2019 Subaru Ascent vs 2020 Toyota RAV4

2019 Subaru Ascent
2019 Subaru Ascent
$31,995MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Toyota RAV4
2020 Toyota RAV4
$25,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2019 Subaru Ascent
$31,995MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Toyota RAV4
$25,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP

$31,995

MSRP

$25,950

Listings

77

Listings

254

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Expert reviews

8.7 out of 10

Pros

  • Standard all-wheel drive

  • Spacious

  • Standard advanced safety features

Cons

  • Cramped third row

Pros

  • Easy-to-use technology

  • Comfortable

  • Standard advanced safety features

Cons

  • Poor fuel economy

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?

2020 Toyota RAV4 Reviews Summary

Americans love the Toyota RAV4. The compact crossover SUV is the most popular vehicle in the U.S. that isn’t a pickup truck, and when you live with one for a while, it’s easy to understand why so many people buy a RAV4. Available with a gasoline 4-cylinder or a gas-electric hybrid powertrain (covered as a separate model), and in a wide range of configurations including sporty XSE, luxurious Limited, and rugged Adventure, the 2020 RAV4 meets a variety of customer wants and needs.

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.4L 260 hp H4

Engine

2.5L 203 hp I4

Drive Train

AWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

8

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

260 hp @ 5600 rpm

Horsepower

MPG City

21

MPG City

27

MPG Highway

27

MPG Highway

35
2019 Subaru Ascent
2019 Subaru Ascent
$31,995MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Toyota RAV4
2020 Toyota RAV4
$25,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2019 Subaru Ascent
$31,995MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Toyota RAV4
$25,950MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP
$31,995
$25,950
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.8

4.6

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Read full review

8.7 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

Pros

  • Standard all-wheel drive

  • Spacious

  • Standard advanced safety features

Cons

  • Cramped third row

Pros

  • Easy-to-use technology

  • Comfortable

  • Standard advanced safety features

Cons

  • Poor fuel economy

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?

Americans love the Toyota RAV4. The compact crossover SUV is the most popular vehicle in the U.S. that isn’t a pickup truck, and when you live with one for a while, it’s easy to understand why so many people buy a RAV4. Available with a gasoline 4-cylinder or a gas-electric hybrid powertrain (covered as a separate model), and in a wide range of configurations including sporty XSE, luxurious Limited, and rugged Adventure, the 2020 RAV4 meets a variety of customer wants and needs.
Video

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
2.4L 260 hp H4
2.5L 203 hp I4
Drive Train
AWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
8
5
Horsepower
260 hp @ 5600 rpm
MPG City
21
27
MPG Highway
27
35
Look and feel

2019 Subaru Ascent

8/10

2020 Toyota RAV4

8/10
The 2019 Subaru Ascent is rated 8 out of 10 by CarGurus experts. The Ascent boasts big, bold styling, ample cargo and passenger space, and the latest infotainment and driver-assistance technologies. It offers a commanding presence, pronounced fenders, and an imposing grille. The interior provides plenty of space for occupants, with the option of a 7-passenger or 8-passenger layout. On the other hand, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 also receives an 8 out of 10 rating. The RAV4 underwent a redesign for the 2019 model year, giving it a bolder and more angular appearance. The Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims enhance its off-roading capability, making it a versatile and rugged choice.
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

2020 Toyota RAV4

7/10
CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Subaru Ascent 7 out of 10. It is equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder boxer engine producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. The Ascent offers precise steering, minimal body roll, and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity. The 2020 Toyota RAV4 also receives a 7 out of 10 rating for performance. It features a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine generating 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The TRD Off-Road trim offers a torque-vectoring AWD system, multi-terrain select settings, and 8.6 inches of ground clearance.
Form and function

2019 Subaru Ascent

8/10

2020 Toyota RAV4

9/10
The 2019 Subaru Ascent is rated 8 out of 10 for form and function. It provides ample legroom and headroom in the first and second rows, with a tight third row suitable for children. The Ascent boasts an impressive 47 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row up, expanding to 86 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. The 2020 Toyota RAV4 scores 9 out of 10 for form and function. It offers a comfortable and spacious interior with generous rear-seat legroom. The RAV4 provides 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat, expanding to 69.8 cu-ft with the rear seats folded down.
Technology

2019 Subaru Ascent

8/10

2020 Toyota RAV4

10/10
The 2019 Subaru Ascent is rated 8 out of 10 for technology. It comes standard with Subaru’s StarLink infotainment system, offering 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. The 2020 Toyota RAV4 receives a perfect 10 out of 10 for technology. It features a 7- or 8-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The TRD Off-Road model offers wireless smartphone charging, a 360-degree surround-view camera, and a digital rear-view mirror.
Safety

2019 Subaru Ascent

9/10

2020 Toyota RAV4

9/10
Both the 2019 Subaru Ascent and the 2020 Toyota RAV4 receive a 9 out of 10 rating for safety. The Ascent comes standard with Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist technology, while the RAV4 includes Toyota Safety Sense 2.0. Both vehicles offer a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, earning top marks for crash protection and ADAS performance.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

Based on the ratings, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 emerges as the slightly more favorable choice with a higher overall score of 8.7 out of 10 compared to the 2019 Subaru Ascent's 8.0 out of 10.

Choose the 2019 Subaru Ascent if:

8of 10overall
  • You prioritize a spacious and versatile interior with the option for 7 or 8-passenger layout.
  • You seek a vehicle with a strong towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds.
  • You value a comprehensive suite of standard and available driver-assist and safety features.
77 results
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Choose the 2020 Toyota RAV4 if:

8.7of 10overall
  • You desire a technologically advanced SUV with a perfect 10 out of 10 rating for technology.
  • You are looking for a versatile and rugged SUV with off-roading capabilities, especially in the TRD Off-Road trim.
  • You prioritize a comfortable and spacious interior with generous rear-seat legroom and ample cargo space.
254 results
See all

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

Based on the ratings, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 emerges as the slightly more favorable choice with a higher overall score of 8.7 out of 10 compared to the 2019 Subaru Ascent's 8.0 out of 10.

Choose the 2019 Subaru Ascent if:

Shop Now
8of 10overall
  • You prioritize a spacious and versatile interior with the option for 7 or 8-passenger layout.
  • You seek a vehicle with a strong towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds.
  • You value a comprehensive suite of standard and available driver-assist and safety features.
77 results

Choose the 2020 Toyota RAV4 if:

Shop Now
8.7of 10overall
  • You desire a technologically advanced SUV with a perfect 10 out of 10 rating for technology.
  • You are looking for a versatile and rugged SUV with off-roading capabilities, especially in the TRD Off-Road trim.
  • You prioritize a comfortable and spacious interior with generous rear-seat legroom and ample cargo space.
254 results

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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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