When choosing a family-friendly SUV, the Subaru Ascent vs Ford Explorer are two of the most popular models. Both offer plenty of space, modern features, and impressive performance capabilities, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. In this comprehensive comparison, we will explore the key aspects of the Subaru Ascent and the Ford Explorer to help you make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
Overview of the Subaru Ascent
The Subaru Ascent, first introduced in 2018, is the largest SUV in Subaru’s lineup. Known for its practical features, reliability, and excellent safety ratings, the Ascent has quickly become a family favourite. It offers three rows of seating, a spacious interior, and the brand’s signature all-wheel-drive system, making it an appealing option for those looking to tackle urban environments and rugged terrains.
One of the key selling points of the Ascent is Subaru’s reputation for durability and safety. The Ascent has received top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), with its symmetrical all-wheel-drive system providing added stability and control on slippery roads.
Overview of the Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer, on the other hand, has a much longer history, with its first generation launching back in 1990. It has undergone numerous redesigns and updates, evolving from a simple off-roading vehicle into a competent and well-equipped three-row family SUV. The Explorer is one of the most recognisable names in the SUV segment, boasting a rich heritage, impressive towing capacity, and a wide range of trim levels to suit various customer needs.
Ford’s Explorer is available in rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configurations, depending on the model and trim level. It also offers powerful engine options, advanced technology, and a modern design that appeals to those looking for a more dynamic driving experience. The Ford Explorer’s strong towing capacity and versatility make it a top choice for families who need more than just a spacious cabin.
Performance and Engine Options
When comparing performance, the Subaru Ascent and Ford Explorer offer different approaches.
Subaru Ascent Performance
The Subaru Ascent has a single engine option across all trims—a 2.4-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. This engine delivers 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, which is adequate for the Ascent’s size and weight. The turbocharged nature of the engine offers a good balance of power and fuel efficiency.
The Ascent’s standard all-wheel-drive system ensures optimal traction in various weather conditions, making it an excellent option for drivers in regions that experience wet or snowy conditions. It also features a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that provides smooth acceleration and enhances fuel efficiency. Despite its relatively modest power output compared to some rivals, the Ascent’s engine is more than sufficient for everyday driving and towing smaller loads, with a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 kg when properly equipped.
Ford Explorer Performance
The Ford Explorer offers a broader array of engine choices, starting with a 2.3-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides more power than the Ascent’s 2.4-litre turbocharged engine, making the Explorer better suited for those who require more muscle for towing or carrying heavier loads.
For those seeking even more power, the Explorer offers two additional engine options: a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 engine, which generates 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, and a hybrid 3.3-litre V6 engine that combines efficiency with 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque. These powertrains make the Explorer a versatile option for various driving styles and demands, especially for those who need to tow heavy trailers or navigate more challenging terrain.
The Explorer comes with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, giving drivers the flexibility to choose based on their preferences and needs. It also features a 10-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth and responsive shifting.
Winner: Ford Explorer
While the Subaru Ascent and the Ford Explorer provide solid performance, the Explorer offers more powerful engine options and greater flexibility for drivers seeking more towing capability or performance-oriented driving.
Interior Space and Comfort
The Subaru Ascent and the Ford Explorer are designed to accommodate larger families, with three rows of seating and ample interior space. However, there are notable differences in how each SUV uses this space.
Subaru Ascent Interior
The Subaru Ascent offers a roomy and comfortable interior, with seating for up to eight passengers in the standard configuration (seven passengers in higher trims with captain’s chairs). Its layout is practical and user-friendly, with an intuitive touchscreen infotainment system, plenty of cupholders, and ample storage space.
One of the key strengths of the Ascent’s interior is its thoughtful design for families. The cabin features high-quality materials, including soft-touch surfaces and well-padded seats. It also offers an impressive amount of legroom and headroom in all three rows, which makes it comfortable for adults, even in the third row. Additionally, the Ascent provides 514 litres of cargo space with the third-row seats up and 2,083 litres with the second and third rows folded down, making it highly versatile for carrying large loads.
Ford Explorer Interior
The Ford Explorer also offers a spacious and comfortable interior, with seating for up to seven passengers, depending on the configuration. The cabin is well-appointed, with premium materials and a more luxurious feel in higher trims. Depending on your preference, the Explorer is available in the second row with either a bench seat or a captain’s chair.
Regarding space, the Ford Explorer offers 515 litres of cargo capacity with the third row in place and 2,486 litres with both the second and third rows folded. This means the Explorer provides slightly more cargo space than the Ascent, making it a better option for those who need to carry larger items.
The Explorer’s interior also benefits from advanced technology and a higher level of refinement in terms of fit and finish. Ford has equipped the Explorer with an easy-to-use infotainment system and plenty of premium features, such as a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated seats, and high-quality audio systems in the higher trims.
Winner: Ford Explorer
While the Subaru Ascent offers excellent interior space, the Ford Explorer edges ahead due to its slightly larger cargo capacity and higher interior refinement.
Technology and Features
Both the Subaru Ascent and the Ford Explorer have various tech features designed to enhance convenience, safety, and entertainment.
Subaru Ascent Technology
Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology includes features such as adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. These systems contribute to Ascent’s excellent safety ratings and provide peace of mind to drivers and passengers alike.
The Ascent also has a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing for easy smartphone integration. Higher trims have an 8-inch touchscreen, satellite navigation, and premium features.
Ford Explorer Technology
The Ford Explorer is equipped with advanced technology features, including the Ford Co-Pilot360, which provides a comprehensive range of driver assistance systems, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. Ford has a long-standing reputation for integrating cutting-edge technology into their vehicles, and the Explorer is no exception.
Regarding infotainment, the Explorer has an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim. It includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in navigation. The higher trims also offer a premium B&O sound system, a larger digital instrument cluster, and advanced safety features, including a 360-degree camera system and adaptive cruise control.
Winner: Ford Explorer
While the Subaru Ascent is well-equipped with safety and tech features, the Ford Explorer offers a more advanced technology suite, including a larger touchscreen, better integration options, and a more sophisticated driver assistance system.
Safety
The Subaru Ascent and the Ford Explorer are designed with safety as a top priority, and both have earned strong safety ratings from various agencies.
Subaru Ascent Safety
Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is standard on the Subaru Ascent, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane departure warning. The Ascent also features a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The standard all-wheel-drive system adds an extra layer of stability and control, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Ford Explorer Safety
The Ford Explorer comes equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360, which includes automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims offer additional safety features like adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system.
Winner: Subaru Ascent
Both vehicles are packed with safety features, but Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, coupled with its standard all-wheel-drive system, gives the Ascent a slight edge in terms of overall safety.
Conclusion: Subaru Ascent vs Ford Explorer
When it comes down to choosing between the Subaru Ascent and the Ford Explorer, both SUVs have their unique strengths. The Subaru Ascent is a fantastic choice for those prioritising safety, all-wheel-drive capability, and a practical, family-friendly interior. It offers solid performance and an impressive array of standard features at a competitive price.
The Ford Explorer, on the other hand, offers more powerful engine options, superior towing capabilities, a more refined interior, and a broader range of technology features. Its larger cargo space and more dynamic driving performance make it the ideal choice for families who require more versatility and performance from their SUV.
Ultimately, the decision between the Subaru Ascent and the Ford Explorer will come down to your specific needs—whether you prioritise safety and all-weather performance or need a more robust and refined family SUV with enhanced cargo capacity and towing capabilities. Both vehicles are exceptional choices, and either would be an excellent addition to any family’s fleet.