Ascent vs. sienna: the battle of 3-row suvs you can’t miss

When it comes to choosing the perfect family vehicle, the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Sienna are two of the top contenders. Both offer spacious interiors, advanced safety features, and powerful engines. But which one is the right choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive into the key differences between the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Sienna, helping you make an informed decision.

Interior Space and Comfort

Subaru Ascent: The Ascent boasts a roomy cabin with seating for up to eight passengers. The second and third rows offer ample legroom and headroom, ensuring comfortable journeys for all. Its large cargo area provides plenty of space for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment.

Toyota Sienna: The Sienna also offers a spacious interior with seating for up to eight. Its second-row captain’s chairs provide extra legroom and comfort, while the third row is easy to access and offers a decent amount of space. The cargo area is comparable to the Ascent’s, making it suitable for most family needs.

Performance and Fuel Economy

Subaru Ascent: The Ascent comes with a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that offers smooth acceleration and good fuel economy. The Ascent has an estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg city/27 mpg highway.

Toyota Sienna: The Sienna offers a choice of two powertrains: a 3.5-liter V6 engine or a hybrid system that combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor. The V6 produces 296 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, while the hybrid system delivers 245 horsepower. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6 Sienna has an estimated fuel economy of 19 mpg city/27 mpg highway, while the hybrid offers an impressive 36 mpg city/36 mpg highway.

Safety Features

Subaru Ascent: The Ascent comes standard with Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. It also offers blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rearview camera.

Toyota Sienna: The Sienna also boasts a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+. This system includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Additionally, the Sienna offers blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera.

Technology and Convenience

Subaru Ascent: The Ascent comes with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. It also offers navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a premium audio system.

Toyota Sienna: The Sienna features a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. It also offers navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a JBL premium audio system. Additionally, the Sienna offers a rear-seat entertainment system with two 11.6-inch screens.

Off-Road Capabilities

Subaru Ascent: The Ascent is designed for adventure, with standard all-wheel drive and an X-Mode system that optimizes performance on rough terrain. It offers 8.7 inches of ground clearance, making it suitable for light off-roading.

Toyota Sienna: The Sienna is primarily a family van and does not offer the same off-road capabilities as the Ascent. It has front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option. Its ground clearance of 6.9 inches is not suitable for serious off-roading.

Price and Value

Subaru Ascent: The Subaru Ascent has a starting price of $33,895. It offers a range of trim levels, with the top-of-the-line Touring XT starting at $48,395.

Toyota Sienna: The Toyota Sienna has a starting price of $34,560. It also offers a range of trim levels, with the top-of-the-line Platinum starting at $50,460.

Which One is Right for You?

The Subaru Ascent and Toyota Sienna are both excellent family vehicles with their own strengths and weaknesses. If you’re looking for a vehicle with off-road capabilities, the Ascent is the clear choice. However, if you prioritize fuel economy, technology, and comfort, the Sienna is a great option. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Alternatives to Consider

If neither the Subaru Ascent nor the Toyota Sienna meets your exact requirements, here are a few alternatives to consider:

• Honda Odyssey
• Kia Carnival
• Chrysler Pacifica

What You Need to Know

Q: Which vehicle has a better fuel economy?
A: The Toyota Sienna hybrid offers the best fuel economy, with an estimated 36 mpg city/36 mpg highway.

Q: Which vehicle has more seating capacity?
A: Both the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Sienna can seat up to eight passengers.

Q: Which vehicle has more cargo space?
A: The Subaru Ascent and Toyota Sienna offer comparable cargo space, with the Ascent having a slight edge.

Q: Which vehicle has better off-road capabilities?
A: The Subaru Ascent has better off-road capabilities, with standard all-wheel drive and an X-Mode system.

Q: Which vehicle has more advanced safety features?
A: Both the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Sienna offer comprehensive safety features, but the Sienna’s Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ system includes pedestrian detection, which the Ascent does not.