The 2021 Subaru Ascent is the biggest, best-equipped three-row Subaru SUV we've ever offered. With more standard equipment than prior model years, it's a smarter choice than ever. Because it's a Subaru, you can trust you're getting the capability you need for life in California as well as the reliability and toughness to get you wherever life may take you next. For a little bit less than the Subaru Ascent, you could select a front-wheel drive 2021 Volkswagen Atlas with less power and technology. We think you'll find it well worth the investment to step up to the 2021 Subaru Ascent instead. Find out more in the side-by-side comparison below!
2021 Subaru Ascent vs 2021 VW Atlas: Design
In the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas, you get three rows of seats just like the 2021 Subaru Ascent. However, with just two seats available in the third row of the Atlas for a total of 7 passengers, there's fewer options for families with small kids. The 2021 Subaru Ascent can seat up to 8 passengers with a more versatile third row, or up to 7 with the middle row captain's chairs that make getting in and out of the third row a breeze!
Perhaps best of all, with a standard power rear tailgate, no longer will you have to heave open a heavy rear door or accidentally crush your cargo that didn't quite fit. Every 2021 Subaru Ascent features a power tailgate with automatic close and opening height memory for your garage or carport. Entry-level 2021 VW Atlas models lack this feature
2021 Subaru Ascent vs 2021 VW Atlas: Technology
With standard steering-responsive LED headlights, you'll enjoy the best visibility in poor weather or on winding mountain roads in the 2021 Subaru Ascent. That's a feature you also won't find on lower 2021 VW Atlas trims.
Of course, you find a whole lot more technology inside both models, like sophisticated touchscreen multimedia systems powered by Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ for your smartphone. Better yet, the 2021 Subaru Ascent also comes standard with tri-zone automatic climate control, so driver, front passenger and backseat occupants can all set their own climate settings. That's a feature you'll have to pay extra for on the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas.
2021 Subaru Ascent vs 2021 VW Atlas: Capability
With standard all-wheel drive unlike the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas, the 2021 Subaru Ascent is ready to take on poor weather and rough terrain. Symmetrical all-wheel drive gives you the best grip and confidence no matter what conditions lie ahead. You also get more standard engine power from the 2021 Subaru Ascent, so you'll enjoy a responsive drive around town. Still, the 2021 Subaru Ascent gets better gas mileage despite having all-wheel drive and greater horsepower. Best of all, thanks to the unique packaging and shape of the engine, the 2021 Subaru Ascent has a lower center of gravity. That translates to more balanced, planted and more car-like handling than you get from a SUV with a traditional inline or V-shaped engine.
2021 Subaru Ascent vs 2021 VW Atlas: Safety
Both SUVs come with some important driver assist technologies that can help keep you safe on the road -- but the 2021 Subaru Ascent brings more standard driver assists to better protect your family, even on entry level models. The new Ascent and the 2021 VW Atlas both feature forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. However, the 2021 Subaru Ascent goes further and includes standard lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control. Standard automatic high-beams can take some of the stress out of nighttime driving in the Subaru SUV -- another feature you'll only find on the Atlas when you upgrade. With more safety equipment as standard, the 2021 Subaru Ascent protects what matters most, even without costly upgrades and extras.
Test Drive The New 2021 Subaru Ascent At Shingle Springs Subaru
With a starting MSRP of $32,395, the 2021 Subaru Ascent starts at a price that's several hundred dollars more than the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas -- but as we've outlined above, you get thousands of dollars worth of added value when you consider all the additional features and technologies that come standard on the new Ascent. That makes it the natural choice for California families. Find out more and experience all this value for yourself during a no-pressure test drive at Shingle Springs Subaru!
| 2021 Subaru Ascent |  | 2021 Volkswagen Atlas |
| $32,395 | Starting MSRP*Â | $31,555 |
| 21 MPG City / 27 MPG Highway | Fuel Economy | 21 MPG City / 24 MPG Highway |
| 260 | Standard Horsepower | 235 |
| 277 | Standard Torque (lb-ft) | 258 |
| Regular | Recommended Fuel Grade | Premium |
| Standard | All-Wheel Drive | Available Upgrade |
| Standard | LED Steering Responsive Headlights | Available Upgrade |
| Standard | Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Controls | Available Upgrade |
| Standard | Power Liftgate | Available Upgrade |
| 19 | Cupholders | Up to 17 |
*Manufacturer's suggested retail price does not include destination and delivery charges, tax, title and registration fees. Destination and delivery includes handling and inland freight fees and may vary in some states. Prices, specifications, options, features and models subject to change without notice.
