding between the subaru ascent and bmw x7

In the realm of SUVs, the Subaru Ascent and BMW X7 stand as formidable contenders, each boasting unique strengths and catering to distinct preferences. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricacies of these two automotive behemoths, exploring their performance, features, practicality, and overall value proposition to help you make an informed decision when choosing your next SUV.

Performance: Power and Efficiency

Engine Options:

Subaru Ascent: The Ascent offers a single engine option, a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.

BMW X7: In contrast, the X7 boasts a wider range of engine options, including a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine with 335 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque, a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine with 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-liter diesel inline-six engine with 265 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque.

Acceleration:

The Subaru Ascent accelerates from 0-60 mph in 6.1 seconds, while the BMW X7 with the inline-six engine takes 5.8 seconds and the V8 engine propels it to 60 mph in a blistering 4.5 seconds.

Fuel Economy:

The Subaru Ascent achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. The BMW X7 with the inline-six engine delivers 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the V8 engine returns 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway.

Features: Technology and Comfort

Infotainment System:

Subaru Ascent: The Ascent features a standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, as well as a built-in navigation system.

BMW X7: The X7 comes equipped with a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with the latest BMW iDrive 8 operating system, which offers advanced features such as gesture control and augmented reality navigation.

Driver Assistance Features:

Subaru Ascent: The Ascent comes standard with a suite of driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.

BMW X7: The X7 offers a more comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, lane keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.

Interior Comfort:

Subaru Ascent: The Ascent’s spacious cabin can accommodate up to eight passengers with comfortable seating and ample legroom. It also features a large panoramic sunroof and tri-zone automatic climate control.

BMW X7: The X7’s luxurious interior offers even more space, with seating for up to seven passengers in the standard configuration or six passengers with the optional captain‘s chairs. It boasts premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a four-zone automatic climate control system.

Practicality: Space and Utility

Cargo Space:

Subaru Ascent: The Ascent offers 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row of seats, 47.6 cubic feet with the third row folded down, and 86.5 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded down.

BMW X7: The X7 provides a slightly smaller cargo space, with 12.8 cubic feet behind the third row of seats, 48.6 cubic feet with the third row folded down, and 90.3 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded down.

Towing Capacity:

Subaru Ascent: The Ascent has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.

BMW X7: The X7 offers a higher towing capacity of 7,500 pounds with the V8 engine and 6,500 pounds with the inline-six engine.

Off-Road Capability:

Subaru Ascent: The Ascent features standard all-wheel drive and 8.7 inches of ground clearance, making it capable of handling light off-road conditions.

BMW X7: The X7 is less suited for off-roading, with a standard two-wheel drive system and only 8.2 inches of ground clearance.

Value Proposition: Price and Ownership Costs

Starting Price:

Subaru Ascent: The Ascent has a starting price of $33,895.

BMW X7: The X7 has a significantly higher starting price of $77,850.

Ownership Costs:

The Subaru Ascent is expected to have lower ownership costs compared to the BMW X7 due to its lower fuel consumption, lower insurance premiums, and more affordable maintenance costs.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right SUV for You

The Subaru Ascent and BMW X7 are both excellent SUVs, but they cater to different needs and preferences. The Ascent is a more affordable and practical choice for families who prioritize space, fuel economy, and off-road capability. The X7, on the other hand, offers a more luxurious and technologically advanced experience, along with higher performance and towing capacity. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific requirements and budget.

What People Want to Know

Q: Which SUV has a more powerful engine?

A: The BMW X7 with the V8 engine has the most powerful engine with 523 horsepower.

Q: Which SUV has a more spacious interior?

A: The BMW X7 offers more space in both the passenger and cargo areas.

Q: Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?

A: The Subaru Ascent has better fuel economy than the BMW X7, especially in the city.

Q: Which SUV has better off-road capabilities?

A: The Subaru Ascent has standard all-wheel drive and higher ground clearance, making it more capable in off-road situations.

Q: Which SUV is more affordable?

A: The Subaru Ascent has a lower starting price and lower ownership costs compared to the BMW X7.