Subaru Ascent vs VW Atlas: A Comprehensive Comparison

Compare Subaru Ascent vs VW Atlas – The midsize SUV segment has seen significant growth in recent years and for good reason.

These versatile vehicles offer ample space, impressive performance, and advanced safety features. Two popular contenders in this category are the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas.

In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between these two SUVs, covering price, dimensions, safety features, and specs, as well as their respective pros and cons.

What is the Difference Between Subaru Ascent and VW Atlas?

The Subaru Ascent and the VW Atlas are both midsize SUVs, but they have several key differences that set them apart. Here are the main distinctions between the Subaru Ascent vs VW Atlas.

Pricing

The pricing of the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas plays a crucial role in attracting potential buyers. Both SUVs offer competitive pricing, making them appealing choices in the midsize SUV market.

– 2023 Subaru Ascent Price:

The 2023 Subaru Ascent offers a range of trim levels to cater to different budgets and preferences.

The base model, starting at $33,895, provides a solid foundation with essential features, making it a value-conscious option for buyers.

For those seeking more luxurious amenities and advanced technologies, the top Touring trim is available at $48,195.

Between these two extremes, there are several trim levels, most of which are priced in the high $30s to low $40s, offering a variety of features and options to suit different needs.

It’s important to note that the destination fee for the Subaru Ascent is $1,225, which should be factored into the final cost.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas Price:

Similarly, the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas offers a diverse range of trim levels to accommodate various preferences and budgets.

The base SE trim starts at $34,600, providing a solid starting point with a good set of standard features. The SE w/ Technology model, priced at $38,770, adds more technology and convenience features.

Stepping up to the SEL model, starting at $44,390, brings even more luxury and advanced technologies. For those seeking a sportier appearance and features, the SEL R-Line Black model is available at $48,090.

At the top of the lineup, the SEL Premium R-Line trim begins at $51,790, offering the most luxurious features and amenities.

As with the Subaru Ascent, buyers should factor in the destination fee when calculating the final cost.

Overall, both the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas offer competitive pricing with a range of trim levels to suit various budgets and preferences.

Potential buyers can explore the available features and options at different price points to find the perfect midsize SUV that aligns with their needs and desires.

Whether it’s the value-conscious appeal of the Subaru Ascent or the luxurious amenities of the Volkswagen Atlas, both SUVs deliver strong value propositions in their respective segments.

Read also: Volkswagen Atlas vs Honda Pilot

Fuel Economy

The fuel economy of the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas is an important consideration for SUV buyers, especially with the increasing emphasis on fuel efficiency and environmental consciousness.

The Subaru Ascent offers above-average EPA estimates for a midsize SUV. It is expected to achieve 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

For those who opt for the top-tier Limited and Touring models, there is a slight decrease in fuel efficiency, with both city and highway ratings dropping by 1 mpg.

In a real-world 200-mile test, the top-of-the-line Ascent Limited achieved 26 mpg on the highway, matching its EPA rating.

While the Ascent’s fuel economy is commendable, some competitors, such as the Chevy Traverse and Honda Pilot, managed to be even more efficient despite having lower government ratings.

However, the VW Atlas’s fuel economy ratings are in line with other large family SUVs in its class. The four-cylinder model offers the most efficiency, achieving an EPA-rated 21 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive.

On the other hand, the V-6 model, which is more powerful but slightly less fuel-efficient, is rated at 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive, and 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway with all-wheel drive.

In a real-world 75-mph test conducted as part of an extensive testing regimen, the V-6 Atlas achieved 24 mpg, while the four-cylinder model delivered 27 mpg.

While the Atlas fuel economy may not be groundbreaking compared to some of its rivals, it still offers competitive performance in the segment.

Overall, both the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas offer respectable fuel economy figures for their size and class.

The Subaru Ascent provides above-average EPA estimates and confirmed its efficiency in real-world testing. However, some competitors managed to achieve even better fuel efficiency in real-world conditions.

The Volkswagen Atlas offers competitive fuel economy ratings, and its real-world performance aligns well with other family-oriented SUVs.

Buyers can consider these fuel economy figures along with other factors to make an informed decision based on their specific driving habits and environmental priorities.

Dimensions

The dimensions of the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas are critical factors to consider when choosing the right midsize SUV to suit individual needs and preferences.

2023 Subaru Ascent Dimensions:

Front Seat Dimensions:

Rear Seat Dimensions:

2023 Volkswagen Atlas Dimensions:

Front Seat Dimensions:

Rear Seat Dimensions:

Overall, the 2023 Subaru Ascent is slightly shorter in length compared to the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas. Both SUVs offer comfortable seating for passengers, with the Subaru Ascent providing a slightly larger interior volume.

The cargo capacity of the Volkswagen Atlas is notably more generous, making it a suitable choice for families needing extra storage space.

Additionally, the Volkswagen Atlas has a higher gross weight and payload capacity, which may be advantageous for carrying heavier loads.

Buyers should consider these dimensions in conjunction with other features to determine which SUV better meets their specific requirements.

