Subaru Ascent Reviews: Real Drivers Share Their Insights

Subaru Ascent Reviews

The 2024 Subaru Ascent stands out as a spacious, family-friendly SUV, drawing attention nationwide. It comes with standard all-wheel drive, merging practicality, comfort, and a variety of features across six trim levels. This makes it a reliable, safe choice, rivaling the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade in the three-row SUV market.

The Touring trim at the Ascent’s pinnacle adds a luxurious touch with cutting-edge tech. This ensures a premium driving experience for all on board. Whether you seek a capable family vehicle or a versatile SUV for your next journey, the 2024 Subaru Ascent is a compelling option.

image 5

Latest Updates and Changes for 2024 Subaru Ascent

The 2024 Subaru Ascent, Subaru’s flagship three-row SUV, keeps most of the impressive features from the previous year’s refresh. Subaru has made strategic updates to improve the Ascent’s user experience and value.

Infotainment System Improvements

The 2024 Subaru Ascent boasts an updated SUBARU STARLINK 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus infotainment system. The touchscreen interface now offers easier menu navigation and more responsive voice commands. This makes it more intuitive for drivers and passengers to access various infotainment and vehicle controls.

Trim Level Refinements

Subaru has fine-tuned the Ascent’s trim level offerings for better value and a more streamlined feature distribution. The 2024 Ascent comes in six distinct trims: Base, Premium, Limited, Touring, Onyx Edition, and Onyx Edition Limited. Each trim caters to different needs and budgets of SUV buyers.

Design Enhancements

The exterior design of the 2024 Subaru Ascent remains largely unchanged. However, Subaru has introduced subtle design enhancements to keep the SUV’s appearance fresh and modern. These updates include refined exterior lighting elements and minor tweaks to the grille and other distinctive design cues.

image 3

With these updates, the 2024 Subaru Ascent continues to offer exceptional capability, safety, and family-friendly features. It remains a popular choice in the midsize SUV segment.

Pricing Structure and Trim Options

The 2024 Subaru Ascent offers a variety of trim levels, catering to different budgets and preferences. Starting at a competitive $35,740, it features six distinct trims: Base, Premium, Limited, Touring, Onyx Edition, and Onyx Edition Limited.

As you ascend the trim levels, the Ascent adds more premium features and luxurious touches. The Premium trim introduces heated seats and a panoramic moonroof. The top-of-the-line Touring trim boasts ventilated seats, an 11.6-inch touchscreen, and other premium amenities.

Trim LevelStarting MSRPKey Features
Base$35,740– 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system – Tri-zone automatic climate control – Rear-view camera
Premium$38,240– Heated front seats – Power driver’s seat – Panoramic moonroof
Limited$42,040– Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob – Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert – Power liftgate
Touring$47,540– 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system – Ventilated front seats – Nappa leather upholstery
Onyx Edition$42,040– Unique exterior styling elements – 20-inch alloy wheels – Water-repellent StarTex upholstery
Onyx Edition Limited$46,440– Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob – Heated steering wheel – Power driver’s seat with memory

The Subaru Ascent offers a wide range of trims and pricing options, fitting every budget and lifestyle. Whether you desire a well-equipped base model or the pinnacle of luxury and convenience, the Ascent meets your needs.

image 4

Power and Performance Specifications

The 2024 Subaru Ascent boasts a 2.4-liter SUBARU BOXER turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower. This engine ensures quick acceleration, reaching 0 to 60 mph in just 6.8 seconds. It’s paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and paddle shifters, offering a dynamic driving experience.

Despite its large size and capacity for up to eight passengers, the Ascent still manages respectable fuel efficiency. The Touring trim, for example, achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg combined. It scores 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. This balance of power and efficiency positions the Ascent as a top choice for families needing a versatile SUV.

SpecificationMeasurement
Engine2.4L SUBARU BOXER turbo four-cylinder
Horsepower260 HP
0-60 mph Acceleration6.8 seconds
TransmissionContinuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with paddle shifters
Fuel Economy (Touring trim)21 mpg combined (19 city / 25 highway)

The Subaru Ascent’s Subaru Ascent performance and Subaru Ascent engine capabilities are unmatched. Its Subaru Ascent fuel efficiency adds to its appeal. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling drive or a reliable commuter, the Ascent meets your needs.

Towing Capacity and Hauling Abilities

The 2024 Subaru Ascent is a top choice in the mid-size SUV market. It boasts exceptional towing and hauling capabilities, perfect for active families. With a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, it can handle trailers, boats, or camping gear. This makes it ideal for those with adventurous lifestyles.

During a recent test, we towed a trailer for a 142-mile roundtrip from Baltimore to Greenbrier State Park in western Maryland. The Ascent’s 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engine, with 277 lb-ft of torque, allowed us to maintain a steady pace. This was true even on winding roads and steep inclines.

