Subaru is one of the most recognizable car brands, but Americans tend to associate it with its most well-known products – the Outback and Forester SUVs. The top of the Subaru lineup, the Ascent, is less well-known.
But the 2023 Subaru Ascent is an outstanding choice for many drivers. The only 3-row Subaru, it gives shoppers access to the brand’s well-known all-wheel-drive (AWD) system and outdoorsy charm, plus the ability to carry seven (and in some trims, eight) passengers.
The Ascent starts at $33,895, which gets shoppers a 260-horsepower turbocharged engine, a nice list of standard technology features, and the security of knowing they’re driving a winner of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s highest award, the Top Safety Pick+ designation.
Subaru has won our Most Trusted Brand award for eight consecutive years.
But it’s possible to equip an Ascent to threaten the luxury classes. The highest trim level in the Ascent stable, the Touring edition, is configured to seat seven and boasts a pair of second-row captain’s chairs. It’s an outstanding choice with a long list of amenities, some exclusive to this top-of-the-line trim.
The Ascent Touring starts at $48,195. And, while dealers offer a few accessories like cargo nets and pet ramps, Subaru doesn’t offer any options packages for this trim because the Ascent Touring has every feature the brand can build.
Let’s explore what that means.
Nappa Leather Upholstery
Ascent models are available upholstered in stain-resistant cloth, Subaru’s water-repellant StarTex faux leather material, and leather.
The Ascent Touring, though, gets a finer grade of leather. Nappa leather has been through a more complex tanning process than ordinary hides. It’s softer, more supple, and wears less over time. We see it often on luxury cars. It’s standard in the Ascent Touring.
Comfortable Heated and Ventilated Seats
The driver and front passenger in the Ascent are treated to a set of luxurious seats. The driver’s seat is power adjustable in 12 ways. It includes four power lumbar support settings. The passenger also gets power adjustments (four for them), and both front-row occupants get heated and ventilated seats.
The second-row seats are also heated. If you’re looking at an Ascent because you want all-wheel drive for snowy days, that added warmth is a real plus. The steering wheel is heated, too, saving the driver from waiting for the heater to warm up to defrost their hands.
Advanced Infotainment Technology
Every Subaru Ascent comes with a big, attractive 11.6-inch central touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. In the Touring model, it includes navigation with traffic updates. It also accepts voice commands, so you can set navigation points, change music, and alter climate settings without taking your hands off the wheel.
Most Ascents get a standard 6-speaker audio system. But the Touring comes with a 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system with a 792-watt GreenEdge amplifier.
Speaking of audio, the best tech feature in the Ascent Touring might be the ability to hear your passengers. It comes standard with Subaru’s Cabin Connect intercom system, which makes conversing between the front and third rows easier.
Power Tilt/Sliding Panoramic Moonroof
The Ascent Touring’s cabin feels light and airy thanks to a massive 54 inches of overhead glass. The power tilt/sliding moonroof filters out 95% of UV light when closed and lets in fresh air with minimal wind noise when open.
360-Degree Surround View Monitor
Parking and low-speed maneuvering are easier with the 360-degree surround view monitor, which shows you an overhead view of the car and its surroundings alongside the usual backup camera view.
More Subaru Ascent
Read our full review or build and price your own Subaru Ascent. If you’re ready to take some action, check out the Subaru Ascent models for sale near you.
