Two Surprising Subaru Ascent Changes You Should Wait For

Ascent is down in sales, but exciting new changes are coming.  

The 2024 Subaru Ascent has been on a downward trend in sales, but it's not the worst-performing model for Subaru of America. Before I explain significant changes that are coming for the Ascent family hauler, here is July's sales performance. 

July's sales performance of the Subaru Ascent midsize 3-Row SUV declined again. The family hauler has declined for thirteen consecutive months. Is Subaru of America (SOA) worried? They are and will be making significant changes to its all-wheel-drive lineup. Check out my report here. 

Down but not out yet.

Subaru of America reports that the 2024 Ascent's July sales decreased by 1.4 percent compared to the same month in 2023. SOA delivered 4,220 models to families in July, compared with 4,281 in July 2023. 

In the first seven months of 2024, 32,175 Ascent models were delivered to customers, down 14.0 percent for the year. Still, the Ascent midsize SUV remains SOA's fourth best-selling model. 

The Ascent is the least of Subaru of America's down models. 

The Crosstrek, Outback, and Solterra were the only models up in July. Ascent, BRZ, Forester, Impreza, Legacy, and WRX were all down in percentage of sales. 

• Ascent -1.4%
• Impreza -7.9%
• BRZ -12.9%
• Legacy -17.1%
• Forester -26.4%
• WRX -27.7%

Are you ready for these Ascent changes?

Subaru is now considering two scenarios for the Ascent 3-Row SUV, each potentially shaping the brand's future. 

The first scenario involves a complete redesign of the current Ascent, incorporating new features and design elements. The second scenario is more radical, with Subaru potentially replacing the gas-powered Ascent with a new three-row electric vehicle built in Kentucky by Toyota.

Why is Subaru considering two options?

This potential change is a testament to Subaru's unwavering commitment to innovation and the future of its electric vehicles. The new 3-Row SUV, whether a remodel or a new electric vehicle, promises to be a game-changer in the automotive industry. 

Automotive News (AN) says, "Subaru's 3-Row SUV would have been due for a redesign in the second half of 2024, but work on the makeover has been delayed to determine what emissions standards in the U.S. will be over the next four years. The gasoline-powered three-row may be replaced in the lineup by the three-row EV built in Kentucky by Toyota, or it may follow the Forester and Outback and remain for another generation, with an optional hybrid powertrain."

An all-new Ascent EV?

If Subaru decides to drop the gas-powered Ascent altogether, the new 3-Row EV being developed with Toyota may assume the Ascent name. (depending on election results). AN says the all-new Subaru 3-Row EV will be built on the e-Subaru Global Platform and use batteries supplied from Toyota's plant, which is under construction in Liberty, North Carolina. 

The new EV is expected to offer impressive performance, a spacious interior, and a significant reduction in carbon emissions, making it a compelling option for environmentally conscious SUV shoppers.

Subaru may be bidding farewell to the current Ascent family hauler, but the future holds promise. A new electric 3-Row SUV is on the horizon for North American customers, expected to debut in late 2025. This new model, with its eco-friendly design, is set to redefine the 3-Row SUV segment. Get more details in my report here.  

Not many will be sad to see the Ascent go away. 

The Ascent with a 2.4-liter Boxer engine is only six years old, but if it disappears, it won't be the end of the world for 3-Row SUV shoppers. Not because it has a bad engine or design, it's because sales of the Ascent are not setting the world on fire. 

Thirteen consecutive months of sales decline is a good indication that changes may and should be explored by Subaru of America. If an all-new 3-Row electric model replaces it, it could be just what the Camden, N.J. automaker needs in its all-wheel-drive SUV lineup. 

A new 2025 Ascent hybrid could follow the Forester and Outback hybrids and remain with an all-new hybrid powertrain for another generation. This new powertrain is expected to be more fuel-efficient and could significantly reduce Ascent's carbon footprint. A more fuel-efficient Ascent Hybrid would be another welcome addition to SOA's lineup. 

Should you avoid the 2024 Subaru Ascent?

The Ascent is still an excellent all-wheel-drive family vehicle. Consumer Reports picked the Ascent as the most comfortable 3-Row midsize 3-Row SUV for families. Find out more in my report here.

What is the 2024 Ascent pricing?

The 2024 Subaru Ascent has six trim levels: the base trim starts at $35,490, and the Premium trims begin at $38,090. The Ascent Onyx Edition starts at $42,890, the upper Limited starts at $43,190, the Ascent Onyx Edition Limited is priced at $47,890, and the top-trim Touring has a starting MSRP of $49,790. Pricing includes destination and delivery fees ($1,295). 

Which are the most reliable fuel-efficient new midsize 3-Row SUVs?

Check out the updated Consumer Reports ranking of the eleven best picks. There are significant reasons why the Subaru Ascent is CR's #8 best summer pick. Find them in my report here.

If you have any thoughts or questions about the two potential changes, share them with my readers. Which model would you be more likely to buy, the Ascent Hybrid or Ascent EV? Click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know. 

I am Denis Flierl, a top Torque News reporter since 2012. I’ve invested over 13 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role, working with every major car brand. I am an experienced Rocky Mountain Automotive Press member. You'll find my expert Subaru analysis here. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Tucson Subaru