When looking at SUVs in the family segment, the 2020 Subaru Ascent is bound to grab your attention. In addition to solid features for a three-row crossover vehicle, it boasts one of the highest safety ratings possible from experts in the auto industry.
How safe is the 2020 Subaru Ascent?
The 2020 Subaru Ascent received a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the NHTSA and the highest score of “Good” from the IIHS. Combine that with 4.71-Star Owner and 4.5/10 Expert Review Ratings from Vehicle History for an excellent safety record.
Though safety is of prime importance, there are lots of things to consider when buying a new or used car. Following is a look at everything from crash testing to high-tech safety packages, reviews, cost and FAQs.
Subaru Ascent Crash Test Rating
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Test/Results
The 2020 Subaru Ascent joins its fellow Subaru Outback in earning an acclaimed Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). In crash testing, the Ascent scooped up the highest “Good” rating in all six categories. The Child Seat Anchors test also maxed out with the “Good” score for LATCH Ease of Use, noting the extra LATCH positions.
For crash prevention categories with the IIHS, the Ascent maxed out with “Superior” ratings. Headlights fared well in some trim levels, but other trims didn’t measure up. In particular, the halogen headlights on the base and Premium Ascents received a “Poor” rating.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Test/Results
The National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) agreed with the IIHS in certifying the safety of the 2020 Subaru Ascent. The NHTSA awarded 5 perfect stars, its highest score, for overall safety. This covers both frontal and side crashworthiness when simulating crashes in various scenarios.
During rollover resistance testing, the 2020 Ascent dropped a star, clocking in with a still-respectable 4 stars in a simulated loss-of-control scenario. The rollover risk rate landed at 17 percent.
U.S. News & World Report
The U.S. News & World Report annual vehicle rating system doled out a safety score of 9.8 for the 2020 Subaru Ascent. This calculation was based primarily on factors from the IIHS and NHTSA. It compares with a 9.2 safety score from U.S. News for its competitor, the Toyota Highlander, and a 9.3 for the Honda Pilot. Reviewers noted the Ascent’s generous safety features and its sure-footed grip when driving on slick roads.
2020 Subaru Ascent Available Safety Tech
Safety technology is a hallmark of every Subaru that rolls off the factory floor, including the 2020 Ascent. Some features come bundled in safety packages according to trim levels.
The Subaru EyeSight driver assist package comes standard on every 2020 Subaru Ascent. It provides goodies such as adaptive cruise control, automatic braking in emergencies, an Eyesight Assist monitor, and an active lane control feature. According to Subaru, the Eyesight package has a track record of cutting down on rear-end crash injuries by as much as 85 percent.
Higher trim levels up the ante by including blind-spot and lane monitoring as well as alerts for rear cross-traffic. A front-view camera comes in the high-end Touring.
Subaru’s security system anticipates or detects intruders. An ignition disabling device will not allow the engine to start without the original key from the manufacturer. A Safety Plus package gives you roadside and emergency assistance, and it automatically notifies first responders when you get in an accident
Additional safety tech for the Ascent includes:
- Reverse automatic braking
- Anti-lock brakes and brake assist
- Multiple airbags, including driver, passenger, front overhead, rear overhead, front side, and knee airbags
- Seatbelt pretensioners that automatically tighten during a collision
Here’s What Other People Also Ask About the Subaru Ascent
Which engine comes in the Subaru Ascent?
If you buy a 2020 Subaru Ascent, you’ll be rolling down the road with a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. You get 260 horsepower and 277 lb.-ft. of torque. When outfitted for it, you can tow as much as 5,000 pounds with the Ascent.
Is the 2020 Subaru Ascent reliable?
The earlier 2019 Ascent model has several recalls, leading Consumer Reports to cut the 2020 expected reliability rating down to 3/5. Actual consumer/owners on Kelley Blue Book give a higher reliability rating of 4.2.
How much does a 2020 Subaru Ascent cost?
The 2020 Subaru Ascent debuted with a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $33,000. That price includes the destination fee. The cost varies according to trim level, with the Touring commanding almost $46,000.
