2021 Subaru Ascent vs 2021 Audi Q5

When the 2021 Subaru Ascent was introduced, it filled a significant gap in Subaru's lineup, offering a three-row SUV that had been missing since the poorly received Tribeca. The Ascent's design was a scaled-up version of Subaru's smaller models like the Forester and Outback, making it instantly recognizable as part of the Subaru family. The interior followed suit, with a dashboard design that mirrored other Subaru models, likely to create a sense of familiarity for buyers. The Ascent was available in four trims: Standard, Premium, Limited, and Touring, each offering progressively more features, from driver-assistance technologies to premium audio systems and ventilated seats.

The 2021 Audi Q5, on the other hand, was a sharp-looking crossover SUV that carried Audi's design language with a unique flair. It featured an expressive front with LED headlights and a prominent Singleframe grille, while the body had crisp character lines and a protective greenhouse. The rear was marked by bold taillights, giving the Q5 a modern and classy appearance. Inside, the Q5 was equally impressive, with a clean, uncluttered design and high-quality materials like real wood and metal. The 10.1-inch touchscreen and the well-organized controls added to the sophisticated feel. The Q5 PHEV variant included S-Line trim pieces and enhancements, making it stand out even more.

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 it lacked a premium engine option, the standard engine was sufficient for most driving scenarios, excelling in city driving and holding its own on highways. The Ascent's ride focused on comfort, with responsive handling and the ability to absorb road bumps effectively. With 8.7 inches of ground clearance, standard all-wheel drive, and Subaru’s X-Mode system, the Ascent was well-suited for snowy conditions and light off-roading. It could tow up to 5,000 pounds and included Trailer Stability Assist.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV took the already fun-to-drive Q5 and enhanced it with a 14.1-kWh battery, adding 114 horsepower and 96 pound-feet of torque to the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine. This setup delivered a combined output of 362 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque, allowing the Q5 PHEV to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.0 seconds. The Q5 PHEV offered impressive fuel economy, with 65 MPGe combined and 27 mpg in gasoline-only mode. The battery could be recharged overnight with household current or in 2.4 hours with a Level 2 charger. The Q5 PHEV featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission and full-time Quattro all-wheel drive, with multiple driving modes to optimize battery usage and fuel efficiency. Handling was sporty yet comfortable, with minimal body roll and powerful braking.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent offered 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 47.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 86.5 cubic feet with all rear seats down. While this was generous, some rivals like the Volkswagen Atlas and Chevrolet Traverse offered more. The Ascent came standard with a power liftgate but lacked a hands-free option. It could seat up to eight passengers in its base configuration, with the option for second-row captain's chairs reducing capacity to seven. The first two rows were spacious, while the third row was better suited for children on longer trips. The Ascent featured 19 cupholders and numerous storage trays and cubbies.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV managed to carry its battery pack under the luggage compartment floor, preserving cargo space. It offered 25.1 cubic feet of space behind the second row, expanding to 53.1 cubic feet with the second row folded. The second row provided 37.8 inches of legroom, 37.7 inches of headroom, and 56.5 inches of shoulder room, comfortably seating two adults and accommodating a third for shorter trips. The front seats were highly adjustable, heated, and ventilated on the Prestige trim. The Q5 featured several storage options, including cupholders, cubbies, and a center-console bin, all laid out smartly to maintain an uncluttered design.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent featured Subaru's StarLink infotainment system with logical menu layouts and large icons. Both available touchscreens were backed by hard buttons and dials, with a home button for easy navigation. Standard tech included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, two front and two second-row USB ports, satellite radio, and Bluetooth. Optional features included third-row USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV came with Audi’s latest MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a new center-console touchpad. The Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster offered three customizable views, enhancing the futuristic feel of the cabin. The Prestige Package included the Navigation Package, which worked with the hybrid system to optimize fuel consumption. The Integrated Toll Module (ITM) was standard, and a Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system with 19 speakers was available on Premium Plus models and standard on the Prestige trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay was also included.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent was an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for 2021, 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, along with a feature that alerted drivers when the vehicle in front had moved. For 2021, the Ascent added standard automatic high beams and steering-responsive headlights. Optional safety features included reverse automatic emergency braking, rain-sensing windshield wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS, but the 2020 gasoline-only Q5 received top ratings in all categories except headlights. The NHTSA awarded the 2021 Q5 gasoline model five stars. Safety features included six airbags, an anti-lock braking system with brake assist, Audi Pre Sense basic, low-speed collision assist, power child safety locks, electronic stability control, and more. Available driver-assistance features included Audi Advanced Key, Audi Pre Sense rear, Audi Side Assist with rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, park steering assist, traffic-sign recognition, and a top-view camera system.