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Space and versatility showdown: subaru ascent vs santa fe for families

What To Know

  • The Santa Fe with the naturally aspirated engine offers slightly better fuel economy than the turbocharged model, with an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
  • The Hyundai Santa Fe also features an all-wheel drive system, but it is not as advanced as the system found in the Ascent.
  • The Santa Fe also offers a variety of convenient features, such as a hands-free liftgate and a panoramic sunroof.

With the growing popularity of three-row SUVs, the Subaru Ascent and Hyundai Santa Fe have emerged as two top contenders. Both vehicles offer a spacious cabin, ample features, and impressive performance. However, there are some key differences that set these SUVs apart. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the details of the Subaru Ascent vs Santa Fe to help you make an informed decision about which vehicle is the best fit for your needs.

Performance and Fuel Economy

The Subaru Ascent comes standard with a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and provides smooth and responsive acceleration. The Ascent also offers impressive fuel economy for its size, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

The Hyundai Santa Fe offers two engine options: a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine that produces 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine that generates 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Santa Fe with the naturally aspirated engine offers slightly better fuel economy than the turbocharged model, with an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

Handling and Off-Road Capabilities

The Subaru Ascent is known for its exceptional handling and off-road capabilities. It features a symmetrical all-wheel drive system that provides excellent traction and stability in all driving conditions. The Ascent also has a ground clearance of 8.7 inches, which allows it to tackle rough terrain with ease.

The Hyundai Santa Fe also features an all-wheel drive system, but it is not as advanced as the system found in the Ascent. The Santa Fe has a ground clearance of 8.3 inches, which is slightly lower than the Ascent. As a result, it may not be as capable off-road as the Ascent.

Interior and Cargo Space

The Subaru Ascent and Hyundai Santa Fe offer spacious cabins with seating for up to eight passengers. Both vehicles come standard with three rows of seating, but the Ascent offers slightly more legroom and headroom in the third row. The Ascent also has a larger cargo area than the Santa Fe, with 17.8 cubic feet of space behind the third row and 86.5 cubic feet of space with the second and third rows folded down.

The Hyundai Santa Fe offers a well-appointed interior with comfortable seats and high-quality materials. The Santa Fe’s infotainment system is easy to use and features a large touchscreen display. The Santa Fe also offers a variety of convenient features, such as a hands-free liftgate and a panoramic sunroof.

Safety Features

The Subaru Ascent and Hyundai Santa Fe are both equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. Both vehicles come standard with automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. The Ascent also offers a blind spot monitoring system and rear cross-traffic alert as standard, while these features are only available as options on the Santa Fe.

Price

The Subaru Ascent has a starting price of $33,470, while the Hyundai Santa Fe has a starting price of $28,150. The Ascent comes standard with more features than the Santa Fe, so it is worth considering the price difference when making your decision.

Which SUV Is Right for You?

The Subaru Ascent and Hyundai Santa Fe are both excellent choices for families who need a spacious and versatile SUV. The Ascent offers superior performance, off-road capabilities, and safety features, while the Santa Fe is more affordable and offers a well-rounded package of features. Ultimately, the best SUV for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Which SUV has better fuel economy?
A: The Hyundai Santa Fe with the naturally aspirated engine offers slightly better fuel economy than the Subaru Ascent.

Q: Which SUV has more cargo space?
A: The Subaru Ascent has a larger cargo area than the Hyundai Santa Fe.

Q: Which SUV is better off-road?
A: The Subaru Ascent has more advanced off-road capabilities than the Hyundai Santa Fe.

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