Finding the right three-row SUV means balancing space, capability, and everyday comfort—and at Byers Airport Subaru in Columbus, OH, drivers from Pickerington and Lancaster often find that the 2026 Subaru Ascent delivers a well-rounded experience from the very start. Designed with families and active lifestyles in mind, the Ascent emphasizes standard features that support confidence on the road, including its well-known all-wheel drive system and thoughtfully designed interior space. The 2026 Dodge Durango enters the comparison with a slightly different personality, particularly when focusing on the GT trim equipped with the 3.6L Pentastar® V6 engine. This setup highlights the Durango’s strong performance roots while still maintaining everyday usability. For drivers looking for even more power, higher trims are available with 5.7L HEMI® V8 engines, offering additional strength beyond the base configuration. While both SUVs provide three-row versatility, the Ascent leans into balance—delivering a blend of capability, comfort, and efficiency that suits a wide range of driving needs. The Durango, especially in GT form, emphasizes performance feel and traditional SUV strength, appealing to drivers who enjoy a more muscular driving character. For drivers commuting through Westerville or managing family schedules in Reynoldsburg, both models bring appealing qualities to the table. A closer look at their base design, technology, and performance highlights how each SUV approaches the driving experience, with the Ascent offering a subtly more adaptable overall package.
The 2026 Ascent presents a refined and practical exterior with standard 18-inch wheels and available 20-inch upgrades that enhance its presence when desired. Its standard steering responsive LED headlights not only contribute to a modern look but also improve visibility around curves and changing road conditions. The Ascent’s design feels balanced and functional, making it a natural fit for daily driving and longer trips alike around Gahanna. The 2026 Durango takes a bolder approach with standard 20-inch wheels that immediately give it a more aggressive stance. LED headlights provide strong illumination, complementing its wider, more muscular profile. The Durango’s styling leans into its performance-inspired identity, offering a confident and assertive look that stands out on the road.
Inside the 2026 Ascent, the cabin focuses on versatility and passenger comfort with standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration. Its 11.6-inch multimedia plus system provides a large, intuitive interface, while standard tri-zone climate control allows multiple rows to maintain personalized comfort settings. This layout supports families and groups traveling between New Albany and surrounding communities with ease. The 2026 Durango also includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, paired with a user-friendly infotainment system that keeps essential controls within easy reach. Its interior emphasizes a driver-focused layout with available upgrades that enhance comfort and connectivity. While it maintains a spacious three-row design, its climate and tech features are designed with simplicity and straightforward usability in mind.
The 2026 Ascent is powered by a 2.4L turbocharged BOXER® 4-cylinder engine producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a Lineartronic® CVT and standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, it delivers smooth, controlled performance with consistent traction in varying conditions. Its 5,000-pound maximum towing capacity supports a wide range of recreational and practical needs. The 2026 Durango features a 3.6L Pentastar® V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with rear-wheel drive, with available all-wheel drive for added versatility, and is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The Durango offers a standard 6,200-pound towing capacity, reflecting its strength-oriented performance approach.
Safety in the 2026 Ascent is centered around standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, a suite of features designed to enhance driver awareness and responsiveness. These systems work together to monitor traffic movement, assist with braking, and support safer driving habits in a variety of conditions. Subaru’s approach emphasizes consistent, everyday confidence behind the wheel. The 2026 Durango includes standard driver assist technology that supports visibility and driver awareness during daily travel. Its safety systems are designed to provide helpful alerts and assistance when needed, contributing to a secure driving experience whether navigating busy streets or open highways. Both SUVs prioritize safety, offering features that help drivers stay focused and informed.
The 2026 Subaru Ascent and the 2026 Dodge Durango each offer a distinct take on the three-row SUV experience. The Durango stands out with its bold design, strong towing capability, and performance-oriented feel, especially for drivers who appreciate traditional SUV characteristics. The Ascent, however, brings a more balanced and adaptable approach with standard all-wheel drive, a smooth turbocharged engine, and a cabin designed to support both passengers and everyday usability. These features create a sense of consistency and confidence that fits a wide range of driving needs. At Byers Airport Subaru in Columbus, OH, drivers from Pickerington to New Albany often find that the Ascent’s combination of capability, comfort, and thoughtful design aligns naturally with long-term ownership. Comparing both models highlights how each SUV serves a different purpose, with the Ascent offering a slightly more versatile and well-rounded experience.
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2026 Subaru Ascent | 2026 Dodge Durango |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Engine | 2.4L Turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® | 3.6L Pentastar ® V6 |
| Standard Horsepower | 260 | 295 |
| Standard Torque (lb-ft) | 277 | 260 |
| All Wheel Drive | Standard | Available |
| Standard Transmission | Lineartonic® CVT | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Standard Wheels | 18-inch | 20-inch |
| Standard Towing | 5,000 lbs | 6,200 lbs |
| Heated Front Seats | Standard | Standard |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ | Standard | Standard |
| Standard Headlights | Steering Responsive LED Headlights | LED Headlights |
