I did. I traded my 2019 limited for a 2023 limited. Enjoying it even more.
Would you buy it again???
Trading in a totally trouble-free 2019 Forester Sport with 100K miles for a 2023 Ascent Touring. Would you buy your Ascent again? If not, why?
Thanks!
Thanks!
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There is a survey or two on the subject on this forum somewhere. The results are mixed. In my case, would I buy a brand new 2020 Touring again? No. Would I buy a 2023...I think most of the issues have been addressed. I'm not sure that the brake issue is solved yet though. There is a survey for that too. In most instances , Subaru has tried to make right which is a big deal.
Yes...and I just did. I ordered a MY23 Ascent Touring to replace the MY19 Ascent Touring I've had for 34K miles. Outstanding vehicle.Would you buy your Ascent again?
5000 miles so far in my 23. No brake problems.There is a survey or two on the subject on this forum somewhere. The results are mixed. In my case, would I buy a brand new 2020 Touring again? No. Would I buy a 2023...I think most of the issues have been addressed. I'm not sure that the brake issue is solved yet though. There is a survey for that too. In most instances , Subaru has tried to make right which is a big deal.
Thanks to all that replied. Curious, what brake issues are some experiencing?
Now that they've fixed the shudder BS, absolutely.
2020 Touring with 22k miles. Yes, I would.
Absolutely! We're 2+ years in and still loving it. Nothing else out there I'd even consider. (though I'd love an Outback or Crosstrek as a 2nd car if we could swing that right now)
Would not buy again. I’ll live with the non-linear acceleration without too much annoyance or complaining, but I’d buy a hybrid three row next time.
I'd buy our 2020 again. I'm not sure I'd buy the 2023+ considering all the goofy changes. Same with the Outback/Forester. Much prefer the older models than the newer ones.
I’m in the same boat as you. Not a very exciting car either, but the mpgs I get and I’m driving like a granny is just not very fun either. Definitely going hybrid or full ev if they get that down in a few yearsWould not buy again. I’ll live with the non-linear acceleration without too much annoyance or complaining, but I’d buy a hybrid three row next time.
A CVT is a different animal and anyone buying one should know that and how it operates. You knew the MPG estimates on the sticker, so that should have not been a surprise...granny driving or not. It boils down to what you need and want. No 3-row SUV will ever be "exciting" or fun. They are not meant to be by design. If mileage is what you're after, a Hybrid is a good choice. As far a full EV...that's about another 3-5 years out for me at a minimum. Still to many unknowns and infrastructure issues. Battery technology for these vehicles is still in its infancy. When solid state batteries arrive, then I'll take a closer look.I’m in the same boat as you. Not a very exciting car either, but the mpgs I get and I’m driving like a granny is just not very fun either. Definitely going hybrid or full ev if they get that down in a few years
The interior and design I mean just not very exciting and I’m comparing to the comparable 3 row suvs out right now. Didn’t mind it at first def no flexing going on in this one. Drive like a granny just to get decent mpgs I meant. I’m also comparing it to the other 3 row suvs. It’s way lower than posted mpg btw for me unless I drive really granny like lol then I get close toA CVT is a different animal and anyone buying one should know that and how it operates. You knew the MPG estimates on the sticker, so that should have not been a surprise...granny driving or not. It boils down to what you need and want. No 3-row SUV will ever be "exciting" or fun. They are not meant to be by design. If mileage is what you're after, a Hybrid is a good choice. As far a full EV...that's about another 3-5 years out for me at a minimum. Still to many unknowns and infrastructure issues. Battery technology for these vehicles is still in its infancy. When solid state batteries arrive, then I'll take a closer look.
