Finding the perfect SUV can be an exciting yet time-consuming endeavor. Whether you need a spacious three-row SUV for your family adventures or a rugged, versatile crossover for exploring Oregon's great outdoors, Capitol Subaru in Salem, OR, is here to make the process easier. If the 2025 Subaru Ascent's impressive seating capacity, advanced safety features, and ample cargo space appeal to you, or the 2025 Subaru Outback's off-road capability, sleek design, and efficiency suit your lifestyle, you've come to the right place. We've done the heavy lifting by creating this detailed comparison page, showcasing the unique strengths of these two exceptional models. From towing capabilities and technology to comfort and versatility, we break it all down to help you find the Subaru that checks every box on your list. Once you've explored the details, we invite you to contact Capitol Subaru to schedule a test drive-or two! Our knowledgeable team is ready to answer your questions, guide you through the features, and ensure you make the best choice for your needs. Let us take the guesswork out of your search and help you drive home in the Subaru SUV that's perfect for your lifestyle.
2025 Subaru Ascent vs 2025 Subaru Outback: Design & Exterior Features
Both the 2025 Ascent and the 2025 Outback boast an 8.7-inch ground clearance but only the Outback Wilderness trim has a 9.5-inch ground clearance for exciting off-road access. 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels are standard fare on the Ascent with higher trim levels offering 20-inch wheels. The Outback brings standard 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels or you can upgrade to 18-inch wheels. All-season tires are standard fare on both SUVs or you can claim the all-terrain tires when you choose the Outback Wilderness model. Both the Ascent and the Outback have standard LED steering responsive headlights for incredible cornering visibility. LED fog lights are standard on the Outback and available on higher trim levels of the Ascent. You'll find the panoramic glass moonroof available on both models while roof rails are standard fare for extra cargo room. The Outback Wilderness trim level offers roof rails with a 700-lb static capacity, perfect for rooftop tents.
2025 Subaru Ascent vs 2025 Subaru Outback: Comfort & Technology
The 2025 Ascent is a versatile three-row SUV designed to accommodate your family and gear with ease. It offers seating for up to eight passengers and boasts an impressive 153.2 cubic feet of passenger volume. For added flexibility, fold down the first two rows to access 75.6 cubic feet of cargo space. Opt for the available second-row captain's chairs to create a seven-passenger configuration, providing enhanced comfort and convenience for everyone on board. The 2025 Outback seats 5 comfortably with 109 cubic feet of passenger space. It may surprise you to know that with the rear seat of the Outback laid flat, it also opens up to 75.6 cubic feet of cargo volume. Staying connected is a breeze with the standard SUBARU STARLINK® multimedia system. The Outback offers a dual 7-inch touchscreen setup or the option to upgrade trim levels to the 11.6-inch screen with navigation. The Ascent starts with the 11.6-inch display and offers standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ capability, a feature only available on higher trim levels of the Outback.
2025 Subaru Ascent vs 2025 Subaru Outback: Performance
A 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER® is the standard engine under the hood of the 2025 Ascent, producing a mighty 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque while the 2025 Outback boasts a standard 2.5-liter BOXER, making 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. Top tier trim levels of the Outback including the rugged Wilderness, come standard with the 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER, matching the Ascent's performance output. A Lineartronic® CVT is standard on both SUVs, giving the Ascent the power to tow up to 5,000 lbs and the Forester 3,500 lbs. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard on both models as well as X-MODE® and Active Torque Vectoring.
2025 Subaru Ascent vs 2025 Subaru Outback: Safety
The IIHS has yet to release safety ratings for 2025, but the 2024 Ascent and 2024 Outback both earned the esteemed Top Safety Pick+ designation-the highest honor from the IIHS. Additionally, the NHTSA awarded the 2025 Ascent and 2025 Outback a perfect 5-star safety rating. Both models come equipped with Subaru's highly regarded EyeSight® suite of driver-assist technologies, including Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking, Lane Keep Assist, and more. Standard High Beam Assist enhances nighttime visibility, while the available DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation System adds an extra layer of safety to help keep you and your passengers secure on every journey.
2025 Subaru Ascent vs 2025 Subaru Outback: Overall Value
Capitol Subaru in Salem, OR, is your trusted destination for finding the perfect SUV, and the 2025 Subaru Ascent and 2025 Subaru Outback are two outstanding options that deliver exceptional value. The Ascent stands out with its spacious three-row seating, advanced safety technology, and powerful performance, making it an excellent choice for families and those needing extra capacity. On the other hand, the Outback excels as a rugged crossover, offering off-road capability, impressive fuel efficiency, and a versatile design perfect for adventurous lifestyles. Both vehicles embody Subaru's renowned reliability, innovation, and commitment to safety, ensuring they'll meet your needs for years to come. Whether you prioritize space, adventure-readiness, or a balance of both, Capitol Subaru is here to help you decide. Schedule your test drive today and let our team guide you to the Subaru SUV that's just right for you!
 | 2025 Subaru Ascent | 2025 Subaru Outback |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Engine | 2.4L Turbocharged BOXER® | 2.5L BOXER® |
| Standard Horsepower | 260 | 182 |
| Standard Torque | 277 | 176 |
| Standard Transmission | Lineartronic® CVT | Lineartronic® CVT |
| Standard Fuel Economy | 20 City/26 Highway | 26 City/32 Highway |
| Passenger Volume (Cubic Feet) | 153.2 | 109.0 |
| Max Cargo Volume (Cubic Feet) | 75.6 | 75.6 |
| Standard Climate Control | Tri-Zone | Automatic |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Standard | Standard |
| Standard Multimedia Touchscreen Size | 11.6-inch | Dual 7.0-inch |
*Manufacturer's suggested retail price does not include destination and delivery charges, tax, title and registration fees. Destination and delivery includes handling and inland freight fees and may vary in some states. Prices, specifications, options, features and models subject to change without notice.
