2026 Ford Explorer vs 2026 Subaru Ascent
| 2026 Ford Explorer | VS | 2026 Subaru Ascent |
|---|---|---|
| $38,465 [a] | MSRP | $40,795 |
| 385 | Horsepower | 260 |
| 85.8 cu.ft. | Cargo Space | 75.6 cu.ft. |
| 13.2 in | Screen Size | 11.6 in |
The Explorer is the original family adventure vehicle—but it’s had a host of challengers since its 1991 birthdate. Subaru introduced the Ascent in 2019 to take on the Explorer in this growing segment. Now, drivers compare the 2026 Ford Explorer vs 2026 Subaru Ascent to see which three-row SUV offers more for big outings.
Being the older name and the better-selling vehicle isn’t always a guarantee of being a better fit. However, when looking at these large SUVs, it’s easy to see why the Ford Explorer has stood atop the three-row segment for so long. Subaru simply can’t deliver the performance, comfort, or “wow” factor that Ford does.
From the engines to the infotainment, the 2026 Ford Explorer comes to play. The addition of two new trim levels gives this three-row SUV even more clout for people who live large. Whether you’re buying an SUV for carpooling, family trips, DIY hauling, or Catskills rambling, the 2026 Explorer beats the Ascent pound for pound.
Powertrain and Performance
What’s sitting underneath the body of your three-row SUV? It had better be something good. Wherever you look, the 2026 Ford Explorer delivers better performance and better options.
The Explorer Is More Powerful and Efficient
You don’t want to be overwhelmed with choices, but having some is nice. Subaru doesn’t give you that, building every 2026 Ascent with the same 2.4L turbo-four Boxer engine. This produces 260 hp, 277 lb-ft of torque, and an EPA-estimated 26 MPG on the highway. Those are decent numbers for everyday driving, but nothing special.
The 2026 Explorer, though, gives you two options. Its base 2.3L turbo-four EcoBoost engine is more powerful and gets better fuel mileage than the Ascent’s single engine. Ford’s 300 hp, 310 lb-ft of torque, and EPA-estimated 29 MPG on the highway will make drivers happy on all fronts.
However, if that is not enough, Ford gives you a second engine option for the Explorer. With the available 3.0L turbo-six EcoBoost, you will blaze a path with 385 hp and 415 lb-ft under your right foot.
The Explorer Is More Fun
Your SUV should be a pleasure to drive, and the 2026 Ford Explorer brings the thrills. Its 10-speed automatic transmission feels sportier than the Ascent’s CVT, giving you those satisfying revs and shifts. Plus, it requires far less maintenance than a CVT, which means more time and money for your favorite weekend jaunts.
The Subaru Ascent is AWD-only, which is often great in our region’s changing weather conditions. But again, it doesn’t give you any options. Conversely, the Explorer can be ordered with RWD for more athletic driving or AWD to keep you stuck to the pavement. Plus, it offers a sport-tuned suspension for a smoother, more in-control drive that lets you get the most out of the SUV’s performance.
Ford Offers True Off-Roading and Sportiness
All Subaru vehicles have at least basic off-roading ability thanks to the Symmetrical AWD system and high ground clearance. However, the 2026 Ascent doesn’t do anything beyond this. All five trim levels are aimed at on-road driving and sophistication, so don’t expect to get down and dirty.
The Explorer, though, lives up to its name with the new Tremor trim level. It adapts some of Ford’s best off-roading truck components and designs to the SUV world. With all-terrain tires, a limited-slip rear differential, a lifted suspension, steel skid plates, and other equipment, it’s a legitimate off-road SUV that still runs great on the road.
If you want the ultimate on-road SUV, Ford does that, too. The 2026 Explorer ST is like a Mustang in SUV form with its twin-turbo engine, sport-tuned suspension, 21-inch wheels, and SelectShift paddle shifters. Not only is the Explorer built on a better foundation than the Ascent, but it also offers more upsides.
Comfort and Convenience
Capabilities such as lots of power and a 5,000-pound towing capacity are nice, but in a vehicle meant to be versatile, comfort is just as important. The 2026 Explorer balances its great performance with everything you could want in an everyday vehicle.
The Explorer Has More Space
How much room should there be in your three-row SUV? As much as possible, which is why you should pick the 2026 Explorer. Every row has more legroom than the 2026 Ascent, as you can see in the official chart.
