Which suv will conquer your adventure? subaru ascent vs jeep grand cherokee

When it comes to choosing a spacious and capable SUV, the Subaru Ascent and Jeep Grand Cherokee are two top contenders. Both vehicles offer impressive features, but which one is the better choice for your needs? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each SUV, including performance, interior, safety, and technology, to help you make an informed decision.

Performance: Power and Efficiency

Under the hood, the Subaru Ascent boasts a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine that delivers 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain provides ample acceleration and smooth handling, making it a joy to drive in both urban and highway environments. The Ascent also features a standard continuously variable transmission (CVT) that offers seamless gear transitions for a comfortable ride.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee, on the other hand, offers a wider range of engine options. The base V6 engine produces 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, providing a balance of power and efficiency. However, the Grand Cherokee also offers a more powerful V8 engine with 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque for those seeking maximum performance. The Grand Cherokee is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission that delivers quick and precise shifts.

In terms of fuel economy, the Subaru Ascent has a slight edge over the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The Ascent’s CVT helps it achieve an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The Grand Cherokee with the V6 engine offers 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while the V8 engine has an estimated 14 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.

Interior: Space, Comfort, and Convenience

Both the Subaru Ascent and Jeep Grand Cherokee offer spacious and well-appointed interiors. The Ascent’s cabin features three rows of seating, providing ample room for up to eight passengers. The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long journeys. The Ascent’s interior is also well-equipped with a variety of standard features, including a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a rear-seat entertainment system.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a more refined and luxurious interior than the Ascent. The cabin is adorned with premium materials and features a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen. The front seats are heated and ventilated, and the rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom. The Grand Cherokee also offers a panoramic sunroof that fills the cabin with natural light.

Safety: Advanced Features and Crash Protection

When it comes to safety, both the Subaru Ascent and Jeep Grand Cherokee have earned high ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Ascent received a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. The Grand Cherokee also received a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.

Both SUVs come standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Ascent also offers a blind-spot monitoring system and rear cross-traffic alert as standard, while the Grand Cherokee offers these features as options.

Technology: Infotainment, Connectivity, and Driver Assistance

The Subaru Ascent and Jeep Grand Cherokee offer advanced infotainment systems that keep you connected and entertained on the road. The Ascent’s 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive, and it comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The system also supports Bluetooth connectivity and voice commands.

The Grand Cherokee’s 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system is even more impressive, featuring a sleek and intuitive interface. It includes navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a premium audio system. The Grand Cherokee also offers a variety of driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, lane keeping assist, and automatic high beams.

Off-Roading Capabilities: Adventure Ready

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys off-roading adventures, both the Subaru Ascent and Jeep Grand Cherokee offer impressive capabilities. The Ascent’s standard all-wheel drive system provides excellent traction on slippery surfaces, and it features a ground clearance of 8.7 inches. The Ascent also offers an optional X-Mode system that enhances its off-road performance by adjusting the engine, transmission, and traction control settings.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is renowned for its off-road prowess, and it offers a variety of available features to enhance its capabilities. The Trailhawk trim level comes with a Quadra-Drive II four-wheel drive system, a rear electronic locking differential, and a disconnecting front sway bar. The Grand Cherokee also offers a Selec-Terrain system that allows you to choose from different driving modes to optimize performance for different off-road conditions.

Price and Value: Which SUV Offers the Best Bang for Your Buck?

The Subaru Ascent has a starting price of $33,895, while the Jeep Grand Cherokee has a starting price of $37,790. However, the Grand Cherokee offers a wider range of trim levels and options, which can increase its price significantly. When it comes to value, the Ascent offers a more affordable option with a generous list of standard features. However, the Grand Cherokee offers a more premium experience with a higher level of luxury and refinement.

The Verdict: Which SUV Is Right for You?

Ultimately, the choice between the Subaru Ascent and Jeep Grand Cherokee depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a spacious and affordable SUV with excellent safety ratings and off-road capabilities, the Subaru Ascent is an excellent option. However, if you desire a more luxurious and refined SUV with a wider range of engine and feature options, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is the better choice.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Which SUV has better fuel economy, the Ascent or Grand Cherokee?
A: The Subaru Ascent has slightly better fuel economy than the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Q: Which SUV has a more spacious interior, the Ascent or Grand Cherokee?
A: The Subaru Ascent has a more spacious interior than the Jeep Grand Cherokee, with three rows of seating for up to eight passengers.

Q: Which SUV is better for off-roading, the Ascent or Grand Cherokee?
A: The Jeep Grand Cherokee has a better reputation for off-roading capabilities, especially with the Trailhawk trim level. However, the Subaru Ascent also offers decent off-road performance with its standard all-wheel drive system and X-Mode system.