2019 Subaru Ascent
What’s new
- The Subaru Ascent is all-new
Pros
- Seats up to eight passengers
- Cargo room and third-row space are near top of the class
- Generous set of standard driver safety aids
- Can tow up to 5,000 pounds
Cons
- Subaru CVT automatic not too impressive in other models
- Some more common driver aids are restricted to upper trims
2019 Subaru Ascent pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Top consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2019 Subaru Ascent.
2019 Subaru Ascent videos
SPEAKER 1: It's been almost five years since Subaru got out of the mid-sized SUV game. But that's all changed with this-- the 2019 Ascent. Question is, was the wait worth it? When the Ascent goes on sale this summer, it'll compete against the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Ford Explorer. These are all really great mid-size SUVs with three rows, so the pressure is on Subaru. One thing counting against it-- at least right off the bat for me-- is the power train. It has a 2.4 liter turbocharged four cylinder that puts out 260 horsepower. That's not a whole lot for the segment. On top of that, it's made it to a continuously variable transmission, and CVTs have a tendency to be a little lethargic and unresponsive. When it does go on sale, it's going to start around $32,000 for the base model. Included in that, though, is Subaru's advanced safety suite called Eyesight. Now, you're going to get adaptive cruise control, frontal collision warning with automatic braking, as well as lane departure warning and assist. Higher trim models are going to have a blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alerts, as well. It's easy to drive. It's easy to maneuver, for a mid-size SUV. And one thing I really like, too, is this virtual mirror. Now, right now it's set to be just the regular reflective mirror. But if you flip it up, well, it's projecting an image from a camera in the rear window. So that means if you have everything piled up to the roof you can still see what's behind you. The ride quality in general-- it's compliant enough. We're feeling every bump and rut. But there's not a lot of hard jostling or harsh impacts that you'd normally feel from a car that could handle this well. Right off the line there it's more than adequate. And it actually simulated some of the shifts you'd feel in a normal automatic that you wouldn't in a CVT. And that gives you the impression that there's nothing really all that different about this car. And it eliminates a lot of that terrible CVT drone where the engine is just at a constant speed, kind of mooing like a wounded cow. As far as handling goes, it's confident for a tall-riding mid-size SUV like this. I'm not going to go bombing into corners. But you have that assurance that if something jumps out in the middle of the road, you'll be able to swerve around it, get back on your intended line without too much drama. The Ascent drives pretty much exactly how you want a mid-size SUV to drive. You do get a little more road noise than some of the other cars I've driven in this class. But it's not intrusive. You can turn the radio up just a little bit to drown it out. It's not a problem. It's got a nice ride over some of the choppy bits, as well as the larger undulations. And it instills confidence at the same time. Overall, I'd say Subaru did a good job with this. As far as the cabin goes, I like the overall design. It's functional. And it's not trying too hard to be fashionable. Material's quality is decent for the class. Everywhere you're coming in contact with it, it's well-padded. The infotainment screen is mounted kind of midway up the center stack here. And a lot of other manufacturers are putting them right on top of the dash to put them right in the driver's sightline. But there is a secondary readout on top of the dash. And you can actually get a bunch of different views, from navigation to infotainment. The Eyesight system from Subaru has gotten some pretty positive reviews. It's not overly sensitive, like some of the Honda systems. It will give you some subtle beeps here and there if you're crossing over the line. It also-- like right there. There we go. And also it has one feature that might be helpful in dense traffic where, when the car in front of you starts moving, it'll give you a nice little subtle beep to let you know that you should probably start paying attention again. The seat comfort's pretty good, as well. It's somewhat warm in this car right now. But it does have ventilated seats, as well as heated seats and a heated steering wheel. From the back seat, I'm getting the impression that I'm riding quite a bit higher than the front seats. And that's probably true, because I'm getting a good view forward. Another thing I'm noticing, though, is this headliner here is a little bit close to my head. We do have a panoramic sunroof. But even with the cars without the panoramic sunroof, it's still just about as restricting. The seats back here are pretty much as comfortable as the front seats. Obviously, you're not going to have the same amount of adjustments. But it does recline pretty far back. And you have this nice adjustable armrest, as well. This top-of-the-line touring trim, like some of the supporting trims, have this rear side sunshade. But they're not the easiest to get into because the anchor points are right at the edges and not closer in to the center. That means it's going to wobble back and forth a little. But just the fact that it has it is a nice feature. Also on this trim we have separate climate controls for the back. All of the Ascents, whether it's the base model or the top touring trim, have tri-zone automatic climate control. The top trims, however, have this secondary control unit just for the rear passengers. And I am getting a good amount of air from these top vents. Also