New Subaru Ascent vs. the Competition: How Does it Stack Up to Other Three-Row SUVs for Cary, NC Drivers?
Are you looking for the right new three-row SUV in Cary, NC? At Johnson Subaru of Cary, we offer a terrific selection of new Subaru Ascent models for sale near Raleigh, and with so much to offer throughout the lineup of new three-row SUVs, we're sure that we have a new Ascent model that's right for you. From families to those with a need for great cargo space, the new Subaru Ascent offers the spacious comfort, legendary performance and cutting-edge features that you want the most in a large SUV.
It's our mission to make shopping for the right vehicle easier than ever for Durham area drivers, and that starts with ensuring that you have all the right information needed to make an educated decision about which vehicle is the best fit for you. That's why we're going to compare the new Subaru Ascent to its competitors, including the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Mazda CX-9, giving you a side by side look into some of the reasons why the Ascent is the right vehicle for you.
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Subaru Ascent vs. Honda Pilot
- The new Subaru Ascent allows you to enjoy a commanding and fun driving experience everywhere you go thanks to standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive on every model. This also allows you to take your adventures off-road, giving you more freedom behind the wheel. The new Honda Pilot, however, comes equipped with standard front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available on all models in the lineup for a higher price.
- To help you stay safely connected and in control of your mobile device while you're on the go in Morrisville, all Ascent models come equipped with a Starlink multimedia system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The new Honda Pilot doesn't offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto standard on the base model.
- Both vehicles come equipped with a strong engine, with the Pilot offering slightly more standard horsepower. However, the Ascent comes with a turbocharged engine that delivers 277 pounds-feet of torque, compared to the V6 engine that produces 262 pounds-feet of torque in the Pilot.
Subaru Ascent vs. Toyota Highlander
- If you live an active lifestyle and like to explore the great outdoors around Cary, the new Subaru Ascent provides you with terrific off-road capability thanks to standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. The new Toyota Highlander comes equipped with standard front-wheel drive, with all wheel drive available on all models for extra.
- The new Toyota Highlander offers slightly more standard horsepower than the new Ascent does. However, the Ascent provides you with 277 pounds-feet of torque, compared to 262 pounds-feet of torque in the Highlander.
- To help you easily loan and unload your cargo, all Ascent models come with a power liftgate. The new Highlander also offers a power liftgate, but it doesn't come standard.


Subaru Ascent vs. Mazda CX-9
- Every new Subaru Ascent model comes equipped with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, providing you with optimal traction, handling, and control wherever your travels take you. The new Mazda CX-9 comes equipped with standard front-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive equipped models will cost extra.
- The new Subaru Ascent starts at under $32,500 while the new Mazda CX-9 starts at just over $34,000, allowing you to save or choose a higher Ascent trim level for a similar price as the base model Mazda CX-9.
- Under the hood, the new Subaru Ascent comes equipped with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 260-horsepower. The Mazda CX-9 comes equipped with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 227-horsepower.
Explore Our Lineup of New Subaru Ascent Models Online
If you want to learn more about which new Subaru Ascent model is right for you, we invite you to explore all our models online and pick the one that fits your lifestyle and needs best.