​​2026 Subaru Ascent Wraps All the Good Subaru Values in a Larger Package​ 

The Subaru Ascent isn’t the fastest 3-row in its class, nor is it the largest. But it is, quite obviously, the Subaru among 3-row SUVs. That means it has all the common-sense, practical engineering found in the Outback, Forester, and Crosstrek, in a larger form that can carry seven people. Twin Falls Subaru explains what that means to you. 

The Ascent was designed as a vehicle for Outback and Forester owners to move up as their family grows and they need more space. The standard engine is the same one in the Outback XT, a 2.4-liter horizontally opposed, or “flat”-4, that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, the latter peaking at a low 2000 rpm. It is connected to a continuously variable transmission, and power is sent to all four wheels through Subaru’s Symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. It is no drag racer, with a 0-60 time of 6.8 seconds, but that is not what one looks for in a vehicle carrying 7 or 8 people. It is enough to get around town and cruise on the freeway with no fuss.  

EPA-estimated fuel economy is 25 city / 19 highway / 21 combined. Car and Driver achieved 28 mpg on its standard route, which not only exceeded its rating but also outperformed models like the Honda Pilot, Mazda CX-90, and Kia Telluride on the same route.  

In addition to the flat engine and standard AWD, the Ascent contains several other things expected of a Subaru.  It starts with the off-pavement confidence of 8.7 inches of ground clearance and the X-mode system to help tackle slick or tricky surfaces.  Subaru’s reputation for safety is present with the EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology as standard on all models, which includes: 

• Adaptive Cruise Control 

• Lane centering 

• Lane Departure Warning 

• Lane Keep Assist 

• Pre-Collision Braking 

• Automatic Emergency Assist 

Additional standard safety features include: 

• Blind-spot detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert 

• Reverse Automatic Braking 

• Vehicle Dynamics Control, including Trailer Sway Assist for towing 

• The expected array of airbags, ABS, and other safety features

Another Subaru trait, the Ascent has an overall 5-star rating from the NHTSA and is a TOP SAFETY PICK from the IIHS.  And, of course, Subaru was rated Consumer Reports’ most reliable brand. 

Up front, the seats are comfortable, and the driver gets standard 8-way power adjustment. The second row can be a three-across bench. However, if maximizing seating capacity isn’t a priority, Captain’s chairs are a no-cost option and essentially mimic the front seats in design and manual adjustability. The third row seats three, though adults will likely prefer to sit two across. Another nice feature is double-pane side windows that help keep outside noise out.  

Behind the third seat is 18 cubic feet of cargo space. The third seat folds flat to provide 43.5 cubic feet, and the full cargo model with all rear seats folded yields 72.8 cubic feet. 

Perhaps the most Subaru-like aspect of the Ascent is its value, with a well-equipped standard model starting at an MSRP of $40,795, comfortably under the starting prices of the Pilot, Highlander, and others.   

 Again, there are flashier competitors, but for a model with the built-in values of how you really want to use a 3-row SUV, the Ascent has the bases covered. Visit Twin Falls Subaru to get your own look at the Subaru Ascent.