Cars Similar to Subaru Ascent: 14 The Best Alternatives

Cars Similar to Subaru Ascent – The Subaru Ascent has gained popularity among car enthusiasts for its spacious interior, versatile capabilities, and reliable performance. However, when considering a new vehicle purchase, it’s always wise to explore other options and compare them to make an informed decision.

This article aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the best alternatives to the Subaru Ascent, considering factors such as price, advantages, disadvantages, and specifications.

By the end of this article, you will have a comprehensive understanding of various vehicles that can serve as excellent alternatives to the Subaru Ascent.

The Best Subaru Ascent Alternatives

Buick Enclave

The Buick Enclave is a midsize SUV that offers a luxurious and comfortable ride. With seating for up to seven passengers, it boasts a spacious interior and upscale features.

The Enclave provides a smooth and quiet ride, making it ideal for long journeys. However, it may have a higher starting price compared to the Subaru Ascent.

Chevy Traverse

The Chevy Traverse is another midsize SUV that competes favorably with the Subaru Ascent. It offers ample space for passengers and cargo, making it suitable for families.

The Traverse comes equipped with advanced safety features and has a range of engine options to suit different preferences. However, its fuel efficiency may be slightly lower than that of the Subaru Ascent.

Dodge Durango

The Dodge Durango is a midsize SUV known for its powerful performance and towing capabilities. With its muscular design and spacious interior, the Durango appeals to those seeking a combination of utility and style.

However, it may have a higher starting price and relatively lower fuel efficiency compared to the Subaru Ascent.

Ford Explorer

The Ford Explorer is a well-established name in the SUV market. It offers a range of powertrain options, including a hybrid variant, and provides a comfortable and composed ride.

The Explorer comes with advanced safety features and has a spacious interior. However, its starting price may be higher than that of the Subaru Ascent.

Ford Bronco

The Ford Bronco is a rugged SUV designed for off-road adventures. It features a capable four-wheel-drive system and robust construction.

The Bronco comes in two- and four-door variants and its removable roof and doors add to its versatility. The Bronco’s fuel efficiency and interior space may not match those of the Subaru Ascent.

Honda Pilot

The Honda Pilot is a reliable and practical midsize SUV. It offers a comfortable cabin with three rows of seating and a smooth ride quality. The Pilot comes packed with safety features and has a reputation for strong resale value.

Its starting price may be higher, and it may not provide as engaging a driving experience as the Subaru Ascent.

Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a renowned SUV known for its off-road capabilities. It offers various engine options, including high-performance variants, and has a well-appointed interior.

The Grand Cherokee provides a comfortable ride on paved roads and excels in challenging terrains. Its starting price can be higher compared to the Subaru Ascent.

Kia Sorento

The Kia Sorento is a compact SUV that offers a blend of comfort, versatility, and affordability. It provides three rows of seating and a well-designed interior with user-friendly technology features.

The Sorento offers good fuel efficiency and a smooth ride. However, its cargo space may be slightly smaller than that of the Subaru Ascent.

Kia Telluride

The Kia Telluride is a midsize SUV that has garnered attention for its impressive value proposition. It offers a spacious and well-built cabin, generous cargo capacity, and a comfortable ride.

The Telluride comes loaded with standard features and advanced safety technology, making it an excellent alternative to the Subaru Ascent. Its starting price may be higher than some other competitors in this segment.

Mazda CX-9

The Mazda CX-9 is a stylish and upscale midsize SUV that delivers a premium driving experience. It boasts a luxurious interior, refined handling, and a strong turbocharged engine.

The CX-9 offers three rows of seating and a user-friendly infotainment system. However, its cargo space may be slightly smaller compared to the Subaru Ascent.

Nissan Pathfinder

The Nissan Pathfinder is a reliable and family-friendly midsize SUV. It provides a spacious cabin with three rows of seating and easy-to-use technology features.

The Pathfinder offers a comfortable ride and respectable towing capabilities. Its fuel efficiency may not match that of the Subaru Ascent, and some competitors offer more advanced safety features.

Subaru Outback

The Subaru Outback, from the same manufacturer as the Ascent, presents a compelling alternative. It falls into the midsize crossover segment, offering a spacious interior, impressive cargo capacity, and standard all-wheel drive.

The Outback provides a smooth and comfortable ride, and its off-road capability sets it apart from many competitors. However, it has a smaller seating capacity compared to the Ascent.

Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is a popular midsize SUV known for its reliability and practicality. It offers a well-designed interior with three rows of seating and an abundance of standard safety features.

The Highlander provides a comfortable ride and efficient hybrid powertrain options. Its starting price may be higher than that of the Subaru Ascent.

Volkswagen Tiguan

The Volkswagen Tiguan is a compact SUV that offers a well-crafted interior and composed handling. It provides ample space for passengers and a user-friendly infotainment system.

The Tiguan comes with a range of available safety features and offers a smooth and quiet ride. Its cargo space may be more limited compared to the Subaru Ascent.

Why is the Subaru Ascent Rated So Low?

The rating of the Subaru Ascent can vary based on individual reviews and opinions. However, some common reasons for lower ratings could be attributed to factors such as:

1. Lackluster Performance

The Subaru Ascent’s performance may be considered average compared to some of its competitors. It has a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that provides adequate power but may not offer the same level of acceleration or performance as some rivals.