Read also: Volkswagen Atlas vs Toyota 4Runner

Color Options

The available color options for the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas add a touch of personalization and style to these midsize SUVs, allowing buyers to choose the perfect color combination that suits their preferences.

The 2023 Subaru Ascent offers a range of exterior colors, including the eye-catching Autumn Green Metallic, the elegant Crystal Black Silica, and the refined Crystal White Pearl, among others.

These color options allow buyers to express their individuality while complementing the SUV’s overall design.

Inside the Subaru Ascent, buyers can choose between two interior colors: Warm Ivory leather, which adds a touch of sophistication, and Slate Black leather, offering a sleek and modern look.

While the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas provides a diverse range of exterior color options, from the sleek Platinum Gray Metallic to the vibrant Aurora Red Metallic.

The timeless Pure White and the lustrous Deep Black Pearl are also available, giving buyers a wide array of choices to match their personal style.

Inside the Volkswagen Atlas, buyers can select from three interior color options, including the classic Titan Black leatherette, the refined Shetland Beige leatherette, and the sophisticated Mauro Brown leatherette, each offering a luxurious and comfortable cabin ambiance.

With the range of available exterior and interior color choices, both the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas offer ample opportunities for buyers to personalize their SUVs to reflect their preferences and individual tastes.

Whether opting for the elegant Crystal White Pearl of the Subaru Ascent or the modern Platinum Gray Metallic of the Volkswagen Atlas, buyers can find the perfect color combination to complement their driving experience.

Safety Features

Both the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas prioritize safety by offering a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies to enhance protection and peace of mind for drivers and passengers.

The 2023 Subaru Ascent sets a high standard for safety, making the protection of occupants a top priority.

Subaru’s EyeSight safety suite comes standard on every Ascent trim level, ensuring that all buyers benefit from these advanced safety features. Key safety features include:

• Standard Forward-Collision Warning and Automated Emergency Braking: This system uses advanced sensors to detect potential frontal collisions and alerts the driver to take action. In critical situations, it can even apply the brakes automatically to help mitigate or avoid an accident.

• Standard Lane-Departure Warning and Lane-Keeping Assist: Ascent’s Lane-Departure Warning system alerts the driver when the vehicle drifts out of its lane unintentionally. The Lane-Keeping Assist feature provides gentle steering inputs to help keep the SUV safely within the lane.

• Standard Adaptive Cruise Control: Subaru’s Adaptive Cruise Control allows drivers to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle in front, automatically adjusting the speed to match traffic flow.

While the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas is also equipped with a range of standard and optional driver-assistance technologies to prioritize safety on the road. Key safety features include:

• Standard Forward-Collision Warning and Automated Emergency Braking: The Atlas uses advanced sensors to monitor the road ahead and provide warnings to the driver in case of potential front-end collisions. In emergency situations, the Automated Emergency Braking system can automatically apply the brakes to reduce the severity of a collision or avoid it altogether.

• Standard Blind-Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: The Blind-Spot Monitoring system detects vehicles in the driver’s blind spots and provides visual and audible alerts to prevent potential side collisions. The Rear Cross-Traffic Alert system warns the driver of approaching vehicles while reversing, enhancing safety in parking lots and busy streets.

• Available Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go Technology: The Volkswagen Atlas offers an optional Adaptive Cruise Control system that not only helps maintain a safe following distance but can also bring the vehicle to a complete stop and resume driving in congested traffic conditions.

Both the Subaru Ascent and the Volkswagen Atlas have earned favorable safety ratings in crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

These safety features and technologies contribute to making both the Subaru Ascent and Volkswagen Atlas safe and reliable choices for families and individuals seeking a secure and comfortable midsize SUV.

Warranty

The warranty coverage for the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas plays a significant role in providing peace of mind to buyers, offering protection for their investment and potential future repairs.

Subaru’s warranty coverage for the 2023 Ascent is standard and provides adequate protection for the vehicle.

However, it lacks some of the additional perks offered by some competitors. The warranty details for the Subaru Ascent are as follows:

• Limited Warranty: The limited warranty covers the vehicle for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. This warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship during the specified time frame.

• Powertrain Warranty: The powertrain warranty covers the engine, transmission, and drivetrain components for five years or 60,000 miles, offering an extended period of coverage for critical components.

• Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance: Subaru does not offer complimentary scheduled maintenance with the purchase of the Ascent, which is a feature provided by some of its competitors.

While the Volkswagen warranty coverage for the 2023 Atlas offers a competitive package, it does have some limitations. The warranty details for the Volkswagen Atlas are as follows:

• Limited Warranty: The limited warranty covers the vehicle for four years or 50,000 miles, providing a standard level of coverage for the specified time frame.

• Powertrain Warranty: The powertrain warranty covers the engine, transmission, and drivetrain components for four years or 50,000 miles, which is similar to the limited warranty duration.

• Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance: Volkswagen sweetens the deal by offering complimentary scheduled maintenance for two years or 20,000 miles. This perk covers basic maintenance services, contributing to the overall value proposition for Atlas buyers.

