2019 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2019 Subaru Ascent

2019 Subaru Ascent
2019 Subaru Ascent
$31,995MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2019 Hyundai Santa Fe
2019 Hyundai Santa Fe
$25,750MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2019 Subaru Ascent
$31,995MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2019 Hyundai Santa Fe
$25,750MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP

$31,995

MSRP

$25,750

Listings

638

Listings

891

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Expert reviews

8.2 out of 10

Pros

  • Standard all-wheel drive

  • Spacious

  • Standard advanced safety features

Cons

  • Cramped third row

2019 Subaru Ascent Reviews Summary

There are certain vehicle types every major automaker needs to offer if they plan to be taken seriously. The largest automakers are able to offer a full spread of vehicles, from sports cars to full-size trucks. Not every automaker will be able to fulfill every vehicle segment, but if you are a growing automaker, offering a 3-row family-hauling SUV is a must.

Because of this, the 3-row segment is getting pretty saturated. From cornerstone vehicles like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder, and Ford Explorer to alternatives like the Kia Sorento, Buick Enclave, Chevy Traverse, Dodge Durango, Mazda CX-9, Volkswagen Atlas, and Hyundai Santa Fe, the list of 3-row SUVs seems exhaustive… because it is!

Enter the 2019 Subaru Ascent. Like all the vehicles listed here, it is a midsize SUV capable of seating 7 or 8 passengers, depending on the configuration. It's clearly designed for families, and it begs the question: How does this newcomer stand out in such a crowded space?

2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Reviews Summary

Technically, the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe is listed as a midsize SUV, but this is a stretch. Now entering its fourth generation, the Santa Fe fits somewhere between a compact SUV like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, or Nissan Rogue and a midsize like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, or Nissan Pathfinder.

This vehicle actually replaces the 2-row Santa Fe Sport. The previous Santa Fe was a 3-row version, and it is still available, largely unchanged, but now named the Santa Fe XL. It will most likely be phased out of production, as Hyundai has a true 3-row midsize called the Palisade arriving this summer for the 2020 model year.

But back to the car at hand: The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe is a true quality crossover. While it's technically large enough to compete against midsize SUVs, it shines as a great value when cross-shopped against other compact crossovers.

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.4L 260 hp H4

Engine

2.4L 185 hp I4

Drive Train

AWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

8

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

260 hp @ 5600 rpm

Horsepower

185 hp @ 6000 rpm

MPG City

21

MPG City

22

MPG Highway

27

MPG Highway

29
2019 Subaru Ascent
2019 Subaru Ascent
$31,995MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2019 Hyundai Santa Fe
2019 Hyundai Santa Fe
$25,750MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2019 Subaru Ascent
$31,995MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2019 Hyundai Santa Fe
$25,750MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP
$31,995
$25,750
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.7

4.7

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Read full review

8.2 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

Pros

  • Standard all-wheel drive

  • Spacious

  • Standard advanced safety features

Cons

  • Cramped third row

Summary

There are certain vehicle types every major automaker needs to offer if they plan to be taken seriously. The largest automakers are able to offer a full spread of vehicles, from sports cars to full-size trucks. Not every automaker will be able to fulfill every vehicle segment, but if you are a growing automaker, offering a 3-row family-hauling SUV is a must.

Because of this, the 3-row segment is getting pretty saturated. From cornerstone vehicles like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder, and Ford Explorer to alternatives like the Kia Sorento, Buick Enclave, Chevy Traverse, Dodge Durango, Mazda CX-9, Volkswagen Atlas, and Hyundai Santa Fe, the list of 3-row SUVs seems exhaustive… because it is!

Enter the 2019 Subaru Ascent. Like all the vehicles listed here, it is a midsize SUV capable of seating 7 or 8 passengers, depending on the configuration. It's clearly designed for families, and it begs the question: How does this newcomer stand out in such a crowded space?

Technically, the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe is listed as a midsize SUV, but this is a stretch. Now entering its fourth generation, the Santa Fe fits somewhere between a compact SUV like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, or Nissan Rogue and a midsize like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, or Nissan Pathfinder.

This vehicle actually replaces the 2-row Santa Fe Sport. The previous Santa Fe was a 3-row version, and it is still available, largely unchanged, but now named the Santa Fe XL. It will most likely be phased out of production, as Hyundai has a true 3-row midsize called the Palisade arriving this summer for the 2020 model year.

