Current three-row SUV comparison · Delray Beach, Florida
2027 Subaru Ascent vs. 2027 Nissan Pathfinder
The 2027 Ascent is the stronger everyday three-row choice for shoppers who want AWD included, 8.7 inches of clearance and more published third-row legroom. The 2027 Pathfinder starts lower with FWD, publishes more horsepower, more maximum cargo volume and up to 6,000 pounds of available towing. Nissan wins for buyers who need the higher tow rating or prefer a V6 and nine-speed automatic; Subaru counters with standard AWD, more clearance and a more spacious published third-row legroom figure.
Which SUV fits your priorities?
Start with the priorities that affect your real use. Then compare the exact Subaru trim in Delray Beach with the exact competing trim you are considering.
Put the 2027 Ascent first if you prioritize:
- You want AWD standard rather than starting from a FWD configuration.
- You value 8.7 inches of clearance across the Ascent lineup.
- You need 31.7 inches of published third-row legroom.
- You want 277 lb-ft of torque and up to 5,000 pounds of towing in a family-first package.
Pathfinder advantages—and the Subaru counterbalance:
- Pathfinder publishes up to 6,000 pounds of towing versus Ascent's 5,000. Subaru does not overcome that 1,000-pound advantage; Ascent counters with standard AWD, more clearance and more third-row legroom.
- Pathfinder publishes 80.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo versus Ascent Premium's 75.6. Ascent's counter is 31.7 inches of third-row legroom versus 28.0, but Nissan retains the maximum-cargo edge.
- Pathfinder's V6 publishes 284 horsepower and uses a nine-speed automatic. Ascent publishes less horsepower but more regular-model torque, 277 versus 259 lb-ft, plus standard AWD.
2027 Subaru Ascent vs. 2027 Nissan Pathfinder: decision facts
Pathfinder cells identify the SV FWD entry, regular model, Rock Creek or available maximum-tow figure as applicable.
On smaller screens, swipe or scroll the table left and right to see every column.
| Decision point | 2027 Subaru Ascent 2.4L turbo / CVT / AWD | 2027 Nissan Pathfinder lineup 3.5L V6 / 9-speed; FWD or 4WD |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP before destination | $40,795; AWD included | $39,990 Pathfinder SV FWD |
| Engine output | 260 hp / 277 lb-ft | 284 hp / 259 lb-ft regular models |
| Drivetrain | Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard | FWD standard on SV; 4WD available |
| Ground clearance | 8.7 in | 7.1 in regular; 7.7 in Rock Creek |
| Third-row legroom | 31.7 in | 28.0 in |
| Maximum cargo volume | 75.6 cu ft on Ascent Premium | 80.5 cu ft |
| Maximum towing | Up to 5,000 lb when properly equipped | Up to 6,000 lb when properly equipped |
Figures are manufacturer-published and configuration dependent. MSRP excludes destination and other charges unless explicitly stated. Always verify the window label, current specifications, payload and owner's-manual requirements for the exact vehicle.
Which is better for third-row passengers and everyday clearance?
Ascent publishes 31.7 inches of third-row legroom, compared with Pathfinder's 28.0. Ascent also publishes 8.7 inches of clearance throughout the lineup; Pathfinder publishes 7.1 inches on regular models and 7.7 on Rock Creek.
Those Subaru advantages matter for families that regularly use every row or encounter deep driveway transitions, standing water and uneven parking areas. Seat design and access still matter, so have regular third-row passengers enter, sit and exit the exact vehicle rather than relying on legroom alone.
Does Pathfinder have more cargo and towing capability?
Yes. Nissan publishes 80.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume, above Ascent Premium's 75.6. Pathfinder also publishes up to 6,000 pounds of towing, 1,000 more than Ascent's 5,000-pound maximum. Subaru does not erase either advantage.
Ascent's counterbalance is standard AWD, more clearance and more third-row legroom. For a family that tows below 5,000 pounds and uses the third row often, those traits may matter more. For a buyer who truly needs 6,000 pounds, Pathfinder's higher rating should remain decisive unless another vehicle is chosen.
V6 and nine-speed or turbo and CVT?
Pathfinder uses a V6 and nine-speed automatic and publishes 284 horsepower. Ascent uses a turbocharged four-cylinder and CVT, publishing 260 horsepower. Buyers who prefer a naturally aspirated V6 and stepped shifts have a legitimate Nissan advantage.
Ascent publishes 277 lb-ft of torque versus 259 for regular Pathfinder models and includes AWD from the start. Compare low-speed response, highway merging, grade changes, ride and cabin noise on the exact trims; neither horsepower nor transmission type alone describes the complete drive.
What if a hybrid is required?
The cited 2027 Ascent and Pathfinder lineups are gasoline only. Ascent does not offer a hybrid for this model year, and Nissan's official Pathfinder press kit does not list a hybrid configuration.
If a hybrid three-row SUV is required now, neither exact vehicle meets that need. Compare other announced vehicles rather than treating an unannounced future powertrain as available.
How should Delray Beach shoppers compare the Ascent?
Visit Schumacher Subaru of Delray at 2102 South Federal Highway, Suite C, Delray Beach, FL 33483. We work with shoppers from Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Highland Beach, Deerfield Beach and nearby Palm Beach County communities. Reserve the exact Ascent trim first so your drive answers the same questions raised by this page.
- Fit people before features. Set the driver's seat, place regular passengers in the rear rows and check access, sightlines and child-seat space.
- Load your real dimensions. Bring measurements for strollers, golf bags, beach gear, pet crates or luggage; maximum-volume numbers use folded seats and do not describe every load.
- Use a mixed local route. When conditions permit, include low-speed US-1 traffic, parking maneuvers and a short highway segment to compare response, road noise, visibility and driver-assistance controls.
- Ask for an itemized Subaru proposal. Compare MSRP, destination, installed equipment, taxes, fees and any current Subaru offer on separate lines. We cannot quote the competing brand.
Ascent vs. Pathfinder questions
Which starts at a lower MSRP?
Pathfinder SV FWD starts at $39,990 before destination, below Ascent's $40,795. The Ascent price includes AWD, so compare equivalent drivetrains and equipment.
Which has more third-row legroom?
Ascent publishes 31.7 inches versus Pathfinder's 28.0, giving Subaru the measurement advantage for third-row passengers.
Which has more maximum cargo space?
Pathfinder publishes 80.5 cubic feet versus Ascent Premium's 75.6, giving Nissan the maximum-volume advantage.
Which tows more?
Pathfinder publishes up to 6,000 pounds, while Ascent publishes up to 5,000. Confirm exact equipment, trailer-brake, payload and owner's-manual limits.
Is AWD standard on both?
AWD is standard on Ascent. Pathfinder SV starts with FWD and offers 4WD, so confirm drivetrain when comparing prices.
Does either offer a hybrid?
No. The cited 2027 Ascent and Pathfinder lineups are gasoline only, so neither meets an immediate hybrid requirement.
Continue your Subaru comparison
Use these Delray Beach resources to compare another vehicle or learn more about the Ascent:
Decide whether the Ascent belongs first on your list
Compare the exact Subaru configuration, confirm current availability and let our Delray Beach team answer the questions the numbers cannot. Subaru inventory and itemized pricing are available through the links below.
