Volkswagen Atlas vs. Subaru Ascent: A Mechanic’s Guide to Choosing the Right SUV

Ciao a tutti! Luca here, your friendly neighbourhood mechanic from a small village near the Italian highway. For over 15 years, I’ve been wrenching on everything with wheels, and my nephew convinced me to start this blog to help folks like you choose the right car. Today, we’re tackling a head-to-head comparison: the Volkswagen Atlas and the Subaru Ascent. Both are popular three-row SUVs, but which one reigns supreme?

A Brief Introduction

The Volkswagen Atlas, launched in 2017, is VW’s attempt to crack the large SUV market in North America and is slowly gaining traction in Europe. It’s aimed at families needing space and practicality. The Subaru Ascent, arriving a year later in 2018, focuses on all-wheel-drive capability and family-friendly features, targeting active families who value safety and off-road capability. Both cars have seen minor updates and refreshes since their introduction.

Exterior Design and Style

The Atlas boasts a more traditional SUV look, with bolder lines and a more imposing presence. The Ascent, on the other hand, sports a sleeker, more refined design. Build quality is good on both, but I’d give a slight edge to the Atlas for its more robust feel. However, aesthetics are subjective—what one person finds appealing, another might not. Personally, I prefer the Atlas’s more rugged appearance.

Interior and Comfort

Inside, both SUVs offer ample space for seven passengers. The Atlas might have a slight advantage in terms of sheer cargo volume, particularly with the third-row seats folded. Material quality is comparable; both use a mix of hard and soft plastics. However, the Ascent’s interior feels slightly more refined and upscale. Legroom in the second and third rows is generous in both, but taller individuals might find slightly more headroom in the Atlas.

Performance

Note: Engine options vary by model year and trim level. These are examples. Real-world fuel economy can vary depending on driving style and conditions. In my experience, the Subaru Ascent’s CVT might feel less refined than the Atlas’s traditional automatic transmission, but the Ascent’s all-wheel drive system is a big plus in challenging weather conditions.

Features and Technology

Both vehicles offer modern infotainment systems with touchscreens, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and a decent array of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. The specific features available vary depending on the trim level. Neither SUV stands out significantly in terms of cutting-edge technology compared to its competitors.

Value for Money

Pricing varies greatly depending on the trim level and options. In general, the Volkswagen Atlas tends to have a slightly lower starting price than the Subaru Ascent, but the Ascent might offer better standard features in some trims. Considering reliability and resale value, both models hold their value reasonably well, but the Subaru Ascent generally commands slightly higher resale prices due to its reputation for reliability and all-wheel-drive system.

Resale Price

Based on my observations, Subaru Ascents generally maintain a slightly higher resale value compared to Volkswagen Atlases. This is partly due to Subaru’s reputation for reliability and the popularity of its all-wheel-drive systems, especially in European markets where inclement weather is more common. However, the specific resale value depends heavily on the vehicle’s condition, mileage, and the prevailing market conditions.

Pros and Cons Summary

Volkswagen Atlas:

• Pros: More spacious cargo area, potentially lower starting price, bolder styling, potentially better fuel efficiency in some engine options.
• Cons: Less refined interior in lower trims, less emphasis on all-wheel-drive, potentially less robust resale value.

Subaru Ascent:

• Pros: Standard all-wheel drive, potentially higher resale value, refined interior, strong safety reputation.
• Cons: Higher starting price in some trims, slightly less cargo space compared to the Atlas, CVT transmission might not appeal to everyone.

Maintenance Cost

As a mechanic, I can tell you that maintenance costs for both vehicles are relatively similar. However, the Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system adds a bit of complexity and cost to certain repairs. Here’s a rough estimate of some common maintenance items:

• Regular Service/Revision: €150-€300 (varies greatly depending on the service interval and the specific work required)
• Broken Windshield: €500-€1000+
• Front Bumper Replacement: €800-€1500
• Rear Bumper Replacement: €700-€1200

Common Problems (Based on my experience):

Volkswagen Atlas:

1. Infotainment system glitches
2. Issues with the automatic transmission (in some model years)
3. Some reports of electrical problems
4. Suspension component wear
5. Minor issues with door seals
6. Engine oil leaks in some earlier models

Subaru Ascent:

1. CVT transmission issues (can be a concern with high mileage)
2. Some reports of engine oil consumption
3. Issues with the infotainment system (similar to the Atlas)
4. Suspension component wear (common in SUVs)
5. Minor electrical gremlins
6. Rear hatch problems (sticking or malfunctioning)

Warranty

Warranty coverage varies by region and trim level. It’s crucial to check the specific warranty details offered by your local dealer. Generally, both manufacturers offer standard warranties covering defects in materials and workmanship for a certain period.

Popularity in Europe

Both the Volkswagen Atlas and Subaru Ascent are relatively less popular in Europe compared to their popularity in North America. The Volkswagen Atlas is more common due to its association with the Volkswagen brand. However, precise sales data is difficult to obtain and varies from country to country.

Conclusion

Choosing between the Volkswagen Atlas and Subaru Ascent depends on your priorities. If you need maximum cargo space and prefer a more traditional SUV design, the Atlas might be a better choice. If all-wheel drive and a more refined interior are crucial, the Ascent is worth considering. Remember to test drive both vehicles and consider your specific needs and budget before making a decision. And as always, feel free to drop by my workshop if you have any questions!

Remember, this advice is based on my experience. Always consult your local dealer for the most up-to-date information on pricing, features, and warranty details.