In comparison, both the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas offer standard warranty coverage for their segments.

Subaru provides a slightly longer powertrain warranty period, which may appeal to buyers seeking extended coverage for essential components.

On the other hand, Volkswagen offers a two-year complimentary scheduled maintenance package, providing buyers with added convenience and cost savings for basic maintenance services.

Ultimately, buyers should consider their specific needs and priorities when evaluating the warranty coverage of the Subaru Ascent vs Volkswagen Atlas.

Both SUVs offer reliable warranty packages to protect the investment and provide peace of mind for their respective owners.

Read also: Volkswagen Atlas vs Ford Edge

Specifications

The 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas offer impressive specifications that contribute to their performance and capabilities on the road. Here are the specs of the Subaru Ascent vs VW Atlas:

– 2023 Subaru Ascent Specs:

The Subaru Ascent is equipped with a 2.4-liter flat-four engine, delivering 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.

The engine is paired with a Continuously Variable-Speed Automatic transmission, providing smooth and efficient power delivery.

The standard all-wheel drive (AWD) system enhances the Ascent’s stability and traction on various road surfaces and weather conditions.

With a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs, the Ascent is well-equipped for hauling trailers, boats, or other recreational equipment.

– 2023 Volkswagen Atlas Specs:

The Volkswagen Atlas comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine, generating 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque.

Paired with an 8-speed shiftable automatic transmission, the Atlas offers smooth gear transitions and responsive performance.

Like the Subaru Ascent, the Atlas also features an all-wheel drive (AWD) system, providing enhanced grip and control.

With a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs and a maximum payload capacity of 1,146 lbs, the Atlas is well-suited for towing trailers and carrying heavier loads.

Both the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas offer capable engines and drivetrains, allowing them to tackle a variety of driving conditions with confidence.

Whether it’s the efficient and responsive flat-four engine of the Subaru Ascent or the powerful V6 engine of the Volkswagen Atlas, these midsize SUVs provide ample performance to meet the needs of diverse drivers and their lifestyles.

Pros and Cons

2023 Subaru Ascent Pros:

• High-Quality Interior Materials: The Subaru Ascent boasts a well-crafted interior with high-quality materials, creating a comfortable and inviting cabin for passengers.

• Generous Ground Clearance and Standard All-Wheel Drive: The Ascent offers generous ground clearance, making it suitable for off-road adventures and challenging road conditions. The standard all-wheel drive (AWD) system enhances traction and stability, providing confidence in various weather conditions.

• Excellent Outward Visibility: With its thoughtful design and large windows, the Subaru Ascent offers excellent outward visibility from the driver’s seat, making it easier to navigate and park.

• Strong Towing Capacity: The Ascent’s robust towing capacity of 5,000 lbs allows owners to haul trailers, boats, or other recreational equipment with ease, enhancing its versatility for outdoor activities.

Cons:

• Accelerator Pedal Is Too Touchy: Some drivers may find the accelerator pedal to be overly sensitive, making it challenging to achieve smooth and controlled acceleration.

• Invasive Engine and Tire Noise: The Ascent’s engine and tire noise may become noticeable during certain driving conditions, potentially affecting the overall cabin tranquility.

• Not Much Second-Row Shoulder Room and Third Row Is Tight: While the Ascent offers spaciousness in many areas, the second-row shoulder room is limited, and the third row may feel cramped for adult passengers, especially during longer journeys.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas Pros:

• Spacious Interior Offers Ample Passenger Room in All Three Rows: The Volkswagen Atlas excels in providing a roomy and comfortable interior, accommodating passengers in all three rows with ample space.

• Great Compromise Between Precise Handling and Everyday Comfort: The Atlas strikes a good balance between precise handling for an engaging driving experience and everyday comfort, making it suitable for daily commuting and longer trips.

• Straightforward, Easy-to-Use Cabin Design: The cabin design of the Atlas is straightforward and user-friendly, featuring intuitive controls and an accessible layout for convenience.

Cons:

• Lackluster Acceleration, Even with the Optional V6: Despite offering an optional V6 engine, the Atlas may feel underpowered for some drivers, especially when compared to some of its competitors with more robust acceleration.

• Lower Fuel Economy Than Most Competitors: The Atlas’s fuel economy may not be as competitive as some other midsize SUVs in its class, potentially impacting running costs over time.

Conclusion

The 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas both offer distinct sets of advantages and disadvantages.

The Ascent excels in providing high-quality interior materials, capable off-road performance, and strong towing capacity, while facing challenges in accelerator sensitivity and noise levels.

On the other hand, the Atlas stands out with its spacious and comfortable interior, versatile driving dynamics, and user-friendly cabin design, but it may face criticism for its acceleration performance and fuel efficiency.

Buyers should consider their priorities and preferences to choose the SUV that best aligns with their lifestyle and needs.

RELATED:

• VW Atlas vs Highlander
• Subaru Ascent vs Chevy Traverse
• Subaru Ascent vs Hyundai Palisade
• Subaru Ascent vs Toyota Highlander
• Nissan Pathfinder vs Subaru Ascent