2019 Subaru Ascent Touring: Full Review and Verdict
The 2019 Subaru Ascent Touring arrives as the brand’s flagship three‑row SUV, aiming to blend rugged capability with upscale comforts. Positioned between the more utilitarian Limited and the sport‑focused Sport trims, the Touring packs a long list of premium touches while keeping Subaru’s hallmark all‑wheel drive (AWD) system. If you’ve been eyeing a family hauler that feels at home on a mountain pass and in the grocery‑store parking lot, this review dives into what the Ascent Touring actually delivers.
First Impressions and Exterior Design
Subaru gives the 2019 Ascent a confident, boxy silhouette that maximizes interior volume without looking overly bulky. The front end features a refreshed grille with chrome accents, and the LED daytime running lights add a modern flair. Roof‑mounted side rails are factory‑installed on the Touring, signalling that the model expects adventure.
From a practical standpoint, the Ascent offers 86.5 inches of overall length, translating to generous cargo space—up to 86.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat. Ground clearance sits at 8.7 inches, enough to tackle light off‑road trails without compromising on‑road comfort. Wheel options include 20‑inch alloy designs that lend a more upscale presence.
Interior Quality and Technology
Stepping inside, the Touring distinguishes itself with leather‑trimmed upholstery, heated front and rear seats, and a heated steering wheel—features often reserved for luxury competitors. The cabin layout follows a driver‑centric philosophy: a 7‑inch touchscreen sits atop the infotainment console, while a secondary 4‑inch display handles climate controls.
Standard tech includes Subaru’s STARLINK system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi‑Fi hotspot. The three‑zone automatic climate system ensures front‑, middle‑, and rear‑row passengers can each set their preferred temperature. Noise‑dampening glass and acoustic insulation keep road chatter at bay, making long trips feel more relaxed.
Performance, Engine, and Fuel Economy
Under the hood, the Ascent Touring houses a 2.4‑liter turbocharged Boxer engine that pushes 260 hp and 277 lb‑ft of torque. Paired with Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT, the power delivery feels smooth, though the CVT’s whine can be noticeable under heavy acceleration. The symmetrically balanced AWD system distributes torque automatically, providing confident grip on wet or snowy surfaces.
Fuel economy lands at EPA‑estimated 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, respectable for a three‑row SUV of this size. Acceleration from 0‑60 mph takes roughly 7.5 seconds—quick enough to merge onto highways without hesitation, but not a sports‑car experience, which is exactly what most families need.
Safety Suite and Driver Assistance
Subaru’s EyeSight driver‑assist technology comes standard on the Touring, bundling adaptive cruise control, lane‑keep assist, pre‑collision braking, and throttle management. The system works in tandem with a rear‑view camera, blind‑spot detection, and rear cross‑traffic alert, creating a comprehensive safety net.
Crash test results from the IIHS award the Ascent a Top Safety Pick+, while the NHTSA grants it a five‑star overall rating. The combination of a rigid body structure, multiple airbags, and Subaru’s reputation for dependable safety makes the Touring a reassuring choice for families.
Ownership Considerations: Reliability and Costs
Subaru’s reliability record for recent model years has been solid, with the 2019 Ascent generally receiving favorable owner satisfaction scores. Routine maintenance—oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections—follows Subaru’s recommended intervals, typically every 6,000 miles for oil.
Insurance premiums for the Touring sit slightly above average for midsize SUVs, largely due to its higher equipment level and larger size. However, resale values tend to hold up well, with many owners reporting less than a 10 percent depreciation after three years.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
- Pros: Spacious three‑row seating, standard AWD, extensive safety tech, upscale interior features, strong resale value.
- Cons: CVT can be noisy under heavy throttle, fuel economy modest for the class, infotainment system feels a bit dated compared to rivals.
Who Will Benefit Most from the 2019 Ascent Touring?
If you need a vehicle that comfortably seats seven, offers a premium feel without a luxury badge price, and rarely compromises on safety, the Ascent Touring checks those boxes. Parents juggling school runs, weekend gear, and occasional snow‑bound trips will find the blend of practicality and refinement particularly appealing. On the other hand, drivers seeking a sportier feel or cutting‑edge infotainment may look elsewhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2019 Subaru Ascent Touring worth the extra cost over the Limited trim? Most reviewers agree that the added leather upholstery, heated rear seats, and advanced driver‑assist features justify the price jump for buyers who value comfort and safety.
Can the Ascent Touring tow a trailer? Yes, the 2019 model is rated for up to 5,000 pounds of trailer capacity when equipped with the optional towing package, making it capable of handling small boats or travel trailers.
How does the Ascent compare to the Honda Pilot? The Ascent offers standard AWD and a more spacious third row, while the Pilot typically comes with front‑wheel drive as standard and a slightly larger overall cargo capacity. Both have similar powertrains, but Subaru’s safety suite tends to be more comprehensive.
What is the warranty coverage for the 2019 Ascent? Subaru provides a 3‑year/36,000‑mile basic warranty, a 5‑year/60,000‑mile powertrain warranty, and a 5‑year/60,000‑mile anti‑perforation corrosion warranty.
