Atlas Vs. Ascent: SUV Comparison, Specs & More
Comparing the Volkswagen Atlas vs. Subaru Ascent is a common step during the search for your ideal midsize three-row SUV. Both of these family-friendly options offer generous cabin space and turbocharged performance, but one model is both roomier and more powerful – and that's the new VW Atlas.
Please review our detailed Subaru Ascent vs. Volkswagen Atlas comparison guide below to discover more differences between these competing three-row midsize SUVs.
Volkswagen Atlas vs. Subaru Ascent Comparison at a Glance
- The 269-horsepower Volkswagen Atlas is more powerful than the 260-horsepower Subaru Ascent.
- The VW Atlas is longer, wider, and more spacious inside.
- These two midsize three-row SUVs are evenly matched in fuel efficiency.
- The Atlas offers a choice of FWD or AWD; the Subaru model is AWD only.
Volkswagen Atlas vs. Subaru Ascent Specs: Performance & Dimensions
Shopping for a new midsize SUV with three-row seating presents plenty of options, but the superb new Volkswagen Atlas for sale stands out from the crowd – including the Subaru Ascent – thanks to its specs.
Interior Space: Volkswagen Atlas or Subaru Ascent?
SUV shoppers searching for a new three-row model are sure to prioritize seating comfort, cargo capacity, and overall interior volume. The VW Atlas shines on all three counts. Its longer wheelbase and overall length translate to more space, comfort, and capabilities inside than what the Subaru Ascent affords.
The 2025 VW Atlas measures 200.7 inches long and rides on a 117.3-inch wheelbase. The 2025 Subaru Ascent is a little smaller, at 196.8 inches long, with a shorter 113.8-inch wheelbase.
Inside, the Atlas treats you and your crew to more passenger space, especially third-row occupants. Back-row passengers get 33.7 inches of legroom in the Volkswagen model, or two inches more than in the Subaru Ascent, which only has 31.7 inches of third-row legroom.
More Power, More Drivetrain Choices
The Volkswagen Atlas also generates more power to move you and your passengers and gear. Its turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine produces 269 horsepower, while the Subaru SUV's larger 2.4-liter turbo engine only manages to output 260 horsepower.
While the VW Atlas is larger and more potent, it's also lighter than the Subaru Ascent when comparing base configurations. Opt for a new Volkswagen three-row SUV, and you'll get to choose between standard front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive. The Subaru Ascent doesn't give you such a choice: every version has all-wheel drive.
While AWD has its benefits, including increased traction when the road turns slick, it's not seen as a necessary or even desired feature for many drivers. The VW Atlas gives you the choice to stick with the simpler FWD system or opt for an advanced AWD system if you want it.
An Atlas FWD model is best for SUV buyers looking to keep their vehicle budget in check with a lower acquisition price and potentially lower maintenance costs down the road. If you rarely face extreme weather or terrain, such as heavy snow and ice or hilly off-roading, one of these front-wheel-drive SUVs is a compelling option.
For those who want all-wheel drive, the Volkswagen brand's 4MOTION AWD goes head to head with the Subaru Symmetrical AWD system in this Volkswagen Atlas vs. Subaru Ascent comparison. Both options add confidence to your driving.
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| 2025 Volkswagen Atlas SE | 2025 Subaru Ascent Premium | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L turbo 4-cyl | 2.4L turbo 4-cyl |
| Horsepower | 269 | 260 |
| Torque | 273 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD | AWD only |
| EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy) | 20 / 261 | 20 / 262 |
| Passenger Volume | 153.7 cu ft | 153.2 cu ft |
| Seating Capacity | 7 | 7 or 8 |
| Cargo Space Behind 3rd / 2nd / 1st Row | 20.6 / 55.5 / 96.6 cu ft | 17.8 / 43.5 / 75.6 cu ft |
| Legroom 3rd Row | 33.7 in | 31.7 in |
| Length | 200.7 in | 196.8 in |
| Width | 78.3 in | 76.0 in |
| Height | 70.4 in | 71.6 in |
| Wheelbase | 117.3 in | 113.8 in |
Exploring Trim Levels: Volkswagen Atlas vs. Subaru Ascent
In its quest for perfection, the Volkswagen Atlas offers a diverse range of trims catering to varied tastes and preferences.
Volkswagen Atlas Trims
- Atlas SE
- Atlas SE with Technology
- Atlas Peak Edition
- Atlas SEL
- Atlas SEL Premium R-Line
The base-model Atlas SE comes standard with a long list of stellar features like stylish and durable V-Tex leatherette seating surfaces, plus comforting cabin amenities like heated and ventilated front seats and three-zone automatic climate control. A 12-inch center display and wireless charging are also included.
