Subaru came out with the first generation of the Subaru Ascent in 2019 as its competitor in the midsize segment. While the Ascent still feels relatively new, the 2023 model year is expected to see the SUV arrive with a possible refresh, though Subaru hasn’t confirmed any information for the model yet. We also expect Subaru to introduce a new Wilderness trim for the 2023 Ascent.
On the outside, a refresh could see the 2023 Subaru Ascent arrive with an updated design. Based on Subaru’s other SUVs, we expect the refreshed ascent to receive sharper headlights and taillights, more angular front and rear fascias, and a few more rugged touches. A new off-road-ready Wilderness trim is expected to arrive, bringing knobby tires, wide fenders, a unique front end, special graphics, and burlier bumpers.
Things on the inside of the Ascent should remain the same for 2023. We could see the midsize SUV arrive with updated materials and a special interior for the Wilderness trim, but the overall design isn’t expected to change. The current SUV’s interior design is centered around the infotainment system that juts out of the dashboard. The center console has multiple dials and buttons that can be difficult to use because of their location. A small screen with ambient temperature and a digital clock sits at the top of the dash.
The current Subaru Ascent comes with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, six audio speakers, Bluetooth, four USB ports, and satellite radio as standard equipment. The SUV is available with an eight-inch touchscreen, a 14-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, a Wi-Fi hot spot, two rear USB ports, and navigation. We expect these features to continue to be available for the 2023 model year.
Subaru offers the current Ascent with one engine. A turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. A continuously variable automatic transmission and all-wheel drive are standard. This powertrain should continue to be available for 2023.
Every Ascent comes standard with the automaker’s EyeSight suite of advanced safety features. Standard features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, automatic high-beam assist, lane-keeping assist, lane centering, and adaptive cruise control. Available safety features include reverse automatic emergency braking, lane change assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a front-view camera.
