Suv showdown: subaru ascent vs ford explorer – unlocking the ultimate adventure machine

In the realm of spacious and versatile SUVs, the Subaru Ascent and Ford Explorer stand out as formidable contenders. Both vehicles offer an impressive array of features, making them ideal for families and adventure enthusiasts alike. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of both SUVs, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and how they stack up against each other.

Exterior Design

The Subaru Ascent exudes a bold and rugged exterior with its imposing grille and muscular lines. Its sleek profile and sharp angles give it a modern and sporty appearance. The Ford Explorer, on the other hand, boasts a more traditional SUV design with a boxy shape and a prominent grille. While both vehicles have their own distinct aesthetic appeal, the Ascent’s contemporary design may resonate more with those seeking a more stylish and aerodynamic SUV.

Interior Space and Comfort

Both the Ascent and Explorer offer ample interior space for passengers and cargo. The Ascent boasts a spacious three-row cabin with seating for up to eight passengers, making it ideal for large families or groups. The Explorer also offers a three-row configuration with seating for up to seven, but its third row is slightly less spacious than the Ascent’s. In terms of cargo capacity, the Explorer has a slight edge over the Ascent, with a maximum cargo volume of 87.8 cubic feet compared to the Ascent’s 86.5 cubic feet.

Performance and Handling

The Subaru Ascent is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The Ford Explorer offers a choice of three engines: a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder, a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6, and a 3.3-liter hybrid V6. The EcoBoost V6 produces the most power, with 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.

In terms of handling, the Ascent’s standard all-wheel drive system provides excellent traction and stability in all weather conditions. The Explorer’s available all-wheel drive system also offers impressive performance, but the Ascent’s standard all-wheel drive gives it a slight edge in this category.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for SUV buyers. The Subaru Ascent with the 2.4-liter turbocharged engine achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The Ford Explorer with the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The Explorer’s 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 has slightly lower fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

Technology and Safety

Both the Subaru Ascent and Ford Explorer come equipped with a comprehensive suite of technology and safety features. The Ascent features a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a suite of advanced safety features such as lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Explorer offers a larger 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a wireless charging pad, and a similar suite of safety features.

Price and Value

The Subaru Ascent has a starting price of $33,095, while the Ford Explorer starts at $34,375. Both vehicles offer a range of trim levels with various features and options, so the price can vary depending on the specific configuration. Overall, the Ascent and Explorer offer comparable value for the money, with both vehicles providing a spacious and well-equipped SUV experience.

Recommendations: The Ideal Choice for Your Needs

The Subaru Ascent and Ford Explorer are both excellent choices for SUV buyers seeking a spacious, versatile, and feature-rich vehicle. The Ascent stands out with its stylish design, standard all-wheel drive, and slightly more spacious third row. The Explorer offers a more powerful V6 engine option, a larger infotainment system, and a slightly more spacious cargo area.

Ultimately, the best choice between the two SUVs depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize style, all-wheel drive, and interior space, the Subaru Ascent may be the better option. If you prefer a more powerful V6 engine, a larger infotainment system, and a slightly more spacious cargo area, the Ford Explorer is a solid choice.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
A: The Ford Explorer with the 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine has the most power, with 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.

Q: Which SUV has a better fuel economy?
A: The Subaru Ascent with the 2.4-liter turbocharged engine has slightly better fuel economy than the Ford Explorer with the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, achieving 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway compared to the Explorer’s 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

Q: Which SUV has a larger infotainment system?
A: The Ford Explorer offers a larger 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while the Subaru Ascent has a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system.