2021 Subaru Ascent vs 2020 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover was a testament to luxury and ruggedness, a combination that had defined the brand since its inception. Originating from the rugged Series I off-roader, the Range Rover evolved into a luxury SUV with robust 4x4 capabilities, appealing to affluent British landowners. By 2012, the current-generation Range Rover was introduced, offering various trims like HSE, Autobiography, and SVAutobiography Dynamic, each available in Standard Wheelbase (SWB) and Long Wheelbase (LWB) configurations. Standard features included leather seating, heated front seats, tri-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof, while higher trims added more luxurious options like massaging seats and a rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent marked a significant addition to Subaru's lineup, filling the gap left by the less successful Tribeca. Designed as a three-row midsize SUV, the Ascent shared design elements with the Forester and Outback, creating a familiar yet expanded look. The interior mirrored this approach, with a dash design similar to other Subaru models, reinforcing brand continuity. Available in trims like Standard, Premium, Limited, and Touring, the Ascent offered features such as a 6.5-inch touchscreen, tri-zone climate control, and driver-assistance technologies. Higher trims added amenities like an 8-inch touchscreen, heated seats, and a premium stereo system, enhancing comfort and convenience.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover offered a diverse range of powertrains, starting with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 355 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. The HSE trim featured a non-hybrid version of the same engine, delivering 395 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque. A turbodiesel V6 was also available, rated at 254 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque. The P525 and Autobiography trims boasted a supercharged 5.0-liter V8, generating 518 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque, with a plug-in hybrid option offering 398 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. The SV Autobiography Dynamic trim, the performance variant, featured a 5.0-liter V8 tuned to 557 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. All engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive, providing a blend of power and efficiency. The Range Rover's electronic air suspension and Terrain Response System ensured a comfortable ride and off-road capability.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent was powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. While lacking a premium engine option, the Ascent's standard engine was effective for city driving and highway speeds. The ride focused on comfort, with responsive handling and the ability to absorb road imperfections. With 8.7 inches of ground clearance, standard all-wheel drive, and Subaru’s X-Mode system, the Ascent excelled in snowy conditions and light off-roading. It was rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds and included Trailer Stability Assist.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover offered two wheelbase options: LWB and SWB, with standard seating for five. Optional second-row captain’s chairs reduced seating to four but enhanced comfort, especially in the LWB version. The SWB model provided 70.9 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats folded, while the LWB offered 77.5 cubic feet. Despite decent cargo capacity, other SUVs in its class offered more. The Range Rover featured a hands-free power liftgate with a two-piece configuration, facilitating easier loading. The front row included a convenient center-console compartment and decently sized door compartments.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent provided 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 47.5 cubic feet with the third row folded. With all rear seats down, it offered up to 86.5 cubic feet of cargo space, competitive within its class. The Ascent came standard with a power liftgate, though not hands-free. It accommodated up to eight passengers, with an option for second-row captain's chairs reducing capacity to seven. The first two rows were spacious, while the third row was suitable for shorter trips. The Ascent featured 19 cupholders and numerous storage compartments throughout the cabin.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover featured the InControl Touch Pro Duo system, consisting of two touchscreens. The top screen managed navigation, phone, stereo, and smartphone connectivity, while the lower screen controlled climate, seat settings, and Terrain Response. Integrated dials in the lower screen adapted to different functions, though the system had a learning curve and occasional lag issues. A fully digital instrument panel and optional head-up display enhanced the driving experience.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent's StarLink infotainment system offered logical menus and large icons on its touchscreens, supported by hard buttons and dials. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, USB ports, satellite radio, and Bluetooth. Available tech included third-row USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and a premium stereo system, providing ample connectivity and entertainment options.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover came with standard safety features like low-speed automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and parking sensors. Optional features included a 360-degree parking camera, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. While the Range Rover offered a solid list of safety features, some competitors provided more standard equipment.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent was an IIHS 2021 Top Safety Pick+, thanks to its crash test results and Subaru’s EyeSight suite of driver-assistance features. EyeSight included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. The Ascent also offered optional features like reverse automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, enhancing its safety credentials.