Auto Guide
2023 Subaru Ascent
Used

Review and specifications

2023 Subaru Ascent

The Ascent is a very functional, easy-to-live-with three-row SUV. Its turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers ample power in daily driving and gets 22 mpg overall. The jumpy initial takeoff takes some getting used to, however. The Ascent's plush ride is steady and controlled, and the suspension does an excellent job mopping up bumps. Handling agility is not an Ascent strength; the steering is vague and the body leans noticeably when pushed through corners, but it proved to be ultimately secure at its handling limits. The cabin is quiet, and the second-row captain's chairs are roomy and comfortable. Even the third row is usable for shorter trips. Controls are very straightforward. AEB with pedestrian detection and AEB highway are standard, but BSW and RCTW are optional. For 2025, BSW, RCTW, and reverse AEB became standard. The Base trim was dropped and new Bronze Edition and Onyx Edition Touring trims were added.

Market value
$29,125
Fuel
Conventional
Transmission
Automatic
Seats
7
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Model year 2023
Owner rating 4/5
Reliability 2/5
Data updated December 4, 2025

At a glance

Model data

Overview

Powertrain
Conventional
Body style
4-door SUV
Drive type
AWD
Transmission
CVT
Category
Midsized SUVs 3-row
Generation began
2019

Pricing

Current retail median
$29,125
Retail value range
$23,725 - $31,175
Original MSRP range
$33,895 - $48,195
Trade-in range
$22,070 - $29,910

Ratings

Road test score
92/100
Owner satisfaction
4/5
Would buy again
64%
Reliability
2/5

Fuel economy

EPA city
19 MPG
EPA highway
25 MPG
EPA combined
21 MPG
Tested city
14 MPG
Tested highway
32 MPG
Tested overall
22 MPG
Annual fuel cost
$1,780
Cruising range
420 miles

Road tests

0-30 mph
3.3 sec
0-60 mph
8 sec
60-0 mph braking
129 ft
Avoidance speed
52 mph
Test status
Test Completed

Dimensions

Length
197 in
Width
76 in
Height
72 in
Wheelbase
114 in
Weight
4,550 lb
Maximum load
1,160 lb
Towing capacity
5,000 lb

Interior

Seating
7 people
Front head room
5.5 in
Front leg room
43.5 in
Rear head room
3.5 in
Rear leg room
29 in
Cargo volume
40.5 cu ft

Owner feedback

Comfort
4/5
Driving
4/5
Styling
4/5
Value
2/5

Environmental impact

Air pollution score
5/10
Greenhouse gas score
4/10
SmartWay
No

Brand context

About Subaru

Subaru is known for no-nonsense SUVs with standard full-time all-wheel drive. Its cars frequently rank near the top of Consumer Reports’ Owner Satisfaction and reliability ratings, making some used Subarus a good choice. Along with all-wheel drive, Subarus are known for using a “boxer” style four-cylinder engine with opposing pistons that move horizontally. The design reduces vibration and gives the vehicle a low center of gravity. No Subaru would be considered luxurious, but most have options like heated seats and leather upholstery. Unfortunately, blind spot warning (BSW) and rear cross traffic warning (RCTW) are often optional, so buyers must pay extra for important safety features. Subaru hasn’t offered a hybrid since the plug-in hybrid Crosstrek was discontinued in 2024. The Solterra, a pure EV based on the Toyota bZ4x, charges slowly and has short range. Popular sports cars like the WRX and BR-Z show the brand’s wilder side.

Vehicle ID: 24846 First published: November 15, 2022 Updated: December 4, 2025

Values may vary by trim, options, location, and market conditions.

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