Towing CapacityFuel Economy (Towing)Fuel Economy (Non-Towing)
5,000 lbs20 mpg (out), 21 mpg (back)26 mpg highway

The Ascent’s towing capabilities are enhanced by its fuel efficiency. It averaged 20 mpg on the way out and 21 mpg on the return trip while towing. This shows the vehicle’s engineering, ensuring adventures don’t drain your wallet.

Payload capacity varies by trim level, but the Ascent is versatile. It can haul camping gear, sports equipment, or family belongings. Its cargo space and storage solutions make it practical for many activities.

In the mid-size, three-row SUV segment, the Subaru Ascent shines. Its towing and hauling abilities set it apart from competitors. The Ascent is designed for performance and utility, offering a rewarding drive for those with adventurous lifestyles.

Exterior Design Elements and Features

The 2024 Subaru Ascent boasts a bold, captivating exterior design. It seamlessly blends ruggedness with refinement. The Ascent’s styling highlights its capability while showcasing a modern, eye-catching look.

Styling and Appearance

The Ascent’s front features a prominent grille that grabs attention, accompanied by sharp, distinctive headlights. The sculpted hood adds power and dynamism to its profile. Along the sides, it showcases a mix of muscular lines and refined chrome accents, varying by trim level.

Dimensions and Ground Clearance

The 2024 Subaru Ascent has impressive dimensions. It has a wheelbase of 113.8 inches, a length of 196.8 inches, a width of 76 inches, and a height of 71.6 inches. Its 8.7 inches of ground clearance prepares it to conquer various terrains confidently.

Lighting and Visibility Features

The Ascent’s lighting systems are designed to enhance both style and functionality. Its headlights and taillights feature a modern, LED-infused design. This design not only looks great but also ensures excellent visibility in different driving conditions. The available premium lighting package further enhances the Ascent’s road presence.

The 2024 Subaru Ascent’s exterior design is a perfect blend of ruggedness and refinement. It offers a visual appeal that is both captivating and capable.

Interior Comfort and Space Analysis

The 2024 Subaru Ascent is designed for growing families, offering a spacious and versatile interior. It seats up to eight passengers, ensuring everyone has room to ride comfortably. The second-row seats, especially the captain’s chairs, provide excellent support and legroom. Meanwhile, the third row is ideal for smaller passengers or shorter journeys.

When it comes to cargo space, the Ascent excels. With all seats folded, it boasts an impressive 75.6 cubic feet of storage. This makes it perfect for road trips, outdoor adventures, and hauling large items. The numerous storage options and cup holders enhance its practicality and user-friendliness.

The higher trims of the Subaru Ascent offer a more premium experience. The Touring model, for example, features leather upholstery, heated rear seats, and a panoramic moonroof. These features create a refined and comfortable environment for all occupants.

FeatureSpecification
Seating CapacityUp to 8 passengers
Cargo Space75.6 cubic feet with all seats folded
Luxury AmenitiesLeather upholstery, heated rear seats, panoramic moonroof (in Touring trim)

The Subaru Ascent stands out in the three-row SUV segment with its impressive interior versatility, comfort, and cargo capacity. It offers a spacious and practical solution for families and adventurers alike.

Subaru Ascent Reviews from Real Owners

Exploring Subaru Ascent owner reviews reveals widespread admiration for this three-row SUV. Its functionality and ease of use stand out, with owners lauding its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and standard all-wheel drive. This system boosts confidence on the road.

Long-term Ownership Experiences

Many Subaru Ascent owners have shared their long-term experiences. The consensus is clear: this SUV meets its promises of reliability and practicality. They prefer the Ascent over competitors like the Hyundai Palisade, citing better availability and pricing.

Common Praise Points

  • Comfortable and composed ride quality
  • Spacious and versatile interior accommodations
  • Standard all-wheel drive for enhanced traction and capability
  • Impressive fuel efficiency for a three-row SUV

Notable Concerns

Despite the positive reviews, some owners have mentioned minor drawbacks. These include the initial jumpy takeoff and vague steering feel. However, these issues seem minor compared to the Ascent’s overall performance and capabilities.

The Subaru Ascent owner reviews highlight a well-rounded, practical three-row SUV. It excels in comfort, capability, and reliability. Its reputation for long-term satisfaction solidifies its standing as a top choice in the midsize SUV segment.

Subaru Ascent Owner ReviewsKey Highlights
Comfortable ride qualityOwners praise the Ascent’s smooth and composed ride, even when fully loaded.
Spacious and versatile interiorThe Ascent’s three-row cabin offers ample room for passengers and cargo.
Standard all-wheel driveThe Ascent’s standard AWD system provides added confidence and capability.
Impressive fuel efficiencyThe Ascent delivers good fuel economy for a midsize, three-row SUV.
Long-term reliabilityOwners report the Ascent’s reliability and practicality over extended ownership.

“We chose the Ascent over the Palisade because it was more readily available and better priced. The all-wheel drive has been a huge advantage, and the reliability has been excellent over the long haul.”

