Didn't use to be a Subaru fan until the Ascent arrived on the scene!! The black color & the wheels are a beautiful combination & makes the vehicle pop. I'm single but I could see myself owning one. I believe the Ascent one SUV of the year when it debuted in 2018. Way to go Subaru!!
We bought the Outback and love it. Our first Subaru! Everyone popos the 2.5 4 cylinder but it is fine. A turbo would be nice but if I want to drive a fast car I will take out my Corvette Grand Sport.
@@RaitisRides I have the 2.5 in my 2018 Outback and I agree the 175HP feel fast enough and good enough to do everything I need from it……if I want to have more power then I too get into my V8 powered truck!!! It wouldn’t make sense for me to have two powerful less efficient vehicles, I prefer to have a fuel efficient vehicle paired together with a very powerful but less efficient vehicle to do things my other vehicle can’t do and vise versa…..
If I was in the market for these types of vehicles I wouldn’t pick either because of the CVT. The Ascent was just named one of Consumer Reports ten best cars for 2019. Nice job Joe!👍🏻👍🏻
Absolutely. Between the insane politics of Washington, and what the movers and the shakers of the auto industry are doing in development, watch what happens. Of course, I would be delighted to tell you I was dead wrong five years from now! ;-)
Thank you for this outstanding comparison video! I have a 2019 Outback with the 3.6 engine and I think it's a fantastic vehicle even with the CVT. There will be a redesigned Outback for 2020 and the 3.6 engine will no longer be available as it will have either a 4 cylinder turbo engine or a naturally aspirated 4 cylinder engine. Also if you get the Touring model it has chrome low profile roof rails which look great compared to the black roof rails of the Outback in your video. The Outback I have is also white and I agree with you 100% that it looks great in the sun but unfortunately I live in Missouri and we don't see much sunlight during our gloomy winter months.
The regular roof rails are much more functional. They rotate and lock into place when needed. With the touring model, you have to buy an aftermarket kit to mount a cargo box or other roof rack option.
Good video. I like the enthusiasm without being over the top, and your attention to detail. Also, there are only 2 cupholders on the left side of 3rd row, not 3 on both sides:) I bought an Ascent because we wanted the flexibility of the third row and extra cargo space (my wife has an Outback), but primarily because of the TURBO ENGINE. That is what sets the Ascent apart from the Suby SUV-type lineup that a lot of folks miss/dismiss. 260 hp vs 175 hp and way more torque (100 lb/ft more), hello! It is a heavier vehicle, but the engine makes this CVT smoother, quieter and more fun to drive. Was thinking about going with a Forester, but after the test drive it was a no go. 2019 engine felt EXACTLY like my previous 2016 Legacy. Fortunately it looks like turbo is coming to at least the Legacy and Outback in 2020. I'd advise anyone looking at a new Outback or Legacy to wait for the 2020.
I hired a Toyota Highlander 3.6 what a wagon so much room and comfort . The back seat area is so spacious it reminds me of the old cars of the 1930 up the nashes etc luxury
I just got a 2019 2.5I Outback. I'll be driving from So Cal to my cabin in Montana. With the better gas mileage of the 2.5, I think it will be the perfect vacation car. I love it!!
I do feel the Ascent need to swap with the Outback in terms of name the Outback was the largest Subaru until the new kid came about and would be nice to see the Outback fitted with the 2.4L turbo engine if they are after MPGs
Great review, I always enjoy your enthusiasm. My wife has a 2016 Outback and we love it. The new Legacy infotainment looks great and much needed upgrade, cant wait for them to put it in all models soon! Thanks!
Joe, this has been one of the best reviews you've done to date. Great comparison of the two vehicles, and you zonked some legit issues (it's annoying to see other RUclips car reviewers whine about non-issues while skating on showstoppers!). Subaru is really becoming a premier auto manufacturing corporation, and their sales are steadily growing . Trivia point: did you know that Subaru easily outsold Kia and Hyundai COMBINED January - October 2018? And now Subaru has just been assessed as the overall best car company by Consumer Reports? (don't know about that). And no, RUclips trolls, I'm NOT a Subaru fanboy, at least yet. Three points I'd like to add for consideration: 1) The infotainment system seems to be better than before (hopefully better than the 2018 headunit disasters), but I can't believe Subaru went with a glossy screen - reflections, anyone?, 2) Vista sunroofs are wonderful for the ooo-ahhh crowd, but if you live in a sunbelt state, they REALLY heat up the interior, screen closed or not - I found that out with an rented '18 Ford Edge in South Florida last year, and, 3) Hopefully, Subaru will eventually implement passenger seat height adjustment (like they did with some '19 Foresters) across most of their product line. Most reviewers tend to ignore that feature - it's a big deal when you're on a road trip and rotating drivers. My wife is 5'4, I'm 6', and the height adjustment would be great. Our old 2003 Toyota Camry had it, my '10 Chevy Malibu has it... but it seems that Honda, Toyota, Nissan and some other car manufacturers went El Cheapo, and they tossed the height adjustment even for the top trim level.Anyway, thanks for the great reviews, I just subscribed, later!