What they say it’s supposed to be. Hey you asked I answered 🤷🏻♂️
I agree about the ev thing my next car will be around that time so hoping they get jtA CVT is a different animal and anyone buying one should know that and how it operates. You knew the MPG estimates on the sticker, so that should have not been a surprise...granny driving or not. It boils down to what you need and want. No 3-row SUV will ever be "exciting" or fun. They are not meant to be by design. If mileage is what you're after, a Hybrid is a good choice. As far a full EV...that's about another 3-5 years out for me at a minimum. Still to many unknowns and infrastructure issues. Battery technology for these vehicles is still in its infancy. When solid state batteries arrive, then I'll take a closer look.
Down by then or going hybrid.
According to Consumer Reports, they predict average level of user satisfaction, which usually translates to mean that about an average amount of customers will buy it again. I believe this rating may edge higher if 23 returns the same solid quality as 22 and 21, when the Ascent has steadily improved from the first launch.
For better interiors and features, the Kia/Hyundai twins are the leaders right now, but the dealer mark-ups and the lack of car for test drive turn me off. Also their AWD is an expensive add-on. On paper, they have the same MPG as Ascent, although a V6 paired with a traditional transmission should return with better (=predictable/liner) throttle response. But then the fuel economy is not expected to be better than the Ascent with about the same level of handling.
For better gas mileage, I too considered a hybrid, but there is only one in town, the Highlander. Well it was not really "in town" as I could not find a car to test drive and was told I need to put down $1000 and wait for one year to get it. Plus the mark-up and extra cost for an AWD system that is not as robust as the Ascent, so I walked away. The Highlander's hybrid is paired w a 4-cy and CVT, a combination that is not known for exciting throttle response either. The Mazda is known to be more fun to drive, but it is also known to be noticeable smaller for all passengers.
I recall Ascent has solid braking performance, dry/wet: 129/136. Highlander Hy: 141/153 , Telluride: 127/133
If a family needs the space that a 3-row SUV can offer, I too am not optimistic that there will be an EV option in the next 3 years, when road trips are important. I have a friend whose family has two Tesla, an S and a Y. We are both in the boyscout and they almost always need a ride to the campout. The Y has a hitch but the range is reduced greatly if the bike rack is too heavy. Pulling a trailer or even a bike rack can also make re-charging challenging, When I am on a road trip, I don't want to be bothered with these issues.
With all of these said, I don't know if I will buy the Ascent again because by then my kids may be in college already. May be a Lexus RX hybrid will be great (and sufficient in terms of space and comfort)? Who knows, now I am enjoying the Ascent for sure.
For better interiors and features, the Kia/Hyundai twins are the leaders right now, but the dealer mark-ups and the lack of car for test drive turn me off. Also their AWD is an expensive add-on. On paper, they have the same MPG as Ascent, although a V6 paired with a traditional transmission should return with better (=predictable/liner) throttle response. But then the fuel economy is not expected to be better than the Ascent with about the same level of handling.
For better gas mileage, I too considered a hybrid, but there is only one in town, the Highlander. Well it was not really "in town" as I could not find a car to test drive and was told I need to put down $1000 and wait for one year to get it. Plus the mark-up and extra cost for an AWD system that is not as robust as the Ascent, so I walked away. The Highlander's hybrid is paired w a 4-cy and CVT, a combination that is not known for exciting throttle response either. The Mazda is known to be more fun to drive, but it is also known to be noticeable smaller for all passengers.
I recall Ascent has solid braking performance, dry/wet: 129/136. Highlander Hy: 141/153 , Telluride: 127/133
If a family needs the space that a 3-row SUV can offer, I too am not optimistic that there will be an EV option in the next 3 years, when road trips are important. I have a friend whose family has two Tesla, an S and a Y. We are both in the boyscout and they almost always need a ride to the campout. The Y has a hitch but the range is reduced greatly if the bike rack is too heavy. Pulling a trailer or even a bike rack can also make re-charging challenging, When I am on a road trip, I don't want to be bothered with these issues.
With all of these said, I don't know if I will buy the Ascent again because by then my kids may be in college already. May be a Lexus RX hybrid will be great (and sufficient in terms of space and comfort)? Who knows, now I am enjoying the Ascent for sure.
