VS
At a Glance
Power
260hp @ 5600
247hp @ 5500
Torque
277lb-ft @ 2000
258lb-ft @ 1800
Towing
5000lbs
3500lbs
Engine
2.4 L/146cc
2.0 L/120cc
Choosing between the Subaru Ascent and the Volvo Xc40 is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Subaru Ascent delivers 260hp @ 5600 while the Volvo Xc40 produces 247hp @ 5500. Pricing starts at $51,995 for the Ascent and $51,900 for the Xc40. 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)
260hp @ 5600
247hp @ 5500
Torque (lb-ft)
277lb-ft @ 2000
258lb-ft @ 1800
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.4 L/146cc
2.0 L/120cc
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
—
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
—
8
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
19mpg
23 (2025)mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
25mpg
30 (2025)mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
19.3gal
14.2gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
196.8in
174.8in
Width (in)
76in
75.2in
Height (in)
71.6in
65.2in
Wheelbase (in)
113.8in
106.4in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4588lbs
3967lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
5000lbs
3500lbs
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
Xc40
Practicality
Ascent
Pros & Cons
Subaru Ascent
Higher towing capacity (5000lbs)
Higher starting price
Volvo Xc40
Lower starting price ($51,900)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Ascent or Xc40?
The Ascent produces 260hp @ 5600 and 277lb-ft @ 2000 of torque while the Xc40 delivers 247hp @ 5500 and 258lb-ft @ 1800 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Ascent and Xc40?
The Ascent starts from $51,995 and the Xc40 from $51,900. The Xc40 is cheaper by $95 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Ascent or Xc40?
The Ascent has a braked towing capacity of 5000lbs and the Xc40 can tow 3500lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Ascent or the Xc40?
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.