2021 Subaru Ascent vs 2021 BMW X3

When the 2021 Subaru Ascent was introduced, it filled a significant gap in Subaru's lineup, which had been missing a three-row SUV since the ill-fated 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 the same theme, with a dashboard design that mirrored other Subaru models, likely to create a sense of familiarity for loyal customers. The Ascent was available in four trims: Standard, Premium, Limited, and Touring, each offering progressively more features, from driver-assistance technologies to luxury touches like a 14-speaker Harman Kardon stereo system in the Touring trim.

The 2021 BMW X3, part of the third generation introduced in 2018, received updates in 2020, including a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. The X3's design aimed to bring the luxury and presence of larger BMW models into a smaller SUV format. Its exterior resembled a downsized X5, while the interior featured BMW's characteristic cold, mechanical styling. The X3 was available in several trims: sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and the xDrive30e plug-in hybrid. Standard features included a 10.2-inch infotainment system and tri-zone climate control, with numerous options for added luxury and convenience.

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. The Ascent's performance was adequate for most driving scenarios, excelling in city driving and holding its own on highways. Its ride focused on comfort, with responsive handling and the ability to absorb road bumps effectively. With 8.7 inches of ground clearance, the Ascent was well-suited for snowy conditions and light off-roading. It also had a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, supported by standard Trailer Stability Assist.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered a range of powertrains. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 248 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid produced 288 horsepower and had a 17-mile electric-only range, with recharging times of 3.5 hours using a 240-volt charger or nearly 12 hours with a 120-volt outlet. For those seeking more performance, the M40i trim boasted a 382-horsepower twin-turbo inline-six engine, providing robust acceleration and enhanced cornering abilities. The high-performance X3 M model offered an impressive 473 horsepower, catering to drivers with a need for speed.

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, and up to 86.5 cubic feet with all rear seats down. While this was generous, some rivals offered more cargo space. 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 an 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 compartments throughout the cabin.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered up to 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 28.7 cubic feet with the seats in use, making it one of the most spacious in its class. A power liftgate was standard, with an optional hands-free feature. The X3's interior was roomy, with ample headroom and legroom in both rows. The front seats provided a commanding driving position, and the rear seats were comfortable for adults on long trips. BMW's use of real buttons and dials alongside the touchscreen made the controls user-friendly.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent featured the StarLink infotainment system, known for its logical menu layouts and large, easy-to-read icons. Both available touchscreens were complemented by hard buttons and dials, along 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 BMW X3 came standard with a 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, which was user-friendly compared to other luxury systems. It offered both touch and dial controls, catering to different user preferences. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, with Android Auto available as an option. Other optional tech included wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon stereo, and gesture control for basic functions.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, thanks to its crash test results and comprehensive EyeSight driver-assistance suite. Standard features included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. The Ascent also offered reverse automatic emergency braking, rain-sensing windshield wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert as optional features.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with advanced driver-assistance features such as automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front-and-rear parking sensors. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, headlights that bend with the road, and a head-up display.