Reese Counts has worked in the automotive industry since he started as an intern at Edmunds in 2015. He has written or edited thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Reese is a vehicle test editor at Edmunds and has also contributed to Autoblog. Reese has also been featured on Yahoo! Finance, Engadget and AOL reviewing cars and covering automotive technology, auto shows and more. Reese learned to drive in his father's C4 Chevrolet Corvette and now owns his grandfather's 1999 Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG. A love for cars runs deep in his family.
Pros
High-quality interior materials
Generous ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive
Excellent outward visibility
Strong towing capacity
Cons
Accelerator pedal is too touchy
Invasive engine and tire noise
Not much second-row shoulder room, and third row is tight
What's new
The Subaru Ascent returns unchanged for 2024
Part of the first Ascent generation introduced for 2019
Overview
Growing families are flocking to three-row midsize SUVs and for good reason. They're easy to drive, offer plenty of space for passengers or cargo, and come with a long list of safety features. The Subaru Ascent made a strong debut in 2019 as the largest vehicle in the manufacturer's lineup, and last year it underwent a significant refresh to keep it competitive against newer rivals. For 2024, it returns unchanged, and even though it checks off all of the boxes for shoppers in this class, it's upstaged by our top picks.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2024 Subaru Ascent 4dr SUV AWD (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 $3.64 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
In addition to the basics that shoppers expect from a three-row SUV, the Subaru Ascent pays added attention to safety. All models come standard with a respectable list of advanced safety features, with higher trims adding upgrades and enhancements. Combined with robust engineering, the Ascent earns top crash test scores. The NHTSA awarded it five out of five stars in its evaluations and the IIHS named the 2023 Ascent a Top Safety Pick+, the institute's highest honor. This type of assurance is vital when transporting your most precious cargo.
Competitors to consider
Among the many three-row midsize SUVs, the 2024 Subaru Ascent holds an advantage when it comes to value. Unfortunately for the Ascent, those rivals are exceptionally strong and easily justify their higher price tags. The Kia Telluride continues to lead the class with its spacious interior and attractive styling, while the new Mazda CX-90 injects a healthy dose of luxury. There's also the smartly designed and family-friendly Honda Pilot.
Which Ascent does Edmunds recommend?
The Premium trim hits the sweet spot in the lineup. For a reasonable price premium above the base model, you get plenty of features and upgrades. These include greater towing capabilities, a high-quality interior, a few extra safety features and several useful convenience items.
Subaru Ascent models
The 2024 Subaru Ascent is available in six trim levels: base, Premium, Onyx Edition, Onyx Edition Limited, Limited and Touring. All Ascents use a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine (260 horsepower, 277 lb-ft of torque) paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). All-wheel drive comes standard across the lineup. Feature highlights include:
Base Starts you off with:
18-inch wheels
LED headlights
Seating for eight
Cloth upholstery
Three-zone climate control
11.6-inch infotainment screen
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility
Six-speaker sound system
Four USB ports
2,000-pound towing capacity
Standard driver aids include:
Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the Subaru and the car in front)
Lane keeping system (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane)
Adaptive headlights (swivel as you turn the steering wheel for better illumination in curves)
Trailer sway damping (adjusts vehicle brakes to help control trailer movement if a trailer begins to sway)
Rear seat reminder (alerts you to check the rear seat before exiting the vehicle)
Premium Adds some appealing upgrades, including:
5,000-pound maximum towing capacity
Heated mirrors
Optional seven-passenger seating configuration
Upgraded interior materials
Power-adjustable driver's seat
Heated front seats
Separate rear climate controls
Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift lever
Blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic warning (alerts you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while reversing)
Evasive steering assistance (enhances the forward collision mitigation system with steering-based collision avoidance)
Standard on the Premium's seven-passenger configuration and optional for the eight-passenger are:
Power liftgate
