Off-road prowess vs. urban agility: subaru ascent vs. mazda cx-5: the duel for versatility
What To Know
- In terms of fuel efficiency, the Subaru Ascent has an EPA-estimated rating of 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway with the base engine.
- The Mazda CX-5 with the naturally aspirated engine achieves 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged version gets 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
- The CX-5, on the other hand, is more fuel-efficient and has a more premium interior, but it sacrifices some practicality and off-road performance.
In the realm of family-friendly SUVs, two formidable contenders stand out: the spacious Subaru Ascent and the sleek Mazda CX-5. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of practicality, performance, and style. But which one reigns supreme? To help you make an informed decision, we present a comprehensive comparison of the Subaru Ascent vs. Mazda CX-5.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
The Subaru Ascent boasts a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine that generates 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), it delivers a smooth and responsive driving experience. The Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, offers a choice of two engines: a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, or a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine generating 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Subaru Ascent has an EPA-estimated rating of 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway with the base engine. With the turbocharged engine, those figures drop to 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. The Mazda CX-5 with the naturally aspirated engine achieves 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged version gets 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
Interior Space and Comfort
The Subaru Ascent offers ample interior space for up to eight passengers. The first two rows of seats provide generous legroom, headroom, and shoulder room, while the third row is best suited for children or occasional use. The Mazda CX-5, in contrast, is a five-seater with more modest interior dimensions. However, its cabin is well-appointed and features premium materials.
Both vehicles offer comfortable and supportive seats, with the Ascent providing a slightly more upright seating position for better visibility. The Ascent also has a larger cargo area than the CX-5, with 17.8 cubic feet of space behind the third row of seats and 86.5 cubic feet with all seats folded down. The CX-5 offers 30.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row of seats and 59.6 cubic feet with the seats folded down.
Technology and Safety Features
The Subaru Ascent comes standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a suite of active safety features, including lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. Available features include a larger 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a premium Harman Kardon sound system.
The Mazda CX-5 also offers a standard 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also comes with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and blind spot monitoring. Available features include a head-up display, a 360-degree camera system, and a Bose premium sound system.
Off-Road Capabilities
The Subaru Ascent has a standard all-wheel-drive system with X-Mode, which provides enhanced traction and stability in off-road conditions. The system includes settings for snow, dirt, and mud, and it also features hill descent control. The Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, is primarily designed for on-road driving, but it does offer an optional all-wheel-drive system with off-road traction assist.
Pricing and Value
The Subaru Ascent has a starting price of $34,995, while the Mazda CX-5 starts at $27,000. The Ascent offers more interior space, off-road capabilities, and standard safety features than the CX-5, but it also comes with a higher price tag. The CX-5, on the other hand, is more fuel-efficient and has a more premium interior, but it sacrifices some practicality and off-road performance.
Which SUV Is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between the Subaru Ascent and the Mazda CX-5 depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize space, off-road capabilities, and safety, the Ascent is the better option. If you value fuel efficiency, a premium interior, and a more compact size, the CX-5 is a solid choice.
Beyond the Comparison
Subaru Ascent Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Spacious interior
- Capable off-road performance
- Comprehensive safety features
- Standard all-wheel drive
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Lower fuel efficiency than the CX-5
Mazda CX-5 Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Premium interior
- Fuel-efficient
- Sporty handling
- Affordable starting price
Cons:
- Less interior space than the Ascent
- Limited off-road capabilities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Subaru Ascent bigger than the Mazda CX-5?
A: Yes, the Ascent is larger than the CX-5 in terms of overall dimensions and interior space.
Q: Which SUV has better fuel efficiency?
A: The Mazda CX-5 has better fuel efficiency than the Subaru Ascent, especially with the naturally aspirated engine.
Q: Does the Mazda CX-5 offer all-wheel drive?
A: Yes, the Mazda CX-5 offers an optional all-wheel-drive system with off-road traction assist.
Q: Which SUV has a better safety rating?
A: The Subaru Ascent and the Mazda CX-5 have both received excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Q: Is the Subaru Ascent a good value for the money?
A: The Subaru Ascent offers a combination of space, safety, and off-road capabilities that make it a good value for the money, especially if you need a large SUV with those features.