The Good
The 2024 Ascent offers confident performance with its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and turbocharged Boxer engine, appealing to practical buyers needing all-weather capability. Its excellent safety ratings and spacious, comfortable interior provide peace of mind and family-friendly utility. Emotionally, the Ascent delivers a rugged yet refined design and strong resale value, reinforcing Subaru's reputation for dependable, adventurous vehicles.
The Bad
While generally reliable, some owners note the 2.4L engine, though adequate, isn't overly potent for a three-row SUV, especially when fully loaded. Fuel economy is average for its class, not outstanding. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) can feel less engaging than traditional automatics, and while improved, infotainment responsiveness has been a past complaint.
2024 Subaru Ascent: Quick Overview
- Engine: 2.4-liter Turbocharged Subaru Boxer 4-cylinder.
- Horsepower: 260 hp @ 5,600 rpm.
- Torque: 277 lb-ft @ 2,000-4,800 rpm.
- Fuel Economy:
• Base, Premium, Onyx Edition, Onyx Edition Limited: 20 MPG City / 26 MPG Highway / 22 MPG Combined.
• Limited, Touring: 19 MPG City / 27 MPG Highway / 22 MPG Combined (due to slightly different curb weight/tire options). - 0-60 MPH: Approximately 6.9-7.0 seconds.
- Towing Capacity:
• Base trim: 2,000 lbs.
• Premium, Onyx Edition, Onyx Edition Limited, Limited, Touring trims: 5,000 lbs (when properly equipped). - Key Trim-Level Features:
• Base: Standard Symmetrical AWD, EyeSight Driver Assist, 11.6-inch STARLINK multimedia, tri-zone climate control.
• Premium: Adds 5,000-lb towing capacity, blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, power driver's seat, heated front seats, second-row climate controls.
• Onyx Edition: Builds on Premium with exclusive black exterior accents, unique 20-inch wheels, StarTex water-repellent upholstery, power rear gate, reverse automatic braking.
• Onyx Edition Limited: Enhances Onyx with heated steering wheel, power passenger seat, Cabin Connect, second-row sunshades, panoramic moonroof, navigation, Harman Kardon audio.
• Limited: Replaces Onyx aesthetic with leather upholstery, 20-inch alloy wheels, heated second-row seats, driver-seat memory, LED fog lights, navigation.
• Touring: Top-tier trim featuring ventilated front seats, Nappa leather, Surround View Monitor, Smart Rear-View Mirror, ambient lighting, and exclusive dark chrome accents.
2024 Subaru Ascent Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2024 |
| Make | Subaru |
| Model | Ascent |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | LAFAYETTE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 6000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | 7 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.4-L L-4 DOHC 16V |
| Engine Size | 2.4L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | Continuously Variable Transmission |
| Transmission Type | CVT CVT |
| Transmission Speeds | Continuously Variable |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Standard |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2024 Subaru Ascent Have?
Another notable concern for 2019-2020 models was a fuel pump recall, which could lead to engine stalling. Owners should ensure this recall was addressed if considering a used Ascent from these years. While not widespread, some owners across various model years have reported instances of windshield cracking, occasionally attributed to stress rather than direct impact, though this remains an infrequent and often debated issue. Battery drain concerns were also occasionally reported in earlier models, though less common in newer iterations.
The Ascent's continuously variable transmission (CVT) has been a point of contention for some, with a few reports of issues in earlier models. However, Subaru has continually refined its CVTs, and the vast majority perform reliably. Compared to Subaru's historically bulletproof reputation, the Ascent had a slightly bumpier start with initial quality reports, but significant improvements have been made, especially for the 2023+ models. Long-term reliability concerns typically revolve around proper maintenance of the Boxer engine, particularly regular oil changes, and the lifespan of the CVT fluid.
How long will the 2024 Subaru Ascent last?
