Which three-row, midsize SUV belongs in your family, the 2023 Ford Explorer or the Subaru Ascent? Our comparison guide lays out the pros and cons of each model, so you can see which one best suits your lifestyle.
Key Takeaways
- With an MSRP of $33,895, the Subaru Ascent can help you save a little bit of money compared with the Ford Explorer, which starts at $36,760.
- The Explorer not only comes standard with sporty rear-wheel drive, but it also offers the more powerful engine options.
- Inside, the Ford Explorer treats you to maximum comfort, with more standard features than the Subaru Ascent.
- As you climb the trim levels, the Explorer delivers more interior luxury than the Ascent.
Best Price: 2023 Subaru Ascent
If you’re after the best deal on an entry-level three-row crossover, check out the 2023 Ascent. It starts at $33,895. The 2023 Explorer, on the other hand, is a little more expensive, starting at $36,760.
Max Horsepower: 2023 Ford Explorer
If it’s power you’re after, the Explorer is the best option! Not only does the Explorer come standard with horsepower, but you can also optimize its performance with increasing speed (via the turbo V6) or greater efficiency (via the hybrid V6). In fact, the Explorer not only gives you more potential for fuel efficiency (earning up to 27 mpg combined), but it also offers the best tow ratings (up to 5,600 pounds).
The 2023 Explorer powertrain options include:
- Turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine (300 horsepower, 310 lb-ft of torque)
- Turbo 3.0L V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft)
- 3.3L hybrid V6 (318 hp, 322 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
The 2023 Subaru Ascent can definitely help you maintain your footing in any kind of weather, thanks to its old-school, symmetrical all-wheel drive system. However, every trim model comes with the same 260-horsepower engine, so these crossovers can’t quite keep up with the Explorer. And they also trail behind in terms of efficiency (up to 22 mpg combined) and towing capabilities (with max tow ratings of 5,000 pounds).
Every 2023 Ascent comes with the same powertrain:
- Turbo 2.4L four-cylinder engine (260 hp, 277 lb-ft of torque)
- Continuously variable transmission
- All-wheel drive
Interior Comfort: 2023 Ford Explorer
The Explorer will impress you with its very cushy standard lineup. Every model comes with tri-zone automatic climate control and a power-adjustable driver’s seat, just for starters. And the base Explorer also helps you stay on your toes, with complete smartphone integration (via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) and a host of driver safety aids (including forward collision mitigation and blind-spot warning).
Of course, the Ascent is a close second-place contender! Its standard lineup also helps you stay comfortable. The base Ascent model may not give you a power-adjustable driver’s set or a power liftgate, but you do get tri-zone automatic climate control. You also get a similar infotainment and driver safety aid setup, including the aforementioned smartphone integration features and forward collision mitigation. The Ascent doesn’t provide standard blind-spot monitoring, however (though it is optional).
Available Luxury: 2023 Ford Explorer
With its eight trim levels, the Explorer gives you more opportunity for interior luxury. At the higher end of the range, the Limited, ST, King Ranch, and Platinum models all deliver impressive interior style and upscale comfort. These Explorers deliver everything from leather seating to a hands-free power liftgate. The top-trim Explorer Platinum goes all out, with diamond-quilted leather upholstery and genuine wood cabin trim.
Although the Subaru Ascent doesn’t get to diamond-quilted leather levels of luxury, it does offer its fair share of upgrades. This midsize Subaru crossover is available as six trim models, and higher-end models roll out some rich comforts, such as leather upholstery and a dual-panel panoramic sunroof.
Your New Ride
The 2023 Subaru Ascent might have some cool features, including standard all-wheel drive, but the 2023 Ford Explorer ultimately gives you more of what you want in a family-style midsize crossover. Choose the Explorer for more standard features, greater available luxury, premium power, and a very sporty performance.