2020 Subaru Ascent review
Subaru Ascent highlights
Customer rating
RepairPal reliability rating
(data not available)
Pros
- Standard all-wheel drive and generous ground clearance
- Lots of standard tech and driver aids
- Well-built interior
Cons
- Less third-row space than some competitors
- Excessive engine and tire noise
- Overly sensitive accelerator pedal
Mileage (EPA estimate)
20 city, 26 highway, 22 combined
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
Shop with your budget in mind
The 2020 Subaru Ascent adds a third row to Subaru’s all-weather formula
Subaru SUVs have a reputation for being all-condition vehicles, with their competent standard all-wheel drive and above-average ground clearance. The 2020 Subaru Ascent adds a third row of seating to that formula, in an effort to be a more flexible option for larger families. It can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, which is average for the segment, and returns an EPA-estimated 23 mpg combined, which is slightly better than average for the class. Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories. Its strong engine also makes it one of the quicker vehicles in the segment.
On top of its four-season capability, the Ascent gets an easy-to-use infotainment system and a well-built interior. Subaru’s EyeSight™ system of advanced driver aids is also standard. The Ascent isn’t quite as roomy as competitors like the Kia Telluride or Volkswagen Atlas, especially in the third row, which is best reserved for kids. It’s also loud on the road, and the ride quality isn’t as refined as other Subaru models, like the Outback.
All Subaru Ascent years
What is new for the 2020 Subaru Ascent?
- Ascent trims have been upgraded with Full Roof Rack as standard equipment this year.
- Running Boards features are now available as options on select trims.
- The Base trim now comes with Parking Sensors and Rear Air Conditioning as standard equipment.
- The Premium trim now comes with Parking Sensors as standard equipment.
2020 Subaru Ascent trims
Base:
- 260-hp, 277-lb-ft of torque 2.4L
- Cruise Control
- Fold-Away Third Row
- Third Row Seat
- Cloth Seats
- Lane Departure Warning
- Power Mirrors
- Automated Cruise Control
- Rear Defroster
- View our Subaru Ascent inventory
Premium:
- Includes all features available on the Base
- Power Seats
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Front Seat Heaters
- View our Subaru Ascent Premium inventory
Limited:
- Includes all features available on the Premium
- Memory Seats
- Rear Sunshade
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Leather Seats
- Quad Seats
- Rear Seat Heaters
- Smart Key
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- View our Subaru Ascent Limited inventory
Touring:
- Includes all features available on the Limited
- Sunroofs
- A/C Seats
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Harman Kardon Sound
- Navigation System
- View our Subaru Ascent Touring inventory
Subaru Ascent photos
5 reasons to buy the 2020 Subaru Ascent
What We Like
All-season capability: The Ascent comes standard with all-wheel drive, which is rare, and offers enough ground clearance to compete with dedicated off-road SUVs. That gives it an edge off-road and when the weather gets harsh.
Technology: On top of its user-friendly infotainment with standard Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, the Ascent gets a lot of standard driver aids. These systems work well, and the infotainment in particular is easy to use.
Cabin materials: The Ascent’s cabin is well put together and Subaru has applied higher quality materials to a lot of surfaces. The Ascent feels ready for adventure.
What Needs Improvement
Ride quality: The Ascent’s ride can feel busy and noisy, with noise and vibration over cracks and seams in the pavement, and an engine that groans at higher RPM. Other three-row SUVs, and other Subaru models, do better.
Shop with your budget in mind
Ratings & reliability
Subaru Ascent features and specs
Base 4WD/AWD 4D Sport Utility
Standard Features
- 4WD/AWD
- ABS Brakes
- Air Conditioning
- Alloy Wheels
- AM/FM Stereo
- Android Auto
- Apple CarPlay
- Automated Cruise Control
- Automatic Transmission
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- Bluetooth Technology
- CD Audio
- Cloth Seats
- Fold-Away Third Row
- Lane Departure Warning
- Overhead Airbags
- Parking Sensors
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Windows
- Rear Air Conditioning
- Rear Defroster
- Rear View Camera
- Satellite Radio Ready
- Side Airbags
- Third Row Seat
- Traction Control
- Turbo Charged Engine
- Cloth Seats
- Full Roof Rack
- Rear Air Conditioning
- Rear Sunshade
- Remote Start
- Rockford Fosgate Sound
- Tow Hitch
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive (4WD/AWD)
Engine size
2.4L
Horsepower
260
Torque (ft-lbs)
277
Engine type
Turbo Gas
Fuel capacity
19.3
Wheelbase
113.8"
Overall length
196.8"
Width
76"
Height
71.6"
Leg room
F 42.2"/M 38.6"/R 31.7"
Head room
F 41.3"/M 40"/R 36.3"
Front tires
P245/60HR18
Rear tires
P245/60HR18
Seating capacity
8
Max towing capacity
200/2000 lbs.
Transmission
Automatic
2020 Subaru Ascent FAQ
The 2020 Subaru Ascent is available in multiple trims, each with its own estimated fuel economy, here are the EPA estimates for each trim:
- Base: 21 MPG City and 27 MPG Highway
- Premium: 21 MPG City and 27 MPG Highway
- Limited: 20 MPG City and 26 MPG Highway
- Touring: 20 MPG City and 26 MPG Highway
The 2020 Subaru Ascent has received an average 4.2 out of 5 stars from our customers. If you're in the market for a 2020 Subaru Ascent, check out reviews from customers just like you. 2020 Subaru Ascent Reviews.
The 2020 Subaru Ascent has a maximum towing capacity of between 2000 and 5000 pounds, when properly equipped. Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories.
Here is what's new for the 2020 Subaru Ascent:
- Full Roof Rack
- Running Boards
- Parking Sensors
- Rear Air Conditioning
Research other vehicles
We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
Unless otherwise noted, information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities. By clicking on any video links, you will be taken to a third-party site maintained by YouTube, Inc.
We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.