Subaru Ascent vs Subaru Outback – Differences & Prices Compared

Subaru Ascent

The Subaru Ascent stands out in the world of midsize SUVs, offering a perfect blend of comfort and capability. With seating for up to eight passengers and an array of standard safety features, it caters to families seeking adventure without compromising on reliability. Its robust design and all-wheel-drive functionality make it a dependable choice for those who love exploring both urban and off-road terrains.

Subaru Outback

The Subaru Outback is a versatile crossover that blends the rugged capabilities of an SUV with the comfort and efficiency of a car. Known for its all-wheel drive as a standard feature, the Outback is built to tackle both urban roads and unpaved trails with ease. Its spacious interior and thoughtful design make it a favored choice for those who love adventure without sacrificing practicality.

@ Subaru

Subaru Ascent vs. Subaru Outback: Which Adventure-Friendly SUV is Right for You?

When it comes to blending performance, practicality, and that signature all-wheel-drive capability, Subaru has consistently delivered with its fleet of rugged SUVs. Standing out in Subaru’s lineup are the Ascent and the Outback, both of which offer unique benefits tailored to different lifestyles. But how do these stalwart models stack up against each other?

Power and Performance

The 2025 Subaru Ascent is a robust contender within the SUV segment, driven by a 2.4-liter gasoline engine producing a respectable 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain promises a fuel economy of 20-19 mpg in the city and 26-25 mpg on the highway, paired with a sizeable 19.3-gallon fuel tank for those longer journeys.

Meanwhile, the Subaru Outback offers a versatile power range, with one of its engine options bumping up performance to match the Ascent's 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, thanks to its turbocharged version. The Outback additionally provides a less powerful, but more fuel-efficient 2.5-liter engine producing 182 horsepower. This model achieves a fuel economy of 26-22 mpg city and 32-29 mpg highway, making it more efficient for those conscious of fuel consumption.

Space and Comfort

If passenger space is a priority, the Ascent is hard to overlook with its capacity to seat up to eight people. Its dimensions of 196.8 inches in length, 76 inches in width, and a height of 71 inches afford a cabin that’s both roomy and comfortable. This makes the Ascent an ideal choice for larger families or those frequently carpooling.

In contrast, the Outback, with its 5-seat configuration, caters to smaller families or individuals seeking more cargo space for gear and equipment. A slightly more compact model, it measures 191.9 to 191.3 inches in length, 74.2 to 74.6 inches in width, and 66 inches in height—perfect for urban explorers and weekend adventurers.

Driving Experience and Off-Road Capabilities

Both models embrace Subaru's hallmark all-wheel-drive system, guaranteeing reliable traction and control on various terrains. While the Ascent's weight starts at a robust 4449 lbs to a max of 4597 lbs, offering stable handling, the Outback’s comparatively lighter curb weight between 3641 lbs and 3946 lbs lends a more agile and maneuverable driving experience.

The Ascent's higher stance and additional heft might better suit those looking for commanding road presence and increased towing capacity. Meanwhile, the Outback shines with its lower center of gravity and enhanced off-road agility, courtesy of features like the dual-function X-Mode, which is particularly appealing for those who frequently venture off the beaten path.

Conclusion: Choosing Your Subaru Companion

The choice between the Subaru Ascent and the Subaru Outback ultimately comes down to individual needs. For families prioritizing space and power, particularly those who often embark on road trips with several passengers and luggage, the Ascent is an excellent choice. On the other hand, the Outback offers an enticing combination of efficiency and versatility, perfect for adventurous individuals who value maneuverability and a slightly lower profile for city driving alongside off-road excursions.

Whichever model you choose, both embody Subaru’s dedication to engineering durable, reliable vehicles that can tackle any journey thrown at them. With advancements in engineering and technology, the 2025 iterations of these models continue to uphold the adventurous spirit that makes Subaru a favored brand among outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.