Proximity keyless entry and push-button start
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Rear center console
Rear automatic braking (brakes if sensors detect an imminent collision with an object behind the vehicle)
Onyx Edition Based on the seven-passenger Premium trim, it adds:
20-inch black finish alloy wheels
Upgraded all-wheel-drive system
LED foglights
Power liftgate
Panoramic sunroof
Black grille and exterior trim
Proximity keyless entry and push-button start
Water-repellent synthetic leather upholstery
Heated steering wheel
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Onyx Edition Limited This trim builds on the Onyx Edition with:
Driver's seat memory function and additional adjustments
Power-adjustable front passenger seat
Second-row sunshades
Heated second-row seats
Upgraded instrument display
Integrated navigation system
14-speaker Harman Kardon audio system
Intercom system (known as Cabin Connect, it broadcasts the driver's voice through the rear speakers)
360-degree surround-view system (uses cameras in all four directions to compose a single image of the car's surroundings)
Driver attention monitor (issues an alert if sensors determine you are becoming fatigued)
Limited The Limited combines many, but not all, features from the seven-passenger Premium and Onyx Edition Limited trims and adds:
20-inch dark gray alloy wheels
Leather upholstery
Synthetic leather dash panel
Second-row retractable sunshades
An optional package for the Limited adds:
Dual-panel panoramic sunroof with sunshade
Folding mirrors with integrated turn signals
Cargo cover
Integrated navigation system
14-speaker Harman Kardon audio system
Intercom system (known as Cabin Connect, it broadcasts the driver's voice through the rear speakers)
360-degree surround-view system (uses cameras in all four directions to compose a single image of the car's surroundings)
Driver attention monitor (issues an alert if sensors determine you are becoming fatigued)
Touring Comes with all the Limited's standard features and options and adds:
Power-folding mirrors
Ambient interior lighting
120-volt power outlet
Ventilated front seats
Upgraded leather upholstery
Auto-dimming digital rearview mirror with real-time camera image
MSRP is subject to change and varies based on availability, trim level, option packages, and retailer-installed accessories. MSRP excludes destination and delivery charges, tax, title, registration, and other fees. Retailer sets actual price. See your retailer for details. 2024 Subaru Ascent Onyx Edition Limited shown has an MSRP of $46,795.
We have had our Ascent for 13 months and have driven over 15k miles of mountain, city and highway miles on it. It has been flawless with everything we have asked it to do. Living at 8,500 feet in the Colorado Rockies, it has handled winter snow storms without issue. We have also vacationed through Yellowstone, Seattle and Portland (3,700 miles total). No issues passing on high speed … 2 lanes, sometimes pushing significantly over the 70 mph speed limit. Very comfortable on a long trip. Only issue has been a bad battery, which Subaru paid for a new Interstate AGM battery.
Negatives... Limited passenger seat only adjusts 4 way. Brakes could be a little better in the mountains. Android Auto is a bit quirky but works fine.
My review will focus mostly on how my impressions differ from the the "expert" review at Edmund. First in terms of size, the Ascent is shorter than most 3-row but it utilizes the space well. It has just the right size for a family of four but I have carried two full size adults, one is >6ft tall, in the third row across town with no complaints. A car that is bigger than the Ascent … will be more difficult to park and drive in tight corner. On paper, Ascent's second row passenger room may be smaller than that in the Highlander — is that why Edmund thinks the second row is small in the Ascent? In reality, the Ascent's second row is roomy and spacious, even for people over 6ft, and the seats are very comfortable. In terms of ride comfort, the Ascent's ride is almost luxury car like, comfortable and quiet. Most reviews I read are consistent with that. The gas peddle on a turbo-charged car can be "touchy" but you should be able to quickly learn to adapt. By reading driving experience from people owning earlier and the 23 models, the throttle responses seem to have improved with the latest model. Once you get used to it, together with a tight turning circle and assist from the AWD system, you would find it fun to drive with lots of power passing on the highway with a full load. While most SUVs offer AWD as an option for at least $2,000, AWD is standard on the Ascent, and Subaru has the best AWD for a main stream car. I am tired of hearing about the Telluride. The reviews should take into consideration the markups they are charging, plus the added cost of the AWD, before comparing it to the Ascent.
