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Subaru Ascent vs Subaru Forester - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (260 HP vs 180 HP), trunk space and price (38,900 $ vs 30,000 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Subaru Ascent or Subaru Forester?

Subaru Ascent vs Subaru Forester: Key differences

Subaru Ascent

  • visibly more power

Subaru Forester

  • markedly cheaper
  • noticeably more efficient
  • markedly lighter

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Ascent

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

Subaru Forester is markedly cheaper – starting at 30,000 $ , while the Subaru Ascent costs 38,900 $ . That’s a price difference of around 8,915 $.

When it comes to city fuel economy, the Subaru Forester performs noticeably better – achieving 26 mpg, compared to 20 mpg for the Subaru Ascent. That’s a difference of about 6 mpg.

Forester

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Subaru Ascent offers visibly more power – delivering 260 HP compared to 180 HP. That’s roughly 80 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Subaru Ascent delivers visibly more torque with 277 lb-ft compared to 178 lb-ft. That’s about 99 lb-ft more.

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Seats: Subaru Ascent offers more seats – 8 vs 5.

In terms of curb weight, Subaru Forester is markedly lighter – 3,510 lbs compared to 4,449 lbs. The difference is around 939 lbs.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Subaru Ascent is barely ahead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from $38,900
Ascent

Subaru Ascent

  • Engine Type : Gasoline
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All Wheel
  • Power HP : 260 HP
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View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

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General
View detailed analysis

Subaru Ascent

The Subaru Ascent stands out in the world of midsize SUVs, offering a perfect blend of comfort and capability. With seating for up to eight passengers and an array of standard safety features, it caters to families seeking adventure without compromising on reliability. Its robust design and all-wheel-drive functionality make it a dependable choice for those who love exploring both urban and off-road terrains.

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Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester is the outdoorsy family SUV that shrugs off muddy trails and bad weather as easily as it handles school runs. With airy visibility, a practical cabin, and unflappable all-wheel-drive confidence, it delivers no-drama comfort during the week and genuine adventure vibes on the weekend without trying too hard.

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Costs and Consumption
Price
38,900 - 50,000 $
Price
30,000 - 40,300 $
FuelEconomy City
19 - 20 mpg
FuelEconomy City
25 - 26 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
25 - 26 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
32 - 33 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
19.3 gal
Fuel tank capacity
16.6 gal

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
7 - 8
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
4,449 - 4,597 lbs
Curb weight
3,510 - 3,664 lbs
Trunk Volume
-
Trunk Volume
-
Length
196.8 in.
Length
183.3 in.
Width
76 in.
Width
72 in.
Height
71 in.
Height
68 in.

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Drive Type
All Wheel
Drive Type
All Wheel
Power HP
260 HP
Power HP
180 HP
Torque
277 lb-ft
Torque
178 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
2.4 L
Engine Displacement
2.5 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General
Model Year
2,025
Model Year
2,025
Brand
Subaru
Brand
Subaru
What is the starting MSRP for the Subaru Ascent?

Base pricing begins at 38,900 $.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. Prices shown are manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP). Taxes, registration fees and dealer charges are not included.