Subaru Ascent Vs. Volkswagen Atlas: Which SUV Comes Out On Top?
Subaru engineers like to position the Ascent as a wildly capable SUV, but spend two minutes reading a Volkswagen Atlas vs. Subaru Ascent review, and you'll realize the best value for your money is the VW model, no contest. Join us for a no-holds-barred VW Atlas vs. Subaru Ascent comparison to decide which model wins your vote. Meanwhile, the Wallace Volkswagen of Johnson City team will get your test-drive keys ready – we can't wait to help you explore the winning Volkswagen Atlas trims!
2024 Volkswagen Atlas vs. 2024 Subaru Ascent: Key Differences
- The 2024 VW Atlas arrives with fresh front fascia and headlights, multiple new technology upgrades, additional wheel designs, and an enhanced cockpit with high-end cabin materials
- Unfortunately, the Subaru Ascent doesn't receive any major upgrades for 2024
- When comparing their standard base configurations, you'll gain slightly better highway fuel economy from the Atlas engine for commuting or road-tripping than that of the Ascent
- The Subaru Ascent has a tight backseat, but the new Atlas SUV offers 2.1 inches more third-row headroom and best-in-class third-row legroom1 for full-cabin utility
- Enjoy heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel in the entry-level VW Atlas trim; the base-model Ascent has none of these functions, and ventilation isn't even available until the top-spec Subaru Touring
- Overall, the 2024 Atlas gives you more value for your money, including a higher entry-level towing capacity and complimentary maintenance coverage2
Volkswagen Atlas vs. Subaru Ascent Specs and Performance
The first stop on this VW Atlas vs. Subaru Ascent tour is powertrains. We'd love to tell you these SUVs are evenly matched, but when you compare the Volkswagen Atlas vs. Subaru Ascent specs side-by-side like we did below, it's clear that the VW trims take the cake.
Test drives of the 2024 Volkswagen trims highlight the model's peppy 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which offers improved throttle response from last year's build thanks to a retuned 2024 transmission. The first two Atlas trims can be configured in FWD or 4MOTION AWD, while the upper four variants are all-wheel drive only. While the Volkswagen Atlas transmission is automatic, you can activate its Tiptronic paddle shifters for a manual gearbox experience.
The 2024 Subaru Ascent houses a larger 2.4-liter four-cylinder that consumes much more gasoline on highway drives and also lags behind with 260 horsepower compared to that of the 269-horsepower engine in the Atlas.
Volkswagen Atlas vs. Subaru Ascent Towing Capacity
Compare the Subaru Ascent vs. Volkswagen Atlas strength, and once again, the Atlas SUV takes the crown. Though both brands can pull a maximum of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, including the entry-level VW Atlas SE, the Subaru Ascent Base can only tow a limiting 2,000 pounds.3 Layer our current new VW specials onto your Atlas build, and this SUV gets even stronger.
A Closer Look at Volkswagen Atlas vs. Subaru Ascent Specs
| 2024 Volkswagen Atlas | 2024 Subaru Ascent | |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo 4-cyl w / Engine Start-Stop | 2.4L turbo 4-cyl |
| Horsepower | 269 | 260 |
| Torque | 273 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | FWD / 4MOTION AWD | Symmetrical AWD |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic w / Tiptronic paddle shifters | Automatic CVT |
| Max Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs4 | 5,000 lbs3 |
| EPA-Est MPG (City / Hwy) | - 20 / 27 MPG5 | - 20 / 26 MPG6 - First 3 trims
- 19 / 25 MPG6 - Upper 5 trims |
| Passenger Seating | 7 | 7 or 8 (trim-dependent) |
| Max Front Headroom / Legroom | 41.3 / 41.7 in | 41.2 / 42.2 in |
| Max Second-Row Headroom / Legroom | 40.4 / 37.6 in | 40 / 38.6 in |
| Max Third-Row Headroom / Legroom | 38.3 / 33.7 in | 36.2 / 31.7 in |
| Cargo Space (Behind 1st / 2nd / 3rd Rows) | 96.6 / 55.5 / 20.6 cu ft | 72. 8 - 75.6 / 42.1 - 43.5 / Not Published cu ft |
| Complimentary Maintenance | 2 yr / 20,000-mile Carefree Coverage2 | No |
| Complimentary Roadside Assistance | 3 yr / 36,000-mile Roadside Help7 | 3 yr / 36,000-mile Roadside Assistance8 |
Volkswagen Atlas vs. Subaru Ascent Interior Space and Comfort
The differences between Volkswagen Atlas vs. Subaru Ascent cabin design are astounding; honestly, we still can't believe how much the entry-level Ascent struggles to keep up. The only win the Ascent manages to capture is the fact that its first trim can seat up to eight occupants, while every trim in our new VW Atlas inventory seats seven. Beyond this, the Subaru SUV is laughably under-equipped. To illustrate, here's an overview of the VW Atlas standard features, none of which are present in the Subaru Ascent Base:
- Leatherette seats
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Power adjustable driver's seat, including power lumbar
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
Volkswagen Atlas vs. Subaru Ascent Infotainment and Technology
The 2024 Atlas outshines the Ascent with its six USB charging ports, including ports in its third row, plus wireless phone charging up front and a keyless power liftgate. Looking for these comforts in the 2024 Subaru Ascent? You won't find any of them in the first two trims, and wireless phone charging isn't standard on any of the trims for the Ascent. Every VW Atlas also comes with these features that aren't present in the Subaru Ascent Base:
- Active Blind Spot Monitor
- Rear Traffic Alert
- Emergency Assist
- Lane Assist
Test-Drive the Winning Volkswagen Atlas SUV at Wallace Volkswagen of Johnson City
Visit Wallace Volkswagen of Johnson City for next-level VW Atlas lease deals that can help you get behind the wheel and on the road in this stunning SUV even sooner!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which SUV offers more spacious third-row seating: the Subaru Ascent or the VW Atlas?
