2019 VW Atlas Vs. 2019 Subaru Ascent

The 2019 Volkswagen Atlas and 2019 Subaru Ascent are two standout midsize SUVs. Both boast quality builds, sizable cargo and towing capabilities, and contain three rows of seating. With such similarities, it’s expected that drivers looking for a highly capable family vehicle will eventually come to the conundrum of deciding between the two.

To those without pre-existing strong brand loyalty, such a decision can be a tough one. To help, we’ve compiled a model comparison pitting the key traits of these two vehicles against one another. Read on to deepen your understanding of how (and if) the 2019 Subaru Ascent measures up to the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas.

View Our New Volkswagen Atlas Inventory
2019 Volkswagen Atlas and 2019 Subaru Ascent, separated by a diagonal line and a "VS" logo.

2019 Volkswagen Atlas

Vs.

2019 Subaru Ascent

$30,895 Starting MSRP $31,995
Up to 22 city / 26 highway Fuel Economy Up to 21 city / 27 highway
5,000 pounds Max Towing Capacity 5,000 pounds
20.6 cubic feet, 96.8 with seat area Max Cargo Space 17.8 cubic feet, 86.5 with seat area
276 hp Max Horsepower 260 hp

New Mid-Size SUV in Brookfield, WI

Though both vehicles perform ably, the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas ekes out a win in several key categories. It boasts a lower starting MSRP (by over $1,000), while bringing along greater capability in key areas like cargo space, which can get over a full ten cubic feet higher with the rear seats lowered. This is admirable engineering, considering the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas has almost the same exterior dimensions as the 2019 Subaru Ascent.


While fuel economy and towing capacity are similar (and impressive) in both machines, the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas boasts a higher maximum horsepower. In addition, we’re huge fans of its user-friendly infotainment, tight handling, overall powerful style. For the 2019 model year, the Volkswagen Atlas boasts a greater array of standard driver-assistance features. Two more areas where it excels are in its rich safety and infotainment areas.

Safety Features in the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas

Standard safety features on the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas include:
  • Post-collision braking system
  • Blind spot monitoring
  • Rear cross traffic alert
  • Rearview camera
  • Forward collision warning
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Pedestrian detection
Available safety features include:
  • Front and rear parking sensors
  • Surround-view parking camera
  • Parallel park assist

Infotainment on the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas

Standard infotainment on the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas includes:
  • 6.5-inch touch screen
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Mirror Link
  • USB port
  • Six-speaker stereo
  • Bluetooth
Available infotainment on the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas includes:
  • 8-inch touchscreen
  • Three additional USB ports
  • Satellite radio
  • HD radio
  • Navigation
  • 12-speaker Fender sound system
Get More Volkswagen Atlas Info