What kind of engine does the Subaru Ascent have?

The Subaru Ascent uses a 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine (a boxer-style four). It delivers about 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, paired with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a Lineartronic CVT for everyday practicality and confident acceleration.

Engine design and specifications

The heart of the Ascent is a turbocharged four-cylinder boxer engine from Subaru’s FA24 family. It features direct injection and a single twin-scroll turbocharger to provide strong midrange torque and smooth power delivery suitable for a full-size three-row SUV.

Key engine characteristics include:

• Displacement: 2.4 liters


• Configuration: Horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder


• Turbocharging: Twin-scroll turbo


• Fuel delivery: Direct injection


• Power: Approximately 260 hp


• Torque: About 277 lb-ft


• Fuel compatibility: Designed for higher-octane gasoline to maximize performance

In routine driving, this engine aims to balance strong everyday performance with the practicality needed from a family SUV, especially when carrying passengers and cargo.

Drivetrain and transmission

All Ascent models use Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, paired with a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT). This combination emphasizes stability, traction, and efficient cruising, with a drive feel that can be augmented by engaging the vehicle’s available driving modes.

Drivetrain highlights:

• Drivetrain: Symmetrical AWD (standard)


• Transmission: Lineartronic CVT


• Drive modes: Includes settings that optimize traction on slippery surfaces and during highway driving


• Off-road capability: Enhanced by X-Mode on appropriate trims

Together, the engine and drivetrain are tuned to deliver predictable, confident performance in a family-oriented SUV context.

Fuel considerations and efficiency

Because the engine is turbocharged, premium gasoline is typically recommended to achieve the advertised power and responsiveness. The Ascent can run on regular fuel, but power output and response may be reduced, especially under heavier loads or when fully loaded.

Fuel and efficiency notes:

• Fuel type: Premium unleaded is recommended for maximum performance; regular may be used with some performance trade-offs


• Estimated efficiency: Typically in the low 20s mpg in city driving and mid-20s mpg on the highway, depending on model year, trim, and all-wheel-drive configuration


• Emissions and standards: Meets current U.S./regional regulations for its class

In practice, the engine and transmission combination provides ample acceleration for a three-row SUV while maintaining sensible daily fuel economy for family use.

Summary

The Subaru Ascent is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine delivering around 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, paired with a standard Symmetrical AWD and a Lineartronic CVT. This setup aims to balance strong performance with practical efficiency,making the Ascent well-suited for family hauling, highway cruising, and light off-road capability.

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 long will a Subaru 2.0 engine last?

Engine Lifespan: Subaru engines are known for their durability and longevity, with many drivers reporting engines that last well beyond 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. The key to extending the lifespan of your Subaru engine is regular maintenance, including oil changes, fluid checks, and tune-ups.

How good is the Subaru 2.4 turbo engine?

Yes, the Subaru 2.4L turbo engine is generally considered a good engine, offering significantly more power than the naturally aspirated versions while being built to be reliable and overbuilt. It provides better acceleration, towing capacity, and performance at high altitudes, but it is also more complex than a non-turbo engine and has lower fuel economy. Proper maintenance, such as more frequent oil changes, can help ensure long-term reliability.
 
Advantages of the 2.4L turbo engine

• More power and torque: It provides a significant increase in torque, making it feel much more responsive than the 2.5L non-turbo engine. This is especially beneficial for passing and merging. 
• Stronger performance: The engine is more capable in situations that require more power, like climbing hills or towing. 
• Built for reliability: It's considered an overbuilt engine, designed to be more reliable than older Subaru turbo engines, addressing some of the issues seen in previous generations. 
• Can use regular fuel: The engine is designed to run on 87 octane regular gasoline. 

Potential considerations for the 2.4L turbo engine

• Fuel economy: The turbo engine generally gets slightly lower fuel economy compared to the 2.5L non-turbo. 
• Complexity: Turbocharged engines are more complex than naturally aspirated ones, which can mean more potential maintenance points, such as oil supply bolts and gasket leaks. 
• Maintenance: To maximize longevity, frequent oil changes (every 3,750 to 5,000 miles) are recommended to prevent potential oil-related issues. 

Verdict
The Subaru 2.4L turbo is a good engine if you prioritize power and performance. It's a reliable and capable engine, especially when you perform diligent maintenance. If your priority is the lowest possible maintenance complexity and fuel cost, the 2.5L naturally aspirated engine might be a better fit.

Does the Subaru Ascent have a good engine?

The Ascent is a very functional, easy-to-live-with three-row midsized SUV. Its turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers ample power in daily driving and gets 22 mpg overall. The jumpy initial takeoff takes some getting used to, however.