Suv showdown: subaru ascent vs. ford edge – which reigns supreme?

When it comes to choosing a midsize SUV, two of the most popular options are the Subaru Ascent and the Ford Edge. Both vehicles offer a spacious interior, impressive performance, and advanced safety features. However, there are also some key differences between the two models that may help you make a decision. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare the Subaru Ascent vs. Ford Edge in various aspects to help you determine which SUV is the best fit for your needs.

Performance

Engine and Powertrain

The Subaru Ascent comes equipped with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive.

The Ford Edge offers two engine options: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 250 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.7-liter turbocharged V6 engine that produces 335 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive is optional on the four-cylinder model and standard on the V6.

Fuel Economy

In terms of fuel economy, the Subaru Ascent has a slight advantage. The EPA estimates that the Ascent with all-wheel drive gets 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The Ford Edge with all-wheel drive gets 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway with the four-cylinder engine, while the V6 model gets 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

Interior

Space and Comfort

The Subaru Ascent offers a spacious interior with seating for up to eight passengers. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, and the second row provides ample legroom and headroom. The third row is best suited for children or occasional use.

The Ford Edge has a smaller interior than the Ascent, but it still offers plenty of room for five passengers. The front seats are comfortable, but the second row is a bit tighter. The Edge does not offer a third row of seats.

Cargo Capacity

The Subaru Ascent has a larger cargo capacity than the Ford Edge. Behind the third row of seats, the Ascent offers 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space. With the second and third rows folded down, the cargo capacity expands to a massive 86.5 cubic feet.

The Ford Edge has 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row of seats. With the second row folded down, the cargo capacity increases to 73.4 cubic feet.

Safety

Both the Subaru Ascent and the Ford Edge have received excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The Ascent earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. The Edge also received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, but it only earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.

Technology

Infotainment System

The Subaru Ascent comes standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a four-speaker audio system. Available upgrades include an 8.0-inch touchscreen, a navigation system, and a premium Harman Kardon audio system.

The Ford Edge comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker audio system. Available upgrades include a 12-inch touchscreen, a navigation system, and a premium B&O audio system.

Driver-Assistance Features

The Subaru Ascent comes standard with a suite of driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Available upgrades include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system.

The Ford Edge also comes standard with a suite of driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Available upgrades include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system.

Pricing

The Subaru Ascent has a starting price of $33,470. The Ford Edge has a starting price of $36,190.

Which SUV is Right for You?

The Subaru Ascent and the Ford Edge are both excellent midsize SUVs. The Ascent offers a more spacious interior, better fuel economy, and a lower starting price. The Edge offers a more powerful engine, a more upscale interior, and a more advanced infotainment system.

Ultimately, the best SUV for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you value space, fuel economy, and affordability, the Subaru Ascent is a great choice. If you want a more powerful engine, a more upscale interior, and a more advanced infotainment system, the Ford Edge is a better option.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Which SUV has a better safety rating?

Both the Subaru Ascent and the Ford Edge have received excellent safety ratings from the NHTSA and the IIHS. However, the Ascent earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, while the Edge only earned a Top Safety Pick rating.

Which SUV has a more spacious interior?

The Subaru Ascent has a more spacious interior than the Ford Edge. It offers seating for up to eight passengers, while the Edge only seats five. The Ascent also has more cargo capacity than the Edge.

Which SUV has a lower starting price?

The Subaru Ascent has a lower starting price than the Ford Edge. The Ascent starts at $33,470, while the Edge starts at $36,190.