Safety Features and Ratings

The 2024 Subaru Ascent stands out in the SUV market for its safety. Subaru’s focus on secure vehicles is clear in the Ascent’s advanced safety features. The Subaru Eyesight driver assist technology is a highlight, featuring automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. This system aims to prevent collisions by monitoring the road and applying brakes when necessary.

The Ascent also offers blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as optional features. These enhance the driver’s awareness and safety while navigating. Together, these technologies provide a comprehensive safety package, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers.

The Ascent’s dedication to safety is underscored by its performance in crash tests. In the small overlap front driver-side test, the Ascent’s occupant compartment was well-protected, with low injury risk. The passenger-side small overlap front test also showed excellent results, with minimal intrusion and low injury measures.

The Ascent’s safety is further enhanced by its moderate overlap front test results. These results showed minimal intrusion into the driver’s space and low injury measures. Additionally, the Ascent’s roof strength test results were exceptional, with a strength-to-weight ratio of 4.80. This indicates its ability to withstand rollovers and protect occupants.

With its suite of safety features and impressive crash test ratings, the 2024 Subaru Ascent is a top choice for families. Subaru’s commitment to safety is evident in the Ascent’s design, making it a standout in the SUV market.

Comparison with Market Competitors

In the midsize SUV market, the Subaru Ascent shines as a top contender. It faces stiff competition from the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade. Yet, the Ascent’s standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system and reliability set it apart.

Kia Telluride vs Ascent

The Kia Telluride is a strong rival, known for its roomy interior and powerful V6 engine. But the Ascent has a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 277 lb-ft of torque. Its standard AWD system also gives it an edge in all-weather driving and off-road adventures.

Hyundai Palisade vs Ascent

The Hyundai Palisade is a favorite for its luxury features and sleek design. Yet, the Ascent matches up well with its lower MSRP of $34,395. This makes it a more affordable choice for many consumers.

Value Proposition

The Subaru Ascent’s value is a major selling point. Its starting MSRP is lower than many competitors, offering a great balance of features, performance, and price. Subaru’s reputation for durability and reliability further solidifies the Ascent as a wise choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Subaru Ascent’s AWD, turbocharged engine, and feature-rich design make it a standout in the midsize SUV market. While rivals have their strengths, the Ascent’s value and all-weather capabilities give it a clear edge for many buyers.

Technology and Entertainment Systems

The 2024 Subaru Ascent SUV comes with advanced technology and entertainment features. These enhance the driving experience for both the driver and passengers. At its core, the Ascent’s tech includes an improved infotainment system. This system offers easier menu navigation and more responsive voice commands.

Every trim level of the Ascent supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. This allows users to access their favorite apps, music, and navigation services directly from the vehicle’s display. Higher trim levels offer larger touchscreens, built-in navigation, and premium sound systems.

The Touring trim takes the technology experience to the next level. It features an 11.6-inch infotainment display and a premium Harman Kardon audio system. This delivers a truly immersive entertainment experience. The Ascent also includes a rearview camera, a 360-degree camera system, and advanced safety features through Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology.

FeatureDescription
Infotainment System6.5-inch high-resolution touchscreen display with STARLINK™ Multimedia PLUS system
Audio SystemHarman Kardon® QuantumLogic™ Surround Sound audio system with 14 speakers
ConnectivityApple CarPlay™, Android Auto™, Pandora®, Aha™, SiriusXM® All Access Satellite Radio, iHeartRadio®, Yelp®, Magellan® navigation, HD Radio®, and SiriusXM Travel Link®
Safety FeaturesEyeSight® driver-assist technology including Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking, Lane Departure and Sway Warning, and more
Comfort Features10-way power adjustable driver’s seat, tri-zone automatic digital climate control, Power Rear Gate

The 2024 Subaru Ascent offers a wide range of Subaru Ascent technology, Subaru infotainment, and Subaru SUV features. These cater to the needs of modern families and adventure-seekers alike. Whether you’re looking to stay connected, entertained, or safe on the road, the Ascent has you covered.

To conclude

The 2024 Subaru Ascent stands out as a well-rounded family SUV, meeting the needs of today’s American families. It boasts a spacious interior, capable performance, and a strong safety focus. This makes it a practical and comfortable choice in the competitive three-row SUV market. Although it may lack in sportiness, its value, especially with standard all-wheel drive, makes it a strong contender for those seeking dependability and versatility.

The Ascent offers ample cargo space and impressive towing capabilities, fulfilling the key needs of a family vehicle. Its fuel economy, while not the highest, is still commendable and likely to satisfy many buyers. The interior’s refinement and advanced technology features also elevate the driving experience, meeting the expectations of today’s drivers.

In summary, the 2024 Subaru Ascent review, verdict, and recommendation highlight its strengths as a practical, safe, and valuable three-row SUV. It may not lead in sportiness or fuel efficiency, but its capabilities make it a reliable choice for families. It is designed to meet everyday needs with a focus on dependability and performance.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *