2021 Subaru Ascent vs 2021 Subaru Outback

The 2021 Subaru Ascent, introduced in 2019, filled a significant gap in Subaru's lineup by offering a three-row SUV, a segment that had been missing since the poorly received Tribeca. The Ascent's design was a natural extension of Subaru's existing models, resembling a larger version of the Forester and Outback. Its interior mirrored this approach, with a dashboard design familiar to Subaru enthusiasts, reinforcing the brand's identity. The Ascent was available in four trims: Standard, Premium, Limited, and Touring, each offering a range of features from driver-assistance technologies to upgraded infotainment systems and comfort amenities.

In contrast, the 2021 Subaru Outback, redesigned for 2020, maintained a sense of familiarity with its predecessors while offering a refreshed interior. The Outback's cabin, especially in higher trims, exuded a sense of quality with substantial materials and a luxury-like feel. The exterior design was practical, with high ground clearance and protective cladding, making it suitable for various terrains. The Outback's trims included features like a large 11.6-inch touchscreen, adaptive LED headlights, and a range of upholstery options, enhancing its appeal as a versatile and comfortable vehicle.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent was powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer four-cylinder engine, delivering 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, provided adequate performance for most driving scenarios. The Ascent excelled in comfort, with a ride designed to absorb road imperfections, making it a popular choice in regions with inclement weather. Its 8.7 inches of ground clearance and X-Mode system enhanced its capability in snow and light off-road conditions. Additionally, the Ascent could tow up to 5,000 pounds, supported by a standard Trailer Stability Assist.

The 2021 Subaru Outback offered two engine options. The base model featured a 2.5-liter flat-four engine with 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, which struggled with the vehicle's weight, resulting in sluggish performance. However, the XT trims provided a significant upgrade with a turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. This engine improved the Outback's performance, making it more capable of handling traffic and highway speeds. The Outback's ride comfort and handling were designed for long-distance cruising, with its 8.7 inches of ground clearance and advanced AWD system enhancing its off-road capabilities. The XT's fuel economy was slightly lower than the base engine, but the performance gains were substantial.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent offered generous interior space, with 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 competitive in its class, some rivals offered more cargo capacity. The Ascent could seat up to eight passengers, with the option for second-row captain's chairs reducing capacity to seven. The first two rows provided ample space, while the third row was more suitable for children on longer trips. The Ascent featured numerous storage options, including 19 cupholders and various trays and cubbies.

The 2021 Subaru Outback, with its impressive ground clearance, offered a spacious interior with 76 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 33 cubic feet with them raised. The cargo area was practical, with a wide and flat design. The Outback provided excellent headroom and legroom in all seating positions, with comfortable and supportive seats. Visibility was a strong point, thanks to thin pillars and ample glass. Storage solutions included large map pockets, bottle holders, and a well-designed center console. However, some features like push-button start and rear climate vents were only available on higher trims. The Outback's standout feature was its standard roof rails with integrated crossbars, offering convenience and cost savings.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent featured the StarLink infotainment system, known for its logical menu layouts and easy-to-read icons. Both available touchscreens were complemented by hard buttons and dials, with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Ascent came with two front and two second-row USB ports, satellite radio, and Bluetooth connectivity. Optional tech features included third-row USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and a premium Harman Kardon stereo.

The 2021 Subaru Outback's infotainment system appeared dated, with graphics reminiscent of older technology. However, it offered modern features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The optional navigation system was more contemporary, but the base model's dual-screen setup was less cohesive. Subaru EyeSight was standard, providing adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and forward automatic emergency braking. The system's reliance on cameras rather than radar affected its performance in certain conditions.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation, thanks to its crash test results and comprehensive EyeSight driver-assistance suite. This included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. The Ascent also featured standard automatic high beams and steering-responsive headlights. Optional safety features included reverse automatic emergency braking, rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.

The 2021 Subaru Outback boasted a stronger and stiffer chassis, with standard airbags and available driver assists. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were optional on Premium trims and standard on higher trims. The Outback was a 2020 IIHS Top Safety Pick+, with top ratings in crash tests and forward emergency braking. The NHTSA awarded the Outback five stars overall, with four stars for the front passenger in a frontal crash and rollover test.