Subaru Ascent vs Chevy Traverse: A Comprehensive Comparison

In the ever-expanding realm of SUVs, finding the perfect fit for your family’s needs can be quite the endeavor. Two prominent contenders in the 2023 SUV market are the Subaru Ascent vs Chevy Traverse.

This article delves into the intricacies of both vehicles, aiming to provide you with a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision.

What’s the Difference Between Subaru Ascent and Chevy Traverse?

The Subaru Ascent and Chevy Traverse are both midsize SUVs, but they have distinct differences in terms of performance, features, and design.

The Ascent is known for its fuel efficiency, reliability, and comfortable ride, making it a practical choice for families.

On the other hand, the Traverse offers a more powerful V6 engine, ample cargo space, and a bolder exterior design.

Choosing between the two depends on your priorities, whether it’s fuel efficiency and comfort (Ascent) or performance and cargo capacity (Traverse).

Pricing

When considering a new SUV, one of the first things on your mind is likely the price. Let’s take a closer look at how the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Chevy Traverse are priced to fit your budget.

– 2023 Subaru Ascent Price:

The 2023 Subaru Ascent starts at an inviting price of $33,895, making it an appealing option for families looking for a well-rounded SUV without breaking the bank.

This competitive starting price places the Subaru Ascent in a value-conscious position within its segment.

It’s worth noting that the top-of-the-line Touring trim, which comes with a host of premium features and amenities, is priced at $48,195.

– 2023 Chevy Traverse Price:

The 2023 Chevrolet Traverse offers a range of trim levels, each with its own pricing structure to cater to different preferences and needs:

2023 Chevrolet Traverse LS: This entry-level trim starts with a starting MSRP of $34,520. It provides a solid foundation of features for families seeking a versatile and comfortable SUV.

2023 Chevrolet Traverse LT Cloth: The LT Cloth trim comes in at a starting MSRP of $37,045. It adds more amenities and conveniences to enhance your driving experience.

2023 Chevrolet Traverse LT Leather: For those desiring a touch of luxury, the LT Leather trim is priced at a starting MSRP of $40,740. This trim introduces leather upholstery and additional premium features.

2023 Chevrolet Traverse RS: The RS trim, with its sporty flair, starts at a price of $45,045. It brings a unique style and performance-oriented features to the lineup.

Comparing these prices, it’s evident that the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Chevy Traverse offer competitive options at various price points.

Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly choice or a more luxurious option, both SUVs aim to accommodate a wide range of budgets and preferences.

When making your decision, it’s important to weigh the features, technology, and capabilities each trim level offers against its price. Additionally, consider your family’s needs and how well each vehicle aligns with your lifestyle.

With a clear understanding of the pricing options for both the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Chevy Traverse, you’re better equipped to make a choice that suits your financial considerations and driving aspirations.

Read also: Ford Explorer vs Chevy Traverse

Fuel Economy

When it comes to choosing the right SUV, fuel economy is a critical factor that can impact your daily commute and overall driving costs.

Let’s take a closer look at the fuel efficiency offerings of the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Chevy Traverse.

– 2023 Subaru Ascent Fuel Economy:

The 2023 Subaru Ascent boasts fuel economy figures that position it as an efficient choice within its segment.

According to EPA estimates, the Ascent is projected to achieve 20 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

It’s worth noting that if you opt for the top-tier Limited and Touring models, you’ll experience a slight drop of 1 mpg in both city and highway categories.

Real-world testing has confirmed the Ascent’s above-average EPA estimates. In a 200-mile real-world test, the top-of-the-line Ascent Limited achieved an impressive 26 mpg on our route, matching its EPA highway rating.

However, it’s important to consider that certain rivals, such as the Chevy Traverse and Honda Pilot, managed to achieve even higher levels of efficiency despite having lower government ratings.

For those seeking more detailed information about the Subaru Ascent’s fuel economy, the EPA’s official website provides valuable insights.

2023 Chevy Traverse Fuel Economy:

The 2023 Chevy Traverse delivers a nuanced perspective on fuel economy. While its class-average EPA-estimated fuel-economy numbers may seem standard, real-world testing reveals additional layers to its efficiency story.

