VS
At a Glance
Power
265hp @ 5500
260hp @ 5600
Torque
258lb-ft
277lb-ft @ 2000
Fuel
—
22 mpg est.
Towing
1653lbs
5000lbs
Engine
1.6 L/98ci
2.4 L/146ci
Choosing between the KIA Sportage Plug In Hybrid and the Subaru Ascent is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The KIA Sportage Plug In Hybrid delivers 265hp @ 5500 while the Subaru Ascent produces 260hp @ 5600. Pricing starts at $40,490 for the Sportage Plug In Hybrid and $40,795 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.
Specification
KIA Sportage Plug In HybridX-Line AWD 2026 - From $40,490
Subaru AscentPremium 7-Passenger 2026 - From $40,795
Performance
Power Output (hp)
265hp @ 5500
260hp @ 5600
Torque (lb-ft)
258lb-ft
277lb-ft @ 2000
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
1.6 L/98ci
2.4 L/146ci
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Plug-In Hybrid
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic w/OD
Automatic
Number of Gears
6
—
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy (Combined, est.)
—
22 mpg est.
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
—
19mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
—
26mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
11.1gal
19.3gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
183.5in
196.8in
Width (in)
73.4in
76in
Height (in)
66.9in
71.6in
Wheelbase (in)
108.5in
113.8in
Curb Weight (lbs)
—
4449lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
1653lbs
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
—
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
Sportage Plug In Hybrid
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Tied
Practicality
Ascent
Pros & Cons
KIA Sportage Plug In Hybrid
Lower starting price ($40,490)
Few notable weaknesses
Subaru Ascent
Higher towing capacity (5000lbs)
Higher starting price
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Sportage Plug In Hybrid or Ascent?
The Sportage Plug In Hybrid produces 265hp @ 5500 and 258lb-ft of torque while the Ascent delivers 260hp @ 5600 and 277lb-ft @ 2000 of torque. They produce closely matched power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Sportage Plug In Hybrid and Ascent?
The Sportage Plug In Hybrid starts from $40,490 and the Ascent from $40,795, a difference of just $305, which is negligible. At this price point the two are essentially tied on starting price. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Sportage Plug In Hybrid or Ascent?
The Sportage Plug In Hybrid has a braked towing capacity of 1653lbs and the Ascent can tow 5000lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Sportage Plug In Hybrid 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.