Is the Subaru Ascent supercharged?
No. The Subaru Ascent is not supercharged; its forced induction is turbocharging.
In detail, the current Ascent relies on a 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four that produces around 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, typically paired with all-wheel drive and a continuously variable transmission in most trims. This setup reflects Subaru’s emphasis on practical power for a family-oriented three-row SUV.
Powertrain overview
Key facts about the Ascent's turbocharged setup and what it means for daily driving and capability.
- Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four (boxer) engine, part of Subaru's FA/FB engine family.
- Output: About 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque (year and octane can cause minor variations).
- Forced induction: Turbocharger uses exhaust gas to spin a turbine, boosting intake air mainly at higher RPMs, with torque available across a broad range.
- Transmission and drivetrain: Most Ascent models pair the engine with Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive and a Lineartronic CVT.
- Efficiency and performance: The turbo setup provides strong midrange acceleration for a 3-row SUV while maintaining competitive fuel economy for its size.
In short, the Ascent delivers its power through turbocharging rather than a mechanical supercharger. The system offers robust performance for daily driving and towing, with efficiency influenced by driving style and terrain.
Turbocharged vs supercharged: what it means for drivers
Understanding the difference helps explain why Subaru uses turbocharging in the Ascent and how it affects maintenance, throttle response, and ownership experience.
Key differences explained
Turbochargers are driven by exhaust gas and wired through an intercooler, while superchargers are belt-driven and provide boost more immediately across the rev range. In practice, turbocharged engines like the Ascent may exhibit a brief boost delay at very low RPMs (turbo lag), which modern tuning and engineering efforts work to minimize.
For owners, routine maintenance focuses on the engine oil and cooling systems, including the turbo’s intercooler and related piping. Subaru warranties cover turbo components under its powertrain terms, with standard service intervals applying to the entire engine system.
What buyers can expect in daily use
The Ascent aims to balance family practicality with solid highway and mountainous performance, while maintaining reasonable efficiency for its class.
- Performance: Strong midrange torque helps with highway merging, steep grades, and optional towing when properly equipped.
- Fuel economy: Real-world figures vary by driving style and terrain; expect better highway efficiency relative to some naturally aspirated rivals.
- Maintenance: Turbocharged engines require regular oil changes and proper cooling; following Subaru's recommended service intervals helps protect the turbo system.
In summary, the Ascent’s forced induction is turbocharged, not supercharged, aligning with Subaru’s focus on reliability, all-wheel-drive capability, and practical family usability. For buyers who specifically want a traditional supercharger feel—instant boost at very low RPMs—this model line may not offer that exact experience.
Summary
The Subaru Ascent is not supercharged. It uses a modern 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine that delivers ample power and torque, typically with all-wheel drive and a CVT. Turbocharging provides strong performance for daily driving and towing, with fuel efficiency that scales with driving conditions, while a true supercharged setup would imply a different boost profile and mechanical arrangement. For most buyers, the Ascent offers a practical, well-rounded package rather than a traditional supercharger-based performance ride.
