Subaru of America has officially announced the pricing and features for its 2026 Subaru Ascent, a popular three-row SUV that continues to set benchmarks in safety, technology, and comfort. Featuring an updated set of trims, advanced safety technologies, and thoughtful design details, the 2026 model reinforces Subaru’s reputation for delivering vehicles that perform exceptionally for families and adventurers alike.
What’s New for 2026?
The 2026 Ascent debuts with key updates, including a streamlined trim lineup, an interior packed with enhanced features, and upgraded in-vehicle technology. Subaru has also introduced Sapphire Blue Pearl as a new exterior color, replacing Cosmic Blue Pearl from previous models.
Available trims now include Premium, Limited, Limited Bronze Edition, Touring, and Onyx Edition Touring. Notably, the Onyx Edition trim from earlier years has been discontinued.
Enhanced Safety, Standard on All Trims
Safety remains paramount for Subaru, and the 2026 Ascent carries forward this tradition. Equipped with standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, drivers benefit from features like:
- A Wide-Angle Mono Camera
- Emergency Stop Assist
- Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Reverse Automatic Braking
- Automatic Emergency Steering
Additionally, select trims, such as the Limited and Touring, offer the DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System, an innovative feature aimed at preventing distractions behind the wheel.
Powerful and Capable Performance
Under the hood, the 2026 Subaru Ascent boasts a 2.4-liter turbocharged SUBARU BOXER engine delivering 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a Lineartronic CVT featuring an 8-speed manual mode and paddle shifters, the Ascent combines power with smooth drivability.
Coupled with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and X-MODE with Hill Descent Control, the SUV shines with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, making it a reliable companion for road trips or heavy hauls.
Subaru’s focus on safety continues to receive accolades, with the Ascent recognized as a TOP SAFETY PICK by the IIHS for eight consecutive years and earning a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from the NHTSA in 2025.
Interior Comforts and Advanced Technology
The 2026 Subaru Ascent lineup offers features that blend functionality with luxury. Starting at $40,795 MSRP, the Premium trim includes options for both 7- and 8-passenger seating. Standard conveniences include:
- Heated front seats with water-resistant StarTex upholstery
- Black 18-inch alloy wheels and black exterior accents
- Dual climate control for front and rear passengers
- Keyless Access with Push-Button Start
- Power Rear Gate
- 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift lever
Additionally, the cabin features cutting-edge technology with an 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus system, offering:
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Bluetooth hands-free connectivity
- HD Radio and SiriusXM with a four-month free trial
For those seeking more luxurious interiors, the Limited trim includes leather-trimmed upholstery, a heated steering wheel, and second-row outboard heated seats. Rear-seat passengers also enjoy sunshades for added comfort.
Unique Editions and Premium Touches
For those who want a distinctive flair, Subaru offers special trims to cater to every taste:
- Limited Bronze Edition includes exclusive bronze-finish wheels, unique accents on the grille and body cladding, and black StarTex upholstery with bronze stitching.
- Touring Trim represents the pinnacle of refinement, with Java Brown or Slate Black Nappa leather, priced at $51,165 MSRP.
- Onyx Edition Touring, designed for bold aesthetics, features black-finish alloy wheels and a 7-passenger configuration, priced at $51,995 MSRP.
Built with American Pride
Every 2026 Subaru Ascent is built with care at Subaru’s Indiana assembly plant, a facility that also produces the Crosstrek and Forester models. Subaru of America, headquartered in Camden, New Jersey, proudly distributes vehicles through 640 retailers across the nation.
Committed to giving back, Subaru has donated over $340 million to community initiatives through the Subaru Love Promise campaign and has logged over 115,000 volunteer hours. It’s not just a car company; it’s a community partner.