But back to the car at hand: The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe is a true quality crossover. While it's technically large enough to compete against midsize SUVs, it shines as a great value when cross-shopped against other compact crossovers.

Video

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
2.4L 260 hp H4
2.4L 185 hp I4
Drive Train
AWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
8
5
Horsepower
260 hp @ 5600 rpm
185 hp @ 6000 rpm
MPG City
21
22
MPG Highway
27
29
Look and feel

2019 Subaru Ascent

8/10

2019 Hyundai Santa Fe

8/10

The 2019 Subaru Ascent is a full and honest effort featuring big, bold styling, plenty of cargo and passenger space, and the latest infotainment and driver-assistance technologies. It has an upright design with a commanding presence, pronounced fenders, and an imposing grille. The Ascent offers a spacious cabin with the option of either a 7-passenger or 8-passenger layout, making it a versatile choice for families. Trims for the Ascent are Base, Premium, Limited, and Touring, each offering a range of features to cater to different preferences.

The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe is leading the charge of a new generation of Hyundai vehicles with daring, bold, futuristic exteriors. The interior of the Santa Fe is modern and practical, with a crisp, modern feel and a unique pattern on the speakers. Trims for the Santa Fe include SE, SEL, SEL Plus, Limited, and Ultimate, each offering a variety of features to meet different consumer needs.

Picture of 2019 Subaru Ascent
Picture of 2019 Subaru Ascent
Picture of 2019 Subaru Ascent
Picture of 2019 Subaru Ascent
Picture of 2019 Subaru Ascent
Picture of 2019 Subaru Ascent
Picture of 2019 Subaru Ascent
Picture of 2019 Subaru Ascent
Picture of 2019 Subaru Ascent
Performance

2019 Subaru Ascent

7/10

2019 Hyundai Santa Fe

7/10

The 2019 Subaru Ascent features a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder boxer engine making 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, providing plenty of pickup in both city and highway driving. It offers precise steering, minimal body roll, and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity, making it a capable and powerful choice for those with active lifestyles.

The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe offers two engine options. The base 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine makes 185 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, while the turbocharged 2-liter 4-cylinder engine makes 235 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The Santa Fe provides strong acceleration, tight turning response, and a drive mode selector with Sport, Comfort, and Smart settings, offering a dynamic driving experience.

Form and function

2019 Subaru Ascent

8/10

2019 Hyundai Santa Fe

8/10

The 2019 Subaru Ascent offers ample legroom and headroom in the first and second rows, with a third row that is suitable for children or can be dropped to create more cargo space. With 19 cupholders and up to 86 cubic feet of cargo space, the Ascent is incredibly practical for family adventures.

The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe provides 71 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, along with clever storage solutions and multiple compartments, making it a versatile choice for carrying gear and everyday items.

Technology

2019 Subaru Ascent

8/10

2019 Hyundai Santa Fe

9/10

The 2019 Subaru Ascent comes standard with Subaru’s StarLink infotainment system, offering easy-to-follow menus, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The optional Technology Package adds a Harman Kardon premium stereo, panoramic moonroof, navigation, and real-time traffic and weather updates, enhancing the overall tech experience.

The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe features a logical layout and easy-to-use touchscreen system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims offer additional features such as satellite radio, HD Radio, Hyundai’s BlueLink infotainment system, a head-up display, and a wireless charging pad, providing a range of tech options to suit different preferences.

Safety

2019 Subaru Ascent

9/10

2019 Hyundai Santa Fe

9/10
Both the 2019 Subaru Ascent and the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe come standard with a full array of front- and side-impact airbags, along with a suite of driver-assistance features. The Ascent offers Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist technology as standard equipment on all trims, while the Santa Fe comes with Hyundai’s Smart Sense, including forward-collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

Based on the ratings and comparison, the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe edges slightly ahead with a rating of 8.2 out of 10, compared to the 2019 Subaru Ascent's rating of 8.0 out of 10. Both vehicles offer a range of features and capabilities, but the Santa Fe's bold styling, composed driving dynamics, and solid value make it a compelling choice for consumers seeking a versatile midsize SUV.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

Based on the ratings and comparison, the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe edges slightly ahead with a rating of 8.2 out of 10, compared to the 2019 Subaru Ascent's rating of 8.0 out of 10. Both vehicles offer a range of features and capabilities, but the Santa Fe's bold styling, composed driving dynamics, and solid value make it a compelling choice for consumers seeking a versatile midsize SUV.

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By: CarGurus + AI

At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.

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