What a great vehicle - it's missing a couple refinements but is amazing and wonderful considering it is the replacement for our 2016 Acura MDX Advanced SH-AWD that we never truly loved because of the Transmission being so jerky - in fact that same transmission being used on the Honda Pilot and 2023 Nissan Pathfinder eliminated them from our list to look at.
I always found the Forester … and Outback overpriced for such a bumpy ride and cheap interior. Obviously, I am willing to pay for quality, and the Subaru Ascent Touring caught me off guard! We went to test drive the forester and drove less than 1/4 mile before turning around since it was just junky. I had never heard of the Ascent, but the salesman said, "Drive this" and gave us keys to a used 2021 touring to try. The java puke interior looked horrible, but the ride and comfort were amazing! We looked and found a 2022 Silver with Black interior to buy and have been happy so far!
The interior was the biggest shock in a good way compared to other Subaru models. The leather interior is firm but plush, providing comfort and the feel of durability. The accent trims of wood grain and two-tone leather really make it pop. The LEG ROOM in the front and second rows are enough for my 6'1" 270-lb frame to feel comfortable - I found the Ascent to be more comfortable than other options we looked at. The VW Atlas, Telluride, and Sorento were high on our list - but the Telluride was more expensive for less, and the second row was smaller. The Atlas was HUGE but the leg room in the front is limited in width from the console. The Sorento is just a smaller vehicle. The MDX, Pathfinder, CX9 and Highlander were all cramped inside for being so big. The seats are very comfortable, and the front driver and passenger get heated and ventilated seats - and they work well! Hot is HOT! Cold is enough to feel the cooling but not freeze your rump. The heated steering wheel was just put to the test during a skiing trip - my cold hands were loving gripping the smooth, warm leather after being frozen.
The Infotainment system in the Ascent is simple and functional Android Auto is awesome! Something we hated on the MDX, Pathfinder, CX9 and Highlander was the location of the controls, and the painful steps you needed to take to change the temp, radio station, or enter an address. The Ascent is simple - while not the biggest screen, or flashy features, it is very functional which is the most important thing since you can actually use the system easily while driving! There is a small info display screen for showing temperature, directions, or radio stations above the dash while the main screen is being used for navigation. The cup holders could be larger, but what the lack in size is made up in quantity, rivaling a minivan with 19.
The engine is a boxer 4 cylinder, turbocharged and universally used for Subarus. It's low center of gravity make the GIANT SUV feel smaller than it actually is when making turns - the body roll is very dampened. The SUV is supposedly slower than our MDX was off the line - but it doesn't feel sluggish, and the ride is FAR smoother. The CVT and suspension is probably to thank for that. I found I am never going below the speed limit or worrying that I won't be able to merge onto the highway. The standard AWD make turning the long vehicle a breeze, the turning radius is pretty good for the length of the vehicle.
Safety - the stereo camera system does an amazing job with lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and mitigation braking. The rear doors have a giant latching lug that makes it feel like a tank.
What I don't love are some of the luxury features that would make this rival any other vehicle. The keyless remotes are not personalized - meaning the car doesn't distinguish between Driver 1 or 2 based on the keys, even though the car has memory seats and driver profiles. You have to press 1 or 2 when you get in the car, and the profile is selected based on whose phone pairs first. If my wife gets the kid in the car while I'm fixing my cup of coffee, I have to go load my profile and hit 2 on the memory seats when I get in to drive. The touring also has power folding mirrors - but the button for them makes them fold in when pressed - not when the car is turned off - it's something so simple to build into the car - when activated, fold mirrors in when car turned off, unfold when car turned on - but that is not the case. The rear gate light is does not turn on when you open the trunk - so you have to flip a switch or unlock the car with the remote to get the interior lights to come on - annoying since the trunk is so big.