During our real-world 75-mph highway fuel-economy testing, the all-wheel-drive Traverse High Country surprised with a commendable 27 mpg, showcasing its ability to offer better-than-average highway fuel consumption within its class.

On the other hand, the all-wheel-drive Traverse RS underwent the same highway test and returned 22 mpg, falling short of its EPA estimate by 3 mpg.

Front-wheel drive models of the Traverse received EPA ratings of 18 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. For models equipped with all-wheel drive, these figures slightly decrease to 17 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

For more comprehensive information about the Chevy Traverse’s fuel economy, the EPA’s official website provides a valuable resource.

In conclusion, while the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Chevy Traverse offer competitive fuel economy figures, real-world testing can reveal variations in efficiency performance.

Your choice between these SUVs may depend on how their actual fuel consumption aligns with your daily driving habits and preferences.

Dimensions

When it comes to finding the perfect SUV, understanding the dimensions can make all the difference in ensuring that your chosen vehicle meets your needs for space and comfort.

Let’s explore the dimensions of the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Chevy Traverse, offering a detailed perspective on their interior and exterior measurements.

– 2023 Subaru Ascent Dimensions:

The 2023 Subaru Ascent is designed with versatility in mind, offering ample space for passengers and cargo. Here’s a breakdown of its dimensions:

Front Seat Dimensions:

Rear Seat Dimensions:

– 2023 Chevy Traverse Dimensions:

The 2023 Chevy Traverse offers a spacious and comfortable interior for both passengers and cargo. Here are the dimensions you should know:

Front Seat Dimensions:

Rear Seat Dimensions:

Understanding these dimensions will help you gauge the interior and exterior space of the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Chevy Traverse.

Whether you’re focused on passenger comfort or cargo-carrying capabilities, these measurements can aid in your decision-making process to ensure that your chosen SUV aligns with your lifestyle and requirements.

Read also: Cadillac XT4 vs Chevy Traverse

Color Options

Personalizing your SUV to match your style is an exciting part of the ownership experience. Both the 2023 Subaru Ascent and Chevy Traverse offer a range of exterior and interior color options to cater to various preferences.

Let’s explore the vibrant color choices available for each of these SUVs:

– 2023 Subaru Ascent Color Options:

Exterior Colors:

• Autumn Green Metallic
• Magnetite Gray Metallic
• Crimson Red Pearl
• Crystal Black Silica
• Ice Silver Metallic
• Abyss Blue Pearl
• Crystal White Pearl

Interior Colors:

• Warm Ivory, leather
• Slate Black, leather

With a variety of exterior and interior color combinations, the 2023 Subaru Ascent allows you to choose the palette that best suits your taste.

Whether you prefer bold shades or classic neutrals, these options ensure that your Ascent reflects your individual style.

– 2023 Chevy Traverse Color Options:

Exterior Colors:

• Black Cherry Metallic
• Sterling Gray Metallic
• Radiant Red Tintcoat
• Summit White
• Northsky Blue Metallic
• Silver Sage Metallic
• Iridescent Pearl Tricoat
• Mosaic Black Metallic

Interior Colors:

• Jet Black/Chai, premium cloth
• Jet Black, premium cloth

The 2023 Chevy Traverse offers a range of exterior colors that cater to various preferences. Whether you’re drawn to metallic hues or classic shades, these options allow you to express your personality through your vehicle’s appearance.

Both the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Chevy Traverse understand the importance of color in personalizing your driving experience.

The extensive range of color options for both the exterior and interior of these SUVs ensures that you can find the perfect combination to match your style and make a statement on the road.

Whether you’re drawn to bold and vibrant hues or prefer a more subdued look, these color choices add an extra layer of personalization to your chosen SUV.

Safety Features

Safety is a paramount concern for families considering an SUV. Both the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Chevy Traverse come equipped with a suite of safety features designed to provide peace of mind and enhance the driving experience.

Let’s delve into the safety offerings of these two vehicles:

– 2023 Subaru Ascent Safety Features:

Subaru places safety at the forefront of its design philosophy, ensuring that advanced safety and driver-assist technology are accessible to all customers.

