2023 subaru forester vs 2023 ascent: a clash of titans for adventure seekers
What To Know
- The Forester provides ample headroom and legroom in both rows, while the Ascent offers even more spacious seating, particularly in the second and third rows.
- The Forester’s EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings are 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, while the Ascent’s ratings are 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
- The Subaru Forester has a starting price of $26,395, while the Subaru Ascent has a starting price of $33,895.
When it comes to choosing the perfect SUV for family adventures, two exceptional options emerge: the Subaru Forester and the Subaru Ascent. Both vehicles offer a blend of rugged capability, spacious interiors, and advanced safety features. However, each has its unique strengths and considerations. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Subaru Forester and Subaru Ascent, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Dimensions and Space
The Subaru Forester is a compact SUV with a length of 189.9 inches, a width of 72.4 inches, and a height of 68.1 inches. It offers a generous 31.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row of seats, which expands to 74.2 cubic feet with the second row folded down.
The Subaru Ascent is a larger SUV with a length of 196.8 inches, a width of 76 inches, and a height of 71.6 inches. It boasts a spacious 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row of seats, 47.9 cubic feet behind the second row, and a cavernous 86.5 cubic feet with both rows folded down.
Seating and Comfort
Both the Subaru Forester and Subaru Ascent offer comfortable seating for up to five passengers in their standard configurations. The Forester provides ample headroom and legroom in both rows, while the Ascent offers even more spacious seating, particularly in the second and third rows.
The Ascent’s third row of seats is designed for occasional use and is best suited for smaller children or short trips. It offers limited legroom and headroom compared to the first and second rows.
Performance and Handling
The Subaru Forester is powered by a standard 2.5-liter flat-four engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive (AWD). The Forester provides a smooth and responsive driving experience, with adequate power for everyday driving and light off-roading.
The Subaru Ascent is powered by a more potent 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. It also comes standard with a CVT and AWD. The Ascent delivers impressive acceleration and towing capacity, making it a capable choice for families who frequently haul heavy loads or tow trailers.
Fuel Efficiency
The Subaru Forester offers slightly better fuel efficiency than the Subaru Ascent. The Forester’s EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings are 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, while the Ascent’s ratings are 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
Safety Features
Both the Subaru Forester and Subaru Ascent have received top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). They come standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including:
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure warning
- Adaptive cruise control
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
Technology and Connectivity
The Subaru Forester and Subaru Ascent offer a range of infotainment and connectivity features. The Forester comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a four-speaker sound system.
The Ascent features a larger 11.6-inch touchscreen display, a more advanced navigation system, and a premium 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. It also offers additional connectivity features, such as in-vehicle Wi-Fi and a rear-seat entertainment system.
Price and Value
The Subaru Forester has a starting price of $26,395, while the Subaru Ascent has a starting price of $33,895. The Forester offers a more affordable entry point, while the Ascent provides a more spacious and feature-rich experience.
Which is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between the Subaru Forester and Subaru Ascent depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize affordability, compact size, and fuel efficiency, the Forester is an excellent option. However, if you require more space, seating for up to eight passengers, and a more powerful engine, the Ascent is the better choice.
Making the Decision: Subaru Forester vs Subaru Ascent
To summarize, the Subaru Forester is a compact SUV that offers a balance of affordability, space, and fuel efficiency. It is ideal for families who value practicality and everyday driving comfort.
The Subaru Ascent is a larger SUV that provides a more spacious interior, a more potent engine, and a wider range of comfort and safety features. It is an excellent choice for families who prioritize space, performance, and adventure.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
1. Which vehicle has a higher towing capacity?
The Subaru Ascent has a higher towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, compared to the Subaru Forester‘s towing capacity of 1,500 pounds.
2. Does the Subaru Forester offer a third row of seats?
No, the Subaru Forester does not offer a third row of seats.
3. Which vehicle is more fuel-efficient?
The Subaru Forester is more fuel-efficient than the Subaru Ascent, with EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, compared to the Ascent’s ratings of 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
4. Which vehicle has a larger touchscreen display?
The Subaru Ascent has a larger 11.6-inch touchscreen display, compared to the Subaru Forester‘s 8-inch touchscreen display.
5. Does the Subaru Forester come with automatic emergency braking as a standard feature?
Yes, the Subaru Forester comes standard with automatic emergency braking.