Subaru Ascent

Overview: Is the Subaru Ascent a Good Midsize SUV?

The Subaru Ascent is a midsize three-row SUV introduced for the 2019 model year and remains in its first generation. As the largest vehicle in Subaru's lineup, the Ascent offers a spacious interior, standard all-wheel drive, and a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. With seating for up to eight passengers and a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, the Ascent is well-suited for families and those who enjoy outdoor adventures. The Ascent competes in a crowded segment against rivals such as the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, and Volkswagen Atlas. The automaker also offers the Subaru Forester, Outback, Crosstrek, Impreza, Solterra EV, Legacy, BRZ, and WRX.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Subaru Ascent cars for sale.

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Related: Here Are The Subaru Ascent Years To Avoid

Key Features

The Subaru Ascent offers:

• Midsize three-row SUV body style
• Three-row seating with seven- or eight-passenger capability
• Standard Symmetrical all-wheel drive
• Turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine
• Continuously variable transmission (CVT)

Trims

The Subaru Ascent is available in four trims: Base, Premium, Limited, and Touring. A new mid-tier Onyx Edition trim was added for the 2022 model year, offering unique styling elements and other features. The Subaru Ascent Touring remains the top grade.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

The Subaru Ascent interior is spacious and well-appointed, with room for up to eight passengers across three rows. The second row is available with a bench seat or captain's chairs, while the third row offers sufficient space for children or smaller adults. Higher trims feature premium features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a panoramic moonroof. The Ascent includes the Subaru Starlink infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available navigation. With all seats folded, the Ascent offers up to 86.5 cubic feet of cargo space.

Review: Which Years Of Used Subaru Ascents Are Most Reliable?

How It Drives

The Subaru Ascent is powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a Lineartronic CVT, which helps deliver smooth and efficient power. Subaru's Symmetrical all-wheel drive system comes standard, providing supportive traction and stability. A zero-to-60 mph time of 6.8 seconds is relatively quick for a four-cylinder vehicle of this size, but the Ascent is slower than some rivals. When properly equipped, the Ascent can tow up to 5,000 pounds.

Safety

The Subaru Ascent has received high marks for safety. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has awarded the Ascent a five-star overall safety rating.

Reviews

Subaru Ascent reviews from Kelley Blue Book have an average rating of 3.9/5. While scores are average for quality, reliability, and comfort, several owners report transmission troubles with the Subaru Ascent.

Learn More: How Long Do Subaru Ascents Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan

FAQs

What are the downsides of a Subaru Ascent?

Some potential downsides of the Subaru Ascent include its average fuel economy for the class, a somewhat underpowered engine compared to some rivals, and a third row that may be tight for taller adults.

Is the Subaru Ascent a reliable car?

The Subaru Ascent has known transmission problems among earlier model years. Subaru Ascent recalls are also high for older examples; there are eight official recalls for the 2019 Ascent. The 2023 and 2024 editions have received better reliability ratings from Consumer Reports.

How much is a fully-loaded Subaru Ascent?

The price of a fully loaded Subaru Ascent Touring, which is the top-of-the-line trim, is about $50,000. CoPilot’s national listings show that prices for a used Subaru Ascent range from $16,000 to $52,000, depending on age, condition, and equipment.

How long will a Subaru Ascent last?

A Subaru Ascent can last for well over 200,000 miles outside of transmission issues, assuming scheduled maintenance is observed.

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