The 2023 Ascent retains the same flat-four 2.4-liter turbo, but the small exterior and interior changes should keep it fresh for another year.
Subaru has modernized its three-rowed SUV for 2023 MY and should start delivering the first samples this fall. The company claims the 2023 Ascent will be an even better family crossover with additional features to ensure safety.
Subaru has changed the overall styling, giving it a bolder look thanks to a much more prominent grille. Additionally, redesigned LED headlights and C-shaped taillights create an aggressive look, while the front bumper cover with a lower grille opening and air ducts ensure better aerodynamics. Although subtle, these visual tweaks successfully change the overall styling of the family-focused crossover.
“The looks may have changed, but the underlying ethos that made the Ascent so popular is still in place,” says Subaru. Indeed, the technical specifications will be the same as the last year’s model, including a 2.4 liter turbocharged flat-four engine producing 260 HP.
In addition, the 2023 Ascent comes exclusively with a CVT, albeit with a manual mode that simulates eight gears. Moreover, AWD is standard on all trims, along with Trailer Stability Assist granting up to 5,000 lbs of towing capacity.
More standard features include X-MODE with Hill Descent Control, ensuring better trail-driving and inclement weather capability. The 2023 Ascent also has 8.7 inches of ground clearance for a smooth off-road experience. However, even with such high ground clearance, the SUV maintains a low step-in height for passenger entry.
Inside, the 2023 Ascent gets a large vertical 11.6-inch STARLINK multimedia plus system that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system also has new software with improved graphics and better response, but it’s far from the sleekest experience in the business.
The 2023 Subaru Ascent will be available in five trim levels — Base, Premium, Onyx Edition, Limited, and Touring.
The Premium trim comes with blind-spot detection, lane change assist, rear cross-traffic alert, privacy glass, an eight-way power driver seat, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, body-color heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals, and heated seats. Meanwhile, the Limited trim comes with all the abovementioned features plus keyless access and push-button start, reverse automatic braking, DriverFocus, LED fog lights, chrome exterior accents, and upgrades to dark grey 20-inch wheels.
Furthermore, the Touring trim gets interior wood trim, leather upholstery, three-mode ventilated front seats, a Harmon Kardon sound system, rain-sensing wipers, and a 180-degree front-view camera to enhance all-around visibility. Although the Touring is considered the top of the line, the Onyx trim stands out with exclusive interior and exterior accents and unique 20-inch black-finish aluminum-alloy wheels.
Subaru also focused on increasing safety on the 2023 Ascent. Hence, the SUV now gets emergency steering (premium trim and above) to prevent a collision at speeds slower than 50 mph. Meanwhile, you’ll also get a Surround-View Monitor with a 360-degree overhead view for easier parking.
Overall, the changes aren’t very significant, but they should be enough to keep the Subaru “adventure” fanboys happy. Hence, the 2023 Ascent should remain a niche in the segment, with steady but average sales.
Gallery: 2023 Subaru Ascent
