Honda Passport vs Subaru Ascent: Which SUV Reigns Supreme?
The SUV market is more competitive than ever, with numerous automakers vying for the attention of consumers looking for a reliable, spacious, and stylish ride. Two heavy hitters in the midsize SUV segment are the Honda Passport and the Subaru Ascent. Both vehicles offer an impressive array of features, performance capabilities, and safety technologies, making them top contenders for families and adventurers alike. In this head-to-head comparison, we’ll take a closer look at the Honda Passport and the Subaru Ascent to see which one comes out on top.
Exterior Design
The Honda Passport boasts a rugged and athletic design that exudes confidence on the road. Its sleek lines, bold grille, and aggressive front fascia give it a modern and sporty look that stands out from the crowd. The Passport also features LED headlights, fog lights, and taillights, adding a touch of sophistication to its overall appearance.
On the other hand, the Subaru Ascent offers a more conservative and elegant design that appeals to a broader range of consumers. Its clean lines, subtle curves, and prominent grille give it a refined and upscale look that is perfect for those who prefer a more understated aesthetic. The Ascent also comes equipped with LED headlights and taillights, as well as roof rails for added versatility.
Interior Comfort and Features
Inside, both the Honda Passport and the Subaru Ascent offer spacious and comfortable cabins that can easily accommodate five to eight passengers, depending on the configuration. The Passport comes with premium cloth upholstery as standard, with the option to upgrade to leather-trimmed seats. It also features a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel for added comfort and convenience.
The Subaru Ascent, on the other hand, comes standard with three rows of seating and can accommodate up to eight passengers. It features a well-appointed interior with high-quality materials, soft-touch surfaces, and ample storage space throughout. The Ascent also comes equipped with a tri-zone automatic climate control system, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel for a touch of luxury.
Performance and Handling
When it comes to performance, the Honda Passport and the Subaru Ascent offer two very different driving experiences. The Passport is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. This setup delivers smooth acceleration and responsive handling, making the Passport a joy to drive on both city streets and highways.
On the other hand, the Subaru Ascent is equipped with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). While the Ascent may not have the same power output as the Passport, it offers a more fuel-efficient and refined driving experience with its smooth ride quality and composed handling.
Safety Features
Both the Honda Passport and the Subaru Ascent come equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features and driver-assist technologies to help keep you and your passengers safe on the road. The Passport features Honda Sensing, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking as standard. It also offers a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert for added peace of mind.
The Subaru Ascent, on the other hand, comes standard with Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, pre-collision braking, and lane departure warning. In addition, the Ascent offers a rearview camera, reverse automatic braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert to help you navigate traffic and tight parking spaces with confidence.
Price and Value
In terms of pricing, the Honda Passport and the Subaru Ascent are closely matched, with both starting at around $32,000 for the base trims. The Passport offers a slightly more affordable option with its lower starting price, making it a great value for those looking for a midsize SUV with premium features and solid performance. However, the Ascent comes with more standard features and a longer list of available options, which may justify its slightly higher price tag for some buyers.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between the Honda Passport and the Subaru Ascent, both SUVs offer a compelling blend of style, performance, comfort, and safety features that make them top contenders in the midsize segment. The Passport stands out for its rugged design, powerful V6 engine, and advanced safety technologies, while the Ascent impresses with its spacious interior, refined driving experience, and comprehensive list of standard features. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your personal preferences and priorities, so be sure to test drive both vehicles to see which one suits your lifestyle and driving needs best.
