Subaru’s three-row option, the Ascent SUV, is getting a facelift for 2023. The biggest Subaru gets updated cabin technology, a new look from the front, and a starting price about $1,100 higher than last year.
No one loves to see a price tag rise, but that’s typical for the adjustments we’re seeing on updated vehicles for the 2023 model year — and Subaru buyers are a loyal group. If you love the balance and grip you get with a low-mounted boxer engine and standard symmetrical all-wheel-drive, but you need three rows of seating, the Ascent may still make sense for you.
One Big Interior Change
The base price rises to $33,895. For the added cost, you get an interior with just one new element, but it completely remakes the feel of the space.
Last year’s Ascent shipped with a 6.5-inch touchscreen as standard equipment, with the option to move up to an 8-inch for more money. This year, everyone gets a portrait-mounted 11.6-inch model. Nearly doubling the screen space thoroughly refreshes the interior.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto should also do a lot to update the experience. They are now standard, along with an available intercom system to help the driver and third-row passengers communicate. A 360-degree surround view monitor for parking assistance is an option.
New Look, Improved Safety Gear
The Ascent has a new look. Most automakers have been toning down their chrome this year, but Subaru leans into it. A more prominent grille features a thick horizontal chrome bar, and chrome-lined air intakes appear on the bumper.
Subaru has enhanced its EyeSight active safety suite, adding a wide-angle camera, updated camera software, and an electric brake booster that should help the automated emergency braking stop at shorter distances.
Models equipped with Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert now include Automatic Emergency Steering. This new safety feature works with EyeSight Pre-Collision Braking to help steer the vehicle to avoid a collision when traveling at speeds under 50 mph.
2023 Subaru Ascent Pricing:
Subaru sells the Ascent in a 7-passenger configuration with second-row captain’s chairs or an 8-passenger setup with a second-row bench seat. The company also charges a $1,225 delivery fee in 49 states and a $1,375 delivery fee in Alaska.
| Trim | MSRP |
| Ascent 8 passenger | $33,895 |
| Ascent Premium 8 passenger | $36,495 |
| Ascent Premium 8 passenger w/ Convenience Package | $37,955 |
| Ascent Premium 7 passenger | $37,955 |
| Ascent Onyx Edition 7 passenger | $41,295 |
| Ascent Limited 8 passenger | $41,595 |
| Ascent Limited 8 passenger | $45,145 |
| Ascent Limited 7 passenger | $41,595 |
| Ascent Limited 7 passenger w/ Technology Package | $45,145 |
| Ascent Onyx Edition Limited 7 passenger | $46,295 |
| Ascent Touring 7 passenger | $48,195 |
