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The Subaru Ascent and Volkswagen Atlas AWD are two of the most popular large SUVs on the market today. Both vehicles offer spacious interiors, advanced safety features, and impressive performance. This buying guide will help you understand the key differences and similarities between these two models to make an informed decision.
Overview of the Subaru Ascent
The Subaru Ascent is designed for families who prioritize safety and versatility. With three rows of seating, it can accommodate up to eight passengers, making it a great choice for larger families or those who frequently travel with friends.
- Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine
- Horsepower: 260 hp
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs
- Fuel Economy: 21 mpg city / 27 mpg highway
Overview of the Volkswagen Atlas AWD
The Volkswagen Atlas AWD is known for its spaciousness and comfort. It offers a roomy interior with a user-friendly infotainment system, making it a favorite among tech-savvy families.
- Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four or 3.6-liter V6
- Horsepower: 235 hp (2.0L) or 276 hp (3.6L)
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs (with V6)
- Fuel Economy: 21 mpg city / 24 mpg highway (V6)
Interior Space and Comfort
When it comes to interior space, both SUVs offer generous room for passengers and cargo. However, there are some differences worth noting.
Subaru Ascent Interior
The Ascent features a well-designed interior with high-quality materials. The third row is spacious enough for adults, and the second row can slide to provide more legroom.
Volkswagen Atlas Interior
The Atlas boasts one of the largest interiors in its class. It offers ample headroom and legroom in all three rows, making it comfortable for long trips. The cargo space is also impressive, especially with the rear seats folded down.
Performance and Handling
Performance is a crucial factor when choosing a large SUV. Both the Subaru Ascent and Volkswagen Atlas AWD provide a smooth ride, but they cater to different driving preferences.
Subaru Ascent Performance
The Ascent’s turbocharged engine delivers robust power, making it suitable for towing and off-road adventures. It also features Subaru’s renowned symmetrical all-wheel drive, enhancing traction and stability.
Volkswagen Atlas Performance
The Atlas offers two engine options, allowing buyers to choose between efficiency and power. The V6 engine provides a more spirited driving experience, while the turbocharged four-cylinder is ideal for everyday commuting.
Safety Features
Safety is a top priority for families, and both the Subaru Ascent and Volkswagen Atlas come equipped with advanced safety features.
Subaru Ascent Safety Features
The Ascent includes Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which features adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking. It has received high safety ratings from the IIHS.
Volkswagen Atlas Safety Features
The Atlas is equipped with a suite of safety technologies, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. It also scores well in crash tests.
Technology and Infotainment
Modern SUVs need to be equipped with the latest technology to keep passengers entertained and connected.
Subaru Ascent Technology
The Ascent features a user-friendly infotainment system with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. Higher trims come with a larger 8-inch display.
Volkswagen Atlas Technology
The Atlas comes with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen, but higher trims can be upgraded to an 8-inch screen. It also includes features like a digital cockpit and a premium sound system.
Pricing and Value
Pricing can be a deciding factor for many buyers. Here’s a breakdown of the starting prices for both models.
- Subaru Ascent: Starting at approximately $32,000
- Volkswagen Atlas: Starting at approximately $34,000
Conclusion
Choosing between the Subaru Ascent and Volkswagen Atlas AWD ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. The Ascent excels in safety and off-road capability, while the Atlas offers a spacious interior and a range of tech features. Consider your priorities and take both models for a test drive to see which one suits you best.