2027 Subaru Ascent Comparison in Fayetteville, AR

Compare the 2027 Subaru Ascent to Other Three-Row SUVs in Fayetteville, AR 

Choosing the right three-row SUV means finding a vehicle that provides the space your family needs, the capability to handle changing conditions, and the confidence to support everyday adventures. At Adventure Subaru, we help drivers throughout Fayetteville and Northwest Arkansas compare the 2027 Subaru Ascent with popular competitors including the Volkswagen Atlas, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Grand Highlander. 

The 2027 Subaru Ascent offers standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, 8.7 inches of ground clearance, three rows of seating for seven or eight passengers, and standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology. It also provides up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity and the passenger and cargo flexibility families need for daily driving and longer trips. 

Whether you're commuting through Fayetteville, heading to Bentonville for the weekend, or exploring the Ozarks with family and friends, use the comparisons below to see how the 2027 Ascent stacks up against other three-row SUVs and determine which vehicle best fits your family's priorities.

How the 2027 Subaru Ascent Compares 

Compare the 2027 Ascent to Other Popular Three-Row SUVs 

Choosing a three-row SUV means balancing passenger space, comfort, capability, safety, and everyday practicality. The Volkswagen Atlas, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Grand Highlander are all popular choices, but the 2027 Subaru Ascent stands apart with standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® engine, standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, and family-friendly versatility. Use the comparison below to review several important differences.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     
2027 Subaru Ascent2026 Volkswagen Atlas2026 Honda Pilot2026 Toyota Grand Highlander
New-Vehicle Limited Warranty3 Years / 36,000 Miles4 Years / 50,000 Miles3 Years / 36,000 Miles3 Years / 36,000 Miles
Seating Capacity7 or 8Up to 77 or 8Up to 8
DrivetrainStandard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel DriveFront-Wheel Drive or available 4MOTION® All-Wheel DriveFront-Wheel Drive or available i-VTM4® All-Wheel Drive, depending on trimFront-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive, depending on powertrain and trim
Ground Clearance8.7 InchesVaries by configuration7.3 to 8.3 Inches8.0 Inches
Maximum Towing CapacityUp to 5,000 PoundsUp to 5,000 PoundsUp to 5,000 PoundsUp to 5,000 Pounds
Engine or Powertrain2.4-Liter Turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® Four-Cylinder2.0-Liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder3.5-Liter V6Gas, Hybrid, or Hybrid MAX
Horsepower260 Horsepower269 Horsepower285 Horsepower245 to 362 Horsepower, Depending on Powertrain
TransmissionLineartronic® CVTEight-Speed Automatic10-Speed AutomaticElectronically Controlled CVT, Six-Speed Automatic, or Eight-Speed Automatic, Depending on Powertrain
 

Specifications are only part of the story. The 2027 Subaru Ascent combines standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, 8.7 inches of ground clearance, spacious three-row seating, advanced safety technology, and family-friendly versatility in one capable SUV. Continue below to see how the Ascent compares with the Volkswagen Atlas, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Grand Highlander in capability, comfort, technology, and everyday practicality.

 

The 2027 Subaru Ascent is compared with the latest Volkswagen Atlas, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Grand Highlander model-year information officially published by their respective manufacturers as of October 2026. Specifications and equipment may vary by trim, powertrain, drivetrain, and vehicle configuration. Maximum towing capacity requires appropriate equipment and should always follow the applicable manufacturer's guidelines.

* Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, title or non-infringement. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable tax, title, and license. Not responsible for typographical errors.

**The arrival timeline is an estimate. It may vary due to circumstances beyond Subaru’s or the retailer’s control.

Rugged Capability Meets Family Comfort

The 2027 Subaru Ascent is built to handle everything from weekday commutes to weekend road trips with confidence. Standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, 8.7 inches of ground clearance, X-MODE® with Hill Descent Control, and raised roof rails help the Ascent navigate changing weather, gravel roads, steep grades, and outdoor adventures throughout Northwest Arkansas.

