The 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring continues to offer families a practical three-row SUV with standard all-wheel drive, turbocharged performance, and a competitive price. First introduced for the 2019 model year and refreshed in 2023, the Ascent has remained largely unchanged while competitors such as the Honda Pilot, Toyota Grand Highlander, Kia Telluride, and Hyundai Palisade have continued evolving. In a recent detailed review from the Redline Reviews YouTube channel, the biggest question is whether Subaru’s largest gasoline-powered SUV still deserves consideration or whether it’s overdue for a complete redesign.
Under the hood, the 2026 Ascent features Subaru’s familiar 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER four-cylinder engine producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Power is delivered through a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru’s standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system with X-MODE. Fuel economy is rated at approximately 19 mpg city, 25 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined. The Ascent can also tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, making it a practical choice for families with small trailers, boats, or recreational equipment.
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The exterior design remains conservative, with Subaru’s signature hexagonal grille, LED headlights, available 20-inch alloy wheels, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance. The Touring model featured in the Redline Reviews video wears Sapphire Blue paint, complemented by chrome accents and a panoramic sunroof. Measuring 196.8 inches long with a 113.8-inch wheelbase, the Ascent is smaller than several newer three-row competitors. That helps make it easier to maneuver, although the smaller dimensions also mean less passenger and cargo space.
Inside, the Touring offers premium Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row captain’s chairs, a Harman Kardon premium audio system, and a digital rearview mirror. Subaru’s 11.6-inch touchscreen supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while a 360-degree camera system adds convenience when parking. However, Redline Reviews identifies the infotainment system as one of the Ascent’s biggest weaknesses, criticizing its slow response times, dated graphics, and occasionally frustrating operation.
Passenger space remains useful despite the Ascent’s relatively compact exterior dimensions. Depending on configuration, the SUV seats seven or eight passengers, with Touring models featuring second-row captain’s chairs. The third row offers 31.6 inches of legroom, making it usable for occasional adult passengers, although newer competitors provide more space. Cargo capacity measures approximately 17.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to as much as 72.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded in the tested configuration.
On the road, the Ascent delivers surprisingly strong acceleration for a family SUV. During Redline Reviews’ testing, the Touring achieved a best 0–60 mph time of 6.66 seconds, quicker than several competing three-row SUVs tested by the channel. The turbocharged engine provides responsive midrange power, while the suspension delivers a comfortable ride and the relatively narrow body makes the Ascent feel manageable in everyday driving. The trade-offs include noticeable engine noise, some road and wind noise, and steering that feels light and somewhat disconnected.
Pricing remains one of the Ascent’s strongest selling points. The 2026 lineup starts at approximately $40,500 for the Premium trim, which includes standard all-wheel drive and a generous list of features. The Limited adds additional luxury equipment, while the fully equipped Touring featured in the review carries a sticker price just under $53,000, including destination and optional paint. Although that isn’t inexpensive, several fully loaded competitors now approach or exceed $60,000, making the Ascent an interesting value proposition.
The bottom line is that the 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring remains a capable, comfortable, and reasonably priced three-row family SUV, even as its age becomes increasingly apparent. Its strong turbocharged performance, standard all-wheel drive, and practical interior continue to make it appealing, but the outdated infotainment system, average fuel economy, and smaller cargo area highlight the need for a redesign. For shoppers willing to accept those compromises, the Ascent still deserves a place on the test-drive list. Watch the complete Redline Reviews video below for an in-depth look at the 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring, including its interior, performance testing, and driving impressions.
Video: Does Subaru’s Biggest Gas SUV Need A Redo? | 2026 Subaru Ascent Touring | Detailed Review — Redline Reviews
