2020 Subaru Ascent

How Much Does the Subaru Ascent Cost

Prices for the Ascent start at around $32,000 and top out near 

$45,000. See our Which Subaru Ascent Model Is Right for Me? 

section below for full details on pricing, standard features, trim 

levels, and options.

2020 Subaru Ascent

2020 Subaru Ascent Interior

How Many People Does the Ascent Seat

The Ascent is a three-row midsize SUV that can seat eight (with 

the standard second-row bench seat) or seven (with the optional 

second-row captain's chairs). Overall passenger volume is 

generous, and though it isn't class-leading, the third row is easily 

accessible and comfortable enough for adults to sit on for brief 

trips. The driver's seat conforms to a wide range of sizes and 

provides good support and a relatively clear view.

Ascent and Child Car Seats

In the second row, the Ascent has two complete sets of LATCH car-

seat connectors for the outboard seats, as well as a tether anchor 

and one dedicated lower anchor for the middle seat. There is also 

one complete set of LATCH connectors for the driver's-side third-

row seat.

The Ascent's LATCH system is relatively easy to use. All 

hardware is clearly marked, and it doesn't take much effort to 

connect a car seat to the lower anchors.

Ascent Interior Quality

The Ascent is well-built, and its materials are of good quality. The 

interior colors and styling are modest, and though the cabin isn't 

lavish, reviewers say it feels welcoming.

Ascent Cargo Space

The Ascent has an above-average amount of cargo space, with 

17.8 cubic feet behind the rearmost seat, 47.5 cubic feet with the 

third row folded down, and up to 86.5 cubic feet with all rear seats 

folded down. A convenient cubby is tucked into the cargo floor, 

and a height-adjustable power lift gate is available.

Ascent Infotainment, Bluetooth, and Navigation

There's virtually no hunting and pecking when it comes to the 

Ascent’s climate and audio controls. The infotainment system is 

user-friendly, and its accompanying buttons are simple and 

straightforward. The Ascent has multiple USB ports, along with 

effortless smartphone integration via standard Apple Car Play and 

Android Auto.

Optional tech upgrades include navigation, a premium Harman 

Kardon sound system, and an up level infotainment system that 

increases the touch screen size from 6.5 to 8 inches.

For more information, read What Is Apple Car Play? and What Is Android Auto?

2020 Subaru Ascent Performance

Ascent Engine: Pint-Sized but Peppy

The Ascent comes with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder 

engine and a continuously variable automatic transmission. 

Though its engine is smaller than what lies under the hood of the 

average midsize SUV, it provides plenty of oomph. This engine is 

rated at 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. The power 

train occasionally lags or sounds raspy, but few drivers will be 

bothered by these minor drawbacks.

Ascent Gas Mileage: Above Average

The Ascent gets better fuel economy than the average midsize 

SUV, earning 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. This 

is especially remarkable because it's outfitted only with all-wheel 

drive, while most class rivals come standard with front-wheel 

drive. The added weight of AWD systems typically has a negative 

impact on gas mileage.

2020 Subaru Ascent: Balanced and Smooth

This eight-seat SUV doesn't handle like a large, hulking vehicle. 

Instead, the Ascent is nimble and composed, though not 

necessarily athletic. It has strong brakes, responsive steering, and a 

comfortable ride.

2020 Subaru Ascent Off-Road Performance

The Ascent comes with Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive. This 

is unusual for a midsize SUV, as most come standard with front-

wheel drive. With 8.7 inches of ground clearance and the AWD-

enhanced X-Mode system, the Ascent competently traverses steep 

grades and slippery terrain. All trim levels feature hill descent 

control, which manages the SUV's speed on downhill slopes.

Ascent Towing Capacity

The base trim of this midsize SUV can tow up to 2,000 pounds, 

while all up level trims have a 5,000-pound towing capacity. That's 

typical for the class.

Ascent Reliability

Is the Subaru Ascent Reliable?

The 2020 Ascent does not yet have a predicted reliability rating 

from J.D. Power. The nearly identical 2019 Ascent has a slightly 

above-average rating of 3.5 out of five.

Subaru Ascent Warranty

Subaru covers this SUV with a three-year/36,000-mile limited 

warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile power train warranty.

How Much Does It Cost to Insure a Subaru Ascent

The cost of insuring a Subaru Ascent will depend on a variety of 

factors, including your deductible, the level of coverage that you 

want, and the type of insurance that you choose. Your age, gender, 

location, credit score, and driving record can also have an impact 

on your insurance rates. Check out our car insurance guide to find 

the best policy for you.

2020 Subaru Ascent Safety

2020 Subaru Ascent Crash Test Results

At the time of writing, neither the Insurance Institute for Highway 

Safety nor the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has 

crash tested the 2020 Subaru Ascent.

The IIHS named the nearly identical 2019 Ascent a Top Safety 

Pick+, the organization’s highest honor. The Ascent earned a top 

rating of Good in all six crash tests. Models equipped with LED 

projector headlights received a Good rating for how well they 

illuminate the road ahead, while models with halogen headlights 

received the lowest rating of Poor. Thanks to Subaru's standard 

Eye Sight safety suite, the Ascent earned a top rating of Superior 

for front crash prevention.

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