2026 Subaru Ascent Overview
The 2026 Subaru Ascent is the largest SUV offered by Subaru, designed for families and adventure-seekers who need space, versatility, and all-weather capability. With three-row seating, standard all-wheel drive (AWD), and modern safety features, the Ascent stands out as a practical yet capable SUV for everyday use or weekend getaways in Mid-Michigan’s changing seasons. Choose from seven available trim levels to find the perfect SUV for your specific needs.
Exterior Design
The Ascent’s exterior mixes bold styling with subtle ruggedness, creating a commanding appearance that balances presence with practicality.
- Standard one-touch power rear gate with adjustable opening height — convenient when your hands are full of groceries, gear, or kids
- LED Steering Responsive Headlights and LED Fog Lights – provide essential visibility on Central Michigan roads
- Stylish 18” or 20” aluminum-alloy wheels, depending on the trim level
- Ground clearance of 8.7 inches gives the Ascent added ability to handle snow, gravel, or rough roads — beneficial for Michigan winters or rural driving.
- Impressive 5000 lb towing capability and available accessory Class III trailer hitch receiver make hauling easy
Performance
Every 2026 Ascent is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine pairs with a Lineartronic® CVT transmission. All-weather driving capability is enhanced by the standard Symmetrical AWD system and X-MODE® system which optimizes vehicle performance for different situations.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the Ascent emphasizes spaciousness and flexibility. It offers either seven- or eight-passenger seating configurations, depending on whether you choose second-row captain’s chairs or a bench seat.
- When seats are folded, cargo capacity expands to up to 75.6 cubic feet, plenty of space for sporting gear, groceries or luggage for your adventures
- Subaru Multimedia Plus System with 11.6-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. Upper trims add navigation and a Harman Kardon® premium audio system.
- Choice of StarTex®, leather-trimmed or Nappa leather-trimmed upholstery
- Heated front seats and tri-zone automatic climate control with second row controls
- Upper trim levels add ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel and heated second row outboard seats
Driver Assistance / Safety Features
Safety is a core strength of any Subaru vehicle. The 2026 Ascent has standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, delivering a full set of driver-assistance systems across all trim levels. Features include:
- Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering
- Pre-Collision Braking
- Lane Departure and Sway Warning
- Lane Keep Assist
- Automatic Emergency Braking
Also, standard on every trim level:
- Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Rear Vision Camera with Washer
Learn More About the 2026 Subaru Ascent in Bay City, Michigan
Ready to learn more about 2026 Subaru Ascent? Visit Thelen Subaru in Bay City, MI — conveniently located in Central Michigan, near Saginaw and Midland — and let us tell you about the 2026 Subaru Ascent lineup!
Verification Disclaimer
All information in this overview was sourced directly from the official manufacturer’s website and is accurate to the best of our knowledge.