down here, two USB ports and a household power outlet. Subaru made a big deal about the Ascent having 19 cup holders. Obviously, you're not going to need them all for drinks. But this bottom one here that can fit three drinks has cutaways so that you can actually fit in an iPad Pro. Rather than having a built-in rear entertainment system, at the dealership you can get the option for entertainment systems based off of two iPads and wireless headphones. From the very rear seats, the third row, I have actually a decent amount of room. I wouldn't say I'm going to be comfortable back here for a long road trip. But my hair's just barely brushing the headliner. The seat cushions are what you'd expect-- a little short, a little low. So in general, you're going to be putting smaller passengers back here anyway. But it's not nearly as much of a penalty as they are in some of the other third-row seats. Also back here in the top trim, two USB ports, a bunch more cup holders. One thing that's also nice is if you look at these grab handles here, well, it helps you get in and out. But it also gives you a little place to hang purses, bags, or whatever else you want off of a hook. One thing Subaru was keen to point out, too, is they conducted their own crash test to ensure that the third-row passengers are well-protected. As far as cargo capacity goes, the Ascent does well. It has 17.8 cubic feet of capacity behind the third row of seats. That's on the high end among other cars in this class. Fold down all of the seats, though, and you get 86.5 cubic feet of storage. And among all of its primary competitors, that is as big as it gets. You do have underfloor storage, which really isn't all that unusual. But cleverly, they made it so you can keep it open with these pull straps that also serve to fold the seats down. You also have a storage place for your cargo cover. And the cargo cover goes all the way from the back of the second row seats. Smart idea that means you don't have to leave this in your garage and forget it when you really need it. After spending some time with the all new 2019 Subaru Ascent, I can positively say, yes, it was worth the wait. It's comfortable. It has a good ride quality. It has a ton of features. And the price is right, too. Any concerns I had about the power train can be ignored. Honestly, if they didn't tell me it had a CVT, I probably wouldn't know. So for more information on the Ascent, as well as its competition, head on over to edmunds.com. For some more videos like this, hit subscribe.
2019 Subaru Ascent First Drive
Edmunds Senior Writer Mark Takahashi made the trek to Oregon to be one of the first to drive the all-new 2019 Subaru Ascent. After Subaru's five-year absence from the midsize SUV market, this family-friendly three-row crossover is a marked improvement over the automaker's last attempt. The Ascent simply hits the right notes for the class.
Features & Specs
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Ascent safety features:
- Reverse Automatic Braking
- Automatically applies vehicle's brakes if an obstacle is detected while reversing.
- EyeSight Assist Monitor
- Provides a head-up display of EyeSight system warnings and system status data on the windshield.
- Safety Plus Package
- Offers emergency assistance, enhanced roadside assistance and automatic collision notification to first responders, among other services.
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Subaru Ascent vs. the competition
2019 Subaru Ascent
2018 Honda Pilot
Subaru Ascent vs. Honda Pilot
The Pilot is among the cars that defined the three-row SUV segment. The latest model looks sharp, with a comfortable ride and interior. It also boasts a powerful V6 engine, and when the Honda is equipped with all-wheel drive, both models match each other for towing capacity. But the Pilot comes up a bit shy in maximum cargo.
Subaru Ascent vs. Mazda CX-9
Both models are sporty, although the Mazda's edge comes on paved roads and twisting turns, while the Ascent's performance advantage lies in getting off the paved road. And thought the CX-9 is actually a bit longer than the Ascent, the Subaru makes better use of its space, coming up with more usable cargo area. The CX-9 also has a rated towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds, well shy of the Ascent.
Subaru Ascent vs. Chevrolet Traverse
The Traverse is king of the three-row jungle, at least in terms of sheer size. It looks massive because it is, outpacing most of its rivals in overall volume. But the Ascent pulls up a close second where it counts: third-row legroom, cargo space and utility. Like the Pilot, the Traverse offers a stout V6 engine, but it's less fuel-efficient than the Ascent. And the Traverse is just plain big — and feels big from behind the wheel.
2019 Subaru Ascent for Sale
Don't worry if you don't remember Subaru's first attempt at a three-row SUV. Subaru might prefer it that way. And for those who do remember the Tribeca SUV, produced for eight years starting in the mid-2000s, Subaru aims to wipe your memory clean with the new 2019 Subaru Ascent. With its new three-row SUV, Subaru is back in the big family SUV game, this time for keeps.
The Ascent draws on Subaru's combined strengths in its existing SUV lineup, including the Crosstrek, Forester and Outback models, and applies them to a bigger template. As such, the Ascent offers impressive utility, a fuel-efficient engine, and a third row that adults can actually use.
The Ascent comes with standard seating for eight passengers; with the optional second-row captain's chairs, it will seat seven. You can even keep the second-row bench seat as you move up the trim levels until you hit the seven-passenger-only top Touring trim. The Ascent offers plenty of passenger room and cargo space, and it should tackle most gear and active family pursuits with aplomb.
