The Subaru Ascent carves out a family-sized niche with standard all-wheel drive, confidence-inspiring safety, and true three-row versatility.
Where the 2026 Subaru Ascent Shines
All-Weather Peace of Mind, All Year Round
No matter the trim, every Subaru Ascent comes standard with full-time symmetrical all-wheel drive. For shoppers facing winter, gravel roads, or family vacation adventures, this standout feature is rare for the segment and makes the Ascent an easy choice for confident all-season traction. The 2.4-liter turbo engine offers solid pulling power, while the ride is tuned for everyday comfort, even with a full load.
Roomy and Ready for Family Duty
The Ascent makes packing up kids, friends, or bulky gear a breeze. Eight-passenger seating is available, and the flexible three-row layout can be tailored to suit. A big, squared-off rear hatch means easy loading, with up to 75.6 cubic feet of cargo space. Thoughtful touches, like ample USB ports and cup holders throughout all rows, give every seat a touch of convenience. Even the base Premium trim comes decently equipped for family life, focusing on comfort with heated front seats and durable StarTex leatherette.
Tech and Safety That Go the Extra Mile
Subaru doesn’t ask you to pay extra for modern driver assistance. The Ascent comes out of the gate with adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, forward and reverse automatic braking, and more. Shoppers also get an impressive 11.6-inch touchscreen, smartphone integration, and built-in Wi-Fi. While some competitors bundle these features into higher-cost packages, every Ascent makes them standard fare.
Broad Trim Range for a Custom Fit
From the practical Premium to the decked-out Touring, there’s an Ascent to fit most needs and tastes. The Limited Bronze Edition adds unique styling flairs, while the Onyx Edition steps up with two-tone looks and dark-finish wheels for those who crave a bolder touch. All versions use the same punchy powertrain and offer features that families actually use, supporting comfort, convenience, and connectivity.
Where the 2026 Subaru Ascent Could Improve
Powertrain Lacks Variety
While the turbo-four provides robust torque for merging and hills, the lack of engine choices slightly limits appeal for those seeking more horsepower or hybrid options. Some rivals, such as the Mazda CX-90 and Toyota Grand Highlander, offer alternative powertrains or hybrid variants for shoppers emphasizing efficiency or added punch.
Cabin Style Remains Conservative
The Ascent’s dashboard is functional, with large controls and an intuitive layout. Yet, those stepping up to premium trims may expect more flash or high-end materials. Competitors at the top end deliver more dramatic interiors, ambient lighting, or plusher textures, while Subaru focuses on durability and straightforward execution.
Driving Experience Prioritizes Comfort
On the move, the Ascent is composed and dependable. Still, the continuously variable transmission smooths out power delivery at the expense of spirited acceleration. For those who like a sporty edge or sharper handling, choices like the Kia Telluride or Hyundai Palisade may hold extra appeal.
Our Take
The Subaru Ascent stands out as one of the few midsize SUVs to offer standard all-wheel drive, eight-passenger flexibility, and a long list of safety features without requiring costly options. For families seeking value, confidence, and real utility, the Ascent ticks all the right boxes, while its sensible trim approach lets you prioritize the comforts that matter most.
Shoppers eyeing the Ascent will also appreciate how its pricing fits neatly against rivals, with a broad lineup that keeps it competitive on features and function for the money.
