Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2019 Subaru Ascent
With an overall Carivo score of 7.4/10, the 2019 Subaru Ascent earns a Good rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.1/10, while Technology at 6.6/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional suv — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability comes in at 7.8/10 in our assessment — above the middle of the pack for this class, though not flawless. On safety it earns 8.1/10: respectable, if not class-leading — several competitors bundle more driver-assist tech as standard. Check your trim's official ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance at 6.7/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. Technology scores 6.6/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.
Priced from $32,210–$39,361, 20 MPG, seating 8, the Subaru Ascent sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. Value lands at 7.4/10 — you get what you pay for, no more and no less, with a few rivals offering slightly better per-dollar returns. At 7 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Bottom line: There's a case for the 2019 Subaru Ascent, but it needs the right buyer. Its performance and technology scores trail the class, and several higher-rated rivals sell for similar money — comparison-shop before committing.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2019 Subaru Ascent ranks #1166 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 53% of the segment. Its 7.4/10 overall score is exactly at the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $32,210 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $36,079 by about 11%.
$0 — 9 campaigns on record; recall work is always free at franchised dealers
Insurance
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Ascent Year Should You Buy?
Across the Ascent model years we've scored, the 2019 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Above-average reliability record with solid owner satisfaction data
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
Fuel economy at 20 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
NHTSA Recalls — 2019 Subaru Ascent (9 on record)
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle with our free VIN recall checker.
Power train / Automatic transmission / Control module (tcm/pcm/tecm) 02/12/2019 · 19V855000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Ascent vehicles. The transmission hydraulic sensor may inaccurately measure the hydraulic fluid pressure.
Power train / Automatic transmission / Control module (tcm/pcm/tecm) 09/12/2021 · 21V955000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2020 Legacy and Outback vehicles. A programming error in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) may allow the clutch to engage before the drive chain is completely clamped.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Impreza, Outback, Legacy, and Ascent vehicles. The low pressure fuel pump may become inoperative.
Engine and engine cooling / Exhaust system / Emission control / Crankcase (pcv) 02/12/2019 · 19V856000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Crosstrek, Forester, and Ascent vehicles. The aluminum Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve can separate, allowing the separated components to enter the engine, resulting in a loss of power…
Showing 5 of 9 campaigns — see the full list on NHTSA's site.
Own a 2019 Subaru Ascent that's been repaired repeatedly for the same problem? It may qualify under your state's lemon law — run the free lemon law check →
Common Questions — 2019 Subaru Ascent
Is the 2019 Subaru Ascent reliable?
We rate the 2019 Subaru Ascent's reliability 7.8/10 — above the middle of the pack for this class. It has 9 NHTSA recall campaigns on record for this model year (details in the recalls section above — repairs are free at dealers).
How many recalls does the 2019 Subaru Ascent have?
9 NHTSA recall campaigns matched this model and year as of our latest check. Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is the 2019 Subaru Ascent worth buying?
It scores 7.4/10 overall, ranking #1166 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 53% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2019 Subaru Ascent cost?
The 2019 Subaru Ascent starts at $32,210 and ranges up to $39,361 across trims (MSRP when new). At 20 MPG, expect roughly $2,625/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Ascent years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 8 Ascent model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (7.7/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
What problems does the 2019 Subaru Ascent have?
The documented issues for the 2019 Subaru Ascent are its NHTSA recall campaigns, which involve: Power train, Fuel system, gasoline, Engine and engine cooling, Structure (details in the recalls section above; repairs are free at dealers). For wear-and-tear patterns beyond recalls, owner forums are the best source — we only report what federal data documents.
Owner Essentials — Subaru Ascent
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Similar SUV to Consider
Other suvs at a similar price point, ranked by Carivo score.
Representative photo — may show another model year
