2021 Subaru Ascent vs 2020 Subaru Outback

The 2020 Subaru Outback was a testament to Subaru's commitment to consistency with incremental improvements. Subaru kept the trusted formula that included utility, safety, and performance, but introduced subtle yet meaningful upgrades. The sixth-generation Outback was built on Subaru’s Global Platform, boasting a 70% increase in structural rigidity. The base 2.5-liter engine, which seemed almost unchanged, was actually revamped with 90% new parts, enhancing its performance. Higher trims featured the 2.4-liter turbocharged engine from the Ascent, providing more power for those who sought it.

Externally, the differences from the previous generation were subtle, noticeable mainly in the redesigned head- and taillights. Inside, however, the changes were more evident, especially with the introduction of an 11.6-inch touchscreen for most trims, except for the base 2.5i which had dual 7-inch screens. An innovative addition was the DriverFocus technology, typically seen in luxury brands. It used infrared monitoring to alert drowsy or distracted drivers and facial recognition to customize settings for different drivers.

The Outback was available in seven trims: 2.5i, Premium, Limited, Touring, Onyx Edition XT, Limited XT, and Touring XT. The XT variants came with the more robust turbo engine. Starting at an MSRP of $26,645, even the base 2.5i was well-equipped with features like LED headlights, keyless entry, and a suite of safety technologies. The higher trims added features like a power liftgate, heated seats, blind-spot monitoring, and more luxurious finishes.

On the other hand, the 2021 Subaru Ascent marked Subaru's confident re-entry into the three-row SUV market after the less successful Tribeca. The Ascent embodied the characteristics one might expect from a scaled-up Forester or Outback, both in design and cabin feel. Subaru designed the Ascent to seamlessly blend with its popular models in terms of aesthetics and interior layout.

The Ascent was offered in four trims: Standard, Premium, Limited, and Touring. Even the Standard trim was well-equipped with a range of driver-assistance features, a 6.5-inch touchscreen, tri-zone climate control, and multiple USB ports. The Premium trim elevated the experience with an 8-inch touchscreen, stain-resistant upholstery, and second-row climate controls. The higher trims, Limited and Touring, added luxury features like power-adjustable seating, heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium stereo system.

For the 2020 Subaru Outback, performance was a blend of efficiency and power, depending on the engine chosen. The upgraded 2.5-liter engine delivered 182 horsepower, a modest increase over its predecessor. Despite sharing many similarities with the 2019 model, the 2020's engine had 90% new components and added direct injection, improving fuel efficiency to 26 mpg city and 33 highway.

The 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, available in XT trims, significantly boosted output to 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, allowing the Outback to reach 60 mph in approximately 7 seconds. While both engines were paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), Subaru managed to mitigate the typical drawbacks of CVTs, ensuring smooth and less intrusive operation.

A standout feature of the Outback was its symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD) system, active at all times. This system provided seamless power distribution, enhancing stability and safety. The Outback also boasted impressive off-road capabilities with 8.7 inches of ground clearance, though it wasn't designed for extreme off-roading adventures.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent also featured a single engine option: a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, similar to the Outback’s XT models. The engine was paired with a CVT and Subaru’s unstoppable symmetrical AWD system.

While not designed to be a sports vehicle, the Ascent offered a balanced performance suitable for everyday driving and some off-road situations. It handled corners with relative ease and absorbed road imperfections well. The Ascent's 8.7 inches of ground clearance, combined with its AWD and X-Mode system, made it adept at handling snowy conditions and light off-roading. Additionally, it could tow up to 5,000 pounds and came with Trailer Stability Assist, adding to its practicality.

Station wagons have always been functional, and the 2020 Subaru Outback was no exception. It offered 32.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 75.7 cubic feet with the seats folded down. This was slightly larger than the previous year's model, thanks to a change in how Subaru measured cargo volume. Passenger comfort was notable, with ample headroom and legroom, even for taller individuals. Visibility was another strong point, with clear sightlines in all directions except for a slightly challenging rear blind spot.

Meanwhile, the 2021 Subaru Ascent provided a more traditional SUV cargo space configuration. With all three rows of seats in use, it offered 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space. Folding down the third row expanded it to 47.5 cubic feet, while maximum cargo capacity reached 86.5 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. Although these numbers placed it on the higher end of the midsize three-row SUV class, some competitors like the Volkswagen Atlas and Chevrolet Traverse offered more.

The Ascent’s standard power liftgate facilitated easier loading, despite lacking a hands-free option. In terms of seating, it could accommodate up to eight passengers, or seven with the optional second-row captain's chairs. The first two rows provided ample comfort, while the third row was more suited for children or short trips for adults. An array of 19 cupholders and numerous storage compartments added to the practicality.

The 2020 Subaru Outback featured a prominent 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen aimed to attract tech-savvy customers. The screen was visually impressive and user-friendly, but lag issues detracted from the overall experience. Basic functions and climate controls sometimes felt cumbersome to access. Camera resolution also lagged behind current standards, which was more noticeable due to the large display size.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent’s StarLink infotainment system came with logical layouts and easy-to-read icons. Both available touchscreens were supported by physical buttons, dials, and a home button, making navigation straightforward. Standard technology included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, multiple USB ports, satellite radio, and Bluetooth connectivity. Additional features like third-row USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and a premium audio system were available in higher trims.

Safety was always crucial for Subaru, though the 2020 Outback had its quirks. It came standard with an impressive suite of safety features, including AWD, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. However, the DriverFocus system, intended to monitor driver alertness, was flawed, often giving false alarms, which could be distracting.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent earned the 2021 Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It featured Subaru’s comprehensive EyeSight suite, which included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. Additionally, the Ascent gained automatic high beams and steering-responsive headlights for 2021. Optional safety features included reverse automatic emergency braking, rain-sensing windshield wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, enhancing overall safety.