The 2026 Subaru Ascent is a standout choice for those seeking performance, comfort, and utility. The Ascent features a quality cabin across the lineup, along with impressive ground clearance and all-wheel drive. There are some differences to note among the trims, however, that might make one choice a better fit for your needs. If value is a priority, the well-equipped base model, called the Premium, is a great choice. However, the Limited, which is next in the lineup, has more bells and whistles and offers a more luxurious ride.
Performance
Performance is the same for the Premium and Touring trim levels. Both have standard all-wheel drive. They both use a turbo 2.4L engine with four cylinders. This engine cranks out up to 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Both the Premium and Limited have a continuously variable automatic transmission. Both trims have a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.
Appearance
On the outside, the Premium and Limited have similar exterior features. Both have LED headlights. The Premium has 18-inch wheels with a black finish. Heated side mirrors are also standard. The Limited adds a standard panoramic sunroof. It also has slightly larger 20-inch wheels with a gray alloy finish.
Inside, both trim levels give you the option of a seven-passenger seating configuration with captain's chairs in the second row or an eight-passenger seating layout with a bench seat in the second row. The Premium has synthetic leather seats that are water-repellent. Heated front seats are standard, and the Premium has a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
The Limited upgrades to leather upholstery. It also has a synthetic leather finish on the dashboard. The second row of seats is also heated in the Limited, and both front seats are power-adjustable.
Features
The Premium trim is equipped with an 11.6-inch infotainment display screen. It has a six-speaker audio system and four USB ports throughout the cabin. With the Premium, you'll also get wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
The Limited has a few technology upgrades, including a Harman Kardon sound system with 14 speakers. Starting with this trim, you will also get Subaru's intercom system called Cabin Connect, which helps broadcast messages from the front row to the back. This trim also has a driver attention monitoring system.
For safety, both trims have forward collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, evasive steering assist, trailer sway damping, and adaptive headlights. The Limited adds a panoramic camera.
Contact us at Camelback Subaru for more details.
