2021 Subaru Ascent vs 2021 BMW X5

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 ill-fated Tribeca. The Ascent's design was a scaled-up version of Subaru's smaller models like the Forester and Outback, creating a familiar yet larger vehicle. Inside, the cabin mirrored other Subaru models, likely to create a sense of continuity for brand loyalists. The Ascent was available in four trims: Standard, Premium, Limited, and Touring, each adding more features and luxury as you moved up the line.

The 2021 BMW X5, known for its high-quality craftsmanship, was unmistakably a BMW with its signature kidney grille and body shape. The X5 featured full adaptive LED headlights and various trim options, including the sporty M Sport styling. The interior, while luxurious, had a sameness issue with other BMW models, featuring an abundance of black plastic and leather. The M Sport models added unique styling elements like an M sports steering wheel and specific pedals. The X5 offered a range of wheel sizes from 19 to 22 inches, depending on the trim level.

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 excelled in comfort and responsiveness, especially in inclement weather, thanks to its 8.7 inches of ground clearance and X-Mode system. It was also capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds, making it a versatile choice for families.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered multiple powertrain options, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base X5 sDrive40i/xDrive40i featured a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The X5 M50i came with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8, delivering 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. The X5 M offered up to 617 horsepower with the Competition Package. BMW also introduced the X5 xDrive45e plug-in hybrid, which combined a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine with a 24-kilowatt-hour battery, achieving 389 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. However, the X5's driving dynamics were less impressive, with steering issues at both low and high speeds, and a less engaging driving experience compared to other BMW models.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent provided 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third-row seats, expanding to 47.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 86.5 cubic feet with all rear seats down. It offered seating for up to eight passengers, 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. The Ascent also featured 19 cupholders and numerous storage compartments.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of its interior space, with cupholders positioned at the front of the center console. The seating was comfortable for short trips but could become hard on longer journeys. The rear seats were spacious enough for two adults, and an optional third row was available. The X5's split liftgate and vehicle height adjustment button made loading cargo easier. However, the rear doors did not open very wide, complicating the process of moving children and cargo in and out.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent featured the StarLink infotainment system with logical menu layouts and large icons. It came standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, two front and two second-row USB ports, satellite radio, and Bluetooth. Optional tech included third-row USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo.

The 2021 BMW X5 boasted a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, voice recognition, Bluetooth, five USB ports, navigation, HD Radio, satellite radio, automatic climate control, proximity key, and a panoramic moonroof. Optional features included remote start, a head-up display, quad-zone automatic climate control, a wireless smartphone charger, massaging seats, a Wi-Fi hotspot, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, a 20-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system, rear sunshades, and a dual-panel panoramic roof. The iDrive system required some acclimation but was user-friendly once mastered.

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

The 2021 BMW X5 came with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, rain-sensing windshield wipers, fatigue and focus alert, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. However, the Driving Assistance Professional Package had issues with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems, especially in bright sunlight or light rain. The X5 received nearly all Good ratings from the IIHS and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.