In the crowded world of three-row SUVs, the Subaru Ascent stands out—not by being the flashiest or the fastest, but by being unapologetically practical, safe, and capable. Since its debut in 2019, the Ascent has been Subaru’s answer to families who love the brand’s rugged DNA but need more space. And with the latest updates for 2025, the Ascent continues to deliver a well-rounded package that’s hard to ignore.
Let’s explore what makes the Subaru Ascent a compelling choice for modern families—and why it’s more than just another midsize SUV.
🚙 Big on Space, Smart on Design
The Ascent is Subaru’s largest vehicle to date, offering seating for seven or eight passengers, depending on configuration. Whether you opt for captain’s chairs or a bench seat in the second row, the Ascent provides generous legroom and headroom across all three rows. It’s a true family hauler, with enough space for kids, pets, and gear—without feeling like you’re driving a bus.
Cargo space is equally impressive. With all seats folded, the Ascent offers up to 86.5 cubic feet of storage, making it ideal for road trips, camping adventures, or just hauling home improvement supplies. Thoughtful touches like underfloor storage, multiple cup holders, and USB ports in every row make it clear Subaru designed this SUV with real families in mind.
🧠 Powertrain That Balances Performance and Efficiency
Under the hood, the Ascent is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.
While it may not be a performance SUV, the Ascent has enough grunt to tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. That’s more than enough for a small camper, boat, or trailer. And thanks to Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, the Ascent handles rain, snow, and rough terrain with confidence.
🛡️ Safety First, Always
Subaru has built its reputation on safety, and the Ascent is no exception. Every model comes standard with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes features like:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Keep Assist
- Pre-Collision Braking
- Automatic Emergency Steering
These systems work together to reduce driver fatigue and prevent accidents, making the Ascent one of the safest vehicles in its class.
For 2025, Subaru has made several safety features standard across all trims, including blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, further enhancing its protective capabilities.
🎧 Comfort and Connectivity
Inside, the Ascent offers a refined cabin with soft-touch materials, intuitive controls, and a layout that prioritizes comfort. Higher trims feature Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a panoramic moonroof that adds a sense of openness to the interior.
Tech-wise, the Ascent is well-equipped. The centerpiece is an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with navigation and voice control. A Cabin Connect intercom system allows front-seat passengers to communicate easily with those in the third row—no more yelling over the music.
Audiophiles will appreciate the available Harman Kardon premium sound system, which delivers crisp, immersive audio throughout the cabin.
🧭 Trim Levels and Value
Subaru offers the Ascent in several trims, including:
- Premium (now the base trim for 2025)
- Limited
- Onyx Edition Touring
- Touring
Each trim builds on the last with more features and upscale touches. The Onyx Edition Touring, for example, adds blacked-out exterior accents and exclusive interior finishes, giving the Ascent a sportier vibe without sacrificing comfort.
With pricing starting around $50,000 for upper trims, the Ascent remains competitively priced compared to rivals like the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Ford Explorer. And while some competitors offer more power or flashier tech, few match the Ascent’s blend of safety, space, and all-weather capability.
🏁 Final Thoughts: A Quiet Hero in the SUV World
The Subaru Ascent may not shout for attention, but it earns it through substance. It’s a vehicle built for real life—where safety, reliability, and versatility matter more than 0–60 times or chrome accents. For families who want a spacious, confident, and well-equipped SUV that can handle everything from school runs to ski trips, the Ascent is a smart, satisfying choice.
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