Subaru ascent vs jeep cherokee l: the battle for off-road supremacy

The midsize SUV segment is a fiercely competitive arena, with automakers vying for supremacy with their latest offerings. Two prominent players in this arena are the Subaru Ascent and the Jeep Cherokee L. Both vehicles boast impressive capabilities and a loyal following, making it challenging for buyers to choose between them. This comprehensive guide will delve into the key differences between the Subaru Ascent and the Jeep Cherokee L, providing valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.

Performance and Capability

Engine Options and Power

The Subaru Ascent offers a single engine option: a robust 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that delivers smooth and efficient power delivery.

The Jeep Cherokee L, on the other hand, provides a wider range of engine options:

• A 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing 200 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque
• A 2.4-liter naturally aspirated inline-four engine producing 180 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque
• A 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque

All Jeep Cherokee L engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

All-Wheel Drive and Off-Road Prowess

Both the Subaru Ascent and the Jeep Cherokee L come standard with all-wheel drive, providing enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions. The Subaru Ascent features the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which distributes power evenly between the front and rear wheels, ensuring optimal grip and handling.

The Jeep Cherokee L offers the Jeep Active Drive II system, which provides three driving modes: Auto, Sport, and Snow. The Sport mode enhances on-road performance, while the Snow mode optimizes traction in slippery conditions. Additionally, the Jeep Cherokee L Trailhawk trim is specifically designed for off-road enthusiasts, featuring a disconnecting sway bar, all-terrain tires, and a raised suspension.

Interior Space and Comfort

Seating Capacity and Cargo Space

The Subaru Ascent offers three rows of seating, accommodating up to eight passengers. The second and third rows can be folded down to create a spacious cargo area of up to 86.5 cubic feet.

The Jeep Cherokee L also provides seating for up to eight passengers, but the third row is optional. With the second and third rows folded, the Jeep Cherokee L offers a maximum cargo capacity of 74.8 cubic feet.

Interior Features and Technology

The Subaru Ascent boasts a well-equipped interior with comfortable seats and ample legroom in all three rows. It features an intuitive infotainment system with a 6.5-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility.

The Jeep Cherokee L offers a refined interior with premium materials and advanced technology. It features a larger 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Uconnect 5 software, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a variety of other connectivity features.

Safety and Reliability

Safety Features

Both the Subaru Ascent and the Jeep Cherokee L have earned high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The Subaru Ascent comes standard with a suite of driver-assist technologies known as EyeSight, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.

The Jeep Cherokee L offers a range of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability.

Reliability

Both the Subaru Ascent and the Jeep Cherokee L have a proven track record of reliability. However, according to J.D. Power’s 2022 Vehicle Dependability Study, the Subaru Ascent ranks higher than the Jeep Cherokee L in overall dependability.

Fuel Efficiency and Cost

Fuel Economy

The Subaru Ascent returns an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive models have slightly lower fuel economy ratings of 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

The Jeep Cherokee L with the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine gets an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The 2.4-liter naturally aspirated engine has lower fuel economy ratings of 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, while the 3.6-liter V6 engine returns an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

Pricing

The Subaru Ascent has a starting price of $33,895 for the base trim. The Jeep Cherokee L has a slightly lower starting price of $32,995 for the base trim. However, higher trim levels for both vehicles can push the price well into the $40,000 range.

Which Vehicle is Right for You?

The Subaru Ascent and the Jeep Cherokee L are both excellent choices for buyers seeking a spacious and capable midsize SUV. However, each vehicle has its own unique strengths and weaknesses.

If you prioritize fuel efficiency, safety, and a well-equipped interior, the Subaru Ascent is an excellent option. It offers a strong engine, a comprehensive suite of safety features, and a comfortable and practical interior.

If you value off-road capability, a wider range of engine options, and a more premium interior, the Jeep Cherokee L is a better choice. It offers a variety of driving modes and off-road features, as well as a luxurious and technologically advanced interior.

Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. By carefully considering the key differences between the Subaru Ascent and the Jeep Cherokee L, you can make an informed decision that will serve you well for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which vehicle has a larger cargo capacity?

The Subaru Ascent offers a slightly larger cargo capacity of 86.5 cubic feet, compared to the Jeep Cherokee L’s 74.8 cubic feet.

Which vehicle has better fuel economy?

The Jeep Cherokee L with the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine has better fuel economy than the Subaru Ascent, with an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.

Which vehicle is more reliable?

According to J.D. Power’s 2022 Vehicle Dependability Study, the Subaru Ascent ranks higher than the Jeep Cherokee L in overall dependability.

Which vehicle has a more comfortable interior?

Both vehicles offer comfortable interiors, but the Jeep Cherokee L has a more premium and luxurious interior with higher-quality materials and more advanced technology.

Which vehicle is better for off-roading?

The Jeep Cherokee L Trailhawk trim is better for off-roading than the Subaru Ascent. It features a disconnecting sway bar, all-terrain tires, and a raised suspension.