The range-topping Atlas SEL Premium R-Line upgrades your driving experience with the following upscale equipment (and more):
- 21-inch machined alloy wheels (compared to 18-inch wheels on the SE)
- Exclusive R-Line exterior styling
- Perforated Vienna leather seating surfaces with a premium appearance
- Harman Kardon® premium audio system
Subaru Ascent Trims
The 2025 Subaru Ascent is also available in several trim levels, starting with the Premium variants:
- Ascent Premium 8-Passenger
- Ascent Premium 7-Passenger
- Ascent Onyx Edition 7-Passenger
- Ascent Limited 8-Passenger
- Ascent Limited 7-Passenger
- Ascent Limited Bronze Edition 7-Passenger
- Ascent Touring 7-Passenger
- Ascent Onyx Edition Touring 7-Passenger
The Subaru Ascent interior starts with cloth seating material, which can't match the look, feel, durability, and stain resistance of the VW Atlas SUV's exquisite standard leatherette interior.
The pricier Ascent Onyx Edition Touring 7-Passenger, the top trim, competes with the stunning VW Atlas SEL Premium R-Line for midsize three-row SUV supremacy but falls a little short.
While it gets upgraded Nappa leather seating and is also fitted with a Harman Kardon® sound system, it's equipped with smaller 20-inch wheels. Its exterior design updates are limited to blacked-out details. The VW Atlas SEL Premium R-Line wears larger 21-inch alloys and gets a sportier R-Line exterior styling kit that sets it apart from other SUVs like the Ascent.
Safety Systems: Atlas vs. Ascent
A family-focused three-row SUV should be loaded with the latest safety and driver-assistance technologies to protect the precious cargo inside. That's why Volkswagen has outfitted every 2025 VW Atlas midsize family SUV with the following IQ.DRIVE features:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Travel Assist
- Active Blind Spot Monitor
- Rear Traffic Alert
- Front Assist
- Emergency Assist
- Lane Assist
The Subaru Ascent also gets a standard safety suite called Subaru EyeSight, which equips this three-row Subaru SUV with driver-assist tech like:
- Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Departure & Sway Warning
- Pre-Collision Braking
- Automatic Emergency Steering
- Pre-Collision Throttle Management
Volkswagen Atlas or Subaru Ascent?
As our best midsize SUV comparison guide comes to a close, we hope that this review of the Subaru Ascent vs. Volkswagen Atlas has helped you determine which model is the right choice for your family. If you're leaning toward the Atlas SUV, then view our new Volkswagen vehicles for sale.
Want more reasons to select the Volkswagen Atlas over the Subaru Ascent? Ask the sales associates here at DARCARS Volkswagen of Silver Spring about the VW brand's Carefree Coverage, CarNet Safe & Secure plan, and this SUV's typically low maintenance costs and high owner satisfaction ratings.
Are you feeling extra sporty? Then inquire about the new Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport for sale, a two-row midsize SUV with similar amenities, two rows of seating, and a more athletic appearance.
Our VW sales specialists await your call or visit to tell you more about the superb lineup of new Volkswagen SUVs like the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport available now through our dealership. Get in touch with our VW SUV pros today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some of the advanced safety features of the new 2025 Volkswagen Atlas model include its IQ.DRIVE technologies like:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Travel Assist
- Active Blind Spot Monitor
- Rear Traffic Alert
- Front Assist
- Emergency Assist
- Lane Assist
Six stability-enhancing systems, an Automatic Post-Collision Braking System, and an Intelligent Crash Response System are also found on the Atlas 2025 model.
While the Volkswagen Atlas is not typically considered a luxury car, it does offer luxurious features inside its airy three-row interior. For instance, you can secure an elegant new VW Atlas SUV fitted with high-end amenities like:
- Perforated Vienna leather seating surfaces
- Massaging front seats with four-way power lumbar
- Harman Kardon® premium audio system
- Heated first and second-row outboard seating
- Multi-color adjustable ambient lighting
The life expectancy of a Subaru Ascent varies depending on many factors, including one's driving style, typical annual mileage driven, and how well cared for it is through regular maintenance visits. A Subaru Ascent can last around 200,000 miles with proper care. If you drive about 15,000 miles per year, a new Ascent SUV should last around 13 years before replacement.
Featured Customer Review for Volkswagen Atlas
"Nick was excellent! I love my 2024 Atlas. We loved his service and professionalism."
-Doris Fri Achiri, 5 stars - 2/25/2024