- Ford Explorer: 43 inches first row, 39 inches second row, 32.2 inches third row
- Subaru Ascent: 42.2 inches first row, 38.6 inches second row, 31.7 inches third row
That space adds up. When you consider that the Explorer also offers more shoulder room in the first and second rows, plus more headroom in the second and third rows, it’s by far the most spacious choice for people and pets.
Did we mention cargo capacity? The 2026 Explorer can hold up to 85.8 cubic feet of suitcases, camping and fishing gear, skiing supplies, and more. The Ascent only offers 75.6 cubic feet, showing that the Ford SUV does the real lifting.
Drive With Premium Amenities
The Explorer and Ascent share a decent amount of creature comforts and practical conveniences. Features such as LED exterior lights, heated front seats, and power-adjustable driver’s seats are expected from large SUVs nowadays, and you’ll find them on all but the most basic, cost-conscious models.
But if you want to go upscale, the 2026 Explorer makes it happen. There are more trim levels that come with ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, remote start, an AC power outlet, ambient lighting, and other perks. Available PowerFold third-row seats make reorganizing the interior even easier, and second-row captain’s chairs let adults spread out.
Plus, there are more options to dial in personalized comfort. For example, Ford doesn’t limit you to a 10-way driver’s seat; you can choose an eight-way or even a six-way seat if that’s what you prefer. Take your pick of upholstery materials with various inserts and stitching, plus an array of wheels and accents, so you also have great exterior style.
Technology
Your SUV should be a technological oasis, not a sparse wasteland. The 2026 Subaru Ascent has some things going for it on this front, but not as many as the 2026 Explorer, which is flush with everything you need to stay connected.
The Explorer Has Supersized Infotainment
Anchored by the Ford Digital Experience software, the 2026 Explorer makes a statement. Its 13.2-inch center infotainment touchscreen comes with the Ford Connectivity Package on every trim, providing Google Maps navigation, video streaming, app downloads, and more. Subaru’s 11.6-inch screen doesn’t even have navigation on the lower trims, never mind the other features Ford provides.
Do you want USB ports? The Explorer has more of them—six on the Active 100A and eight on all other trims. The Wi-Fi modem in the Explorer is 5G, whereas the Ascent is still stuck with 4G LTE. Ford’s 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and information display offer all the data you could want. Subaru doesn’t even offer a digital instrument cluster, relying on old-fashioned analog gauges.
Most Explorer trims also have HD Radio and three 12V power connectors for good measure. There are also three sound system options instead of two, continuing the Explorer’s theme of offering alternatives.
Enjoy Hands-Free Driving and Other Assistance
Both SUVs have many active driver assistance systems included in the Subaru EyeSight and Ford Co-Pilot360 safety suites. Adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping, and blind-spot monitoring are some of the ways the Explorer and Ascent help keep drivers safe.
The biggest difference is that Ford is one of the pioneers in hands-free highway driving on a growing national road network. BlueCruise is available on every Explorer except the Active 100A, with options ranging from a 90-day trial to a lifetime plan. Subaru has no such system, so anyone looking to drive hands-free is out of luck.
Plus, there are a few other standard systems on the Explorer that Subaru doesn’t offer, including parking sensors and lane centering. Ford also provides five years of roadside assistance to Subaru’s three years for more peace of mind if a problem occurs.
Discover the 2026 Explorer at DePaula Ford
There’s no debate that the Ford Explorer still towers above the Subaru Ascent and other three-row SUVs. It can be anything you want it to be: an efficient family vehicle, a muscled-up performance machine, a serious hauler, an off-road explorer, or an audiophile’s haven. Furthermore, the 2026 Explorer proves that being adaptable doesn’t mean being boring—if anything, it’s the opposite.
At DePaula Ford, we’re here to make car-buying different. Albany’s leading full-service Ford dealership is ready to get you into the right 2026 Explorer. Browse online or visit us to review each trim level that’s in stock, take a test drive, or chat with our sales and financing teams. Our certified Ford service, parts, repairs, and body work ensure you’re always ready for a drive.
Furthermore, with the DePaula New Vehicle Advantage, your 2026 Ford Explorer is covered by a litany of benefits. You’ll receive a complimentary lifetime powertrain warranty, annual New York State inspections, window chip repairs, service loaner vehicles, and more. It’s how we look out for customers and guarantee the best value while building trust at every stage of buying and owning a vehicle.
