2023 Subaru Ascent vs. 2023 Subaru Outback | Features, Specs, & Price
Are you looking for ample interior space in your next vehicle that's flexible enough for your growing passenger and/or cargo needs? The three-row 2023 Subaru Ascent SUV and two-row 2023 Subaru Outback wagon each have something to offer. Beyond their rugged good looks and practicality, learn how these two Subaru models compare in key areas such as interior comfort, performance, and safety in this comparison review compiled by the McLaughlin Subaru team in Moline, IL.
Want more model-specific information? Visit our Ascent review and Outback review pages or go straight to our Ascent inventory or Outback inventory and schedule a test drive with a trim that interests you. You can also contact us at (309) 726-4684 or start a live chat.
Check out our current lease or finance offers for an attractive opportunity from McLaughlin Subaru.
2023 Subaru Ascent vs. Outback Interior Features
A versatile interior is a key design feature on both the 2023 Subaru Ascent and 2023 Subaru Outback. Both models sit high off the ground ― with an 8.7 inch ground clearance ― and both offer a convenient rear liftgate with slide-in rear cargo area for easy loading and unloading.
Other interior features these two models offer, depending on the trim level:
- Keyless access with push-button start
- Power tilt/sliding panoramic moonroof
- Power rear gate with automatic close, height memory function, and vehicle lock button (hands-free feature on Outback)
- Illuminated front-row USB-A and USB-C input ports
- Climate control system (dual-zone on Outback, tri-zone on Ascent)
- Heated, leather-wrapped, three-spoke steering wheel with integrated controls and manually adjustable tilt/telescoping steering column
- SUBARU STARLINK® Multimedia systems with or without navigation and 7- or 11.6-in. displays
- 4G LTE Wi-Fi® capability
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
- SiriusXM® Satellite Radio
- SiriusXM Travel Link®
- HD Radioâ„¢
- AM/FM stereo
- Bluetooth® hands-free phone, text messaging, and streaming audio
- Cloth, StarTex® water-repellent, leather-trimmed, or Nappa leather-trimmed upholstery (Ascent also features stain-resistant cloth)
- Whiplash-reducing front seats
- Heated, ventilated front seats and heated outboard second-row seats
- Six-way manually adjustable or power adjustable driver’s seats with power adjustable lumbar support (six- and ten-way on Outback, eight- or twelve-way on Ascent)
- Two-position driver’s seat and power mirror memory
- Power adjustable front passenger’s seat (eight-way on Ascent, four- or eight-way on Outback)
- Reclining 60/40 split flat-folding seatbacks (second and third rows on Ascent)
The 2023 Ascent offers trims with seven- or eight-passenger seating configurations featuring second-row captain’s chairs or a bench seat. Other unique Ascent interior features include second- and third-row charging ports, simulated leather interior accent trim, a 120V AC power outlet, and 19 cup holders. The 2023 Outback comes with eight cup holders, a CD player, and a removable cargo tray, cargo-area rear seatback release levers, and a rear gate LED light.
2023 Subaru Ascent
2023 Subaru Outback
2023 Subaru Ascent vs. Outback Dimensions & Cargo Space
Both the three-row 2023 Subaru Ascent and two-row 2023 Subaru Outback are capable of expanding cargo-carrying ability to 75.6 cubic feet, when seats behind the first row are folded down.
| 2023 Subaru Ascent | Model | 2023 Subaru Outback |
|---|---|---|
| 153.2 cu.-ft. | Passenger Volume | 109 cu.-ft. |
| 17.8/43.5 cu.-ft./75.6 cu.-ft. | Cargo Capacity (Behind 3rd Row/Behind 2nd Row/Behind 1st Row | – /32.6/75.6 cu.-ft. |
| 41.2/40/36.2 in. | Front/Middle/Rear Headroom | 40.1/39.1 in. |
| 42.2/38.6/31.7 in. | Front/Middle/Rear Legroom | 42.8/39.5 in. |
2023 Subaru Ascent vs. Outback Engine Options & Fuel Economy
All trim options on the 2023 Subaru Ascent come equipped with a powerful turbocharged engine that, like the powertrains offered with the 2023 Outback, join to a Lineartronic® continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD) with traction-optimizing X-MODE® technology.
