Subaru Ascent
Purchase price from $40,795
Expert rating
6 reviews
Expert opinions about this car
Expert reviews
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Kelley Blue Book (KBB)
Kelley Blue Book's consumer-oriented review of the Subaru Ascent focuses on value and ownership experience. KBB editors note that the Ascent earns strong scores for its standard all-wheel drive, robust safety equipment, and generous 8.7 inches of ground clearance—useful for light adventuring. The 2025 model year retains the established formula: a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 260 horsepower, mated to an eight-speed automatic (note: Subaru updated the transmission in recent model years from CVT to auto, improving drivability). KBB's ownership cost analysis shows the Ascent depreciates at a slightly slower rate than many competitors, and maintenance costs fall below the segment average. The reviewers point out that the Ascent's infotainment system can feel laggy at startup and that wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity is occasionally glitchy. The third-row seating is best suited to children, and adults will find legroom tight. KBB gives the Ascent a 4.5 out of 5 rating, saying it is "one of the most sensible three-row SUVs on the market" and especially recommends it for buyers in snowy climates or those who frequently tow small trailers.
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U.S. News & World Report
U.S. News & World Report ranked the Subaru Ascent among the best three-row SUVs for families, scoring it around 8.2 out of 10. Its review praised the standard all-wheel drive, generous list of advanced safety features, spacious and adaptable interior, and smooth, comfortable ride quality. The publication also highlighted excellent predicted reliability and strong crash-test performance. Downsides included an engine that feels coarse and unresponsive at times, a below-average towing capacity compared with rivals, and subpar fuel economy. U.S. News noted that while the Ascent does not match the interior luxury or driving polish of top-tier competitors, it excels as a safe, practical, and well-equipped family vehicle. They recommended it to buyers prioritizing safety, cargo flexibility, and all-weather confidence over style and performance, and noted that it is particularly competitive in its base and mid-level trims where the value proposition is strongest.
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Car and Driver
The Subaru Ascent is praised as a top pick among three-row SUVs, with standard all-wheel drive and a responsive turbocharged 2.4-liter engine delivering brisk acceleration. The cabin offers generous passenger space, comfortable seating for up to eight, and practical storage. Standard driver-assistance features are a plus. However, the CVT can drone under hard acceleration, fuel economy trails rivals like the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade, and interior materials are less premium than competitors. Overall, it is a sensible, capable, and safe family choice, though not the class leader in style or polish.
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Edmunds
Edmunds scores the Ascent 8.0 out of 10, praising its standard all-wheel drive and powerful turbocharged boxer engine. The interior is roomy and versatile, with a third row that fits adults on shorter trips and generous cargo space. The updated infotainment system and composed highway ride are also appreciated. Downsides include the CVT's rubber-band feel, noticeable engine noise under load, fuel economy that lags class leaders, and average lower-trim materials. Still, it is one of the most practical three-row SUVs, especially for buyers wanting standard all-weather capability, excellent crash ratings, and a long safety feature list.
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Kelley Blue Book
KBB gives the Ascent 4.4 out of 5 and names it one of the best three-row SUVs for families. Highlights include a roomy cabin for up to eight, standard all-wheel drive, strong resale value, and ample turbocharged power. The ride is smooth and controlled, and safety features are highly rated. Criticisms focus on average fuel economy, a CVT that can feel unrefined under rapid acceleration, and the lack of a hybrid option. KBB concludes the Ascent's combination of capability, space, safety, and value make it a compelling family choice.
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MotorTrend
MotorTrend's testing was largely enthusiastic, describing the Ascent as one of the most well-rounded three-row SUVs with standard all-wheel drive and a turbocharged flat-four engine offering class-leading power. Testers measured quick acceleration and found the CVT acceptable in most situations. The interior was praised for family-friendly flexibility, a useful third row, and a spacious cargo area. Criticism included CVT behavior in stop-and-go traffic, some cheap plastic trim, and a conservative design. It ultimately respected the Ascent as a capable, practical family hauler with strong value and excellent safety credentials.
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