Which is bigger, Outback or Ascent?
When it comes to choosing between the Subaru Outback and the Subaru Ascent, size is often a key factor for potential buyers. Both vehicles are popular options in Subaru's lineup, but they cater to slightly different needs. In this article, we’ll break down the size differences between these two models to help you decide which one is the better fit for your lifestyle.
Overall Dimensions
The Subaru Ascent is the larger of the two vehicles, designed as a three-row SUV to accommodate families and those needing extra passenger space. The Subaru Outback, on the other hand, is a midsize crossover SUV that offers a balance of spaciousness and maneuverability.
- Subaru Ascent: The Ascent measures approximately 196.8 inches in length, 76 inches in width, and 71.6 inches in height. It has a wheelbase of 113.8 inches, making it Subaru's largest vehicle.
- Subaru Outback: The Outback is slightly smaller, with a length of about 191.3 inches, a width of 73 inches, and a height of 66.4 inches. Its wheelbase is 108.1 inches, which contributes to its more compact feel.
Interior Space
Interior space is another area where the Ascent outshines the Outback, particularly if you need to transport more passengers or cargo.
- Passenger Capacity: The Ascent can seat up to 8 passengers, depending on the configuration, while the Outback is limited to 5 passengers.
- Cargo Space: The Ascent offers up to 86.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down, compared to the Outback's 75.6 cubic feet. This makes the Ascent a better choice for those who frequently carry large loads.
Which One Should You Choose?
Your choice between the Subaru Outback and Subaru Ascent ultimately depends on your needs:
- If you need a family-friendly SUV with three rows of seating and ample cargo space, the Subaru Ascent is the better option.
- If you prefer a slightly smaller vehicle that’s easier to maneuver and still offers plenty of space for passengers and gear, the Subaru Outback is a great choice.
Both vehicles come with Subaru's renowned all-wheel-drive system and a host of safety features, so you can’t go wrong with either. Consider your specific requirements, such as passenger capacity and cargo needs, to make the best decision for your lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which of the Subarus is the largest?
3-Row SUV Family Versatility and Adventure
The 2025 Ascent is the largest Subaru SUV ever, with flexible 3-row seating and premium comfort available in seven-seater or eight-seater models. With up to 153.2 cubic feet of passenger space, the Ascent has more room than the Toyota Highlander and the Mazda CX-90 .
Which Subaru is the roomiest?
Ascent
Ascent: offers the most passenger volume, second-row headroom, and overall shoulder room of the lineup. Outback: provides the most second-row legroom of the lineup; has more overall shoulder room than the Forester.
Is the Subaru Ascent bigger than the Toyota Highlander?
The Ascent measures 196.8 inches in length, while the Highlander is only 194.9 inches long. The two are the same width, but the Subaru Ascent gives a taller ride height of 71.6 inches. The Toyota Highlander is only 68.1 inches tall.
Which Subaru has the most backseat legroom?
Subaru Models with the Best Legroom
- 2024 Subaru Ascent. As the largest Subaru SUV, the 2024 Subaru Ascent boasts impressive legroom.
- 2024 Subaru Outback. Though the 2024 Subaru Outback doesn't have a third row, its interior actually has slightly more legroom than the 2024 Subaru Ascent.
- 2024 Subaru Forester.
Is Subaru discontinuing the Outback?
Subaru won't discontinue the Outback in America. It's Subaru of America's top-selling model and will be completely remodeled in 2026. In the U.S., customers will get the all-new, next-generation Outback midsize SUV next year.
What are the weaknesses of a Subaru Outback?
Some top Subaru Outback problems include weak windshields, poor cooling systems, oxygen sensor failure, excessive oil consumption due to oil leaks, and faulty airbags.
Is Subaru Ascent as big as Toyota Highlander?
The Ascent measures 196.8 inches in length, while the Highlander is only 194.9 inches long. The two are the same width, but the Subaru Ascent gives a taller ride height of 71.6 inches. The Toyota Highlander is only 68.1 inches tall.
What is the lifespan of a Subaru Ascent?
between 200,000 to 250,000 miles
How Many Miles can a Subaru Ascent Last? The Subaru Ascent is a durable vehicle that is predicted to last between 200,000 to 250,000 miles. With a yearly average of 15,000 miles, that adds up to around a 13-17 year lifespan.
How much bigger is an Ascent than an Outback?
The Ascent is the biggest Subaru vehicle we've ever built — a full-size, 3-row SUV that can seat up to eight passengers. Bigger in every dimension than the Outback, the Ascent is 196.8 inches long, almost 5 inches longer than the Outback, 76 inches wide, and 71.6 inches tall (with roof rails).
Is Subaru discontinuing the Ascent?
Subaru decided to wait on the next-generation Ascent for another year and dropped the Ascent Base trim level for the 2025 model year. They added two new Ascent trim levels for 2025: Bronze Edition and Onyx Edition Touring.
