What is the total cargo space of a Subaru Ascent?
The Subaru Ascent offers up to about 86 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and about 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row when seating is in use. These figures reflect the model’s standard two-row-plus configuration across recent years and trims.
This article explains how the Ascent’s cargo capacity changes with different seating setups, so you can gauge how much luggage, equipment, or groceries you can carry depending on how you configure the seats.
Cargo space by seating configuration
The following figures reflect typical measurements reported by Subaru for recent model years and describe how cargo capacity scales with how many rows you are using.
- Behind the third row: approximately 17.8 cubic feet (about 504 liters).
- Behind the second row: approximately 47.0 cubic feet (about 1,331 liters).
- Behind the first row: approximately 86.0 cubic feet (about 2,435 liters).
These numbers show how quickly the interior can expand from everyday cargo to a full-family-hauler, depending on which rows are folded down.
Notes on measurements and year-to-year variation
Cargo space can vary slightly by model year and trim due to packaging, optional accessories, and measurement methods. Subaru publishes these figures as official cargo volumes in cubic feet, typically measured with the second and third rows folded as applicable. If you’re shopping for a specific year or trim, verify the exact numbers with a dealer for the configuration you intend to use.
Summary: The Subaru Ascent delivers a practical balance of passenger seating and cargo versatility. With the rear rows folded, you can access roughly 86 cubic feet of cargo space, while keeping all seats in use leaves about 17.8 cubic feet behind the third row. Between these two extremes, the 2nd-row configuration provides about 47 cubic feet of cargo space, giving you flexibility for a range of family and cargo needs.
Which Subaru has the largest cargo space?
The Subaru models with the largest cargo space are the Outback and Ascent, which both offer up to 75.6 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down. The Ascent is the largest SUV overall and has a higher seating capacity, while the Outback has more cargo room behind the rear seats compared to other models like the Forester.
| Model | Max Cargo Space (cu. ft.) |
|---|---|
| Ascent | 75.6 |
| Outback | 75.6 |
| Forester | 74.2 |
| Crosstrek | 54.7 |
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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
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.
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 |
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