A new turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, rated at 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, does the heavy lifting for the 4,500-pound SUV. It comes paired to a continuously variable automatic transmission and, of course, Subaru's signature standard all-wheel-drive system. The new powertrain doesn't sacrifice fuel economy either. At 23 mpg combined, the new turbo-four Ascent is right on par with its competitors' all-wheel-drive versions. What's more, the new engine is capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds. And with nearly 9 inches of ground clearance, the Ascent should also prove capable of getting far off the highway when the mood strikes.
The 2019 Subaru Ascent is available in base, Premium, Limited and Touring trim levels. Base models offer good value with features such as three-zone climate control, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, and standard driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Premium trims step it up a bit with more desirable features such as heated front seats and upgraded infotainment. Limited trims start to bring in some luxury elements such as leather upholstery and heated second-row seats, while Touring trims pour it all on with ambient cabin lighting, upgraded leather and a 14-speaker premium sound system.
Built in Indiana and starting around $33,000, the 2019 Subaru Ascent promises exceptional versatility for active families. When it comes time to see if the Ascent is right for you, let Edmunds guide you to the best deal.
2019 Subaru Ascent Overview
The 2019 Subaru Ascent is offered in the following submodels: . Available styles include Touring 7-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT), Premium 8-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT), Limited 8-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT), Limited 7-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT), Premium 7-Passenger w/OP 12 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT), 8-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT), Premium 7-Passenger w/OP 14 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT), Limited 8-Passenger w/OP 23 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT), Limited 7-Passenger w/OP 23 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT), Premium 8-Passenger w/OP 14 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT), and Premium 8-Passenger w/OP 12 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT).
What do people think of the 2019 Subaru Ascent?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2019 Subaru Ascent and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2019 Ascent 4 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2019 Ascent.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2019 Subaru Ascent and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2019 Ascent featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2019 Subaru Ascent?
2019 Subaru Ascent Touring 7-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT)
The 2019 Subaru Ascent Touring 7-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $45,670. The average price paid for a new 2019 Subaru Ascent Touring 7-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) is trending $500 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $500 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$45,170.
The average savings for the 2019 Subaru Ascent Touring 7-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) is1.1% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 5 2019 Subaru Ascent Touring 7-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2019 Subaru Ascent Limited 8-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT)
The 2019 Subaru Ascent Limited 8-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $40,710. The average price paid for a new 2019 Subaru Ascent Limited 8-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) is trending $638 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $638 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$40,073.
The average savings for the 2019 Subaru Ascent Limited 8-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) is1.6% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 10 2019 Subaru Ascent Limited 8-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2019 Subaru Ascent Premium 8-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT)
The 2019 Subaru Ascent Premium 8-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $35,910. The average price paid for a new 2019 Subaru Ascent Premium 8-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) is trending $440 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $440 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$35,470.
The average savings for the 2019 Subaru Ascent Premium 8-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) is1.2% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 6 2019 Subaru Ascent Premium 8-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2019 Subaru Ascent Limited 7-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT)
The 2019 Subaru Ascent Limited 7-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $40,710. The average price paid for a new 2019 Subaru Ascent Limited 7-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) is trending $500 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $500 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$40,210.
The average savings for the 2019 Subaru Ascent Limited 7-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) is1.2% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 5 2019 Subaru Ascent Limited 7-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2019 Subaru Ascent Premium 7-Passenger w/OP 12 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT)
The 2019 Subaru Ascent Premium 7-Passenger w/OP 12 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $37,370. The average price paid for a new 2019 Subaru Ascent Premium 7-Passenger w/OP 12 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) is trending $440 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $440 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$36,930.
The average savings for the 2019 Subaru Ascent Premium 7-Passenger w/OP 12 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) is1.2% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 4 2019 Subaru Ascent Premium 7-Passenger w/OP 12 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2019 Subaru Ascent Premium 7-Passenger w/OP 14 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT)
The 2019 Subaru Ascent Premium 7-Passenger w/OP 14 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $40,049. The average price paid for a new 2019 Subaru Ascent Premium 7-Passenger w/OP 14 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) is trending $500 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $500 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$39,549.
The average savings for the 2019 Subaru Ascent Premium 7-Passenger w/OP 14 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) is1.2% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 1 2019 Subaru Ascent Premium 7-Passenger w/OP 14 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
Which 2019 Subaru Ascents are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2019 Subaru Ascent for sale near. There are currently 76 new 2019 Ascents listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $32,970 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2019 Subaru Ascent. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $1,789 on a used or CPO 2019 Ascent available from a dealership near you.
Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
Related vehicle information
2019 Subaru Ascent Information
- 2019 Subaru Ascent Build and Price TMV®
- 2019 Subaru Ascent Incentives & Rebates
- 2019 Subaru Ascent Consumer Discussions
- 2019 Subaru Ascent Consumer Reviews
- 2019 Subaru Ascent Features & Specs
- 2019 Subaru Ascent Pictures
- 2019 Subaru Ascent Review
- 2019 Subaru Ascent Dealer Price Quotes
- Used 2019 Subaru Ascent For Sale Near Me
- 2019 Subaru Ascent Ownership Costs
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