Do the seats fold flat in the Subaru Ascent?
Yes. In the Subaru Ascent, the rear rows fold to create a flat loading floor: the 3rd-row seats fold down to a flat surface, and the second-row seats fold (or tumble) to extend the flat cargo area, reaching up to roughly 86.5 cubic feet with all rear seats folded.
How the Ascent's seating configuration affects flat folding
The Ascent can be configured for 7 or 8 passengers depending on trim: captain's chairs in the second row reduce capacity to 7 but aid access to the third row, while a full 8-passenger setup uses a second-row bench. Regardless of configuration, folding the rear rows creates more storage space and a near-flat floor for long items.
Folding the third row for a flat cargo floor
The third-row seatbacks fold forward and lie nearly flush with the cargo floor. When the third row is folded and the second row is folded forward, the floor becomes almost level, allowing longer items to slide through.
Note: There can be a slight contour near the wheel wells, and the floor may not be perfectly flat across the entire width, depending on model and seat configuration.
- Locate the release strap or lever on the top or side of the third-row seatback.
- Pull the strap or lever to release the seatback.
- Fold the seatback forward until it rests on the floor or seat cushion.
- Repeat for any remaining sections of the 3rd-row bench (if it’s split 50/50).
- Ensure the seatbacks are securely stowed and the floor is clear before loading.
Concluding: Folding the third row alone creates a flatter cargo floor, and combining with folding the second row further extends the flat surface for larger items.
Folding the second row to maximize flat cargo space
In eight-passenger configurations with a full second-row bench, you can fold the 2nd-row seats to maximize cargo space. In seven-passenger configurations with captain’s chairs, you fold the two individual seats forward to access the third row, and you can fold the second-row benches down to extend the cargo area.
- For a bench second row: operate the 60/40 split using the release levers or straps on the back of the seats.
- Fold the seatbacks down toward the floor to create a flat surface.
- Slide the second-row seats forward if necessary to clear the cargo area.
- Stow any headrests as needed for a flatter floor.
- Check that all items are secure and there are no obstructions before loading.
Concluding: Folding the second row (and third row) dramatically increases cargo capacity and can yield a nearly flat floor across the length of the vehicle, depending on configuration.
Practical notes and caveats
While the Ascent offers a very usable flat loading floor, there are practical considerations: each trim level and seat configuration can affect how flat the floor becomes; there is sometimes a slight step near wheel wells; and the first-row layout and available center console can influence how long items fit. For maximum flatness when transporting long items, fold both rows and adjust the first row as needed.
Summary
The Subaru Ascent does fold its seats to create a flat loading floor, especially when you fold the 3rd-row seats down and then fold the 2nd-row seats forward or down. This configuration yields up to about 86.5 cubic feet of cargo space with all rear seats folded. The flatness is near-level, with minor ridges near wheel wells depending on configuration.
