Subaru ascent vs vw atlas cross sport: battle of the seven-seat wonders
What To Know
- When it comes to choosing a spacious and capable SUV, the Subaru Ascent and VW Atlas Cross Sport stand out as two top contenders.
- The Ascent gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while the Atlas Cross Sport gets 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
- In terms of value, the Subaru Ascent offers more standard features than the VW Atlas Cross Sport at a lower price.
When it comes to choosing a spacious and capable SUV, the Subaru Ascent and VW Atlas Cross Sport stand out as two top contenders. Both vehicles offer a wide range of features, impressive performance, and ample cargo space. But which one is the right choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Subaru Ascent and VW Atlas Cross Sport to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Handling
The Subaru Ascent is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine that delivers 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The VW Atlas Cross Sport, on the other hand, comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
In terms of performance, the VW Atlas Cross Sport has a slight edge over the Subaru Ascent. It accelerates quicker and can tow up to 5,000 pounds, while the Ascent’s towing capacity is limited to 4,500 pounds. However, the Ascent offers superior handling and stability, thanks to its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and X-Mode off-road system.
Interior and Features
Inside, the Subaru Ascent and VW Atlas Cross Sport boast spacious cabins with ample seating for up to eight passengers. Both vehicles offer comfortable seats, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a variety of convenience features.
The VW Atlas Cross Sport has a slightly larger interior than the Ascent, with more legroom and headroom in the third row. It also comes with a more upscale interior, featuring premium materials and a panoramic sunroof. However, the Ascent offers a more intuitive infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.
Safety and Reliability
Both the Subaru Ascent and VW Atlas Cross Sport have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). They both come standard with a wide range of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning.
In terms of reliability, the Subaru Ascent has a slightly better track record than the VW Atlas Cross Sport. According to Consumer Reports, the Ascent has a higher predicted reliability score than the Atlas Cross Sport.
Off-Road Capabilities
The Subaru Ascent and VW Atlas Cross Sport are both capable of handling light off-roading. However, the Ascent has a slight advantage due to its superior all-wheel drive system and X-Mode off-road system. The X-Mode system offers different driving modes for different types of terrain, including snow, dirt, and mud.
The VW Atlas Cross Sport also offers an off-road mode, but it is not as advanced as the Ascent’s X-Mode system. Additionally, the Ascent has a higher ground clearance than the Atlas Cross Sport, which makes it better suited for rough terrain.
Fuel Economy
The Subaru Ascent and VW Atlas Cross Sport have similar fuel economy ratings. The Ascent gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while the Atlas Cross Sport gets 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
However, it’s important to note that the Ascent uses regular gasoline, while the Atlas Cross Sport requires premium gasoline. This can make a significant difference in fuel costs over time.
Price and Value
The Subaru Ascent has a starting price of $33,895, while the VW Atlas Cross Sport starts at $31,595. Both vehicles offer a variety of trim levels and options, so the final price can vary depending on the features you choose.
In terms of value, the Subaru Ascent offers more standard features than the VW Atlas Cross Sport at a lower price. However, the Atlas Cross Sport has a more upscale interior and a slightly more powerful engine.
Which One is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best choice between the Subaru Ascent and VW Atlas Cross Sport depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize performance, interior space, and off-road capabilities, the VW Atlas Cross Sport is a good option. If you value reliability, fuel economy, and a more affordable price, the Subaru Ascent is a better choice.
Questions You May Have
Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The VW Atlas Cross Sport has a more powerful engine than the Subaru Ascent.
Q: Which vehicle has a better fuel economy?
A: The Subaru Ascent has a slightly better fuel economy than the VW Atlas Cross Sport.
Q: Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
A: The VW Atlas Cross Sport has a slightly more spacious interior than the Subaru Ascent.
Q: Which vehicle has a better off-road capability?
A: The Subaru Ascent has a better off-road capability than the VW Atlas Cross Sport.
Q: Which vehicle has a lower starting price?
A: The VW Atlas Cross Sport has a lower starting price than the Subaru Ascent.