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Subaru Ascent
SUV · Gas · 2 versions · owner report
Ranked #16 of 19 midsize SUVs on owner data, price and fuel economy
Power
Combined, EPA 2027
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide.
6 problems reported (2 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 1 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentCVT transmission reliability
Failures, recalls, whining noise, inability to handle heavy load or towing, concerns about long-term durability. Primarily affects 2019-2020 models.
- Very frequentDisappointing fuel economy
Real-world combined mileage reported around 22 MPG, which is considered poor for the class.
- RecurrentInterior build quality and materials
Interior rattles, use of hard plastics, compromises to meet price point.
+ 3 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentEarly model year (2019-2020) general reliability
Beyond the CVT, includes issues with trim pieces falling off and various other problems.
- RecurrentTurbocharged engine maintenance
Requires more diligent maintenance (premium fuel, more frequent oil changes, induction cleaning every 30k-60k miles) compared to naturally aspirated engines.
- IsolatedInfotainment system
Some complaints about the center touchscreen system, with a preference for physical HVAC controls found in competitors.
The version owners recommend
Model year 2021 or newer. Specific feedback on trims is limited, but the Limited trim is mentioned positively for its feature set. There is a very strong consensus to avoid the 2019 and 2020 model years due to widespread transmission and other early-production issues. The Touring trim is mentioned but also associated with early problems.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Toyota Sienna, Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer and Hyundai Santa Fe (including Hybrid).
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Overall sentiment
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide. The vehicle is widely praised for its safety, all-weather capability with standard symmetrical all-wheel drive, spacious and usable third row, strong towing capacity for the class, and car-like handling. The turbocharged 2.4L FA24 engine is frequently noted for being robust and providing good power. However, significant and very frequent criticism is directed at the continuously variable transmission (CVT), particularly in early model years (2019-2020, and some early 2021 models), with reports of failures, recalls, a pronounced whine, and general unreliability, especially under load or when towing. Fuel economy is consistently cited as a disappointment, with real-world figures around 22 MPG combined falling short of expectations. Interior quality, while functional, is noted to have compromises in material choice and occasional rattles. Owner satisfaction appears heavily dependent on model year, with later models (2021+) perceived as more reliable, and on whether the vehicle's core strengths align with the buyer's needs for space and AWD.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a three-row SUV prioritizing standard symmetrical AWD, safety, and driving dynamics over maximum interior luxury or fuel efficiency. Frequently compared unfavorably to minivans like the Toyota Sienna for cargo space, fuel economy, and family practicality, but favored for its more conventional SUV styling and superior ground clearance. Against mainstream rivals like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, the Ascent is often seen as the more engaging driver's choice with a superior AWD system, but is criticized for its CVT versus traditional automatics and lower perceived reliability in early years. Compared to Korean offerings (Telluride, Palisade), it is viewed as having a more utilitarian interior and less technology but potentially better long-term drivetrain durability (post-2020). The value proposition is strongest for buyers in snowy climates or those who prioritize the Subaru AWD system above all else.
Recommended configurations
Symmetrical AWD is standard. An extended warranty (Subaru Added Security Gold Plus) is very frequently recommended due to concerns over CVT reliability. Premium fuel (91+ octane) is suggested for turbo models despite the ability to run on regular, and more frequent oil changes (every 5,000 miles vs. the manual's 6,000) are advised. Upgrading to higher-quality tires and brakes at replacement time is recommended. For those modifying the vehicle, specific aftermarket end-links are suggested when upgrading sway bars to prevent interference.
General recommendations
Highly recommended for families in snowy or mountainous regions who need three-row seating and prioritize all-weather security and safety. Suitable for those who value driving engagement in a large vehicle. NOT recommended for buyers who prioritize fuel economy, maximum cargo space (where a minivan is superior), or low long-term maintenance costs. Strongly advised to avoid 2019 and early 2020 models. For any model year, a thorough pre-purchase inspection and review of service history is critical. Purchasing a genuine Subaru extended warranty is considered a prudent investment by many owners. Test drive should include highway merging and, if possible, a route that stresses the transmission to assess for whine or lag.
