The 2025 Subaru Ascent Touring: Where Family SUV Meets Premium Adventure
The Subaru Ascent has become a go-to choice for families who need three rows of seating, year-round capability, and a generous list of safety features. For 2025, the lineup receives meaningful updates that make it more appealing than ever. With the addition of the Ascent Touring and Onyx Edition Touring trims, Subaru has blended everyday practicality with premium comfort and adventurous style.
If you're looking for a midsize three-row SUV that balances rugged Subaru DNA with upscale touches, the 2025 Ascent Touring deserves a closer look. Here's everything you need to know.
What's new for the 2025 Subaru Ascent?
Subaru simplified the lineup by removing the base model. The new starting point is the Ascent Premium, which now comes standard with upscale features such as blind-spot detection with lane change assist, rear cross-traffic alert, emergency stop assist, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and USB ports in every row.
The lineup also gains a new Bronze Edition with bronze wheels and trim accents, as well as the Onyx Edition Touring at the top of the range. These additions give buyers more choice in styling and features while keeping the Ascent competitive against popular rivals like the Kia Telluride and Toyota Grand Highlander.
How powerful is the Ascent Touring?
Every Ascent, including the Touring trim, uses Subaru's 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder BOXER engine producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Power is routed through a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) with steering-wheel paddle shifters.
While this powertrain is not the quickest in the segment, the Ascent is capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped-enough for small boats, trailers, or campers. In testing, the Ascent reached 60 mph in about 6.8 seconds, competitive with some rivals but slightly behind the class leaders.
How does the Ascent Touring perform on the road?
Subaru tuned the Ascent to deliver a balanced ride. Even with large 20-inch wheels, the Touring trim absorbs bumps well and provides a comfortable driving experience on highways and suburban roads.
Steering is light yet accurate, making it easy to maneuver a vehicle of this size, whether navigating tight parking lots or handling quick lane changes. The standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system ensures sure-footed traction in rain, snow, or on gravel roads, keeping confidence levels high.
Noise levels are improved compared to earlier model years, though the engine can still sound strained under heavy throttle. Overall, the Ascent Touring offers family-friendly comfort with just enough athleticism for daily driving and weekend adventures.
What is the fuel economy of the 2025 Ascent Touring?
EPA ratings for the Ascent Touring come in at 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. Other trims without larger wheels achieve slightly better numbers, up to 21/27 mpg. In real-world highway testing, the Ascent has been known to exceed its estimates, returning as much as 28 mpg-a figure that surpasses several key competitors.
For families planning long road trips, the combination of efficiency, a large fuel tank, and all-wheel drive makes the Ascent a reliable long-distance cruiser.
How comfortable is the interior of the Ascent Touring?
The Ascent Touring delivers a cabin designed for family life and comfort. Highlights include:
- Seating for 7 passengers with standard second-row captain's chairs.
- Premium leather upholstery with heated and ventilated front seats, plus heated second-row seating.
- 19 cupholders spread throughout the cabin-perfect for road trips and daily commutes.
- Power-adjustable front seats with memory settings for the driver.
- Three-zone climate control ensures everyone stays comfortable.
The first and second rows are spacious, offering excellent headroom and legroom. The third row is tighter, as expected in this class, and is best for children or occasional adult use. Cargo space measures 18 cubic feet behind the third row, 42 cubic feet with it folded, and up to 73 cubic feet with both rear rows folded down.
What technology comes standard in the Ascent Touring?
Technology is one of the Touring trim's strengths. Standard features include:
- 11.6-inch STARLINK Multimedia touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available navigation.
- Harman Kardon premium audio system with 14 speakers for concert-quality sound.
- Wi-Fi hotspot capability to keep passengers connected.
- Multiple USB-A and USB-C ports in every row.
- Hands-free power rear gate with height memory.
These features make the Ascent Touring feel every bit as premium as rivals costing thousands more, ensuring that long drives are both entertaining and convenient.
How safe is the 2025 Subaru Ascent Touring?
Safety is a Subaru hallmark, and the Ascent Touring is no exception. Every 2025 Ascent comes standard with the EyeSight Driver Assist Technology suite, which includes:
- Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering
- Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keep Assist
- Emergency Stop Assist
Upper trims like the Touring also add a 360-degree camera system, front-view camera, and additional parking assistance technologies. The Ascent has earned top marks from both the NHTSA and IIHS, reinforcing its reputation as one of the safest three-row SUVs on the market.