2023 Subaru Ascent
2.4L turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® four-cylinder
2023 Subaru Outback
2.5L SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder
2.4L turbocharged SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder
2023 Subaru Ascent
2023 Subaru Ascent vs. Outback Reliability & Safety Features
Both the 2023 Ascent and 2023 Outback come equipped with a range of passive and active safety features and advanced driver assist technologies to help protect you and your favorite people as well as support and alert you when you need to take action.
Among the key features is the EyeSight® driver assistance system as well as a DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System® that leverages driver recognition technology to monitor your facial features for signs of fatigue or drowsiness.
Unique on the 2023 Ascent is Cabin Connect, which allows you to check in on and engage with your third-row passengers.
Other safety features you’ll find on both models include:
- Comprehensive airbag system
- High beam assist
- Reverse automatic braking
- Brake assist
- Brake override system
- Surround view monitor
- Blind spot detection with lane change assist and rear cross-traffic alert
- Rear vision camera with washer
- LATCH child seat mounting system
- Tire pressure monitoring system
- SUBARU STARLINK Safety and Security in-vehicle services
- Auto-dimming or smart auto-dimming rear view compass mirror with HomeLink®
2023 Subaru Ascent vs. Outback Exterior Colors Offered
Colors you find in nature can be found in the exterior color palettes of both the 2023 Subaru Ascent and 2023 Subaru Outback.
2023 Subaru Ascent
- Magnetite Gray Metallic
- Ice Silver Metallic
- Autumn Green Metallic
- Crystal Black Silica
- Crimson Red Pearl
- Cosmic Blue Pearl
- Dark Mahogany Pearl
- Crystal White Pearl
2023 Subaru Outback
- Brilliant Bronze Metallic
- Autumn Green Metallic
- Magnetite Gray Metallic
- Ice Silver Metallic
- Crimson Red Pearl
- Crystal White Pearl
- Cosmic Blue Pearl
- Dark Mahogany Pearl
- Geyser Blue
- Crystal Black Silica
2023 Subaru Ascent vs. Outback Price
The 2023 Subaru Ascent three-row SUV has a starting MSRP of $33,895, while the 2023 Subaru Outback wagon begins at $28,395 MSRP.
2023 Subaru Ascent
2023 Subarau Outback
2022 Subaru Outback vs. Subaru Ascent Comparison | Features & Specs
Spacious accommodations and modern technology mesh in the 2022 Subaru Outback and 2022 Subaru Ascent. The biggest difference between the Subaru Outback and Subaru Ascent is that the Ascent has three rows of seating, while the Outback has two. For more information, read through the following 2022 Subaru Outback vs. 2022 Subaru Ascent comparison compiled by the McLaughlin Subaru team.
If you are interested in one of these Subaru SUVs, head over to our online inventory, which includes the new Subaru Outback for sale and new Subaru Ascent for sale. Then, pair your ideal model with a Subaru Outback lease deal or Subaru Ascent lease deal. Ready to get behind the wheel? Schedule a test drive at our dealership in Moline, IL. If you have any questions, please reach out to us by phone at (866) 960-7363 or message us through our online form.
For comparison, the 2022 Subaru Outback base model starts at $27,145 MSRP, while the 2022 Subaru Ascent base model has a starting MSRP of $32,295.
2022 Subaru Outback vs. Subaru Ascent Interior Cargo Space & Features Compared
Spread out in either the 2022 Subaru Outback or 2022 Subaru Ascent. The Ascent seats up to eight passengers, while the Outback seats five. You’ll find similar cargo capacities on both — 75.7 cubic feet on the Outback and 75.6 cubic feet on the Ascent. You and your family can stay hydrated with eight cup and bottle holders on the Outback and 19 cup and bottle holders on the Ascent. The Ascent also offers second-row captain’s chairs if you only need a seven-passenger seating capacity. Both SUVs can be fitted with heated front and second-row seats to protect you and yours from winter’s chill and a power tilt/sliding moonroof to illuminate the cabin.
