Is the Subaru Ascent fast?
Not fast in the sports-car sense, but the Ascent delivers respectable acceleration for a family SUV, thanks to its turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive setup. In typical driving, it can reach 60 mph in the mid‑6-second range, depending on year, trim, load, and conditions.
Performance specs at a glance
Key numbers that influence speed and everyday quickness include the engine, torque band, drivetrain, and weight. Here are the core specs for the current Ascent lineup:
- Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four (FA24) producing about 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.
- Drivetrain: Standard symmetrical all-wheel drive.
- Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with simulated gear stepping and a manual mode.
- Weight: Curb weight roughly 4,500–4,900 pounds depending on trim and equipment.
- Towing capacity: Up to about 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, which can influence acceleration when towing.
These specs illustrate a balance: strong torque at lower rpm helps with quick starts, while the moderate horsepower and the vehicle’s weight temper acceleration and fuel economy.
Real-world acceleration and driving feel
In everyday use, the Ascent offers confident mid-range response, comfortable highway merging, and steady passing capability. The torque peak around lower rpm helps with responsiveness when you step on the throttle, and all-wheel drive aids grip on slick surfaces. The CVT often makes throttle response feel linear rather than abrupt; some drivers prefer using the "S" or manual mode to mimic stepped gears for quicker responses.
Below are typical benchmarks and driving notes reported by reviewers for the current generation:
- 0-60 mph times generally fall in the mid‑6 seconds range on most tests, with variations due to payload, trim weight, weather, and road surface.
- Throttle response is competent but not sport-tuned; acceleration can be leisurely when the vehicle is heavily loaded or climbing steep grades.
- All-wheel drive and a stable chassis give confident launches and steady highway acceleration, but the Ascent is heavier than many rivals, which tempers outright speed.
In short, the Ascent is fast enough for practical family use and highway overtakes, but it does not compete with performance-focused three-row crossovers or SUVs with high-horsepower powertrains.
How it stacks up against rivals
For people prioritizing pure straight-line speed, rivals with V6 or hybrid powertrains can offer quicker 0-60 times. The Ascent's turbocharged four-cylinder setup is a good balance of power, efficiency, and practicality for a three-row SUV that seats seven or eight.
Considerations when comparing speed:
- Most three-row SUVs with naturally aspirated engines or heavier weight might feel less brisk than the Ascent off the line, but some rivals with larger engines or hybrid systems can outperform it in acceleration.
- Weight remains a factor; at roughly four and a half to nearly five thousand pounds, the Ascent’s mass makes nimble acceleration more challenging than lighter crossovers.
- Transmission characteristics (CVT vs traditional automatics) also influence perceived speed and throttle response.
Overall, in its class, the Ascent offers commendable speed for families who need space, cargo capacity, and all-weather capability, but it isn’t a performance vehicle. If sporty acceleration is a priority, buyers might consider rivals with more aggressive powertrains.
Bottom line: is the Ascent fast?
For a three-row family SUV, the Ascent is reasonably quick and capable, delivering solid acceleration and confident highway merging thanks to its 260-hp turbo engine and standard AWD. It’s not a performance vehicle, but it offers more punch than many naturally aspirated rivals and suits everyday driving and weekend trips well.
Things to consider if speed is your priority
If you want brisker acceleration, you might evaluate trims with the turbo engine (which is already standard on most Ascent models) and also keep payload in mind; reducing cargo or passengers can improve 0-60 times. Alternatively, you could explore rivals with stronger horsepower or hybrid powertrains.
Summary
The Subaru Ascent provides respectable speed for a family SUV, thanks to a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine delivering about 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, paired with standard all-wheel drive. Real-world acceleration sits in the mid-6-second range, and while it isn’t a performance vehicle, it offers confident, practical speed suitable for daily driving and highway merging. If sheer performance is a priority, look to rivals with more horsepower or hybrid systems.
