VS
At a Glance
Power
241hp @ 4500
260hp @ 5600
Torque
295lb-ft @ 1500
277lb-ft @ 2000
Towing
—
5000lbs
Engine
2.0 L/122cc
2.4 L/146cc
Choosing between the BMW X1 and the Subaru Ascent is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The BMW X1 delivers 241hp @ 4500 while the Subaru Ascent produces 260hp @ 5600. Pricing starts at $43,200 for the X1 and $47,885 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)
241hp @ 4500
260hp @ 5600
Torque (lb-ft)
295lb-ft @ 1500
277lb-ft @ 2000
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.0 L/122cc
2.4 L/146cc
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
7
—
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
25mpg
19mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
34mpg
25mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
14.3gal
19.3gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
177.2in
196.8in
Width (in)
72.6in
76in
Height (in)
64.6in
71.6in
Wheelbase (in)
106in
113.8in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3750lbs
4597lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
—
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
Rear Parking Aid
✓ 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
X1
Practicality
Ascent
Pros & Cons
BMW X1
Lower starting price ($43,200)
Few notable weaknesses
Subaru Ascent
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the X1 or Ascent?
The X1 produces 241hp @ 4500 and 295lb-ft @ 1500 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 X1 and Ascent?
The X1 starts from $43,200 and the Ascent from $47,885. The X1 is cheaper by $4,685 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the X1 or Ascent?
The X1 has a braked towing capacity of not specified and the Ascent can tow 5000lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the X1 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.