What Is the 2023 Subaru Ascent?
The 2023 Subaru Ascent is a mid-size SUV with three rows of seats, standard all-wheel drive and a 260-horsepower, turbocharged four-cylinder engine coupled with a continuously variable automatic transmission. Having all-wheel drive on every trim gives the Ascent an edge over rivals like the Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander.
What’s New on the 2023 Subaru Ascent?
For the 2023 model year, the Subaru Ascent gets a subtle exterior-styling makeover, improved active-safety features (including a more advanced adaptive cruise control system), and that larger touchscreen to replace the previous 6.5- and 8-inch screens. Also, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are newly standard.
What Features in the 2023 Subaru Ascent Are Most Important?
Standard features include:
- 11.6-inch touchscreen multimedia system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Second-row bench
- Satellite radio
- Four USB ports
- Rear-seat reminder
- Tri-zone climate control
- Adaptive cruise control
- LED headlights
- Automatic high-beam headlights
Available features include:
- Blind spot warning
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Rear automatic braking
- Rear privacy glass
- Power liftgate
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Heated front seats
- Leather upholstery
- Panoramic moonroof
- Navigation
Should I Buy the 2023 Subaru Ascent?
The good news for SUV shoppers is that competition is fierce among mid-size models with three rows of seating. Standard AWD certainly boosts the Ascent’s appeal, and its price is also lower than many direct competitors (we’re looking at you, Honda Pilot and Jeep Grand Cherokee L). The third row remains snug and is best for kids, however, and performance from the Ascent’s turbo four-cylinder is underwhelming — the turbo four-cylinder lacks verve when you need quick acceleration. In the plus column, the Ascent comes with many active-safety features, records excellent scores in crash tests and features a standard 11.6-inch touchscreen. While the slightly more aggressive exterior look is welcome, the fitment of the new larger standard touchscreen is the most noteworthy addition to Subaru’s largest sport ute for 2023.
