AWD on Every Ascent
Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard across the entire Ascent lineup. Palisade offers front-wheel drive and available HTRAC AWD.
3-Row SUVs in Atlanta
Subaru Ascent vs Hyundai Palisade in Atlanta, GA
Compare two three-row family SUVs for Atlanta commuting, school runs and Georgia road trips, with a focus on AWD, towing, cargo space, seating, clearance and hybrid options.
Standard Symmetrical AWD Every Ascent
5,000 Lbs. Towing capacity on every Ascent
8.7 Inches Standard ground clearance
Which Fits Atlanta Family Life Better?
Both offer three rows and plenty of room for family duty. Ascent builds AWD, clearance and towing capability into every trim, while Palisade offers more interior volume and an available hybrid powertrain.
- Atlanta rain and everyday driving Ascent includes Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive on every trim. Palisade offers HTRAC AWD, but it is optional on most gas configurations.
- Boats, campers and weekend gear Every Ascent can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Gas Palisade models are also rated up to 5,000 pounds, while Palisade Hybrid is rated up to 4,000 pounds.
- Trips outside the city Ascent gives every trim 8.7 inches of ground clearance. Standard Palisade models publish 7.4 inches.
Why Atlanta Families Consider the Ascent
Ascent keeps its capability consistent across the lineup, so AWD, clearance and towing do not depend on choosing a specific drivetrain.
8.7 Inches From the Start
Every Ascent provides 8.7 inches of ground clearance, compared with 7.4 inches on standard Palisade models.
5,000 Pounds on Every Trim
Every Ascent is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, useful for boats, campers and other weekend gear.
Up to 26 MPG Highway
Ascent delivers up to an EPA-estimated 19 MPG city and 26 MPG highway while keeping AWD standard.
Subaru Ascent vs Hyundai Palisade: Side-by-Side
These figures compare current manufacturer-published specifications for the 2027 Subaru Ascent and 2027 Hyundai Palisade. Exact figures vary by trim and powertrain.
| Feature | Subaru Ascent | Hyundai Palisade |
|---|---|---|
| Drivetrain | Standard Symmetrical AWD | FWD standard on most gas trims, HTRAC AWD available |
| Standard ground clearance | 8.7 in. | 7.4 in. |
| Gas horsepower | 260 hp | 287 hp |
| Gas torque | 277 lb-ft | 260 lb-ft |
| Maximum gas towing | 5,000 lbs. on every trim | 5,000 lbs. |
| Hybrid availability | Not currently offered | Available |
| Hybrid output | Not applicable | 329 combined hp |
| Hybrid towing | Not applicable | Up to 4,000 lbs. |
| Seating capacity | 7 or 8 | 7 or 8 |
| Passenger volume | Up to 153.2 cu. ft. | 161.9 cu. ft. |
| Maximum cargo volume | Up to 75.6 cu. ft. | 86.7 cu. ft. |
| Cargo behind third row | Varies by configuration | 19.1 cu. ft. |
| Gas AWD fuel economy | Up to 19 city / 26 highway MPG | 18 city / 24 highway MPG on most AWD trims |
| Hybrid AWD fuel economy | Not applicable | Up to 29 city / 31 highway / 30 combined MPG |
Comparison information checked October 2026. Subaru and Hyundai may use different cargo measurement methods, so cargo figures should be treated as a guide rather than a perfect apples-to-apples measurement. Towing requires proper equipment. Verify specifications for the exact vehicle before purchase.
Where the Hyundai Palisade Has an Advantage
Palisade offers more published passenger and cargo volume, plus an available hybrid powertrain. Hyundai rates the Palisade Hybrid at 329 combined horsepower and up to 30 combined MPG with AWD. If maximum interior space or hybrid efficiency is a major priority, Palisade deserves a close look.
Which One Fits Your Family?
Both are capable three-row family SUVs. The difference is whether you value consistent standard capability or more interior room and powertrain choices.
The Ascent may fit you if...
Choose Ascent if standard AWD, more standard ground clearance and 5,000-pound towing on every trim are higher priorities.
The Palisade may fit you if...
Choose Palisade if maximum passenger and cargo room, more gas horsepower or hybrid efficiency matter more.
Subaru Ascent vs Hyundai Palisade FAQs
Quick answers for Atlanta families comparing these two three-row SUVs.
Which has standard all-wheel drive, Ascent or Palisade?
Every Subaru Ascent includes Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Hyundai Palisade offers HTRAC All-Wheel Drive, but front-wheel drive is standard on most gas trims.
Which has more ground clearance?
Subaru Ascent has 8.7 inches of ground clearance on every trim. Standard Hyundai Palisade models publish 7.4 inches of ground clearance.
Which can tow more?
Both gas models can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Every Subaru Ascent carries that 5,000-pound rating, while the Palisade Hybrid is rated up to 4,000 pounds.
Which has more horsepower?
The Subaru Ascent produces 260 horsepower. The gas Hyundai Palisade produces 287 horsepower, while Palisade Hybrid produces 329 combined horsepower.
Does the Ascent or Palisade offer a hybrid?
Hyundai offers a Palisade Hybrid with up to 329 combined horsepower. Subaru does not currently offer a hybrid version of the Ascent.
Which has more cargo space?
Hyundai publishes 86.7 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity for the Palisade. Subaru publishes up to 75.6 cubic feet for the Ascent. Manufacturer measurement methods can differ.
How many people can the Ascent and Palisade seat?
Both offer configurations for seven or eight passengers, depending on the trim and second-row seating arrangement.
Which is better for Atlanta and Georgia family driving?
It depends on your priorities. Ascent makes AWD, 8.7 inches of clearance and 5,000-pound towing standard across its lineup. Palisade offers more published interior space and an available hybrid powertrain.
Can I test drive a Subaru Ascent in Atlanta?
Yes. Classic Subaru of Atlanta is located at 7700 Roswell Rd in Atlanta, GA. Shop current Ascent inventory online, then visit to compare second-row access, third-row space, visibility and cargo room in person.
See the Ascent With Your Family
Three-row SUVs are easier to compare in person. Bring the family, try the second and third rows, check the cargo area and see how the Ascent fits your everyday Atlanta routine.