Remarks
The owner feedback reveals a stark reliability dichotomy between the initial launch years (2019-2020) and refreshed models (2021+). The problematic TR690 CVT in early Ascents has been the subject of recalls and technical service bulletins, severely impacting the model's reputation. The FA24 turbo engine, shared with other Subaru models like the WRX, is generally well-regarded for its strength but necessitates a more stringent and potentially costly maintenance regimen to prevent issues like carbon buildup on intake valves. The vehicle's value is almost entirely derived from its standard AWD system and safety; for buyers who do not need these specific attributes, competitors often offer better fuel economy, more spacious interiors, or more reliable transmissions. Analysis based on approximately 40 substantive owner discussions and comparisons.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2019. Years to avoid: 2020, 2019Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Subaru Ascent years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 1 | 1 | service brakes |
| 2025 | 15 | 1 | steering |
| 2024 | 50 | 1 | visibility |
| 2023 | 45 | 4 | service brakes |
| 2022 | 55 | 2 | power train |
| 2021 | 102 | 2 | power train |
| 2020 | 322 | 5 | electrical system |
| 2019 | 441 | 9 | electrical system |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices25 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2026 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 26V436000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid, 2025-2026 Forester Hybrid, Forester, and 2019-2026 Ascent vehicles. These vehicles were manufactured with an incorrect Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) on the certification label. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 110, "Tire selection and rims."
2025 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 26V436000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid, 2025-2026 Forester Hybrid, Forester, and 2019-2026 Ascent vehicles. These vehicles were manufactured with an incorrect Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) on the certification label. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 110, "Tire selection and rims."
2024 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 26V436000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid, 2025-2026 Forester Hybrid, Forester, and 2019-2026 Ascent vehicles. These vehicles were manufactured with an incorrect Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) on the certification label. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 110, "Tire selection and rims."
2023 · tirescampaign 23V258000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2023 Ascent vehicles equipped with 20-inch wheels. The internal tire bead may have been damaged during the wheel mounting process.
2023 · suspension:front:control arm:lower armcampaign 23V392000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2023 Ascent vehicles. The left or right front lower control arm may have an improperly tightened ball joint castle nut which can result in retention pin failure and separation of the ball joint from the lower control arm.
2023 · power train:driveline:driveshaftcampaign 23V647000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2023 Outback, Legacy, Ascent, and Impreza vehicles. The center support bolts for the driveshaft may loosen, resulting in the disconnection of the front end of the driveshaft.
2023 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 26V436000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid, 2025-2026 Forester Hybrid, Forester, and 2019-2026 Ascent vehicles. These vehicles were manufactured with an incorrect Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) on the certification label. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 110, "Tire selection and rims."
2022 · electrical system:wiring:interior/under dashcampaign 22V907000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Ascent vehicles. The ground bolt that secures the ground terminal of the Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heater may have been improperly fastened, which could result in melting of the ground terminal and surrounding components.
2022 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 26V436000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid, 2025-2026 Forester Hybrid, Forester, and 2019-2026 Ascent vehicles. These vehicles were manufactured with an incorrect Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) on the certification label. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 110, "Tire selection and rims."
2021 · electrical system:wiring:interior/under dashcampaign 22V907000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Ascent vehicles. The ground bolt that secures the ground terminal of the Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heater may have been improperly fastened, which could result in melting of the ground terminal and surrounding components.
2021 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 26V436000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid, 2025-2026 Forester Hybrid, Forester, and 2019-2026 Ascent vehicles. These vehicles were manufactured with an incorrect Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) on the certification label. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 110, "Tire selection and rims."
2020 · power train:automatic transmission:control module (tcm/pcm/tecm)campaign 21V955000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2020 Legacy and Outback vehicles. A programming error in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) may allow the clutch to engage before the drive chain is completely clamped.
2020 · steering:linkages:tie rod assemblycampaign 21V954000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020 Ascent vehicles. Due to an incorrect tapered hole in the housing, the front tie rod ends may not fit properly. The improper fit can result in the tie rods and housings being deformed during assembly and service replacement if excessive torque is applied.
2020 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 21V587000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
2020 · electrical system:wiring:interior/under dashcampaign 22V907000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Ascent vehicles. The ground bolt that secures the ground terminal of the Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heater may have been improperly fastened, which could result in melting of the ground terminal and surrounding components.
10 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
2.4 Lineartronic
2.4L 4-cylinder · 260 hp · AWD · automatic (CVT)
Built 2023–2026