Notably, Subaru’s EyeSight safety suite comes standard on every Ascent model. The key safety features included are:

• Standard Forward-Collision Warning and Automated Emergency Braking: These features actively monitor the road ahead and can provide warnings and interventions to mitigate or prevent collisions.

• Standard Lane-Departure Warning and Lane-Keeping Assist: These systems help drivers stay within their lane by providing alerts and corrective actions if unintended lane departure is detected.

• Standard Adaptive Cruise Control: This feature adjusts the vehicle’s speed based on the flow of traffic, maintaining a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead.

The Subaru Ascent’s commitment to including these advanced safety features across all trim levels underscores its dedication to ensuring the well-being of drivers and passengers.

– 2023 Chevy Traverse Safety Features:

The 2023 Chevy Traverse prioritizes safety as well, offering a range of standard and available safety features.

However, it’s worth noting that some advanced driver-assistance features are reserved for the higher-priced trims. Key safety features of the Traverse include:

• Standard Automated Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection: This system can apply the brakes if it detects an imminent collision with a pedestrian or another vehicle.

• Standard Lane-Departure Warning with Lane-Keeping Assist: These systems assist the driver in maintaining proper lane position and provide warnings if drifting is detected.

• Available Adaptive Cruise Control: While available, adaptive cruise control is not standard across all trim levels.

It’s important to consider that the availability of certain advanced safety features may vary based on the trim level you choose.

While some features are standard, others may be offered as options or exclusive to higher-priced trims.

For a comprehensive understanding of the safety capabilities of both the 2023 Subaru Ascent and Chevy Traverse, it’s advisable to visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

These resources offer crash-test results and safety ratings that can further inform your decision-making process.

Read also: Mazda CX-5 vs Subaru Forester

Warranty

When investing in an SUV, understanding the warranty coverage is essential to ensure your peace of mind and protect your vehicle.

Both the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Chevy Traverse come with warranty offerings that aim to provide reassurance during your ownership experience.

Let’s explore the warranty details for these two vehicles:

– 2023 Subaru Ascent Warranty:

While the 2023 Subaru Ascent provides warranty coverage that aligns with industry standards, it’s important to note that it lacks certain features offered by some of its competitors, such as complimentary scheduled maintenance.

Here’s an overview of Subaru’s warranty coverage for the 2023 Ascent:

• Limited Warranty: Covers three years or 36,000 miles. This warranty encompasses a range of components and systems to ensure your vehicle’s functionality and integrity.

• Powertrain Warranty: Covers five years or 60,000 miles. This warranty specifically focuses on the powertrain components, such as the engine and transmission, which are crucial to the vehicle’s performance.

• Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance: Not offered.

The 2023 Subaru Ascent’s warranty coverage provides the fundamental protection necessary for your vehicle.

But it’s worth considering whether the absence of complimentary scheduled maintenance is a significant factor in your decision-making process.

– 2023 Chevy Traverse Warranty:

The 2023 Chevy Traverse offers warranty coverage that is on par with its competitors, while also providing an initial maintenance benefit. Here’s a breakdown of Chevrolet’s warranty coverage for the 2023 Traverse:

• Limited Warranty: Covers three years or 36,000 miles. Similar to the industry norm, this warranty covers various vehicle components to ensure its proper function.

• Powertrain Warranty: Covers five years or 60,000 miles. This warranty provides coverage for critical powertrain components, contributing to the vehicle’s overall performance.

• Complimentary Maintenance: Covers the first maintenance visit. Chevrolet distinguishes itself by offering a free initial maintenance visit, which can help offset early maintenance costs.

The 2023 Chevy Traverse’s warranty coverage aligns with industry standards, and the inclusion of a complimentary maintenance visit for the first maintenance service is a notable perk that could contribute to your overall ownership experience.

When evaluating the warranty offerings of both the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Chevy Traverse, consider your preferences, maintenance needs, and long-term ownership plans.

While both SUVs provide fundamental warranty coverage, the presence or absence of certain features may impact your decision based on your individual priorities.