How does the Ascent Touring compare to rivals?
- Mazda CX-90: The CX-90 is more engaging to drive, but the Ascent wins on affordability and standard AWD.
- Kia Telluride: The Telluride offers more interior space, but the Ascent's higher ground clearance and AWD make it more adventure-ready.
- Honda Pilot: The Pilot's V6 is smoother, but the Ascent brings more standard safety features.
The Touring trim positions the Ascent as a solid alternative for buyers who want Subaru's rugged reliability with luxury touches that rival higher-priced SUVs.
What trims are available and how much do they cost?
For 2025, the Subaru Ascent lineup ranges from the well-equipped Premium trim to the range-topping Onyx Edition Touring. Each trim is tailored to different family needs and budgets, but all come standard with Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, and three rows of seating. Here's a closer look at each option.
Premium
Starting at $41,415
The Premium trim is the new entry point into the Ascent lineup for 2025. It comes loaded with features that many competitors reserve for higher trims, including blind-spot detection with lane change assist, rear cross-traffic alert, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, USB ports in every row, and heated front seats. It delivers excellent value for families who want a well-equipped SUV at an approachable price.
Onyx Edition
Starting at $45,405
The Onyx Edition adds unique blacked-out exterior styling and exclusive interior accents that give the Ascent a sportier, more rugged appearance. It also includes a power rear gate, water-repellent StarTex upholstery that's ideal for active families, and upgraded convenience features that enhance day-to-day use.
Limited
Starting at $49,305
The Limited trim upgrades the Ascent with more premium comfort. Leather-trimmed upholstery, a power-adjustable passenger seat, and driver's seat memory add luxury touches. Heated second-row seats and additional convenience features make this a favorite among families who want both practicality and refinement.
Bronze Edition
Starting at $50,415
New for 2025, the Bronze Edition adds stylish bronze-colored wheels and interior accents that stand out from the crowd. It combines the features of the Premium trim with this distinctive design package, appealing to buyers who want something unique without stepping all the way up to Touring-level pricing.
Limited Bronze Edition
Starting at $50,415
The Limited Bronze Edition takes the same bold bronze styling elements and pairs them with the comfort and features of the Limited trim. It's a compelling choice for drivers who want premium leather appointments along with exclusive exterior and interior detailing.
Touring
Starting at $52,585
The Touring trim represents the most premium Ascent experience. It includes Nappa leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, heated second-row captain's chairs, a panoramic moonroof, and a Harman Kardon premium audio system. Advanced safety features and a 360-degree camera system round out the package, making it the most luxurious family-focused option.
Onyx Edition Touring
Starting at $53,470
At the very top of the lineup, the Onyx Edition Touring combines the upscale amenities of the Touring trim with the bold blacked-out styling of the Onyx Edition. This trim is perfect for buyers who want every premium feature Subaru offers but prefer a sportier, more adventurous look.
Together, these trims give buyers flexibility to choose the perfect balance of affordability, style, comfort, and premium features, ensuring the 2025 Ascent has something for every family.
What makes the Touring trim ideal for premium family adventure?
The Touring trim balances practicality and comfort in ways families will appreciate. From leather-appointed seating to advanced driver assistance features, it's designed for long road trips, daily commutes, and weekend getaways alike. Subaru's AWD system and 5,000-pound towing capacity make it adventure-ready, while its upscale cabin ensures everyone travels in comfort.
For families who need three rows and don't want to compromise between rugged capability and premium features, the Ascent Touring hits the sweet spot.
Verdict: Why choose the 2025 Ascent Touring?
The 2025 Subaru Ascent Touring stands out as a family SUV that embraces Subaru's adventurous personality while adding luxury features and high-end technology. It may not be the fastest SUV in its class, but it offers safety, practicality, comfort, and value that few rivals match.
If you're shopping for a dependable three-row SUV with a premium edge, the Ascent Touring should be at the top of your list.
Get Your 2025 Subaru Ascent Touring at Granite Subaru
The 2025 Subaru Ascent Touring blends family-friendly utility with premium adventure. Visit Granite Subaru to explore trims, features, and exclusive offers-and take the Ascent for a test drive to experience the difference yourself.