First off thank you for the compliment and for joining the Raiti's Rides family! Second, you brought up some very good well thought out points! Thank so much for taking the time to share them.
I was cross shopping the CRV, RAV4 Hybrid, 4Runner, Xc40 and the new Forester. local Honda dealers wouldn’t budge on CRV EX or EXL trim pricing, same with the Toyota Dealer (avoid Parker Toyota). XC40 was excellent, but not very roomy inside (compared to the others), more pricey to fix, and doesn’t have good resale value. After driving the 2019 Forester, I asked on a whim if the 3.6R pricing was more flexible - they said yes. Walked away with the exact same car being reviewed here for less than a 2019 Forester Limited. Less than all the other cars, actually. So I took the plunge and after 500 miles can say it’s essentially a ‘touring wagon’ with an extremely linear power curve with the CVT - it’s very strange. the 4 banger was noticeably loud when revving, which is required to merge on highways. Having come from a 2001 6cyl Outback, I wasn’t too thrilled with the lack of power in the 4 cyl NA offerings In Subaru’s lineup.
Different cars different purpose. Ascent is more like a soccer mom's mall tank, Outback is cooler if I must pick one. I hope Subaru would incorporate the upcoming Legacy interior into Outback, and redesign the roof rails, they are just so chunky and bulky looking.
Let me say this: i really am fighting internally which 3 row SUV i want. Subaru could of made it much easier for consumers by offering a much better warranty. This would give me the secure feeling i seek (regarding reliability) when buying a vehicle especially when it's a brand new engine and 1st year model. that alone is pushing me in a different direction..
Another terrific review! Very insightful as always and very engaging. I love these Subaru videos in particular since I drive a WRX. Thanks Raiti and best wishes for continued success!!
Bone color carbon fiber? On purpose.Because Subaru is famous among dog owners.Even I remember during one of their Ascent launch event Subaru brought Dog to the stage. Dog likes bone:-) Kind of strategy to sell the SUV to Pet owners
You should do Raitis best pick for 2018 etc I’d like to see your opinion on some trucks. I’m stuck between Silverado or F150 I also like the tundra but they’re so outdated I rather get more unreliable vehicles than that
I'm on the market for a new car, I've had my eyes on the outback. however I am new to Subaru in all aspects so I want to ask you guys if you've own an outback, weather new or old, how was your experience did you have any issues with the cvt transmission? Any major issues the short term? How reliable was it ?
Nope ..give me the outback with the 6...don't need a larger version with a 4 turbo and a third row...overkill. Save your money...outback still the king...and I'm assuming the ascent could hit 50K easy at the top end...whoaaa
Sorry. I beg to differ with you about the seats. As a short person, your complaints fall on deaf ears. So many vehicles are grossly uncomfortable for short people, I’m glad to see Subaru erring in our favor. I’m sure it would be easier for you to add some sort of padding for use on long trips than it would be for short people to try to cut down a longer seat. In the past (before I decided to only look at Subarus and BMWs), the very first thing I would do in a test driving a vehicle was to see if the seat would move close enough to the pedals. My first SUV was a 1976 Ford Bronco and I literally had to have blocks installed on the brake and clutch pedals just to enable me to properly operate them. Never again.
Doc, go for it, but I'd recommend that you get one with the car... jus' messing with you! :-> If you want to drive a boxer engine car, hey, go for a Porsche!
Didn't use to be a Subaru fan until the Ascent arrived on the scene!! The black color & the wheels are a beautiful combination & makes the vehicle pop. I'm single but I could see myself owning one. I believe the Ascent one SUV of the year when it debuted in 2018. Way to go Subaru!!
I am so glad that you liked this one Greg!
We bought the Outback and love it. Our first Subaru! Everyone popos the 2.5 4 cylinder but it is fine. A turbo would be nice but if I want to drive a fast car I will take out my Corvette Grand Sport.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this one!
@@RaitisRides I have the 2.5 in my 2018 Outback and I agree the 175HP feel fast enough and good enough to do everything I need from it……if I want to have more power then I too get into my V8 powered truck!!! It wouldn’t make sense for me to have two powerful less efficient vehicles, I prefer to have a fuel efficient vehicle paired together with a very powerful but less efficient vehicle to do things my other vehicle can’t do and vise versa…..
