By: Krish Persaud
February 21, 2025
Since its debut in 2018, the Subaru Ascent has firmly established itself as Subaru’s flagship three-row SUV, offering a perfect balance of spacious practicality and the brand’s signature all-weather capability. It’s designed for families, adventurers, and anyone who needs a versatile vehicle that can handle everything from daily commutes to weekend getaways. For this review, Subaru Canada Inc. provided us with the 2025 Subaru Ascent Sport, and we spent some time behind the wheel to see how it stacks up against the stiff competition in the midsize SUV segment.
From the moment you lay eyes on the 2025 Subaru Ascent Sport, it’s clear this is a vehicle that means business. Its bold, muscular stance is complemented by sharp LED lighting and rugged black cladding, highlighting its adventurous side. Our test model, dressed in Crystal Black Silica, looked sharp with 20-inch bronze-finish alloy wheels and gloss-black mirror caps, while the Sport-specific design details give it a unique edge. Roof rails and a power-operated rear liftgate add to its utility, while the front grille and hexagonal accents create a purposeful, modern look.
Under the hood, the Ascent Sport is powered by Subaru’s 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engine, which delivers 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a Lineartronic CVT and Subaru’s standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, making it a smooth operator whether you’re merging onto the highway or navigating a steep incline. The addition of paddle shifters offers some driver engagement, while X-Mode with Hill Descent Control ensures the vehicle maintains its composure when things get slippery. With a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, the Ascent is more than capable of hauling trailers, boats, or any outdoor gear you want to bring along for the ride.
Inside, the Ascent Sport caters to families with its spacious, well-appointed cabin. The standard StarTex® water-repellent upholstery on this trim is not only durable but also makes it easier to clean up spills. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel add comfort, while the three-row setup accommodates seven passengers, with captain’s chairs in the second row offering plenty of legroom and a third row best suited for younger riders. Cargo space is generous, with 504 liters behind the third row and 2,140 liters available when both rear rows are folded down.
Tech-wise, the Ascent Sport offers plenty of features to keep you connected and entertained. The 11.6-inch Starlink® touchscreen is intuitive and supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the 14-speaker Harman Kardon® sound system provides decent audio quality, though a bit more clarity would be appreciated. Other features like dual-zone climate control, push-button start, and multiple USB ports ensure everyone stays comfortable and connected throughout the journey.
The 2025 Ascent is available in six trims. The Convenience trim starts at $45,995, followed by the Touring at $47,995. The Onyx trim is priced at $49,495, and the Limited is available for $52,995. The Sport trim, as tested, is priced at $53,995, while the Premier tops out the lineup at $55,995.
Natural Resources Canada rates the 2025 Ascent at 11.5L/100km in the city, 9.0L/100km on the highway, and 10.3L/100km combined. During our week of mixed driving, including some snowy Ontario roads, we observed 11.2L/100km—a solid figure considering the SUV’s size and the winter tires.
Safety is a standout feature in the Ascent, with Subaru’s EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology included as standard. This system features adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane-keep assist, and lead vehicle start alert. In addition, blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, and reverse automatic braking offer extra peace of mind. For families, available rear-seat reminders and a rear-facing camera system provide added convenience and safety.
While the Ascent Sport isn’t quite as trail-focused as the Outback Onyx, it holds its own with 8.7 inches of ground clearance and dual-function X-Mode (Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud). The Symmetrical AWD ensures solid grip, even on icy or muddy roads. Whether you’re heading to the cottage or navigating a snowy commute, the Ascent is a dependable option for Canadian winters.
When stacked up against competitors like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, the Ascent Sport stands out in several key areas, including its standard AWD, turbocharged engine, and superior cargo flexibility. While the Pilot offers more room in the third row, the Ascent delivers a more engaging drive, with predictable handling and great value across its trim lineup.
In the end, the 2025 Subaru Ascent Sport is a well-rounded, family-focused SUV that doesn’t skimp on capability. Its spacious interior, solid towing capacity, and advanced safety features make it an appealing choice for families looking for a vehicle that can transition from daily drives to weekend adventures with ease. Although its fuel economy isn’t quite as impressive as some competitors, the Ascent’s blend of reliability, comfort, and versatility makes it a standout in the crowded three-row SUV segment.
Vehicle Specs
Segment: Midsize crossover
Engine: 2.4L turbocharged BOXER
Horsepower: 260 hp
Torque: 277 lb-ft
Fuel Efficiency (City/Highway/Combined): 11.5L/100km / 9.0L/100km / 10.3L/100km
Observed Fuel Economy: 11.2L/100km (mixed driving)
Cargo Capacity: 504 L (seats up), 2,448 L (seats down)
Base Price: $50,995 CAD
As-Tested Price: $53,995 CAD