Battle of the three-rows: subaru ascent vs kia sorento – who emerges victorious?

In the realm of spacious and versatile family SUVs, the Subaru Ascent and the Kia Sorento stand out as formidable contenders. Both vehicles offer an impressive array of features, ample seating for up to seven passengers, and capable performance. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Subaru Ascent and the Sorento, helping you make an informed decision when selecting the ideal SUV for your family’s needs.

Exterior Design

The Subaru Ascent exudes a rugged and adventurous aesthetic, with its bold grille, muscular lines, and ample ground clearance. Its symmetrical all-wheel drive system enhances its off-road capabilities, making it a suitable choice for families who enjoy outdoor excursions.

In contrast, the Kia Sorento presents a more refined and urban-oriented design. Its sleek contours, sharp angles, and optional panoramic sunroof lend it a sophisticated and modern appearance. The Sorento’s lower ride height and available all-wheel drive system prioritize on-road comfort and stability.

Interior Space and Comfort

Both the Ascent and the Sorento offer spacious and well-appointed interiors. The Ascent boasts a generous 196.1 cubic feet of passenger space, while the Sorento provides a slightly more compact 143 cubic feet. However, the Ascent’s taller roofline and larger windows create a more airy and open cabin.

In terms of seating, both vehicles offer comfortable and supportive seats for all passengers. The Ascent’s second-row captain’s chairs provide ample legroom and recline functionality, while the Sorento’s second-row bench seat offers a more traditional layout with a wider center console.

Technology and Features

The Subaru Ascent comes well-equipped with a comprehensive suite of technology and safety features. Its STARLINK infotainment system features a large touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a premium Harman Kardon sound system. Advanced safety technologies include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.

The Kia Sorento also offers a robust infotainment system with a user-friendly interface and smartphone connectivity. It boasts a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen in higher trims, along with a premium Bose sound system. Safety features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system.

Performance and Fuel Economy

Under the hood, the Subaru Ascent is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), the Ascent offers a smooth and responsive driving experience. Its symmetrical all-wheel drive system provides excellent traction in all conditions.

The Kia Sorento offers a range of powertrain options. The base model features a 2.5-liter inline-four engine with 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. A more powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 281 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque is available in higher trims. Both engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive is optional.

Regarding fuel economy, the Subaru Ascent achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The Kia Sorento‘s fuel efficiency varies depending on the powertrain option, with the base engine delivering up to 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, while the V6 engine offers slightly lower fuel economy.

Safety and Reliability

Both the Subaru Ascent and the Kia Sorento have earned high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Ascent received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick++ by the IIHS. The Sorento also received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.

Regarding reliability, both vehicles have a solid track record. The Subaru Ascent has consistently ranked among the top-rated vehicles in J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study, while the Kia Sorento has also earned high marks for reliability.

Price and Value

The Subaru Ascent has a starting price of $33,895 for the base trim and can range up to $47,245 for the top-of-the-line Touring trim. The Kia Sorento has a slightly lower starting price of $29,990 for the base trim and can reach $44,690 for the fully loaded SX Prestige X-Line trim.

When comparing value, the Subaru Ascent offers a slightly more spacious interior, a more advanced all-wheel drive system, and a higher safety rating. However, the Kia Sorento offers a wider range of powertrain options, a more refined interior, and a lower starting price. Ultimately, the best value proposition depends on the specific needs and preferences of the buyer.

The Verdict

The Subaru Ascent and the Kia Sorento are both excellent choices for families seeking a spacious and versatile SUV. The Ascent excels with its rugged exterior, roomy interior, and advanced safety features, while the Sorento impresses with its refined design, user-friendly technology, and competitive pricing.

Ultimately, the decision between the Subaru Ascent and the Kia Sorento boils down to personal preferences and priorities. Those who prioritize off-road capability, interior space, and safety may prefer the Ascent. Those seeking a more urban-oriented SUV with a luxurious interior and a lower price point may find the Sorento a more suitable option.

Questions You May Have

1. Which vehicle has a larger cargo capacity?

The Subaru Ascent offers more cargo space with 196.1 cubic feet, compared to the Kia Sorento’s 143 cubic feet.

2. Which SUV has a more powerful engine?

The Subaru Ascent’s 2.4-liter turbocharged engine produces 260 horsepower, while the Kia Sorento‘s 3.5-liter V6 engine offers 281 horsepower.

3. Which vehicle has a better fuel economy?

The Kia Sorento offers slightly better fuel economy than the Subaru Ascent, with the base engine achieving up to 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

4. Which SUV is more reliable?

Both the Subaru Ascent and the Kia Sorento have a solid track record for reliability, with high ratings in J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study.

5. Which vehicle offers a better warranty?

The Subaru Ascent and the Kia Sorento both offer comprehensive warranties, including a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.