For having all the luxury feel, they just missed some basic things to make this perfect. For instance - I get that wireless android and apple auto came in 2023 and would have been nice with a wireless charging pad, but the USB plugs for the connection are right in front of the gear shift. Just little things that aren't a big deal, but really would have made this feel luxurious and sporty at the same time.
The car lacks parking sensors for some reason, so pulling into a spot or garage requires you to activate the extra front camera that only comes on the touring model so you can see what's directly in front of your bumper, I really wish it just activated when you hit your garage door opener, or the stereo cameras noticed you were parking. The rear sensors aren't such an issue since the backup camera is activated when you are reversing. On the touring model you can flip the rearview mirror and activate an additional rear camera mounted high that replaces your mirror view if the back window is obstructed - it's weird to use while but definitely helpful for specific situations.
The 3-year 36,000 warranty on a complex engine is a painful point - compared to others being 40,000-50,000 miles (KIA's 100,000 warranty is VERY limited). We traveled to buy our Ascent in another state for $5,000 off MSRP and opted to use those savings for the 100,000-mile extended bumper to bumper warranty - still costing us less than a Kia Sorento. I wish Subaru (and Honda for that fact) just warrantied their vehicles as such since they tout their reliability. Not necessarily a Subaru thing alone, but don't brag about reliability without backing it up.
Overall, this is a great vehicle - my family owned a 1988 Subaru Legacy Station wagon that got 188,000+ miles on before the head gasket blew. I imagine this will be with us for at least the same amount of time, but most likely longer.
I actually disagree with Edmunds here. I actually ordered a telluride largely based on reviews like this. But every time I drove the Kia I was a little disappointed. I agree that the Kia is more stylish and roomy. Surely, the Kia is more faux-lux, but I also like the Subaru practicality. Because the Kia is such a "hot" car compared to the Ascent, I was able to get a 1 year old used subi … for about $5k less than an similar Kia. For me (6' - 215lbs) the, Subaru is more comfortable (yrmv). The biggest difference for me is the drivetrain. I much prefer the low end torque from the turbo and the 50/50ish AWD. Don't like the CVT, but I got used to it pretty fast. I'd take the turbo and CVT over the better AT and V6. I really don't like driving FWD and all the others always felt like driving a FWD... Kia, pilot, etc. Lastly on the size, yes the Kia is roomier which would be nice for road trips. But, living in a dense city, the narrower width of the subi is much preferred compared to larger rivals (my garage is 16' wide - yes you can fit 2 cars - but you have to be confident parking within inches of walls). If I lived in a suburb/exurb and never went into a city, I'd probably like the larger suv. I just never see this mentioned in reviews (because reviewers rarely ever drive in real urban location like NY, SF, Boston, etc.)
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2024 Subaru Ascent, so we've included reviews for other years of the Ascent since its last redesign.
Kia Telluride vs. Subaru Ascent vs. Subaru Ascent | Midsize Family SUV Comparison Test
NOTE: This video is about the 2021 Subaru Ascent, but since the 2024 Subaru Ascent is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.
What do the 2021 Kia Telluride, 2021 Subaru Ascent and 2021 Subaru Ascent all have in common? Third row? Check. Plenty of cargo space? Check. Technology features for everyone in the family? Check. So what sets each of these midsize SUVs apart from one another and which one is the… right choice for you? In this midsize SUV comparison test video, Ryan ZumMallen answers that very question. We also detail what's new and what we like and don't like about each vehicle.
If you're in the market for a three-row SUV, you can't do any better than the class-dominant Kia Telluride. It's been the top choice since it debuted and has yet to be outshone by newer rivals. The Ascent holds an advantage in terms of fuel economy, has a lower starting price and comes standard with all-wheel drive, but the Telluride is still a better all-around pick. Read Edmunds' long-term road test of the Kia Telluride.
