VS
At a Glance
Power
290hp @ 6200
260hp @ 5600
Torque
267lb-ft @ 4700
277lb-ft @ 2000
Towing
3500lbs
5000lbs
Engine
3.5 L/212cc
2.4 L/146cc
Choosing between the Acura Mdx and the Subaru Ascent is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Acura Mdx delivers 290hp @ 6200 while the Subaru Ascent produces 260hp @ 5600. Pricing starts at $51,800 for the Mdx and $51,995 for the Ascent. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
290hp @ 6200
260hp @ 5600
Torque (lb-ft)
267lb-ft @ 4700
277lb-ft @ 2000
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
3.5 L/212cc
2.4 L/146cc
Engine Layout
V
—
Cylinders
6
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
—
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic w/OD
Automatic
Drive Wheels
Front Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
19mpg
19mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
26mpg
25mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
18.5gal
19.3gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
198.4in
196.8in
Width (in)
78.7in
76in
Height (in)
67.9in
71.6in
Wheelbase (in)
113.8in
113.8in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4268lbs
4588lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
3500lbs
5000lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Trailer Hitch
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Tie
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Mdx
Practicality
Ascent
Pros & Cons
Acura Mdx
Lower starting price ($51,800)
Few notable weaknesses
Subaru Ascent
Higher towing capacity (5000lbs)
Higher starting price
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Mdx or Ascent?
The Mdx produces 290hp @ 6200 and 267lb-ft @ 4700 of torque while the Ascent delivers 260hp @ 5600 and 277lb-ft @ 2000 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Mdx and Ascent?
The Mdx starts from $51,800 and the Ascent from $51,995. The Mdx is cheaper by $195 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Mdx or Ascent?
The Mdx has a braked towing capacity of 3500lbs and the Ascent can tow 5000lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Mdx or the Ascent?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.