2021 Dodge Durango vs 2021 Subaru Ascent

The 2021 Subaru Ascent, introduced in 2019, filled a significant gap in Subaru's lineup by offering a three-row SUV. Its design was a blend of the smaller Forester and Outback models, scaled up to accommodate three rows. The interior mirrored other Subaru models, likely to create a sense of familiarity for buyers. The Ascent came in four trims: Standard, Premium, Limited, and Touring, each adding more features and luxury as you moved up the line.

In contrast, the 2021 Dodge Durango maintained its muscular and athletic styling, consistent with its Charger and Challenger siblings. The Durango's design was refreshed for 2021, especially evident in the SRT Hellcat model, which featured a cold-air scoop, twin-pipe exhaust, LED headlamps, and a rear spoiler. The Durango offered a variety of wheel options and came in 11 exterior colors with six interior color schemes. The cabin featured a new instrument panel and either an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen running the Uconnect 5 system, enhancing its modern appeal.

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 handling, with 8.7 inches of ground clearance and Subaru’s X-Mode system, making it capable in snow and light off-roading. It could tow up to 5,000 pounds and included Trailer Stability Assist.

The 2021 Dodge Durango offered four engine options: a 3.6-liter V6, a 5.7-liter HEMI V8, a 392 HEMI V8, and a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8. The V6 produced up to 295 horsepower, while the 5.7-liter V8 delivered 360 horsepower. The 392 HEMI V8 offered 475 horsepower, and the supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 in the SRT Hellcat produced a staggering 710 horsepower. All engines were paired with eight-speed automatic transmissions. The Durango's performance was impressive, especially in the SRT models, but its chassis showed its age, affecting ride quality. The Durango could tow up to 8,700 pounds with the Tow N Go Package.

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. 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 suitable for shorter trips. The Ascent featured 19 cupholders and numerous storage compartments.

The 2021 Dodge Durango offered seating for five in its standard configuration, with the option to seat up to seven across three rows. The front and second-row seats were spacious, and the third row was more accommodating than many competitors. The Durango had a good amount of cargo space, though not exceptional for its class. Dodge provided 21 seat options, enhancing customization. The Durango's fit and finish had improved significantly, making it a solid family hauler.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent featured the StarLink infotainment system with logical menus and large icons. It came with a 6.5-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and multiple USB ports. Available features included third-row USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon stereo.

The 2021 Dodge Durango offered an 8.4-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a 10.1-inch touchscreen on higher trims, running the new Uconnect 5 system. This system was faster and more customizable, with features like Amazon Alexa, TomTom navigation, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Durango also offered a family entertainment system with Blu-ray and DVD players and two 9-inch screens. The gauge cluster and navigation system were user-friendly, though a head-up display was notably absent.

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. It also offered optional features like reverse automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring.

The 2021 Dodge Durango lagged in safety features, offering only a rearview camera as standard. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The NHTSA gave the Durango a five-star side crash rating and a four-star rollover rating, but front crash test ratings were pending.