Porsche Cayenne vs Subaru Ascent

The 2024 Subaru Ascent struggled with its styling, as Subaru's design choices often led to mixed results. The latest Ascent model retained its controversial design elements, such as the visually offensive tusks and a bold spear running across the grille into the headlights. Despite these design choices, the Ascent lineup remained unchanged, offering various trim levels from Base to Touring, with prices ranging from $34,395 to $48,695, excluding the destination charge. The Touring trim, which we tested, included premium features like a panoramic sunroof, Nappa leather upholstery, and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, making it the most equipped version of the Ascent.

In contrast, the 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered a more refined and customizable experience. Available in both standard SUV and sporty Coupe forms, the Cayenne lineup ranged from the base model to the high-performance Turbo GT. The GTS trim, which we focused on, featured high gloss black trim, bronze exhaust tips, and a unique front fascia with larger air intakes. The interior was highly customizable, with options for different colors, trims, and even seat belt choices. While the base model offered standard features like eight-way power-adjustable seats, the options list allowed for extensive personalization, albeit at a cost. The Cayenne's design and customization options made it a standout in terms of luxury and style.

The 2024 Subaru Ascent was powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive, provided a versatile driving experience. The Ascent excelled in various driving conditions, from city streets to off-road trails, and could tow up to 5,000 pounds. However, its performance was limited by its weight and suspension, making it less agile on twisty roads. Fuel economy was also a concern, with the Ascent achieving 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, but returning lower figures during testing.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered a range of powerful engine options, starting with a 3.0-liter V6 producing 348 horsepower. The GTS trim, which we tested, featured a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 with 493 horsepower and 486 lb-ft of torque. This engine, combined with an eight-speed transmission and all-wheel drive, allowed the Cayenne to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds. The GTS trim struck a balance between sporty performance and comfort, with precise steering and an active suspension system. The Cayenne's performance capabilities were further enhanced by optional features like carbon ceramic brakes and adaptive air suspension, making it a thrilling yet versatile SUV.

The 2024 Subaru Ascent prioritized functionality, offering practical features like a dashboard shelf, large cupholders, and backpack pegs. The Touring trim added premium Nappa leather seats, which were heated and ventilated, although the front passenger seat lacked a height adjuster. The Ascent's interior was spacious, with wide-opening rear doors and a cargo area that could accommodate up to 75.6 cubic feet of space with the seats folded. However, third-row seating was snug, and legroom was limited compared to some rivals.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne, while not offering a third row, provided a comfortable and customizable interior for five passengers. The options list allowed for extensive personalization, from seat adjustments to interior materials. The Cayenne's cargo space was slightly smaller than some competitors, with 27.3 cubic feet behind the second row and up to 60 cubic feet with the seats folded. Despite this, the Cayenne excelled in towing capacity, able to tow over 7,700 pounds, and offered a luxurious and well-appointed cabin.

The 2024 Subaru Ascent featured the Starlink infotainment system with an 11.6-inch touchscreen, offering wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Higher trims included additional features like a Wi-Fi hotspot, navigation, and a premium sound system. While the system was functional, the display struggled in direct sunlight, and the native voice-recognition system was subpar. Physical buttons and knobs were available for commonly used functions, and upper trims offered features like a surround-view camera and a camera-based rearview mirror.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne boasted a tech-savvy interior with a 12.6-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen running the Porsche Communication Management system. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and streaming services like Spotify were included. An optional 10.9-inch passenger screen allowed for additional media control. The Cayenne's tech features were well-organized and responsive, with voice control options and a head-up display. The inclusion of multiple USB-C ports and a cooled wireless charging area added to the Cayenne's tech appeal.

The 2024 Subaru Ascent was equipped with Subaru's EyeSight safety suite, including features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Ascent received high safety ratings, with a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. However, the lane-centering assist system was criticized for its unpredictability and resistance to driver inputs, leading to a less stable driving experience.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered standard safety features like parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring, but advanced features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist were optional. Porsche's InnoDrive adaptive cruise control system was not tested, and the Cayenne had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS. While the Cayenne lacked some standard safety features, its performance and handling capabilities contributed to a sense of security.