Fantastic input my friend and think you're spot on with your commentary. We test drove a Telluride. It was nice, but it was another $5K+ more and we actually preferred the Ascent anyway.According to Consumer Reports, they predict average level of user satisfaction, which usually translates to mean that about an average amount of customers will buy it again. I believe this rating may edge higher if 23 returns the same solid quality as 22 and 21, when the Ascent has steadily improved from the first launch.
For better interiors and features, the Kia/Hyundai twins are the leaders right now, but the dealer mark-ups and the lack of car for test drive turn me off. Also their AWD is an expensive add-on. On paper, they have the same MPG as Ascent, although a V6 paired with a traditional transmission should return with better (=predictable/liner) throttle response. But then the fuel economy is not expected to be better than the Ascent with about the same level of handling.
For better gas mileage, I too considered a hybrid, but there is only one in town, the Highlander. Well it was not really "in town" as I could not find a car to test drive and was told I need to put down $1000 and wait for one year to get it. Plus the mark-up and extra cost for an AWD system that is not as robust as the Ascent, so I walked away. The Highlander's hybrid is paired w a 4-cy and CVT, a combination that is not known for exciting throttle response either. The Mazda is known to be more fun to drive, but it is also known to be noticeable smaller for all passengers.
I recall Ascent has solid braking performance, dry/wet: 129/136. Highlander Hy: 141/153 , Telluride: 127/133
If a family needs the space that a 3-row SUV can offer, I too am not optimistic that there will be an EV option in the next 3 years, when road trips are important. I have a friend whose family has two Tesla, an S and a Y. We are both in the boyscout and they almost always need a ride to the campout. The Y has a hitch but the range is reduced greatly if the bike rack is too heavy. Pulling a trailer or even a bike rack can also make re-charging challenging, When I am on a road trip, I don't want to be bothered with these issues.
With all of these said, I don't know if I will buy the Ascent again because by then my kids may be in college already. May be a Lexus RX hybrid will be great (and sufficient in terms of space and comfort)? Who knows, now I am enjoying the Ascent for sure.
According to Consumer Reports, they predict average level of user satisfaction, which usually translates to mean that about an average amount of customers will buy it again. I believe this rating may edge higher if 23 returns the same solid quality as 22 and 21, when the Ascent has steadily improved from the first launch.
For better interiors and features, the Kia/Hyundai twins are the leaders right now, but the dealer mark-ups and the lack of car for test drive turn me off. Also their AWD is an expensive add-on. On paper, they have the same MPG as Ascent, although a V6 paired with a traditional transmission should return with better (=predictable/liner) throttle response. But then the fuel economy is not expected to be better than the Ascent with about the same level of handling.
For better gas mileage, I too considered a hybrid, but there is only one in town, the Highlander. Well it was not really "in town" as I could not find a car to test drive and was told I need to put down $1000 and wait for one year to get it. Plus the mark-up and extra cost for an AWD system that is not as robust as the Ascent, so I walked away. The Highlander's hybrid is paired w a 4-cy and CVT, a combination that is not known for exciting throttle response either. The Mazda is known to be more fun to drive, but it is also known to be noticeable smaller for all passengers.
I recall Ascent has solid braking performance, dry/wet: 129/136. Highlander Hy: 141/153 , Telluride: 127/133
If a family needs the space that a 3-row SUV can offer, I too am not optimistic that there will be an EV option in the next 3 years, when road trips are important. I have a friend whose family has two Tesla, an S and a Y. We are both in the boyscout and they almost always need a ride to the campout. The Y has a hitch but the range is reduced greatly if the bike rack is too heavy. Pulling a trailer or even a bike rack can also make re-charging challenging, When I am on a road trip, I don't want to be bothered with these issues.