Inside, the Ascent offers a spacious, thoughtfully designed cabin with seating for seven or eight passengers, flexible second- and third-row seating, and up to 75.6 cubic feet of cargo space. USB-A and USB-C charging ports across all three rows, 19 cupholders, and convenient storage spaces help keep passengers comfortable, connected, and organized.

Whether you're carpooling through Fayetteville or loading up for a weekend in the Ozarks, the 2027 Subaru Ascent provides the capability and family-focused versatility needed for the journey.

Performance & Capability

The 2027 Subaru Ascent is engineered to give families confidence wherever the road leads. Every Ascent comes equipped with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, providing balanced traction and stability without requiring an upgrade. Whether you're navigating rainy streets in Fayetteville, traveling throughout Northwest Arkansas, or heading beyond paved roads, the Ascent is built for confidence throughout the year.

A turbocharged 2.4-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine produces 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It is paired with a Lineartronic® CVT featuring an eight-speed manual mode and paddle shifters for responsive everyday driving, highway merging, and family road trips.

With 8.7 inches of ground clearance, standard X-MODE® with Hill Descent Control, and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity, the 2027 Ascent is ready for weekend camping trips, outdoor equipment, and compatible boats or trailers. Standard Trailer Stability Assist can also detect trailer sway and apply braking to individual wheels to help maintain control.

This combination of standard all-wheel drive, ground clearance, towing capability, and family-focused comfort helps the 2027 Subaru Ascent stand apart from competitors such as the Volkswagen Atlas, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Grand Highlander.

Technology & Safety

The 2027 Subaru Ascent combines intuitive technology with family-focused convenience. Every Ascent features a standard high-resolution 11.6-inch Subaru Multimedia touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration. USB-A and USB-C charging ports are provided across all three rows, helping passengers keep compatible devices charged during daily drives and longer trips.

Available technology includes wireless device charging, built-in navigation, Cabin Connect, and a Harman Kardon® premium audio system. A 360-Degree Surround View Monitor is included on Limited, Limited Bronze Edition, Touring, and Onyx Edition Touring models to provide additional visibility when parking and maneuvering.

Every 2027 Subaru Ascent also includes EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology with a Wide-Angle Mono Camera and Emergency Stop Assist. EyeSight features include Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering, Pre-Collision Braking, Lane Departure and Sway Warning, and Lane Keep Assist.

Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Reverse Automatic Braking, and Automatic Emergency Steering are also standard across the 2027 Ascent lineup. DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation System is included on Limited, Limited Bronze Edition, Touring, and Onyx Edition Touring models. Combined with standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, these technologies provide a comprehensive combination of driver assistance, awareness, and all-weather capability.

Spacious Three-Row Seating for the Whole Family

The 2027 Subaru Ascent is designed with growing families in mind, offering three rows of seating for seven or eight passengers and the flexibility to adapt to everyday life. Whether you're carpooling around Fayetteville, taking the kids to activities in Bentonville, or loading up for a weekend in the Ozarks, the Ascent provides the room, comfort, and versatility families need.

Seven-passenger models feature second-row captain's chairs, while eight-passenger models use a second-row bench seat. Flexible second- and third-row seating provides up to 75.6 cubic feet of cargo space for passengers, pets, groceries, sports equipment, and vacation gear.

Available features include leather-trimmed or Nappa leather-trimmed upholstery, heated second-row outboard seats, ventilated front seats, and a panoramic power moonroof, depending on trim. USB-A and USB-C charging ports across all three rows, 19 cupholders, and convenient storage spaces help keep everyone comfortable, connected, and organized along the way.

Confident Towing Capability

The 2027 Subaru Ascent is built for families who want the freedom to bring more along for every adventure. With up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity, the Ascent can accommodate compatible boats, campers, utility trailers, and other recreational equipment.

Standard Trailer Stability Assist uses yaw sensors to detect trailer sway and can apply braking to individual wheels to help maintain control. Combined with standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, 8.7 inches of ground clearance, X-MODE® with Hill Descent Control, and a turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® engine, the Ascent provides useful capability for family vacations and weekend adventures throughout Northwest Arkansas.