Man!!! I just love Subaru, and the way you present them Joe just makes me love them even more
Thanks for saying that! I am so glad that I could share it with you!
I have the outback and drove the Accent for two days and I wouldn't trade mine for the new Accent.
I would go Outback all day long!
If I was in the market for these types of vehicles I wouldn’t pick either because of the CVT. The Ascent was just named one of Consumer Reports ten best cars for 2019. Nice job Joe!👍🏻👍🏻
That is so very true! I don't like a CVT either!
You really think so? Some brands have moved aways from the CVT.
Absolutely. Between the insane politics of Washington, and what the movers and the shakers of the auto industry are doing in development, watch what happens. Of course, I would be delighted to tell you I was dead wrong five years from now! ;-)
Thank you for this outstanding comparison video! I have a 2019 Outback with the 3.6 engine and I think it's a fantastic vehicle even with the CVT. There will be a redesigned Outback for 2020 and the 3.6 engine will no longer be available as it will have either a 4 cylinder turbo engine or a naturally aspirated 4 cylinder engine. Also if you get the Touring model it has chrome low profile roof rails which look great compared to the black roof rails of the Outback in your video.
The Outback I have is also white and I agree with you 100% that it looks great in the sun but unfortunately I live in Missouri and we don't see much sunlight during our gloomy winter months.
Thanks Mark! Congrats on your Outback! You did well done! I appreciate your points!
The regular roof rails are much more functional. They rotate and lock into place when needed. With the touring model, you have to buy an aftermarket kit to mount a cargo box or other roof rack option.
I love that Subaru has so many trim levels to choose from, sometimes simplicity is king.
I am so glad that I could share this one with you!
There is a foot-step at the bottom of the doorway in the Ascent and other Subarus that allows you to stand up on it for better rooftop access.
I still like the Outback!
It really is a cool wagon!
I always like your videos. You tackle both low and high end cars. I need a car journalist like you to even the okaying field in RUclips.
That is so really awesome of you to say!
Good video. I like the enthusiasm without being over the top, and your attention to detail. Also, there are only 2 cupholders on the left side of 3rd row, not 3 on both sides:) I bought an Ascent because we wanted the flexibility of the third row and extra cargo space (my wife has an Outback), but primarily because of the TURBO ENGINE. That is what sets the Ascent apart from the Suby SUV-type lineup that a lot of folks miss/dismiss. 260 hp vs 175 hp and way more torque (100 lb/ft more), hello! It is a heavier vehicle, but the engine makes this CVT smoother, quieter and more fun to drive. Was thinking about going with a Forester, but after the test drive it was a no go. 2019 engine felt EXACTLY like my previous 2016 Legacy. Fortunately it looks like turbo is coming to at least the Legacy and Outback in 2020. I'd advise anyone looking at a new Outback or Legacy to wait for the 2020.
Thanks Ash for the compliments and for your great points!
If you buy the the ascent. You automatically become the car pool Queen...lol
I can see that happening right away!
I hired a Toyota Highlander 3.6 what a wagon so much room and comfort . The back seat area is so spacious it reminds me of the old cars of the 1930 up the nashes etc luxury
I just got a 2019 2.5I Outback. I'll be driving from So Cal to my cabin in Montana. With the better gas mileage of the 2.5, I think it will be the perfect vacation car.
I love it!!
Congrats! I am so happy you are happy with your Outback!
I do feel the Ascent need to swap with the Outback in terms of name
the Outback was the largest Subaru until the new kid came about
and would be nice to see the Outback fitted with the 2.4L turbo engine if they are after MPGs
I bet the Outback will be getting that engine soon!
Great review, I always enjoy your enthusiasm. My wife has a 2016 Outback and we love it. The new Legacy infotainment looks great and much needed upgrade, cant wait for them to put it in all models soon! Thanks!
Thank so much for saying that! The Outback is such a great car but you are right that infotainment system in the new Legacy is amazing!