Key to this longevity are diligent maintenance habits, especially regular oil changes for the turbocharged Boxer engine and timely CVT fluid service as per manufacturer recommendations. Over time, potential weaknesses might include the eventual wear of suspension components, possible aging of infotainment hardware, or minor electrical issues, common in any vehicle. While modern Boxer engines are improved, historical Subaru concerns like head gasket issues are less prevalent but worth noting for very high mileage older models. The Ascent is built to last with proper care.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance is a major highlight, with Subaru's renowned EyeSight Driver Assist Technology coming standard on all models. This system includes Pre-Collision Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering, Lane Keep Assist, and Sway Warning. EyeSight received significant enhancements for the 2023 model year, improving its effectiveness. Additional standard features across most trims include Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. Available advanced features include Reverse Automatic Braking (standard on Premium and up), a Surround View Monitor (Touring only) offering a 360-degree bird's-eye view, and a Smart Rear-View Mirror (Touring only) that uses a camera feed for an unobstructed view.
Safety is paramount, with the Ascent featuring eight airbags, a high-strength steel frame, and Subaru's advanced crumple zones. The 2024 Ascent is expected to maintain its excellent crash-test ratings, mirroring previous model years. The 2023 Ascent earned a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), ratings which are anticipated to carry over to the virtually identical 2024 model, underscoring its commitment to passenger protection.
What Colors Options are Available?
2024 Subaru Ascent Prices and Market Value
Subaru vehicles, including the Ascent, generally exhibit strong resale value and slower depreciation compared to many competitors. This is largely due to the brand's reputation for reliability, standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and high safety ratings, which appeal to a broad buyer base. Factors affecting resale value include trim level (higher trims tend to depreciate more in absolute dollar terms but hold a good percentage), vehicle condition, mileage, and a complete service history.
2024 Subaru Ascent Cost of Ownership
2024 Subaru Ascent Fuel Efficiency
2024 Subaru Ascent Safety Rating
NHTSA
2024 Subaru Ascent Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
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2024 Subaru Ascent Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2024 Subaru Ascent Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
Performance: The Ascent's 2.4L turbocharged Boxer engine offers 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, providing good low-end grunt and standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. This is unique; many rivals offer naturally aspirated V6 engines (Pilot, Highlander, Palisade, Telluride) with higher peak horsepower but less low-end torque. The Mazda CX-90 offers more powerful inline-six options. While the Ascent feels competent, some rivals offer a more refined or powerful feel.
Features: Standard AWD and the comprehensive EyeSight Driver Assist Technology across all trims are significant advantages for the Ascent. Its 11.6-inch infotainment screen is modern. However, rivals like the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade often boast a more luxurious interior feel, more flashy tech displays, and sometimes more convenient small-item storage. The Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander offer strong reliability and practicality, while the Mazda CX-90 focuses on a premium driving experience and upscale interior.
Reliability: Subaru has a solid reputation, and the Ascent has improved since its early model years. It generally competes well with the reliability of Honda and Toyota. The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade offer excellent warranties, which can be a peace-of-mind factor.
Price: The Ascent's pricing is competitive within the segment, starting slightly lower than some rivals for its standard AWD, but fully loaded trims are comparable.
Alternatives:
• For more luxury/style: Kia Telluride or Hyundai Palisade offer more premium interiors and bolder styling.
• For traditional V6 power and proven reliability: Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander are excellent, though often more expensive with AWD.
• For a more engaging drive: Mazda CX-90 offers a premium experience and sharper dynamics.
The Ascent stands out for its unique blend of standard AWD, strong safety, and family utility, particularly appealing to those in regions with inclement weather.
Final Verdict: Is the 2024 Subaru Ascent a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
The Ascent is absolutely worth buying, particularly for its unique blend of attributes within the segment. Buying new ensures the latest technology and full factory warranty, especially beneficial with the 2023+ refresh improvements. For value-conscious buyers, a used 2021 or 2022 model in Premium or Limited trim can be an excellent choice, offering many modern features without the initial depreciation. The Premium trim often strikes the best balance of features and value, while the Onyx Edition adds a stylish edge. The Ascent delivers on its promise as a safe, capable, and family-friendly SUV.