Subaru Ascent Frequently Asked Questions
Subaru Ascent Frequently Asked Questions
With three rows of seating, turbocharged performance, standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and plenty of room for passengers and cargo, the Subaru Ascent gives families the space of a larger SUV while retaining the versatility and all-weather capability associated with the Subaru lineup. Its standard turbocharged engine and generous ground clearance also provide useful capability for Wisconsin driving.
If you're considering a new Subaru Ascent for your family, take a moment to review some answers to common questions.
How many people can the Subaru Ascent seat?
The Subaru Ascent offers seating for seven or eight passengers across three rows. Eight-passenger configurations use a second-row bench seat, while seven-passenger models replace the bench with two individual captain's chairs, providing easier access to the rear seats and a more open cabin feel.
Is the Subaru Ascent good for families?
Absolutely. Beyond its three-row seating, the Ascent includes features that make it well-suited to family travel, including tri-zone climate control and air vents for all three rows. It also has a few attributes that are nice to have but you might not initially think about, including 19 cup and bottle holders and USB ports throughout the cabin.
The Ascent also comes standard with equipment you'll appreciate during winter Wisconsin driving in Sun Prairie or Verona, including heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance.
How much cargo space does the Subaru Ascent have?
The Ascent provides nearly 18 cubic feet with all seats upright and up to 43.5 cubic feet with the third row folded. When your Madison errands or outings require more storage, you can fold all rear seats to reveal 75.6 cubic feet in the Premium trim and 72.8 cubic feet in configurations with the available moonroof. There's also an underfloor storage compartment for smaller items you'd prefer to keep separated from the main cargo area.
What safety features come standard in the Subaru Ascent?
Every Subaru Ascent includes EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology. Its features include Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering, Pre-Collision Braking, Lane Departure and Sway Warning, and Automatic Emergency Steering.
Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Reverse Automatic Braking are also standard, while the DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation System and a 360-degree Surround View Monitor are included in select trims.
How much can the Subaru Ascent tow?
Powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® engine (260 horsepower, 277 pound-feet of torque), the Subaru Ascent can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. That's enough for many campers, boats, utility trailers, and other recreational equipment.
How does the Subaru Ascent compare to the Honda Pilot and Toyota Grand Highlander?
All three models are midsize three-row SUVs with seating for up to eight passengers and maximum available towing capacities of 5,000 pounds. The Honda Pilot and Toyota Grand Highlander provide more maximum cargo volume, while the Ascent distinguishes itself with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and 8.7 inches of ground clearance. It also starts below the current base prices of the Honda Pilot and Toyota Grand Highlander, without needing to pay extra for AWD.
What's new for the 2027 Subaru Ascent?
The Ascent receives only minor updates for 2027, including additional USB-C charging ports for rear passengers and a new Ascent-exclusive Deepwater Blue Pearl color option.
Test-Drive a New Subaru Ascent in Madison, WI
Reach out to Don Miller Subaru East for more information about the latest Subaru SUVs, including their available trims and options, as well as current financing and leasing opportunities.
If you're a current Subaru owner, be sure to check out the Subaru Trade Up Advantage Program to see how you can get into a brand-new Subaru for less than you might expect. If you'd like a closer look at any of the Subaru Ascent models in our new vehicle inventory, we welcome you to visit us in Madison, WI, for a test drive. It will be our pleasure to assist you.






