Ascent vs. grand cherokee: the ultimate 7-seater showdown

When it comes to choosing the ideal SUV for your active lifestyle, the Subaru Ascent and Jeep Grand Cherokee emerge as formidable contenders. Both vehicles boast impressive capabilities, spacious interiors, and advanced safety features. However, each model offers unique strengths and considerations that warrant a thorough comparison. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the key aspects of the Subaru Ascent vs Grand Cherokee, helping you make an informed decision about which SUV aligns best with your needs.

Performance and Capability

The Subaru Ascent and Grand Cherokee offer distinct performance characteristics. The Ascent is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), the Ascent provides smooth acceleration and impressive fuel efficiency for its size.

In contrast, the Grand Cherokee offers a range of engine options, including a 3.6-liter V6, a 5.7-liter V8, and a 6.4-liter V8. The V6 engine delivers 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, while the V8 engines offer significantly more power and torque. The Grand Cherokee also comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

When it comes to off-road capability, the Grand Cherokee has a slight edge over the Ascent. The Grand Cherokee offers a variety of four-wheel drive systems, including the Quadra-Drive II system with an electronic limited-slip differential, which provides excellent traction and stability on rough terrain. The Ascent, on the other hand, features a standard symmetrical all-wheel drive system that offers impressive handling and grip on various surfaces.

Interior and Space

Both the Subaru Ascent and Grand Cherokee offer spacious and comfortable interiors. The Ascent boasts a three-row seating configuration with seating for up to eight passengers. The second and third rows of seats are spacious and offer ample legroom and headroom. The Ascent also features a generous amount of cargo space behind the third row of seats.

The Grand Cherokee offers a more traditional two-row seating configuration with seating for up to five passengers. However, the front and second rows of seats are spacious and offer excellent support. The Grand Cherokee also provides a generous amount of cargo space behind the second row of seats.

Technology and Features

The Subaru Ascent and Grand Cherokee come equipped with a range of advanced technology and features. The Ascent features a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while the Grand Cherokee offers a larger 8.4-inch touchscreen. Both systems include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing for seamless smartphone integration.

The Ascent also comes standard with a suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Grand Cherokee offers a similar range of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control.

Off-Road Performance

As mentioned earlier, the Grand Cherokee has a slight edge over the Ascent in terms of off-road performance. The Grand Cherokee’s available four-wheel drive systems, coupled with its impressive ground clearance, make it a capable off-roader. The Ascent, while not as capable as the Grand Cherokee, still offers impressive off-road performance thanks to its standard all-wheel drive system and X-Mode system, which optimizes the vehicle’s settings for different off-road conditions.

Reliability and Safety

Both the Subaru Ascent and Grand Cherokee have earned high ratings for reliability and safety. The Ascent has received a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Grand Cherokee has also received a five-star safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from IIHS.

Price and Value

The Subaru Ascent has a starting price of $33,870, while the Grand Cherokee has a starting price of $38,325. The Ascent offers a more affordable entry point, while the Grand Cherokee offers a wider range of trim levels and engine options.

Which SUV is Right for You?

Ultimately, the choice between the Subaru Ascent and Grand Cherokee depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, affordability, and a spacious interior, the Ascent is an excellent choice. If you demand maximum off-road capability and a luxurious cabin, the Grand Cherokee is the better option.

Recommendations

Both the Subaru Ascent and Jeep Grand Cherokee are exceptional SUVs that offer a compelling blend of performance, space, and technology. By carefully considering the key differences between these two vehicles, you can make an informed decision about which SUV best aligns with your lifestyle and driving needs. Whether you choose the Ascent for its affordability and versatility or the Grand Cherokee for its off-road prowess and premium interior, you can be confident in selecting a vehicle that will provide years of reliable and enjoyable driving experiences.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Which SUV has better fuel economy?
A: The Subaru Ascent offers better fuel economy than the Grand Cherokee, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway compared to the Grand Cherokee’s 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

Q: Which SUV has a larger cargo capacity?
A: The Subaru Ascent offers a larger cargo capacity than the Grand Cherokee, with 17.8 cubic feet of space behind the third row of seats compared to the Grand Cherokee’s 10.2 cubic feet of space behind the second row of seats.

Q: Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
A: The Grand Cherokee offers a more powerful engine option than the Ascent, with the 6.4-liter V8 engine producing 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque compared to the Ascent’s 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine, which produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.