Without a doubt, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas has more third-row headroom and legroom than any Subaru Ascent trim. Even though the Ascent boasts passenger seating for eight in a few of its variants, those third-row occupants will need to be short preteens because an adult just won't fit in such a small space. The new Atlas, however, has a third row that's actually functional.
Which model has a more advanced infotainment system: the Volkswagen Atlas or the Ascent?
The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas has a larger, 12-inch advanced standard infotainment touchscreen that lets you customize your display, quickly connect to Apple CarPlay® or Android Auto™, and allow you access to your favorite apps. The new Subaru Atlas has a smaller 11.6-inch multimedia touchscreen. To get the manufacturer's navigation system on either model, you can upgrade to their respective higher trim levels.
Between the VW Atlas and the Subaru Ascent, which offers a longer warranty and maintenance coverage?
The Atlas comes with a longer New Vehicle Limited Warranty that covers four years or 50,000 miles9 and also two years or 20,000 miles of complimentary Carefree Coverage2 that's good for oil changes and regular checkups. In stark contrast, the 2024 Ascent SUV doesn't come with complimentary maintenance coverage and has a shorter New Car Limited Warranty that covers three years or 36,000 miles.10
Discover More VW Model Comparisons
| VW Atlas Vs. VW Tiguan | VW Jetta Vs. Toyota Corolla | VW Taos Vs. Chevy Trax |
| VW Taos Vs. Toyota RAV4 | VW Tiguan Vs. Toyota RAV4 |
1Based on manufacturer’s data available at time of publication comparing 2023 Wards Auto’s Large Cross/Utility segment vehicle class.
2Carefree Coverage available on all new MY24 vehicles. For vehicle eligibility details, visit vw.com/coverage. VW’s Carefree Maintenance Program provides 10,000- and 20,000-mile scheduled maintenance services or scheduled maintenance services for two years (whichever occurs first) as stated in the vehicle’s maintenance booklet. Does not include tire rotations, or other services or parts not specified in the owner’s literature. 3 years/36,000 miles (whichever occurs first) Roadside Assistance provided by a third party. 4 years/50,000 miles (whichever occurs first) New Vehicle Limited Warranty. See owner’s literature or dealer for warranty, maintenance program, and roadside assistance details, exclusions, and limitations. Car-Net Remote Access services require cellular connectivity, GPS signal, and acceptance of Terms of Service. Not all Car-Net services and features are available on all vehicles. Other Car-Net services require a trial or paid subscription. See additional important information at carnet.vw.com.
3Maximum towing capacity varies by trim level. Trailer brakes may be needed. See your retailer for details.
4Maximum tow rating when equipped with 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine and factory-installed towing hitch. Vehicle load, other accessories, and options may reduce maximum towing capacity. See vehicle Owner’s Manual for details.
520 city/27 highway mpg (2024 Atlas 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder, eight-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic). EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary and depends on several factors, including your driving habits and vehicle condition.
6EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage will vary with driving conditions and your vehicle’s condition.
73 years/36,000 miles (whichever occurs first) Roadside Assistance on all new MY24 vehicles provided by a third party. May require additional payment for services rendered. See owner’s literature or dealer for limitations and details.
8Roadside Assistance services provided by third-party providers for vehicles with an eligible service plan, subject to limitations and restrictions. Roadside Assistance is not a warranty; refer to the vehicle's Owner's Handbook for warranty details. Excludes costs for repairs, parts, labor, property loss, and expenses from accidents, abuse, racing, vandalism, and certain other conditions. Contact our dealership for details.
94 years/50,000 miles (whichever occurs first) New Vehicle Limited Warranty on all new MY24 vehicles. See owner’s literature or dealer for warranty exclusions and limitations.
10Warranties listed on this web page shall not be solely relied upon. Warranties may be subject to specific terms, restrictions, exclusions, and fees. Additional warranty information may be obtained by visiting the official website of the warranty provider. Contact our dealership for complete details.