2. Transmission

Some reviewers have criticized the continuously variable transmission (CVT) used in the Ascent, stating that it can feel unresponsive or disconnected during acceleration.

3. Interior Quality

While the Ascent offers a spacious and functional interior, some critics have mentioned that the overall interior quality and material choices are not as refined or luxurious as those found in some competing models.

4. Infotainment System

The infotainment system in the Subaru Ascent has received mixed reviews. Some find it user-friendly and intuitive, while others feel that the graphics and responsiveness could be improved.

5. Fuel Efficiency

Despite its focus on efficiency, Ascent’s fuel economy ratings may be lower compared to some competitors in the same class.

It’s important to note that these ratings are subjective and may not reflect everyone’s experience. It’s recommended to test drive the vehicle and consider personal preferences and priorities when evaluating its overall rating.

Is There A Known Concern with the Subaru Ascent?

While the Subaru Ascent generally has a good reputation for reliability, there have been some reports of concerns or issues. One notable concern that has been reported by some owners is related to the transmission.

Some individuals have experienced problems with CVT, such as jerking or hesitation during acceleration.

However, it’s important to note that not all owners have experienced these issues, and Subaru has been proactive in addressing and resolving such concerns through technical service bulletins and warranty repairs.

As with any vehicle, it is recommended to stay updated with manufacturer recalls and bulletins and to follow the recommended maintenance schedule to minimize the likelihood of potential concerns.

Is the Subaru Ascent Good in Snow?

Yes, the Subaru Ascent is generally considered to be good in snowy conditions. One of Subaru’s key selling points is its symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD) system, which is standard on all Ascent models. This AWD system provides enhanced traction and stability on slippery surfaces, making it well-suited for snowy or icy road conditions.

The Ascent’s higher ground clearance and advanced stability control systems contribute to its capability in snow.

It offers features like X-Mode, which optimizes the AWD system for low-traction situations, and Hill Descent Control, which assists with safely descending steep slopes.

While the Subaru Ascent’s AWD system provides excellent traction, it’s important to note that no vehicle is immune to the laws of physics. Proper winter tires are still recommended for optimal performance and safety in severe winter conditions.

What are the Downsides of a Subaru Ascent?

While the Subaru Ascent has numerous positive attributes, it’s important to consider the downsides before making a purchase decision. Some common downsides of the Subaru Ascent include:

1. Interior Quality

While the Ascent offers a spacious and practical interior, some reviewers have noted that the quality of materials used may not be as refined or upscale as those found in some competing models.

2. Fuel Efficiency

The Subaru Ascent’s fuel economy may be lower compared to some competitors in the same class. Its larger size and AWD system contribute to slightly higher fuel consumption, which may be a consideration for those seeking the best possible fuel efficiency.

3. Transmission Performance

Some owners have reported concerns about Ascent’s continuously variable transmission (CVT), mentioning issues such as occasional hesitation or lack of responsiveness during acceleration. While not all owners experience these problems, it’s worth considering this feedback when evaluating the vehicle.

4. Third-Row Space

While the Subaru Ascent offers seating for up to eight passengers, the third row may feel cramped for taller adults, especially during long journeys. The limited legroom and headroom in the back row may make it less comfortable for taller passengers.

5. Infotainment System

While the Subaru Ascent comes equipped with a standard infotainment system, some users have found the graphics and overall responsiveness of the system to be less advanced compared to rival vehicles in the same class.

6. Lack of Engine Options

The Subaru Ascent is currently offered with only one engine option, a turbocharged four-cylinder. While this engine provides adequate power, some consumers may desire more choices, such as a more powerful or fuel-efficient engine option.

It’s important to note that the downsides mentioned above are subjective and may not be deal-breakers for everyone.

The Subaru Ascent still offers a reliable and capable SUV option with a spacious interior and standard AWD, making it a popular choice among many consumers.

Summary: Subaru Ascent Competitors

In conclusion, there are several compelling alternatives to the Subaru Ascent in the midsize and compact SUV segments. Each vehicle mentioned in this article has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

The Buick Enclave and Chevy Traverse offer spacious and luxurious interiors but may have higher starting prices.

The Dodge Durango and Ford Bronco provide powerful performance and rugged capabilities but may sacrifice fuel efficiency.

The Honda Pilot and Kia Sorento offer reliability and practicality but may lack the engaging driving experience of the Subaru Ascent.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee and Toyota Highlander excel in off-road capability and reliability, respectively, but their starting prices can be higher.

The Mazda CX-9 and Nissan Pathfinder offer stylish designs and comfortable rides but may have smaller cargo capacities.

The Subaru Outback, being from the same manufacturer, shares similar attributes with the Ascent but with a smaller seating capacity.

The Kia Telluride provides excellent value for money, while the Volkswagen Tiguan offers a well-crafted interior and composed handling.

The choice of the best alternative to the Subaru Ascent will depend on individual preferences and priorities. It is recommended to test drive and compare these vehicles while considering factors such as pricing, features, performance, and practicality.

By thoroughly researching and evaluating these alternatives, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect vehicle that suits your needs and preferences.

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