Ultimate suv showdown: subaru ascent vs. gmc acadia – which reigns supreme?

In the realm of family-friendly SUVs, the Subaru Ascent and GMC Acadia stand out as two formidable contenders. Both vehicles offer spacious interiors, versatile features, and capable performance. But which one is the right choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Subaru Ascent and GMC Acadia, helping you make an informed decision.

Interior Space and Comfort

Subaru Ascent: The Ascent boasts an impressive interior with ample room for up to eight passengers. The first two rows of seats are spacious, with plenty of legroom and headroom. The third row is also reasonably comfortable for adults, making the Ascent a great choice for large families.

GMC Acadia: The Acadia offers a slightly smaller interior than the Ascent, but it still provides ample space for five or six passengers. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, and the second row offers plenty of legroom. However, the third row is best suited for children or occasional use.

Cargo Capacity

Subaru Ascent: The Ascent has a generous cargo capacity of 19.6 cubic feet behind the third row of seats. With the third row folded down, the cargo space expands to 47.6 cubic feet.

GMC Acadia: The Acadia’s cargo capacity is slightly less than the Ascent’s, at 12.8 cubic feet behind the third row of seats. With the third row folded down, the cargo space increases to 41.7 cubic feet.

Performance and Fuel Economy

Subaru Ascent: The Ascent is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It comes standard with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive. The Ascent’s fuel economy is rated at 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.

GMC Acadia: The Acadia offers a range of engine options, including a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a 3.6-liter V6, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. The V6 engine is the most powerful, producing 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. All Acadia models come standard with a nine-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The Acadia’s fuel economy ranges from 21 mpg city and 29 mpg highway for the four-cylinder engine to 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway for the V6 engine.

Safety Features

Subaru Ascent: The Ascent comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. It also received a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

GMC Acadia: The Acadia also offers a comprehensive range of safety features, including forward collision warning, lane keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. It received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

Technology and Infotainment

Subaru Ascent: The Ascent features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It also includes a premium sound system and a navigation system.

GMC Acadia: The Acadia’s infotainment system features a larger 10.2-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It also includes a Bose premium sound system and a navigation system.

Price and Value

Subaru Ascent: The Ascent has a starting price of $33,895 for the base model. The top-of-the-line Touring trim starts at $47,495.

GMC Acadia: The Acadia has a starting price of $33,995 for the base model. The top-of-the-line Denali trim starts at $48,995.

Which One is Right for You?

Ultimately, the choice between the Subaru Ascent and GMC Acadia depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you value interior space, cargo capacity, and all-wheel drive, the Ascent is a great choice. If you prefer a more powerful engine, a larger infotainment screen, and a slightly lower price, the Acadia may be a better fit.

Questions You May Have

Q: Which vehicle has better fuel economy, the Subaru Ascent or GMC Acadia?
A: The Subaru Ascent has slightly better fuel economy than the GMC Acadia, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway compared to the Acadia’s 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.

Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The GMC Acadia offers a more powerful engine option than the Subaru Ascent, with the 3.6-liter V6 producing 310 horsepower compared to the Ascent’s 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 260 horsepower.

Q: Which vehicle has a higher safety rating?
A: Both the Subaru Ascent and GMC Acadia received a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).