2022 Subaru Ascent
2022 Subaru Outback
2022 Subaru Outback vs. Subaru Ascent Engine & Performance Specs
The 2022 Subaru Outback and 2022 Subaru Ascent are both fuel-efficient SUVs with light-duty towing capabilities. Both pair every engine with a Lineartronic® continuously variable transmission (CVT). And you can experience increased peace of mind with the symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD) standard on both models.
| Model Availability | Outback | Outback | Ascent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder | 2.4L turbo SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder | 2.4L turbo SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 182 HP | 260 HP | 260 HP |
| Torque | 176 lb.-ft. | 277 lb.-ft. | 277 lb.-ft. |
| MPG | 26/33 | 23/30 | 21/27 |
| Towing Capacity | 2,700 lbs. | 3,500 lbs. | 5,000 lbs. |
2022 Subaru Outback vs. Subaru Ascent Safety & Technology Features
Boost your confidence with music and driver assistance features when you drive a 2022 Subaru Outback or 2022 Subaru Ascent. Both have available Harman Kardon® premium audio systems, 4G LTE Wi-Fi® hotspot, and smartphone connectivity. You’ll find that the Outback has an available 11.6-inch Multimedia infotainment system, while the Ascent offers an 8-inch Multimedia system. While both offer EyeSight® driver assist technology, the Outback includes lane keep assist in this suite, while the Ascent includes pre-collision throttle management. EyeSight features included on both models:
- Advanced adaptive cruise control with lane centering
- Pre-collision braking
- Lane departure and sway warning
2022 Subaru Ascent Safety Lane Assist
2022 Subaru Outback Infotainment System
2022 Subaru Outback vs. Subaru Ascent Exterior Features
Bold lines and sleek style choices make the 2022 Subaru Ascent and 2022 Subaru Outback SUVs to admire. Illuminate deer, pedestrians, and other vehicles with the LED steering responsive headlights and fog lights. And tie additional gear for your weekend adventure to the roof with the help of the raised roof rails on both.
2022 Subaru Ascent
2022 Subaru Outback
2022 Subaru Outback Key Features & Specs
If you’re interested in a 2022 Subaru Outback for sale, be sure to check out our Subaru Outback review for more information about this capable SUV.
- 3,500 lb. max. towing capacity
- Five passenger capacity
- 75.7 cu.-ft. cargo capacity
2022 Subaru Ascent Key Features & Specs
Need the hefty capabilities of the Subaru Ascent? Explore our Subaru Ascent review for more details about this mid-size SUV.
- 5,000 lb. max. towing capacity
- Eight passenger capacity
- 75.6 cu.-ft. cargo capacity
2021 Subaru Ascent vs. 2021 Subaru Outback: Head to Head Comparison
If you’re searching for a spacious SUV equipped with the latest in technology and driver assist features, consider either the 2021 Subaru Ascent or 2021 Subaru Outback. What are the main differences between these two Subaru SUVs? The Ascent is larger, with three rows of seating — the Outback is designed with two rows of seating. The Outback offers a total of two engines, while the Ascent only has one available engine. For more information, read through the following Ascent vs. Outback guide put together by the McLaughlin Subaru team.
Want to view these SUVs in person? Check out our Ascent models for sale and Outback models for sale in Moline, IL, then pair your favorite with an Ascent offer or Outback deal. If you have questions, please call us at (866) 960-7363.
2021 Subaru Ascent vs. 2021 Subaru OutbackPower & Handling
Go anywhere and everywhere in the 2021 Subaru Ascent or 2021 Subaru Outback. Trip to the local lake with your boat in tow? Check. Grocery store? Check. Ski vacation? Check. Both models are paired with a Lineartronic® continuously variable transmission (CVT) so you can shift gears without thinking about it. How much do you need to tow? Only the Ascent offers up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity. When you drive the Outback, the 2.4L SUBARU BOXER® engine provides up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity, while the 2.5L SUBARU BOXER® has 2,700-pound towing capacity. View other engine specs for both models in the following table.
