Subaru ascent vs. toyota 4runner: which off-road beast reigns supreme?

When it comes to off-road adventures, two vehicles that stand out from the crowd are the Subaru Ascent and the Toyota 4Runner. Both vehicles offer rugged capabilities, spacious interiors, and advanced safety features. However, there are some key differences between the two that can help you make an informed decision about which one is right for you. In this comprehensive comparison, we will dive deep into the specifications, performance, features, and off-road capabilities of the Subaru Ascent and Toyota 4Runner to determine which one reigns supreme as the ultimate off-road companion.

Performance

Under the hood, the Subaru Ascent boasts 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 all-wheel drive. The Toyota 4Runner, on the other hand, comes with a 4.0-liter V6 engine that generates 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission and either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.

In terms of acceleration, the Subaru Ascent has a slight edge over the Toyota 4Runner, going from 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds compared to 7.0 seconds for the 4Runner. However, the 4Runner has a higher towing capacity of 5,000 pounds compared to the Ascent’s 2,000 pounds.

Off-Road Capabilities

Both the Subaru Ascent and Toyota 4Runner are highly capable off-road vehicles. The Ascent features X-Mode, which is a driver-selectable system that optimizes the vehicle’s performance for different off-road conditions. The 4Runner, on the other hand, has a more advanced four-wheel drive system with a locking rear differential and crawl control.

In addition, the 4Runner has a higher ground clearance of 9.6 inches compared to the Ascent’s 8.7 inches. This gives the 4Runner an advantage in tackling rough terrain and obstacles.

Interior and Features

The Subaru Ascent offers a spacious and comfortable interior with seating for up to eight passengers. The cabin is well-equipped with features such as a large touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and tri-zone climate control.

The Toyota 4Runner has a more rugged and utilitarian interior with seating for up to five passengers. The cabin is equipped with a smaller touchscreen infotainment system, but it includes features such as Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and a navigation system.

Safety

Both the Subaru Ascent and Toyota 4Runner 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 NHTSA, while the 4Runner received a four-star overall safety rating.

The Ascent comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The 4Runner also offers a range of safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning.

Price

The Subaru Ascent has a starting price of $33,995, while the Toyota 4Runner starts at $37,950. The Ascent offers a wider range of trim levels and options, which can increase the price significantly. The 4Runner, on the other hand, has a more limited range of trim levels and options, which keeps the price more affordable.

The Bottom Line: The Best Choice for Your Needs

The Subaru Ascent and Toyota 4Runner are both excellent choices for off-road adventures. The Ascent offers a more spacious interior, better fuel economy, and a more advanced safety suite. The 4Runner, on the other hand, has superior off-road capabilities, a higher towing capacity, and a more rugged interior.

Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize comfort, fuel efficiency, and safety, the Subaru Ascent is a great option. If you’re looking for a vehicle with exceptional off-road capabilities, a higher towing capacity, and a more rugged interior, the Toyota 4Runner is the way to go.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Which vehicle has a better fuel economy?

A: The Subaru Ascent has a better fuel economy than the Toyota 4Runner. The Ascent gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, while the 4Runner gets 17 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway.

Q: Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?

A: The Subaru Ascent has a more spacious interior than the Toyota 4Runner. The Ascent offers seating for up to eight passengers, while the 4Runner only seats five.

Q: Which vehicle has a higher towing capacity?

A: The Toyota 4Runner has a higher towing capacity than the Subaru Ascent. The 4Runner can tow up to 5,000 pounds, while the Ascent can only tow 2,000 pounds.