Subaru’s mid-size SUV has been around for a while and while it’s far from the most popular models in the class, it is definitely one of the best choices for those who need a capable three-row SUV. It has a lot of great things to offer, starting from the standard all-wheel drive, high ground clearance, comfortable ride, long list of standard equipment and plenty of passenger and cargo room. According to the latest reports, the 2023 Subaru Ascent will become even better.
We are saying that because the latest reports suggest an update for the next year. The 2023 Subaru Ascent is about to receive a kind of mid-cycle refresh, which would bring some styling changes for sure. Moreover, we would expect to see novelties regarding the new standard and available equipment, while minor interior tweaks are possible too. Still, the overall layout won’t change and we count on a familiar driving experience.
We expect to see the new model sometime in the second half of the year.
2023 Subaru Ascent Design
As we’ve just mentioned, the 2023 Subaru Ascent will probably receive a mid-cycle update. At this point, we don’t know the details but we presume that the Japanese manufacturer will be as conservative as it’s always been. In other words, we don’t expect to see any radial aesthetical changes, just the subtle ones. So, we could see a few revisions regarding grille and bumpers, as well as things like new color options.
On the other hand, the mechanical aspect of the vehicle should remain untouched. So, we expect to see a familiar layout, based on Subaru’s familiar modular platform. Thanks to the boxer engine, which lowers the center of gravity, the Ascent feels easy to drive, despite the ground clearance of 8.7 inches, which is higher compared to most rivals. Logically, this also makes the Ascent more capable off the road, especially if we consider the standard all-wheel drive.
Interior
This update probably won’t bring more important changes to the inside. A few revisions are always possible but most of the things will remain the same. This SUV features a pretty nice cabin design, characterized by attractive aesthetics, fine materials and very good interior quality. Furthermore, there is a long list of tech features, which makes the cabin look even nicer.
Still, the Ascent’s interior is primarily known for plenty of space and a high level of practicality. It is a three-row crossover, with typical dimensions for the class. This means that the third row is relatively tight but still can be pretty useful. The front seats are spacious and comfortable, while the second row also accommodates adults with ease.
The cargo area is pretty generous. You may count on about 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 47.5 cubic feet with the third row folded down, and 86.5 cubic feet of the total cargo volume. That’s above-average for the class.
Features
The upcoming update will certainly bring a coupe of novelties in this aspect but we are pretty sure that most of the things are about to remain the same. Simply, the current model already stands pretty well in this aspect. It comes standard with goodies like tri-zone climate control, keyless entry, a 6.5-inch touch screen, a six-speaker audio system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, Bluetooth, and four USB ports. Among upgrades, you can currently get things like an 8-inch touch screen, a 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system, navigation, a Wi-Fi hot spot, two USB ports in the third row, proximity keyless entry, remote start, push-button start, and second-row climate controls.
The same thing is with safety features. The current list of standard equipment currently includes things like a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, adaptive cruise control, lane centering, lane keep assist, automatic high beams, automatic emergency braking, pre-collision throttle management.
2023 Subaru Ascent Engine
Things under the hood definitely won’t change. The 2023 Subaru Ascent will continue with a familiar 2.4-lite turbo flat-four. It puts out around 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. That’s more than enough to ensure a convenient ride. Also, we really like the CVT, which is one of the best transmissions of this kind we’ve tried. Of course, all-wheel drive is standard.
When it comes to fuel economy, you may count on up to 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, which is very good for a mid-size SUV with all-wheel drive. The max towing capacity goes up to 5.000 pounds.
2023 Subaru Ascent Release Date and Price
Despite the updates, we don’t expect that the 2023 Subaru Ascent could arrive much earlier than usual. WE expect to see it sometime in the second half of the year, with the starting price of around 33.000 dollars. When it comes to the competition, this segment is full of excellent SUVs, while some of the class leaders are models like Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, VW Atlas etc.
