Compare 2026 vs 2025 Subaru Ascent
| 2026 Subaru Ascent | 2025 Subaru Ascent |
Engine | |
| 2.4L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder | 2.4L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder |
Horsepower | |
| 260 hp | 260 hp |
MPG (City/Highway) | |
| 20/26 * | 20/26 * |
Ascent Onyx Edition | |
| Not available | Available |
Black Wheels and Exterior Trim | |
| Standard | Available |
Standard Seat Upholstery | |
| Leatherette upholstery | Stain-resistant cloth upholstery |
2026 Subaru Ascent vs 2025 Subaru Ascent
Serving Harrisonburg, VA
At Bob Wade Subaru in Harrisonburg, VA, we're excited to introduce the updated 2026 Subaru Ascent, Subaru's largest and most family-friendly SUV. This three-row crossover continues to deliver rugged capability, spacious comfort, and advanced technology — but with some smart refinements for the new model year.
For 2026, the Ascent lineup receives subtle updates that enhance style and comfort. The Onyx Edition trim has been removed, streamlining the lineup to Premium, Limited, Limited Bronze Edition, Touring, and Onyx Edition Touring. Additionally, select trims receive upgraded interior materials and exterior styling enhancements, ensuring that every drive — from downtown Harrisonburg to Shenandoah Valley backroads — feels more refined than ever.
Performance
Performance remains a strong suit for both the 2025 and 2026 Subaru Ascent models. Every Ascent is powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter BOXER® 4-cylinder engine, generating 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This powerful yet efficient engine pairs with Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for confident traction and smooth handling in all weather conditions.
Whether you're towing a small camper or driving through Virginia's winding mountain roads, both model years offer up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity and X-MODE® with Hill Descent Control for maximum off-road confidence.
In short, performance specs remain consistent — but the 2026 model refines the experience with improved comfort and upgraded design.
Appearance
Visually, the 2026 Ascent gets subtle but stylish updates. The Cosmic Blue Pearl paint available in 2025 has been replaced with Sapphire Blue Pearl for 2026, giving the SUV a richer, more modern finish.
The Premium trim now features black 18-inch alloy wheels, black side mirrors, and silver contrast stitching on black StarTex® upholstery, creating a sportier, upscale aesthetic. Meanwhile, the Touring trim receives luxurious updates, including matte woodgrain accents and your choice of Slate Black leather with black stitching or Java Brown leather with silver stitching — details that add a sophisticated touch to every ride.
Features
The Subaru Ascent continues to lead its class in safety and technology, offering a suite of features that cater to families and adventure-seekers alike.
Standard features include:
- 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
- Heated front seats
- Three-zone automatic climate control
- Evasive steering assist and lane-keeping system
- Forward collision avoidance
- Trailer sway damping
Available upgrades on higher trims include:
- 120-volt power outlet and 360-degree camera system
- Rain-sensing wipers and 180-degree front parking camera
- Driver attention monitoring and digital rearview mirror
- Harman Kardon® 14-speaker premium sound system
- Heated second-row seats and panoramic sunroof
- Driver memory functions and leather seating surfaces
Whether you're choosing the 2025 or 2026 Subaru Ascent, you'll enjoy world-class comfort, cutting-edge technology, and Subaru's industry-leading safety innovations.
Why Choose Bob Wade Subaru in Harrisonburg, VA?
At Bob Wade Subaru, we're more than a dealership — we're your local Subaru experts serving Harrisonburg, Staunton, Waynesboro, and the Shenandoah Valley. Our team is dedicated to helping you explore every trim and feature of the Ascent lineup, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your family's lifestyle.
We offer:
- Competitive Subaru lease and financing specials
- Certified Subaru service with genuine OEM parts
- Transparent pricing and personalized customer care
- A commitment to the Subaru Love Promise — supporting our local Virginia community
Visit Bob Wade Subaru in Harrisonburg, VA to test drive the 2026 Subaru Ascent.
* EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage will vary with driving conditions and your vehicle's condition.
