Practicality vs versatility: subaru ascent vs minivan, which wins?

The Subaru Ascent and minivans are two popular choices for families in need of a spacious and versatile vehicle. However, each type of vehicle offers unique advantages and disadvantages. In this blog post, we will compare the Subaru Ascent to minivans in terms of seating, cargo space, performance, safety, and value to help you make an informed decision about which vehicle is right for you.

Seating and Space

Subaru Ascent: The Subaru Ascent offers seating for up to eight passengers in three rows. The first two rows provide ample headroom and legroom for adults, while the third row is best suited for children or smaller adults. The Ascent also has a spacious cargo area behind the third row of seats, which can be expanded by folding down the second and third rows.

Minivans: Minivans typically offer seating for seven or eight passengers in three rows. The front seats are usually captain’s chairs, providing more comfort and space than the bench seats found in the Ascent. The second row of seats often slides forward and back, allowing you to customize the legroom in the second and third rows. Minivans also have a large cargo area behind the third row of seats, which can be expanded by folding down the second and third rows.

Cargo Space

Subaru Ascent: The Subaru Ascent has a maximum cargo capacity of 86.5 cubic feet with the second and third rows of seats folded down. This is a good amount of space for hauling cargo, but it is not as much as some minivans.

Minivans: Minivans typically have more cargo space than the Subaru Ascent. The Honda Odyssey, for example, has a maximum cargo capacity of 158 cubic feet with the second and third rows of seats folded down. This makes minivans a better choice for families who need to transport large items on a regular basis.

Performance

Subaru Ascent: The Subaru Ascent is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. This engine provides adequate power for most driving situations, but it can feel strained when towing heavy loads or driving at high speeds. The Ascent is also available with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which provides smooth and efficient shifting.

Minivans: Minivans are typically powered by V6 engines that produce more horsepower and torque than the Subaru Ascent‘s four-cylinder engine. This gives minivans a better towing capacity and makes them more responsive at higher speeds. However, minivans also tend to be less fuel-efficient than the Ascent.

Safety

Subaru Ascent: The Subaru 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 Ascent comes standard with a variety of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning.

Minivans: Minivans also offer a high level of safety. The Honda Odyssey, for example, has received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. Minivans typically come standard with a similar range of safety features as the Subaru Ascent, but they may also offer additional features such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

Value

Subaru Ascent: The Subaru Ascent has a starting price of $33,970. This is a competitive price for a midsize SUV with three rows of seating. However, the Ascent’s price can quickly increase when you add options such as leather seats, a sunroof, and a navigation system.

Minivans: Minivans typically have a higher starting price than the Subaru Ascent. The Honda Odyssey, for example, has a starting price of $35,290. However, minivans also offer more standard features than the Ascent, so you may not need to add as many options to get the features you want.

Which Vehicle Is Right for You?

The Subaru Ascent and minivans are both great choices for families who need a spacious and versatile vehicle. However, each type of vehicle has its own unique advantages and disadvantages. The Subaru Ascent is a good choice for families who want a vehicle that is fuel-efficient, safe, and capable of handling light towing duties. Minivans are a better choice for families who need a vehicle with more space, more power, and more standard features.

Are Minivans Outdated?

Minivans have a reputation for being outdated and uncool. However, this is no longer the case. Modern minivans are stylish, comfortable, and packed with features. They are also more fuel-efficient and safer than ever before.

What Is the Best Minivan for Families?

The best minivan for families is the one that meets your specific needs and budget. Some of the most popular minivans include the Honda Odyssey, the Toyota Sienna, and the Kia Carnival.

Recommendations: The Subaru Ascent vs Minivan Debate

The Subaru Ascent and minivans are both great choices for families who need a spacious and versatile vehicle. However, each type of vehicle has its own unique advantages and disadvantages. The best way to decide which vehicle is right for you is to consider your specific needs and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which vehicle has more seating capacity, the Subaru Ascent or a minivan?
A: Minivans typically offer more seating capacity than the Subaru Ascent.

Q: Which vehicle has more cargo space, the Subaru Ascent or a minivan?
A: Minivans typically have more cargo space than the Subaru Ascent.

Q: Which vehicle is more fuel-efficient, the Subaru Ascent or a minivan?
A: The Subaru Ascent is more fuel-efficient than most minivans.

Q: Which vehicle is safer, the Subaru Ascent or a minivan?
A: The Subaru Ascent and minivans are both very safe vehicles.

Q: Which vehicle has a lower starting price, the Subaru Ascent or a minivan?
A: The Subaru Ascent has a lower starting price than most minivans.