Joe, this has been one of the best reviews you've done to date. Great comparison of the two vehicles, and you zonked some legit issues (it's annoying to see other RUclips car reviewers whine about non-issues while skating on showstoppers!). Subaru is really becoming a premier auto manufacturing corporation, and their sales are steadily growing . Trivia point: did you know that Subaru easily outsold Kia and Hyundai COMBINED January - October 2018? And now Subaru has just been assessed as the overall best car company by Consumer Reports? (don't know about that). And no, RUclips trolls, I'm NOT a Subaru fanboy, at least yet. Three points I'd like to add for consideration: 1) The infotainment system seems to be better than before (hopefully better than the 2018 headunit disasters), but I can't believe Subaru went with a glossy screen - reflections, anyone?, 2) Vista sunroofs are wonderful for the ooo-ahhh crowd, but if you live in a sunbelt state, they REALLY heat up the interior, screen closed or not - I found that out with an rented '18 Ford Edge in South Florida last year, and, 3) Hopefully, Subaru will eventually implement passenger seat height adjustment (like they did with some '19 Foresters) across most of their product line. Most reviewers tend to ignore that feature - it's a big deal when you're on a road trip and rotating drivers. My wife is 5'4, I'm 6', and the height adjustment would be great. Our old 2003 Toyota Camry had it, my '10 Chevy Malibu has it... but it seems that Honda, Toyota, Nissan and some other car manufacturers went El Cheapo, and they tossed the height adjustment even for the top trim level.Anyway, thanks for the great reviews, I just subscribed, later!
First off thank you for the compliment and for joining the Raiti's Rides family! Second, you brought up some very good well thought out points! Thank so much for taking the time to share them.
Love your videos man! I cant wait to see your review on the upcoming Legacy XT!
Thanks Daniel! I will be my hands on one soon!
you never hear anything bad about this undercover Japanese car!!! it's the best-kept secret !!!
I totally agree with you!
I was cross shopping the CRV, RAV4 Hybrid, 4Runner, Xc40 and the new Forester.
local Honda dealers wouldn’t budge on CRV EX or EXL trim pricing, same with the Toyota Dealer (avoid Parker Toyota). XC40 was excellent, but not very roomy inside (compared to the others), more pricey to fix, and doesn’t have good resale value.
After driving the 2019 Forester, I asked on a whim if the 3.6R pricing was more flexible - they said yes.
Walked away with the exact same car being reviewed here for less than a 2019 Forester Limited.
Less than all the other cars, actually.
So I took the plunge and after 500 miles can say it’s essentially a ‘touring wagon’ with an extremely linear power curve with the CVT - it’s very strange. the 4 banger was noticeably loud when revving, which is required to merge on highways.
Having come from a 2001 6cyl Outback, I wasn’t too thrilled with the lack of power in the 4 cyl NA offerings In Subaru’s lineup.
I really appreciate you sharing your experience!
5:36 Great review but I’m pretty sure the Outback comes standard with crossbars built in to the rails.
You may be correct on that! Let me check.
@@RaitisRides I just ordered a 2020 Outback and that one definitely has integrated crossrails.
Love love love my 2018 outback.
I really appreciate you sharing that input from your experience!
Outback!
I am right there with you!
Different cars different purpose. Ascent is more like a soccer mom's mall tank, Outback is cooler if I must pick one. I hope Subaru would incorporate the upcoming Legacy interior into Outback, and redesign the roof rails, they are just so chunky and bulky looking.
Very good point! I am going the Outback all day long! If you need to carry a lot of cups then you go Ascent! ;-)
@@RaitisRides 😀😀😀👍👍👍
I'm glad I could make you laugh!
@@RaitisRides you will over take Redline and others soon, you watch.
Thanks for believing in me!
Let me say this: i really am fighting internally which 3 row SUV i want. Subaru could of made it much easier for consumers by offering a much better warranty. This would give me the secure feeling i seek (regarding reliability) when buying a vehicle especially when it's a brand new engine and 1st year model. that alone is pushing me in a different direction..
I can totally understand where you are coming from!
Another terrific review! Very insightful as always and very engaging. I love these Subaru videos in particular since I drive a WRX. Thanks Raiti and best wishes for continued success!!
Thank you so much for saying that it means so much!
Raiti's Rides No problem! You deserve it brother!
You are the best!
Joe your videos are outstanding as times goes super informative and very detail keep up the awesome job.
Juan that really means so much to me! Thanks for being on this journey with me!
Bone color carbon fiber? On purpose.Because Subaru is famous among dog owners.Even I remember during one of their Ascent launch event Subaru brought Dog to the stage.
Dog likes bone:-) Kind of strategy to sell the SUV to Pet owners
Love your videos very much 🙏🏽
That really means so much!
Friend - "So why did you buy the Ascent?"
Me - "Its got 19 cup holders!"
They need in equal headers And the ascent has a turbo
Very true! Thanks for sharing your input and perspective! I really appreciate you watching!
Dam Joe !!! Where can I get a job like this .... nice job 👍 why no tu tone paint anymore ?
Thanks Glen for saying that! I think the two-tone is just not in style like it use to be!
Thumbs up Raiti.
