Used 2020 Subaru Ascent SUV
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2020 Subaru Ascent appraisal values can range from $22,770 - $27,203.
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2020 Subaru Ascent Review
byDan Frio
Reviews Editor
Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show).Pros
- Substantial list of standard and optional driving aids
- High-quality interior materials
- Generous ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive
- Easy-to-use infotainment system
Cons
- Accelerator pedal is too touchy
- Invasive engine and tire noise
- Not much second-row shoulder room, and third row is tight
- Rolling over bumps at higher speeds sends vibrations through the cabin
What's new
- Adds a standard rear-seat reminder alert system
- Adds power-folding side mirrors
- Part of the first Ascent generation introduced for 2019
Subaru's Ascent made quite a splash when it came to market last year. It managed to combine all the personality and quirks Subaru owners love with the newfound practicality of three-row seating. Available in a seven- or eight-passenger configuration, the Ascent can also hold up to 86.5 cubic feet of cargo when you fold down its second- and third-row seats. Or if getting out in nature is your thing, the Ascent obliges with standard all-wheel drive and 8.7 inches of ground clearance.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2020 Subaru Ascent Touring 4dr SUV AWD w/7-Passenger (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.43 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$189/mo
Ascent Touring
vs
$277/mo
Avg. Large SUV
Powering the Ascent is a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that makes it both quick and able to tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. All that power is sent to the ground through a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). And as a bonus, the big, boxy Subaru still manages to get a 23 mpg combined rating from the EPA.
But the Ascent has some downsides, mainly the elevated noise levels. It comes from the tires as well as a somewhat pervasive droning engine noise you hear when pulling up longer grades or accelerating briskly. Also, the third-row seat isn't as roomy as the third rows in some rival crossover SUVs. But if adventures with friends or family takes a prominent place in your life, the 2020 Ascent has a lot to offer and holds its own in a very competitive segment.
Edmunds Expert Rating
average
7.6/10
Edmunds Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
The Ascent is Subaru's best three-row SUV to date. We like its standard all-wheel drive, useful technology features and solid build quality. A roomier third-row seat and a smoother-shifting transmission would make it better, but overall this is an appealing family hauler.
Rated for you by America’s best test team.
Which Ascent does Edmunds recommend?
We think the Premium offers a nice mix of standard equipment along with an agreeable price. Making it more appealing over the base model are features such as heated seats, a larger infotainment display and a 5,000-pound tow rating. The Premium also comes with smaller wheels and tires than what's offered on higher trim levels, which could go a long way toward improving road noise over broken pavement.
2020 Subaru Ascent models
The 2020 Subaru Ascent is available in base, Premium, Limited and Touring trim levels. All use a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine (260 horsepower, 277 lb-ft of torque) paired with a CVT automatic. All-wheel drive comes standard across the lineup as does Subaru's EyeSight driver assist technology, which bundles many of today's current advanced driver safety aids.