Available accessories, including a Class III trailer hitch, roof crossbars, cargo carriers, bike racks, and kayak carriers, make it easy to tailor the Ascent to your family's lifestyle. Whether you're spending the weekend at Beaver Lake, exploring the Ozarks, or taking a cross-country road trip, the 2027 Subaru Ascent provides the capability and versatility to help you bring what you need.

Maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds. Towing capacity and requirements can vary based on vehicle configuration, equipment, trailer weight, cargo, and other factors. Always follow the Owner's Manual and applicable Subaru towing guidelines for your specific vehicle and trailer.

Confident Capability with X-MODE®

The 2027 Subaru Ascent is engineered to inspire confidence wherever your journey takes you. With 8.7 inches of ground clearance, standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and X-MODE®, the Ascent is designed to provide additional traction on slippery surfaces and in challenging driving conditions. Whether you're commuting through Fayetteville or exploring the backroads of Northwest Arkansas, the Ascent is built to help you travel with confidence.

The Premium trim includes standard X-MODE® with Hill Descent Control, which helps optimize the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system for increased traction and assists with maintaining a controlled speed on steep downhill grades.

Limited, Limited Bronze Edition, Touring, and Onyx Edition Touring models include Dual-Function X-MODE® with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud settings. These selectable modes provide additional capability when road or trail conditions become more demanding.

The Subaru Ascent is a Consumer Reports Recommended vehicle.

Consumer Reports does not endorse products or services.

View the Report

TOP SAFETY PICK+

The 2024 Subaru Ascent is an IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+.

Pedestrian Front Crash Prevention

The 2024 Subaru Ascent received the highest possible 2023 rating for pedestrian front crash prevention from IIHS.

2027 Subaru Ascent Comparison FAQs 

   

How does the 2027 Subaru Ascent compare to the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas?  

Every 2027 Subaru Ascent comes standard with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, while the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas is offered with front-wheel drive or available 4MOTION® All-Wheel Drive. The Ascent also provides seating for seven or eight passengers, 8.7 inches of ground clearance, standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity. 

How does the 2027 Subaru Ascent compare to the 2026 Honda Pilot?

Every 2027 Subaru Ascent includes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard equipment. The 2026 Honda Pilot is offered with front-wheel drive or available i-VTM4® All-Wheel Drive, depending on trim. Both SUVs offer seating for seven or eight passengers and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity, while the Ascent also includes 8.7 inches of ground clearance and standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology.

How does the 2027 Subaru Ascent compare to the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander?  

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander offers gas, Hybrid, and Hybrid MAX powertrains, with front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations depending on powertrain and trim. Every 2027 Subaru Ascent comes standard with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a 260-horsepower turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® engine, along with seating for seven or eight passengers and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity.

Does every 2027 Subaru Ascent come with all-wheel drive?

Yes. Every 2027 Subaru Ascent comes standard with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. X-MODE® with Hill Descent Control is also standard across the lineup to provide additional capability in challenging road and weather conditions. 

How many passengers can the 2027 Subaru Ascent seat?

The 2027 Subaru Ascent offers three rows of seating for seven or eight passengers. Seven-passenger models feature second-row captain's chairs, while eight-passenger models use a second-row bench seat. 

Is the 2027 Subaru Ascent a good SUV for families in Northwest Arkansas?

Yes. Standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, 8.7 inches of ground clearance, seating for seven or eight passengers, standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, flexible cargo space, and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity give the Ascent a useful combination of passenger space and capability for families throughout Fayetteville and Northwest Arkansas.  

Experience the 2027 Subaru Ascent at Adventure Subaru

Experience the 2027 Subaru Ascent at Adventure Subaru in Fayetteville, AR. Explore available trims, compare features, and discover how its standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, advanced safety technology, spacious three-row interior, and family-focused versatility can fit your driving needs throughout Northwest Arkansas.

We proudly serve drivers from Fayetteville, Bentonville, Rogers, Springdale, Bella Vista, Siloam Springs, Fort Smith, and communities throughout Northwest Arkansas. Browse our current inventory or contact Adventure Subaru to schedule a no-obligation test drive. 

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Want to check out a new Subaru Ascent in person? Contact our team to set up a test drive and experience the new Subaru Ascent for yourself.

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