With all of these said, I don't know if I will buy the Ascent again because by then my kids may be in college already. May be a Lexus RX hybrid will be great (and sufficient in terms of space and comfort)? Who knows, now I am enjoying the Ascent for sure.
It actually came down to model y, rav4, and the ascent/forrester for me. I live rural area so getting to a service center for telsa would’ve been a hassle for me. Also yes would’ve had to tow as well and lose lot of range like you said. But boy was it awesome to test drive. I don’t hate the ascent it’s a nice safe vehicle. Just wouldn’t get it againAccording to Consumer Reports, they predict average level of user satisfaction, which usually translates to mean that about an average amount of customers will buy it again. I believe this rating may edge higher if 23 returns the same solid quality as 22 and 21, when the Ascent has steadily improved from the first launch.
For better interiors and features, the Kia/Hyundai twins are the leaders right now, but the dealer mark-ups and the lack of car for test drive turn me off. Also their AWD is an expensive add-on. On paper, they have the same MPG as Ascent, although a V6 paired with a traditional transmission should return with better (=predictable/liner) throttle response. But then the fuel economy is not expected to be better than the Ascent with about the same level of handling.
For better gas mileage, I too considered a hybrid, but there is only one in town, the Highlander. Well it was not really "in town" as I could not find a car to test drive and was told I need to put down $1000 and wait for one year to get it. Plus the mark-up and extra cost for an AWD system that is not as robust as the Ascent, so I walked away. The Highlander's hybrid is paired w a 4-cy and CVT, a combination that is not known for exciting throttle response either. The Mazda is known to be more fun to drive, but it is also known to be noticeable smaller for all passengers.
I recall Ascent has solid braking performance, dry/wet: 129/136. Highlander Hy: 141/153 , Telluride: 127/133
If a family needs the space that a 3-row SUV can offer, I too am not optimistic that there will be an EV option in the next 3 years, when road trips are important. I have a friend whose family has two Tesla, an S and a Y. We are both in the boyscout and they almost always need a ride to the campout. The Y has a hitch but the range is reduced greatly if the bike rack is too heavy. Pulling a trailer or even a bike rack can also make re-charging challenging, When I am on a road trip, I don't want to be bothered with these issues.
With all of these said, I don't know if I will buy the Ascent again because by then my kids may be in college already. May be a Lexus RX hybrid will be great (and sufficient in terms of space and comfort)? Who knows, now I am enjoying the Ascent for sure.
I wasn't always in the "would buy another one camp", but I just traded my 20 for a 23. I've documented my rationale elsewhere and won't repeat it here. There are certain benefits of the "devil I know" and I feel the 23 is greatly improved over the 20. I didn't have any problems with the 20 other than the driveability issues from day 1 (which I assume that the next owner will address with the judder tsb). The 23 is overall much more pleasant to drive. Quieter, less bouncy ride, more unified interior color scheme, improved behavior of the nannies, everything seems to function more linearly (smoother).
I replaced my totaled 2019 with a 2023 back in December. I like a vast majority of the updates in '23, especially the surround view camera. I had to get a new car quickly, so at the time I was strongly considering an Outback Wilderness or maybe the new Grand Cherokee. I stuck with the known quantity of Subaru. My family convinced me that the space of the Ascent was worth getting another vs. the Outback. I plan for this car to be with us for a while.
If I was shopping today, I'd take a hard look at the CX-90. Our other car is a Mazda CX-5 and it's been rock solid. The CX-90 is pricey though, and it's somewhat difficult to see the value in it over the Ascent. I'm sure it's nicer to drive though. Our CX-5 is surprisingly good to drive for the kind of car it is.
If I was shopping today, I'd take a hard look at the CX-90. Our other car is a Mazda CX-5 and it's been rock solid. The CX-90 is pricey though, and it's somewhat difficult to see the value in it over the Ascent. I'm sure it's nicer to drive though. Our CX-5 is surprisingly good to drive for the kind of car it is.
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