The midsize SUV market is highly competitive, with families and adventurers looking for performance, comfort, and versatility. The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse and the 2025 Subaru Ascent are two standout options, each offering unique advantages. This in-depth comparison explores pricing, performance, features, and overall value to help you decide which SUV is the right fit.
Pricing
The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse starts at $40,600 for the FWD LT w/1LT trim. It justifies its higher price point with robust performance, advanced technology, and class-leading interior space. On the other hand, the 2025 Subaru Ascent begins at $38,910 for the Premium 8-Passenger trim. While slightly more affordable, it emphasizes standard safety features and standard AWD.
The Ascent’s starting price offers more budget-conscious appeal, but the Traverse provides excellent value for its features, especially in terms of engine power and infotainment technology.
Engine and Performance
The Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers a best-in-class 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth acceleration and responsiveness. The Traverse comes standard with front-wheel drive (FWD), but all-wheel drive (AWD) is available for those seeking enhanced traction.
The Subaru Ascent features a 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four (Boxer) engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT), it emphasizes efficiency and smooth power delivery. AWD is standard across all Ascent trims, making it ideal for diverse driving conditions.
While the Ascent focuses on stability and AWD reliability, the Traverse outshines it with significantly more power and a traditional automatic transmission, offering a more engaging driving experience.
Fuel Economy
The Chevrolet Traverse achieves EPA ratings of 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway for FWD models, with AWD versions delivering 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. These figures are impressive for a midsize SUV with such a powerful engine.
The Subaru Ascent’s EPA figures for 2025 are not yet available, but the 2024 model achieved 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway for base trims. Higher trims slightly reduce these figures due to added weight and features.
Both SUVs offer competitive fuel efficiency for their class, but the Traverse’s FWD option provides a slight edge for highway mileage.
Interior, Technology, and Seating
The Chevrolet Traverse offers a spacious and tech-forward cabin that seats up to eight passengers. It features an 11-inch digital instrument cluster and a class-leading 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Higher trims include leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system.
The Subaru Ascent also seats up to eight passengers, with the option of second-row captain’s chairs reducing capacity to seven. Its interior includes a responsive touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration, tri-zone automatic climate control, and Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. Premium trims add leather seating, premium audio, and heated front seats.
The Traverse’s larger touchscreen and advanced infotainment system make it a better choice for those prioritizing technology, while the Ascent’s standard safety suite adds peace of mind.
Cargo Space
The Chevrolet Traverse leads the segment in cargo capacity, offering 23 cubic feet behind the third row and a massive 98.2 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. This makes it ideal for road trips, sporting gear, or other large cargo needs.
The Subaru Ascent provides 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 47.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and up to 86.5 cubic feet with all seats folded. While practical, it falls short of the Traverse’s class-leading capacity.
For drivers who prioritize storage, the Traverse is the clear winner in this category.
Towing Capacity
Both the Traverse and the Ascent offer a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. This makes them well-suited for towing small trailers, boats, or recreational equipment.
The Traverse’s more powerful engine may provide a smoother towing experience, especially on steep grades or with heavier loads.
Safety Features
The Chevrolet Traverse comes standard with Chevy Safety Assist, which includes automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, and lane-keeping assist. Available upgrades include adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system, enhancing safety and convenience.
The Subaru Ascent features Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology as standard, offering adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane departure warning. Higher trims add blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Both SUVs offer comprehensive safety features, but the Traverse’s optional 360-degree camera system provides an extra layer of visibility.
Dimensions
The Chevrolet Traverse measures 204.49 inches in length, providing an expansive interior and a commanding road presence. Its larger size translates to more passenger and cargo space.
The Subaru Ascent is slightly shorter at 196.8 inches, which may make it easier to maneuver in tight spaces. However, this compactness comes at the cost of some interior room.
Conclusion
The 2025 Chevrolet Traverse excels in power, cargo capacity, and cutting-edge technology, making it a standout option for families and adventurers who prioritize performance and space. The 2025 Subaru Ascent offers standard AWD, excellent safety features, and a lower starting price, appealing to those who value reliability and affordability.
Ultimately, the Traverse stands out as the more versatile and feature-rich midsize SUV, delivering exceptional value for drivers seeking a balance of luxury, performance, and utility.
FAQs
Which SUV has better cargo space, the Traverse or the Ascent?
The Chevrolet Traverse offers more cargo space, with up to 98.2 cubic feet compared to the Ascent’s maximum of 86.5 cubic feet.
Which SUV is more powerful?
The Traverse has a more powerful engine, producing 328 horsepower compared to the Ascent’s 260 horsepower.
Which SUV is better for off-road driving?
The Subaru Ascent’s standard AWD system makes it more capable for off-road adventures and driving in adverse weather conditions.
What are the standout features of the Traverse?
The Traverse’s standout features include a class-leading infotainment system, powerful engine, and expansive cargo capacity.
What are the standout features of the Ascent?
The Ascent’s standout features are its standard AWD system, comprehensive safety suite, and slightly lower starting price.
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