Just curious which would you choose?
id take the black one Raiti ..and thats not even watching the vid...lmao
LMAO!
I knew you would laugh at that one...lmao..
You crack me up!
nice review!!
Thanks David for saying that!
Better get that 50k sub video ready! By 100k time to quit El Jobbo!
That is really awesome of you to say! Thanks for being part of this journey since the beginning!
This doesn't have the Outback feature of opening the rear hatch simply by placing your forearm against the Subaru badge?
You should do Raitis best pick for 2018 etc
I’d like to see your opinion on some trucks. I’m stuck between Silverado or F150
I also like the tundra but they’re so outdated I rather get more unreliable vehicles than that
That is a great idea! I would go the F-150 route!
F-150 unless you wanna hear about your Chevy in every fuckin’ country song...
The outback has been on the lineup since 1994, not 2004
Thanks for taking the time to share your input and perspective! I really appreciate you watching!
I'm on the market for a new car, I've had my eyes on the outback. however I am new to Subaru in all aspects so I want to ask you guys if you've own an outback, weather new or old, how was your experience did you have any issues with the cvt transmission? Any major issues the short term? How reliable was it ?
They are very reliable!
Nope ..give me the outback with the 6...don't need a larger version with a 4 turbo and a third row...overkill. Save your money...outback still the king...and I'm assuming the ascent could hit 50K easy at the top end...whoaaa
I would go Outback in a heartbeat!
Next video: Subaru Forester Sport and Ascent =)
Did you read my mind?
@@RaitisRides omg is it really coming? Thank you so much!!! can't wait to see it!
It will soon! I haven't filmed it yet but it is on my list.
Why don't they put the 3.6 in the ascent?
Nope
Where is the odd #19 cup holder?
In the back
Sorry. I beg to differ with you about the seats. As a short person, your complaints fall on deaf ears. So many vehicles are grossly uncomfortable for short people, I’m glad to see Subaru erring in our favor. I’m sure it would be easier for you to add some sort of padding for use on long trips than it would be for short people to try to cut down a longer seat.
In the past (before I decided to only look at Subarus and BMWs), the very first thing I would do in a test driving a vehicle was to see if the seat would move close enough to the pedals. My first SUV was a 1976 Ford Bronco and I literally had to have blocks installed on the brake and clutch pedals just to enable me to properly operate them. Never again.
Skip racing the engines. It’s not a Corvette! No one cares how it sounds unless it’s too loud under acceleration.
Thanks for your input I really appreciate you watching!
The outbacks rear seats also recline...
The Ascent looks like a mini van.
I appreciate you sharing your input and perspective! Thank you for watching!
Forester for me...
With 19 cup holders does the Ascent come with a loo?
I know right!
Stop sweating the CVT trans and buy the warranty. And enjoy the perfect cars
Come on William, you have been on the earth long enough to know that there is no perfect car.
Raiti's Rides maybe not...but I invested 64k on the closest one I could find...we shall see
Yes we shall! ;-)
What is wrong with the CVT?
The way they transmit power is not the greatest.
@@RaitisRides ruclips.net/video/cb6rIZfCuHI/видео.html
Got the same exact Subaru 2019 3.6R for 32K. Not a fan of 4cylinder turbo. I think engine will work too hard and die earlier.
Good calf development. Better informative video.
Thanks for letting me share this one with you!
BIGGER is better
Especially if you like cup holders!
Joe is a type of a guy who asks his wife to put kayaks on top of the Ascent
2
Thanks for being here!
My aunt ownes a outback v6 its a nice car
Thanks for sharing that. Just remember it is a flat-6 ;-)
True welp subaruof west palm dont know then
I am not surprised with some salespeople.
I'd get the Volkswagen Atlas over these just my choice
Nothing wrong with that choice.
Well, seeing their repair and customer satisfaction feedback, I wish you GOOD LUCK with that!
@@eskieman3948 lol maybe people should not buy Vehicles they can't afford to maintain
I need to drive a boxer engine.
I would agree with you!
Doc, go for it, but I'd recommend that you get one with the car... jus' messing with you! :-> If you want to drive a boxer engine car, hey, go for a Porsche!
That would be the way to go!
Eskie Man but I like the Subaru ‘s though.
They are great cars!
Don't know about the performance
I totally get where you are coming from!
why do all you people race a new engine????
with no 3.6 engine its bettrr buying cx9.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and perspective, I appreciate you watching!
and use 6 miles the gallon LOL
Hi im first
Nope
@@amill1563 yes
@@marcosflores1871 Nope
@Joe Blackner And a grand old time was had by ALL!
@Joe Blackner how i dont see ur post