Is the 2026 Subaru Ascent Worth the Price Hike?
Subaru’s latest Ascent rolls into showrooms this fall, and it’s already turning heads—though not all for the reasons you might expect. With a starting MSRP of $40,795, the 2026 Ascent is $800 pricier than last year’s entry model. That’s a noticeable jump, especially in a year when Ascent sales have already dropped 23.2% in the first half. So, what’s Subaru offering for the extra cash, and does it move the needle for families shopping three-row SUVs?
What’s Actually New for 2026?
Let’s cut to the chase: the 2026 Ascent isn’t a full redesign. Subaru’s playing it safe as the model nears the end of its current generation. The biggest shakeup? The Onyx Edition is gone from the standard lineup, but its spirit lives on in the Ascent Premium, which now borrows some of its bolder styling cues—think black mirror caps, black accents, and 18-inch wheels with a black finish. Inside, Subaru swaps out the traditional cloth seats for water-resistant StarTex upholstery, a practical touch for parents and pet owners alike.
If you’re eyeing the top-tier Touring trim, expect a subtle refresh with new matte woodgrain trim. Subaru hasn’t released photos yet, but the update is meant to give the cabin a more upscale vibe. And for those who care about color, Sapphire Blue Pearl replaces the outgoing Cosmic Blue Pearl, keeping the palette fresh.
How Does the Ascent Stack Up on Features?
Despite the modest updates, the Ascent comes well-equipped. Even the base Premium trim includes a power liftgate, 18-inch alloy wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats, and an eight-way power driver’s seat. Tech-wise, you get an 11.6-inch infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, plus tri-zone climate control—handy for keeping everyone comfortable on long drives.
Safety remains a Subaru hallmark. The 2026 Ascent packs in adaptive cruise control, lane centering, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot detection with lane change assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. These features aren’t just marketing fluff; the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has consistently rated the Ascent highly for crash protection and active safety tech.
What’s Under the Hood—And Is It Enough?
Every 2026 Ascent gets the same turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru’s signature all-wheel drive. While that’s plenty for daily driving and the occasional road trip, don’t expect sports-car thrills. The Ascent’s powertrain is tuned for smoothness and efficiency, not raw speed.
For families who tow, the Ascent’s 5,000-pound towing capacity is competitive in its class. Real-world fuel economy hovers around 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, according to EPA estimates. Not stellar, but respectable for a three-row SUV with standard AWD.
How Does Pricing Compare to Rivals?
Here’s where things get interesting. The Ascent Premium starts at $40,795 before destination fees ($42,245 with them), while the top Onyx Edition Touring comes in at $51,995 ($53,445 with destination). That’s a slight price drop for the Onyx Edition Touring, which now costs $55 less than last year—even as the destination fee creeps up to $1,450.
Compared to rivals like the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Kia Telluride, the Ascent sits in the middle of the pack on pricing. The Telluride, for example, starts around $37,000 but can quickly climb past $50,000 with options. Subaru’s value proposition hinges on its standard AWD and safety features, which aren’t always included on base models from competitors.
Is the 2026 Ascent Enough to Reverse Falling Sales?
That’s the million-dollar question. Subaru’s decision to stick with minor updates suggests they’re biding time until a full redesign. The Ascent’s sales slump—down over 23% this year—reflects stiff competition and perhaps a bit of buyer fatigue with the current design. The tweaks for 2026 are thoughtful but incremental. For loyal Subaru fans, the Ascent’s blend of safety, practicality, and standard AWD still holds appeal. But for shoppers looking for something truly new, it might not be enough to lure them away from fresher rivals.
Which Trim Should You Choose?
If you’re set on the Ascent, the Premium trim offers the best balance of features and price. The new StarTex upholstery is a smart upgrade for active families, and the standard tech and safety gear are hard to beat. If you crave a bit more luxury, the Touring models add niceties like upgraded trim and more creature comforts, but you’ll pay for the privilege.
The big takeaway? The 2026 Subaru Ascent isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week—maybe test drive the new Premium trim—and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.