Specifications

When it comes to performance and capabilities, understanding the specifications of an SUV is crucial.

Let’s dive into the specifications of the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Chevy Traverse to gain insight into their engine choices, power, and towing capacities.

– 2023 Subaru Ascent Specs:

The 2023 Subaru Ascent’s specifications showcase a 2.4-liter flat 4-cylinder gas engine, delivering robust power and torque figures.

Its all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction and stability, making it suitable for a range of road conditions. With a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs., the Ascent proves its versatility for hauling needs.

– 2023 Chevy Traverse Specs:

The 2023 Chevy Traverse is equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 gas engine, delivering impressive power and torque figures.

With its 9-speed shiftable automatic transmission, the Traverse offers smooth and efficient gear changes.

The front-wheel-drive configuration provides agility and responsiveness, while the maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. underscores its ability to handle towing tasks.

Comparing these specifications, both the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Chevy Traverse offer capable engine options and towing capabilities.

Depending on your preference for engine types and drivetrain configurations, these specifications can influence your choice between the two SUVs.

Whether you prioritize the flat 4-cylinder engine of the Ascent or the V6 engine of the Traverse, both vehicles are engineered to deliver dependable performance and power.

Read also: Mazda CX-30 vs Subaru Crosstrek

Reliability

The 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Chevrolet Traverse are both good choices for a reliable midsize SUV. However, the Ascent has a slight edge in terms of reliability.

According to J.D. Power’s 2023 Vehicle Dependability Study, the Ascent is ranked 11th out of 26 midsize SUVs, while the Traverse is ranked 15th. This means that the Ascent is less likely to experience problems than the Traverse.

The Ascent also has a better-predicted reliability rating from Consumer Reports. CR gives the Ascent a 4 out of 5 predicted reliability rating, while the Traverse gets a 3 out of 5.

Both the Ascent and the Traverse come with a standard 3-year/36,000-mile warranty.

Here is a table comparing the reliability of the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Chevrolet Traverse:

Ultimately, the best way to decide which SUV is more reliable for you is to test drive both and see which one you prefer.

Here are some other factors to consider when choosing between the Ascent and the Traverse:

• The Ascent is slightly smaller than the Traverse, but it still has plenty of space for passengers and cargo.
• The Ascent comes standard with all-wheel drive, while the Traverse is available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
• The Ascent has a more powerful engine than the Traverse.
• The Traverse has a higher starting price than the Ascent.

Resale Value

According to iSeeCars.com, the 2023 Subaru Ascent has a projected 5-year depreciation rate of 40.5%, while the 2023 Chevrolet Traverse has a projected 5-year depreciation rate of 51.3%.

This means that the Subaru Ascent is expected to retain 10.8 percentage points more of its value than the Chevrolet Traverse over 5 years.

Here is a table comparing the projected 5-year depreciation rates of the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Chevrolet Traverse:

There are a few factors that contribute to the higher resale value of the Subaru Ascent. First, Subarus are known for their reliability and durability, which makes them more desirable to used car buyers.

Second, the Ascent comes standard with all-wheel drive, which is a popular feature in snowy climates. Third, the Ascent has a more spacious interior than the Traverse, which is important to some families.

Ultimately, the best way to choose between the Subaru Ascent and the Chevrolet Traverse is to consider your needs and budget.

If you are looking for an SUV with a high resale value, the Ascent is a good option. However, if you are looking for a more affordable SUV, the Traverse may be a better choice.

Here are some other factors to consider when choosing between the two SUVs:

• Price: The Ascent starts at $33,895, while the Traverse starts at $34,520.
• Fuel economy: The Ascent gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while the Traverse gets an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
• Features: The Ascent comes standard with features like all-wheel drive, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Traverse comes standard with features like a rearview camera and front collision warning.
• Safety: The Ascent has a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), while the Traverse has a 4-star overall safety rating.

Pros and Cons

Choosing the right SUV involves evaluating its strengths and weaknesses to determine which vehicle best aligns with your preferences and needs.

Let’s examine the pros and cons of the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Chevy Traverse, offering insights into their standout features and potential drawbacks.

