With spring in full swing, you may be considering a new vehicle for the year. There are many options in the market whether you are looking for a convertible or a family vehicle, which means understanding the benefits of different makes and models will help to narrow your decision down. After choosing your choice of car, you have your choice of financing or leasing, which is where Car Cost Canada comes in. With free dealer reports, you are able to maximize your benefits at lowered costs.
One of the top car comparisons today is of these 2 three-row SUVs: Subaru Ascent and the Volkswagen Atlas. Although they are both similar vehicles, they each have their benefits that may resonate with some drivers more than others. Whether you are looking at their road performance or the interior make, there are specifics that may fit your needs better.
Keep reading to learn more about the two vehicles, which makes them top SUV options, and what the differences between them are:
What are the main differences between the two vehicles?
The 2019 Subaru Ascent Touring is known to be a well-damped ride, solid acceleration, with rich leather upholstery whereas the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas V6 is popular for the spacious interior with minimalist designs.
They both have a large group of the market, targeting consumers that are looking for bigger vehicles, with the need to transport mass groups of people and items. These vehicles are similar in the sense that both are three-row SUVs, assembled in the U.S. with strong engines. They each have multiple trim levels, within starting prices of one another. However, the Ascent comes with a standard all-wheel drive whereas the Atlas requires the V6 S trim to unlock that feature, pricing itself a little higher. At their top trim levels, both models have an all-wheel-drive equipped with every option, including a panoramic sunroof and tow hitch.
On-the-Road Comparison
Volkswagen has 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, which can propel the Atlas to go at 60 mph within 8 seconds flat. On the flip side, the Ascent has 260 horsepower with a 277 lb-ft torque, allowing it to go at 60 mph within 6.5 seconds, 1.5 seconds faster than the Atlas.
The Ascent has had multiple updates and refinements to the vehicle itself and how it operates, and while it does not have a conventional automatic, it is one of the best continuously variable transmissions (CVT) in the market. It does a great job at ensuring the engine is in the thick of the torque curve. The Atlas does have an eight-speed automatic, predisposed to shifting early and often. It is a fuel-saving strategy which is great for the driver and environment but it does create more of a busy driving experience which results in it being a better fit for some drivers than others. The Atlas also has a Sport mode which assists in making that less of a hassle or you can choose to drive in manual mode, allowing you to have the autonomy for what your drive on-the-road feels like.
The Ascent scores EPA estimates of 20 mpg in the city, 26 on the highway, and 22 combined. Comparatively, the Atlas estimates about 17, 23, and 19-mpg figures, respectively. Both vehicles are great drives and not harsh rides. The Ascent also has a light and quick off-center steering when frequent corrections are required, which is less desirable for spirited driving. On the other hand, the Atlas reacts to change progressively, which changes the feel of the vehicle, instilling confidence in the driver.
The Interior
As mentioned previously, the Atlas is known for its spacious interior and minimalistic designs. It features a mild mix of complementary colours whereas the Ascent is styled with several colours from the seats to the dashboard, in a variety of chrome accents. Both are comfortable vehicles with accommodating first seats. Each row is spacious and comfortable after the first seats in the VW, providing an enjoyable ride for passengers.
To measure in regards to cargo, each vehicle has different measurements, pending on how the seats are positioned. For the trunk space, maximizing seat use, the Ascent wins with fitting 5 carry-on suitcases whereas the Atlas fits 4. However, with the rows folded down, the Atlas can fit 38 total whereas the Ascent can fit 33.
In Conclusion…
Both of these vehicles are great choices whether you are looking for a family car or one that can carry large amounts of cargo. They both have their advantages: the Ascent provides all-wheel drive without upgrading to a certain trim for that feature and there is optimal space without needing to take down seats. On the other hand, the Atlas can fit more cargo when all the seats are brought down and provides a good driving experience for fuel efficiency purposes. Depending on what you are looking for, one may fit better. Thus, you should take a look at your needs, what your vehicle will be used for, and benchmark the better option for yourself.
Whether you are looking at one of these vehicles or have your eye on another one, take advantage of Car Cost Canada’s free reports so that you can get the best purchase price going forward. Maximize your opportunity and lower your costs. Contact our team today for more information on how you can leverage a dealer report to your advantage.