2023 Jeep Wrangler vs 2024 Subaru Ascent

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler presented a rugged, no-nonsense design with its fourth-generation JL model, characterized by its boxy shape and minimal curves. Available in both two-door and four-door Unlimited versions, the Wrangler allowed for a customizable open-air experience with removable doors and a foldable windshield. The SUV featured Jeep's iconic seven-slot grille, round headlights, and wide fenders, with options for unique colors like the limited-edition Reign purple and the new Earl gray. Inside, the Wrangler maintained a practical and straightforward design with easy-to-clean materials and a body-colored dash, though it lacked luxury features like ambient lighting or massaging seats.

In contrast, the 2024 Subaru Ascent struggled with its styling, retaining the controversial design changes from the previous year, including prominent grille elements. The Ascent lineup remained unchanged, offering various trims from Base to Touring, with prices ranging from $34,395 to $48,695. The Touring trim, tested here, included premium features like a panoramic sunroof, Nappa leather upholstery, and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. The interior, while functional and practical, lacked sophistication, resembling a modular assembly. Despite this, the Ascent provided a comfortable and well-equipped cabin for its occupants.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler excelled in off-road performance, offering a range of engine options to suit different needs. The standard V6 engine delivered 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, while a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder offered 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. For those seeking more torque, the 3.0-liter Ecodiesel V6 provided 260 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. The Rubicon 392 model, with its 6.4-liter V8 engine, boasted 470 horsepower and torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds. The Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid offered a more eco-friendly option with 21 miles of all-electric range. However, the 392 model's on-road performance was hindered by inadequate brakes and vague steering, issues less pronounced in other trims.

The 2024 Subaru Ascent featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT and standard AWD. The Ascent excelled in various driving conditions, from city streets to off-road trails, offering a smooth and capable ride. However, its performance faltered on twisty mountain roads due to its weight and suspension tuning. Fuel economy was also a concern, with the Ascent achieving 16.7 mpg in the city and 18.6 mpg overall during testing, despite its 19.3-gallon fuel tank.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler offered comfortable front seats, with heated options available in the 392 model or through a cold-weather package. Rear seating was tight, especially in the four-door models, and storage for small items was limited. Cargo space measured 72.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, slightly less than competitors. The Wrangler's removable tops provided various open-air options, with the Sky One-Touch power soft top offering convenience. The vehicle was well-equipped with charging points, including USB ports and a 115-volt outlet.

The 2024 Subaru Ascent prioritized functionality, featuring a dashboard shelf, large cupholders, and backpack pegs. The Touring trim offered comfortable Nappa leather seats, though the front passenger seat lacked height adjustment. The rear doors opened wide for easy access, and the roof rails supported up to 700 pounds. The second-row captain's chairs were comfortable, but legroom was limited. The third-row seats were suitable for short trips, with air vents and storage space. Cargo space ranged from 17.8 cubic feet behind the third row to 75.6 cubic feet with seats folded, slightly reduced with the panoramic sunroof.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen running the Uconnect infotainment system, with an optional 8.4-inch screen. The system, while initially complex, offered useful off-road pages and supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Wrangler included practical tech features like a forward-facing camera and auxiliary switches but lacked advanced options like a digital key or comprehensive over-the-air updates.

The 2024 Subaru Ascent featured the Starlink infotainment system with an 11.6-inch touchscreen, offering Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims included connected services, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a premium sound system. The system's display struggled in direct sunlight, and the native voice-recognition was subpar. Physical buttons and knobs were available for common functions, and upper trims offered a surround-view camera and a camera-based rearview mirror.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's safety features were limited, with only a rearview camera, electronic roll mitigation, and stability control standard. Advanced features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control were standard only on the 392 model or available as options. The Wrangler received mixed safety ratings, with some trims' headlights rated poorly by the IIHS and a four-star frontal crash rating from the NHTSA.

The 2024 Subaru Ascent emphasized safety with its high-strength steel platform and standard EyeSight suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Ascent earned top safety ratings, with a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. However, some features like blind-spot monitoring required upgrading to higher trims. The EyeSight system's lane-centering assist was criticized for its unpredictability, affecting the driving experience.