– 2023 Subaru Ascent Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Lots of Standard Driver-Assistance Features: The 2023 Subaru Ascent comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assistance features, enhancing safety and convenience for all occupants.

• Spacious Cabin: With a generously sized interior, the Ascent offers ample space for passengers to travel comfortably, making it an ideal option for families and group outings.

• Above-Average Cargo Space: The Ascent’s cargo capacity is above average for its class, providing versatility for carrying both passengers and belongings.

• Standard All-Wheel Drive: All-wheel drive comes standard on the 2023 Subaru Ascent, enhancing traction and stability, particularly in varying road and weather conditions.

Cons:

• Ho-Hum Driving Dynamics: Some drivers may find the driving dynamics of the Ascent to be less engaging or spirited compared to other vehicles in its class.

– 2023 Chevy Traverse Pros:

• Generous Passenger Room in All Three Rows: The 2023 Chevy Traverse prioritizes passenger comfort, offering ample space in all three rows, and ensuring a pleasant journey for passengers of all ages.

• Quick Acceleration: The Traverse provides quick acceleration, delivering a responsive driving experience that can enhance both highway merging and city driving.

• Feature-Rich and Easy-to-Use Infotainment System: The infotainment system in the Traverse is designed to be user-friendly and packed with features, ensuring connectivity and entertainment on the go.

– 2023 Chevy Traverse Pros and Cons

Cons:

• Rear Seats and Thick Roof Pillars Block Rear Visibility: Rear visibility may be hindered by the design of the rear seats and thick roof pillars, potentially affecting parking and maneuvering.

• Quality of Some Interior Panels and Controls Seems Low-Rent for This Class: While the Traverse offers a comfortable interior, some panels and controls might not meet the highest quality standards expected in its class.

Considering these pros and cons can help you make an informed decision between the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Chevy Traverse.

Evaluating what matters most to you—whether it’s safety features, interior space, driving dynamics, or technology – will guide you toward the SUV that best suits your lifestyle and preferences.

Conclusion

In the dynamic world of SUVs, the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Chevy Traverse emerge as contenders, each with its own set of strengths and considerations.

As you weigh your options, it’s essential to align your decision with your unique needs and priorities.

The 2023 Subaru Ascent stands out for its commitment to safety, boasting a suite of standard driver-assistance features that provide an extra layer of security for you and your passengers.

Its spacious cabin and above-average cargo space make it an attractive choice for families seeking comfort and practicality.

The inclusion of standard all-wheel drive enhances traction and control, catering to various road conditions. However, it’s worth noting that Ascent’s driving dynamics might not be as engaging as some competitors.

On the other hand, the 2023 Chevy Traverse offers an inviting combination of generous passenger room, quick acceleration, and a feature-rich infotainment system.

The Traverse’s responsive driving experience and well-designed tech features enhance both convenience and entertainment on the road.

However, the design of the rear seats and roof pillars might impact rear visibility, and some interior panels and controls may not meet the highest quality standards.

Both vehicles have their merits and considerations, and your choice ultimately depends on your individual preferences.

Whether you prioritize safety, interior space, performance, or technology, the 2023 Subaru Ascent vs 2023 Chevy Traverse offers compelling options in the competitive SUV landscape.

As you embark on your decision-making journey, evaluating the pros and cons, specifications, dimensions, and more will empower you to select the SUV that aligns perfectly with your lifestyle and aspirations.

FAQs

Which SUV offers better fuel efficiency?

Both SUVs offer good fuel efficiency, but the Subaru Ascent has a slight edge in this department.

Can the Traverse’s third row comfortably seat adults?

Yes, the Traverse’s third row can accommodate adults, but it’s more comfortable for children.

Are these SUVs suitable for towing?

Absolutely, both the Ascent and the Traverse have towing capabilities, but the Traverse’s V6 engine provides more towing power.

How does the Ascent handle in snowy conditions?

The Ascent’s all-wheel-drive system and ground clearance make it a capable performer in snowy and slippery conditions.

Which SUV has better resale value?

Subarus generally have a reputation for strong resale value, giving the Ascent an advantage in this aspect.

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