The 2021 Subaru Ascent's #13 ranking is based on its score within the Midsize SUVs category. Currently the Subaru Ascent has a score of 7.7 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 30 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Roomy seating Spacious cargo area Generous standard features list Standard all-wheel drive
Cons Below-average predicted reliability rating
Subaru's EyeSight suite of advanced driver aids now includes adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist.Steering-responsive LED headlights are now standard.A second- and third-row seat-belt reminder is now standard.
PROS Substantial list of standard and optional driving aids High-quality interior materials Generous ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive Easy-to-use infotainment system
CONS Accelerator pedal is too touchy Invasive engine and tire noise Not much second-row shoulder room, and third row is tight Rolling over bumps at higher speeds sends vibrations through the cabin
The latest Ascent receives a handful of new standard features for 2021. These include LED headlights that turn with the steering wheel as well as automatic high-beams. The Touring model also adds another leather upholstery option: Slate Black with silver stitching. And as if the Ascent's incessant beeping notifications weren't annoying enough, all models now have a seat-belt chime that's meant to remind second- and third-row passengers to buckle up.
Pros Flexible seating configurations, cushy ride quality, every model comes with driver assists.
Cons Apathetic passing power, noisy engine during hard acceleration, third row smaller than some rivals.
Space comes before pace with the roomy 2020 Volkswagen Atlas.
Pros Massive interior Rides well Easy third-row access Spacious cargo area
Cons Not fast Not efficient Not stylish Not luxurious
The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas's #7 ranking is based on its score within the Midsize SUVs category. Currently the Volkswagen Atlas has a score of 8.0 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 32 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Roomy seats in every row Cavernous cargo bay User-friendly infotainment system Carlike handling Great fuel economy
Cons Underpowered engines Some downmarket cabin materials
Now standard with VW Car-Net telematics app, free for five years.SE w/ Technology R-Line models and up get hands-free liftgate and parking sensors.SE w/ Technology models and up get 20-inch wheels; SEL Premiums upgrade to 21-inch wheels.The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas comes with front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.
Pros Spacious interior offers ample room for passengers in all three rows Great compromise between precise handling and everyday comfort Straightforward cabin design makes everything easy to use
Cons Not very quick to accelerate, even with the optional V6 Lags some competitors in fuel economy
