2021 Ford Explorer vs 2022 Subaru Ascent

2021 Ford Explorer
2021 Ford Explorer
$32,925MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Subaru Ascent
2022 Subaru Ascent
$32,795MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Ford Explorer
$32,925MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Subaru Ascent
$32,795MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
Overview

MSRP

$32,925

MSRP

$32,795

Average price

$31,347

Average price

$33,205

Listings

5211

Listings

550
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.5 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.5 out of 10
Pros
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Great handling
  • Spacious third row
Cons
  • Interior materials feel cheap
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
Pros
  • Standard all-wheel drive
  • Great safety ratings
  • Excellent value for money
Cons
  • Cramped third row
  • Uninspired styling
  • Performs better with lane-keeping and lane-centering assistance turned off

2021 Ford Explorer Reviews Summary

There was a time when everybody in America seemingly drove an Explorer. That may be an exaggeration, but not by much. In its first four years of production, Ford sold over a million examples. In 1998, Ford was selling its second-generation Explorer at a rate of nearly 440,000 per year. Whether your family purchased an Explorer or not, this was the nameplate that invented the midsize SUV segment.

Fast forward to the 2021 model year and the Explorer is in its sixth generation. It's now a three-row SUV that clocks in at a maximum of 4,700 pounds, with a price tag north of $50,000 for the Explorer Platinum trim level. Long gone are the days when it was the only game in town. Almost every automaker has a competitor. So how does the Explorer shake out for 2021?

2022 Subaru Ascent Reviews Summary

Subaru owners are a loyal bunch, and for good reason. The automaker’s cars and SUVs enjoy reputations for durability, safety, and getting you where you need to go regardless of weather and road conditions. But there is only one Subaru made to carry more than five people, and it’s the Ascent midsize three-row SUV. This year, Subaru makes one change to the 2022 Ascent lineup, adding a new Onyx Edition with blacked-out exterior trim and water-resistant upholstery.
No video found
No video found
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.3L 300 hp I4

Engine

2.4L 260 hp H4

Drive Train

RWD

Drive Train

AWD

Seating Capacity

7

Seating Capacity

8

Horsepower

Horsepower

260 hp @ 5600 rpm

MPG City

21

MPG City

21

MPG Highway

28

MPG Highway

27
2021 Ford Explorer
2021 Ford Explorer
$32,925MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Subaru Ascent
2022 Subaru Ascent
$32,795MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Ford Explorer
$32,925MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Subaru Ascent
$32,795MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
Overview
MSRP
$32,925
$32,795
Average price
$31,347
$33,205
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.8
5.0
Expert reviews

7.5 out of 10

Read full review

7.5 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Great handling
  • Spacious third row
Cons
  • Interior materials feel cheap
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
Pros
  • Standard all-wheel drive
  • Great safety ratings
  • Excellent value for money
Cons
  • Cramped third row
  • Uninspired styling
  • Performs better with lane-keeping and lane-centering assistance turned off
Summary

There was a time when everybody in America seemingly drove an Explorer. That may be an exaggeration, but not by much. In its first four years of production, Ford sold over a million examples. In 1998, Ford was selling its second-generation Explorer at a rate of nearly 440,000 per year. Whether your family purchased an Explorer or not, this was the nameplate that invented the midsize SUV segment.

Fast forward to the 2021 model year and the Explorer is in its sixth generation. It's now a three-row SUV that clocks in at a maximum of 4,700 pounds, with a price tag north of $50,000 for the Explorer Platinum trim level. Long gone are the days when it was the only game in town. Almost every automaker has a competitor. So how does the Explorer shake out for 2021?

Subaru owners are a loyal bunch, and for good reason. The automaker’s cars and SUVs enjoy reputations for durability, safety, and getting you where you need to go regardless of weather and road conditions. But there is only one Subaru made to carry more than five people, and it’s the Ascent midsize three-row SUV. This year, Subaru makes one change to the 2022 Ascent lineup, adding a new Onyx Edition with blacked-out exterior trim and water-resistant upholstery.
Video
No video found
No video found
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
2.3L 300 hp I4
2.4L 260 hp H4
Drive Train
RWD
AWD
Seating Capacity
7
8
Horsepower
260 hp @ 5600 rpm
MPG City
21
21
MPG Highway
28
27
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By: CarGurus + AI

This car comparison has been created with using generative AI. It is based entirely on CarGurus expert review content, ratings and data, and leverages our extensive library of hands-on product tests to create thousands of unique comparisons to help shoppers choose the right car.