2.5L SUBARU BOXER® four-cylinder
| MPG (city/hwy) | 26/33 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower |
182 HP
|
| Torque |
176 lb.-ft.
|
| Model Availability | Outback |
2.4L turbocharged SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder
| MPG (city/hwy) | 23/30 (Outback) 21/27 (Ascent) |
|---|---|
| Horsepower |
260 HP
|
| Torque |
277 lb.-ft.
|
| Model Availability | Outback XT, Ascent |
2021 Subaru Ascent vs. 2021 Subaru OutbackInterior
Keep your family happy and amused in either the 2021 Subaru Outback or 2021 Subaru Ascent. One of the biggest interior differences is that the Ascent offers 19 cup and bottle holders, while the Outback only has eight cup and bottle holders. If your front passenger prefers a versatile power recline, turn to the Outback, which includes a eight-way power front passenger’s seat. The Ascent front passenger’s seat has a four-way power adjustment. View interior feature similarities between the two models in the following list.
- Ten-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar and two-position memory
- Ventilated front seats
- Heated front and second row outboard seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter handle
- Power tilt/sliding moonroof
2021 Subaru Ascent vs. 2021 Subaru OutbackExterior
The 2021 Subaru Ascent and 2021 Subaru Outback make it easy to remain focused and on the go. Both have a power rear gate with automatic close, making loading groceries and getting out of the parking lot a simple endeavor. LED fog lights on both help illuminate those not-so-clear nights. Power-folding side mirrors with integrated turn signals make pulling into your garage a simple task. And the raised roof rails on both give you additional storage options.
Still Have Questions?
2021 Subaru Ascent vs. 2021 Subaru OutbackDimensions
You’ll be able to pack everything you need for a successful road trip when you drive either the 2021 Subaru Outback or 2021 Subaru Ascent. The Ascent is the larger of the two SUVs, but both have sufficient space and cargo solutions for your needs.
Subaru Ascent
| Seating Capacity | Eight |
|---|---|
| Cargo Capacity | 86.5 cu.-ft. |
| First/Second/Third row Headroom | 41.3/40/36.3 in. |
| First/Second/Third row Legroom | 42.2/38.6/31.7 in. |
| Length | 196.8 in. |
| Width | 76 in. |
| Height | 71.6 in. |
Subaru Outback
| Seating Capacity | Five |
|---|---|
| Cargo Capacity | 75.7 cu.-ft. |
| First/Second/Third row Headroom | 40.1/39.1 in. |
| First/Second/Third row Legroom | 42.8/39.5 in. |
| Length | 191.3 in. |
| Width | 73 in. |
| Height | 66.1 in. |
2021 Subaru Ascent vs. 2021 Subaru OutbackTechnology
Keep everyone entertained over every mile in either of these two 2021 Subaru SUVs. The Outback has the larger STARLINK® Multimedia touchscreen at 11.6 inches, but the Ascent model’s 8-inch touchscreen is still a great size. The Ascent has an available 14-speaker Harman Kardon® Quantum Surround Sound audio system, while the Outback offers a 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system. Check out technologies available on both models below.
- Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™
- SiriusXM® Traffic and Travel Link®
- Bluetooth®
- 4G LTE Wi-Fi capability
2021 Subaru Ascent vs. 2021 Subaru OutbackSafety
Stay calm and confident no matter whether you drive a 2021 Subaru Ascent or 2021 Subaru Outback. The Ascent has halogen daytime running lamps, while the Outback has LED daytime running lamps. The Outback includes lane keep assist as part of the EyeSight® driver assist technology suite, while the Ascent replaces that feature with pre-collision throttle management. Read through other safety features available on both models below.
- EyeSight driver assist technology
- Pre-collision braking system
- Lane departure and sway warning
- Advanced adaptive cruise control with lane centering
- Blind-spot detection with lane change assist and rear cross-traffic alert
- High beam assist
- 180-degree front view monitor
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