How big is the cargo area in a Subaru Ascent?
In brief, the cargo area behind the third row is 17.8 cubic feet, behind the second row 47.0 cubic feet, and up to 86.5 cubic feet with both rows folded flat.
What the numbers mean for daily use
The following cargo-volume figures reflect the current-generation Subaru Ascent’s capacity across typical seating configurations. They apply to most recent model years and trims, though exact space can vary slightly with floor configuration and upholstery.
- Behind the third row: 17.8 cubic feet (504 liters)
- Behind the second row: 47.0 cubic feet (1,330 liters)
- All seats folded: 86.5 cubic feet (2,450 liters)
These figures illustrate how space changes with seating configuration. They show that even with passengers in the back, you can fit groceries or a couple of suitcases; fold the second- and third-rows down and you can carry larger items like bikes or furniture pieces with room to spare.
Practical notes on use and configuration
Space can be optimized with the 60/40-split second row and a relatively flat cargo floor on many trims. If you frequently haul tall or long items, the cargo area is widest when the rear seats are folded, producing the maximum load space available.
Summary
The Subaru Ascent offers versatile cargo space: 17.8 cu ft behind the third row, 47.0 cu ft behind the second row, and 86.5 cu ft with both rear rows folded, making it a practical choice for families and road trips. These figures pertain to current-generation models and may vary modestly by year and trim.
What are the weaknesses of the Subaru Ascent?
Common Subaru Ascent cons include poor fuel economy, a CVT (continuously variable transmission) that can feel disconnected and noisy, and brake issues like premature wear and juddering. Other drawbacks cited by owners are limited interior cabin width, inconsistent technology and infotainment, and engine noise, particularly under acceleration. Some owners also report issues with electrical systems, and despite a decent engine, some feel it is underpowered for the vehicle's size, particularly with its CVT.
You can watch this video to learn about the common problems and weaknesses of the Subaru Ascent: 52sNexologyYouTube · Sep 11, 2025
Performance and powertrain
- Poor fuel economy: Some owners report fuel economy that is worse than advertised.
- Underpowered engine: The turbocharged 2.4-liter engine is often considered underpowered for the Ascent's heavy weight.
- Noisy CVT: The CVT can cause a "droning" noise and a disconnected feeling, while competitors use more traditional automatic transmissions.
- Inconsistent throttle: Some drivers find the throttle too touchy at low speeds or sluggish at higher speeds.
Brakes
- Premature wear: Owners report premature wearing of brake pads and rotors.
- Vibration and noise: Complaints include pulsating or vibrating brakes and squeaking noises.
Interior and technology
- Limited interior width: Despite being a large SUV, the cabin is narrower than many competitors, reducing usable space for passengers.
- Frustrating technology: Some owners find the technology and infotainment systems frustrating to use.
- Driver assist system issues: In some conditions, such as heavy rain, the EyeSight driver assist system can shut down.
Other issues
- Engine and transmission problems: In addition to the CVT, other engine and transmission-related issues have been reported by owners.
- Electrical system issues: Reports include problems with interior lights and other electrical components.
- Repairs: Some owners report that repairs for certain issues, like replacing a windshield, can be expensive and trigger other cascading problems.
This video discusses several issues with the Subaru Ascent, including the CVT, brake problems, and electrical system: 1mFuel ForceYouTube · Aug 4, 2025
Is the Subaru Ascent as big as the Toyota Highlander?
The Subaru Ascent is slightly longer and taller than the Toyota Highlander, but the Highlander has more maximum cargo space when both rear rows are folded. The Ascent offers more third-row legroom, while the Highlander provides more cargo space behind the second row.
You can watch this video for a comparison of the 2025 Subaru Ascent and Toyota Grand Highlander: 56sEveryman DriverYouTube · Jun 20, 2025
| Feature | Subaru Ascent | Toyota Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Length | 196.8 inches | 194.9 inches |
| Overall Height | 71.6 inches | 68.1 inches |
| Third-Row Legroom | 31.7 inches | 27.7 inches |
| Max Cargo (Seats Down) | 75.6 cubic feet | 84.3 cubic feet |
| Cargo Behind 2nd Row | 43.5 cubic feet | 48.4 cubic feet |
| Cargo Behind 3rd Row | 17.8 cubic feet | 16.0 cubic feet |
(this||self).Wufxzb=function(c,e,f,l,k){var d=document.getElementById(c);if(d&&(d.offsetWidth!==0||d.offsetHeight!==0)){c=d.querySelector("div");var g=c.scrollWidth-c.offsetWidth,h=Math.min(e?g:0,g);c.scrollLeft=e&&(l||f)?0:h;var a=d.getElementsByTagName("g-left-button")[0],b=d.getElementsByTagName("g-right-button")[0];a&&b&&(e=RegExp("\\btHT0l\\b"),f=RegExp("\\bpQXcHc\\b"),a.className=a.className.replace(e,""),b.className=b.className.replace(e,""),h===0?a.className="pQXcHc "+a.className:(a.className=
a.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("pA30Ne")),h===g?b.className="pQXcHc "+b.className:(b.className=b.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("FpCCub")),setTimeout(function(){a.className+=" tHT0l";b.className+=" tHT0l"},50))}};}).call(this);(function(){var id='_Qtwlaf2RA4Oyi-gPksCT2Qo_148';var rtl=false;var gecko=false;var edge=false;var soh=false;
(this||self).Wufxzb(id,rtl,gecko,edge,soh);})();
How big is the cargo space in a Subaru Ascent?
The Ascent has 17.8 cubic feet of space behind the last row of seats, which is a lot by three-row SUV standards. Folding the third row down will give you a total of 43.5 cubic feet of cargo space, which can help you when you need to carry several pieces of luggage.
Can a full size mattress fit in a Subaru Ascent?
In terms of standard mattress sizes, the closest mattress that will fit in the back of most Subaru Ascent models is a Twin. However, standard-sized mattresses do not take advantage of all of the available space.