The Mazda CX-90 is a new entrant this year and makes a strong impression with its sleek style and near-luxury interior. As a Mazda, it's also one of the more enjoyable SUVs to drive, with noticeably better performance than the Subaru Ascent. The CX-90 is more expensive than the Subaru, though, and it's further handicapped by its small cargo capacity.
The Honda Pilot underwent a full redesign last year, demonstrating clever features that make it an excellent family-friendly SUV. There's also a light off-road version that should give the Ascent some competition. Third-row and cargo space is comparable between the two, as is fuel economy. Even though the Pilot is more expensive, we give it an edge over the Ascent for its better driving manners and family-friendly interior design.
MSRP is subject to change and varies based on availability, trim level, option packages, and retailer-installed accessories. MSRP excludes destination and delivery charges, tax, title, registration, and other fees. Retailer sets actual price. See your retailer for details. 2024 Subaru Ascent Onyx Edition Limited shown has an MSRP of $46,795.
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Ascent safety features:
Reverse Automatic Braking
Automatically applies the vehicle's brakes if an obstacle is detected while you're in reverse.
EyeSight Assist Monitor
Provides a head-up display of the EyeSight system's status and warnings on the windshield.
Blind-Spot Warning
Scans vehicle blind spots and alerts you of vehicles on either side via mirror-mounted indicators.
NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
The Subaru Ascent is a three-row SUV, serving as the Japanese automaker's largest model since it debuted just a few years ago. As a three-row crossover, the Ascent competes in one of the most competitive segments around, though Subaru staples like standard all-wheel drive help the Ascent stand out from the crowd. We don't expect any major changes for the Ascent as it just underwent a major update for 2023. Changes include revised front and rear styling, improved driver aids and better in-car technology, including a new 11.6-inch touchscreen that landed earlier in cars like the Legacy and WRX.
While the Ascent has never been our favorite three-row SUV, there's a lot to like about this big Subaru. In addition to all-wheel drive, the Ascent comes standard with a turbocharged engine, making it one of the quickest vehicles in its class. That said, we found the engine to be a bit loud on the highway. There are plenty of standard driver aids and lots of in-car tech, too. But we find the interior a bit cramped, especially in the third row, so the Ascent isn't the best option for ferrying people and cargo.
While the Ascent has a lot of positives, things like a relatively small cabin and busy ride keep it toward the back of the pack. Some of Edmunds' favorites three rows include the Kia Telluride — a multiple Edmunds Top Rated SUV winner — as well as the mechanically related Hyundai Palisade. Three rows from outside the South Korean stable include the Volkswagen Atlas, Honda Passport and Ford Explorer. And if you really need space and don't mind sacrificing fuel economy, the Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition and Toyota Sequoia all offer plenty of capability when it comes to towing or cargo space.
Edmunds says
After last year's refresh that brought updated styling and improved tech, we don't expect any major changes for the 2024 Subaru Ascent.
FAQ
Is the Subaru Ascent a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2024 Ascent both on the road and at the track. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2024 Ascent gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 55 reviews) What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that carrying capacity for the Ascent ranges from 17.6 to 17.8 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Subaru Ascent. Learn more
What's new in the 2024 Subaru Ascent?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2024 Subaru Ascent:
The Subaru Ascent returns unchanged for 2024
Part of the first Ascent generation introduced for 2019
To determine whether the Subaru Ascent is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Ascent. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Ascent's 4-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2024 Subaru Ascent a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2024 Subaru Ascent is a good car. Our consumer reviews show that the 2024 Ascent gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 55 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2024 Ascent is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2024 Subaru Ascent?
The least-expensive 2024 Subaru Ascent is the 2024 Subaru Ascent 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $34,395.
Other versions include:
4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) which starts at $34,395
Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) which starts at $36,995
Onyx Edition 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) which starts at $41,795
Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) which starts at $42,095
Onyx Edition Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) which starts at $46,795
Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) which starts at $48,695
If you're interested in the Subaru Ascent, the next question is, which Ascent model is right for you? Ascent variants include 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT), Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT), Onyx Edition 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT), and Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT). For a full list of Ascent models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more