How to Choose a 2025 Subaru Ascent: Trim Levels and Features Explained

What You Get at Each Trim Level

The 2025 Subaru Ascent comes in four main trim levels: Base, Premium, Onyx Edition XT, and Touring. Each step up adds standard features rather than removing them, so a Premium includes everything the Base has, plus more. The Base model starts with all-wheel drive, a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, and an eight-speed automatic transmission. It seats eight passengers across three rows and includes a 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Subaru's EyeSight Driver information Technology as standard.

The Premium trim adds heated front seats, a power driver's seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a larger 8-inch touchscreen. The Onyx Edition XT is a mid-range option that includes all Premium features plus a sportier exterior design, roof rails, and upgraded interior trim. The Touring is the highest trim and adds leather upholstery, a 11.6-inch touchscreen with navigation, a power liftgate, and a Harman Kardon premium audio system.

Key Takeaways

All 2025 Ascent models use the same 2.4-liter turbocharged engine and eight-speed transmission, so performance does not change between trims.
The Base trim includes EyeSight Driver information Technology and all-wheel drive, so you are not sacrificing safety features to save money.
Interior space and seating capacity remain the same across all trims — the differences are in comfort and convenience features, not room.
The Touring trim's 11.6-inch touchscreen and navigation system are the main tech upgrade, while lower trims use smaller screens without built-in maps.

Engine and Powertrain Options

Every 2025 Ascent uses a single engine choice: a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. This engine pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive on all trims. Subaru does not offer a non-turbocharged version or a different engine option for the Ascent lineup.

Fuel economy is rated at approximately 21 miles per gallon in the city and 27 on the highway for all trims, since the engine and transmission are identical across the board. The turbocharged design gives the Ascent better towing capacity than some competitors — Subaru rates it at 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. If you are comparing the Ascent to other three-row SUVs, the engine performance will be the same whether you choose the Base or Touring trim.

Interior Features and Comfort Upgrades

The Base and Premium trims use cloth upholstery, while the Touring switches to leather. The Premium adds heated front seats and a power driver's seat with lumbar support, features the Base does not have. Dual-zone automatic climate control appears on Premium and higher, whereas the Base has manual climate control. All trims include a 60/40 split-folding third row and a 40/20/40 split second row, so cargo flexibility is the same across the lineup.

Infotainment screens vary by trim: Base and Premium use an 8-inch touchscreen, the Onyx Edition XT keeps the 8-inch screen, and the Touring upgrades to an 11.6-inch screen. Only the Touring includes built-in navigation; lower trims rely on smartphone navigation through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The Touring also adds a Harman Kardon premium audio system with ten speakers, while other trims use a standard audio setup.

Safety and Driver information Technology

Subaru's EyeSight Driver information Technology comes standard on all 2025 Ascent trims. This system includes pre-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep information. It uses two front-facing cameras to monitor the road and alert you to potential hazards. The system is not optional on any trim — you cannot remove it to lower the price.

Additional safety features vary slightly by trim. All models include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane-keep information. The Touring trim adds blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as standard, while these features may be available as part of optional packages on lower trims. Subaru includes a rearview camera on all trims, and the Touring's larger touchscreen makes the camera feed easier to see.

Exterior Design and Styling Differences

The Base, Premium, and Touring trims share a similar exterior design with minor trim variations. The Onyx Edition XT stands out with a more aggressive front grille, unique exterior badging, and roof rails as standard. It also includes a roof spoiler and different wheel designs compared to other trims. If you want a sportier appearance without stepping up to the Touring's luxury features, the Onyx Edition XT splits the difference.

Wheel options vary by trim. The Base and Premium typically come with 18-inch wheels, while the Onyx Edition XT and Touring offer larger wheel options. Paint color choices are the same across all trims, so your color preference does not limit which trim you can choose. Roof rails are standard on the Onyx Edition XT and Touring but optional on Base and Premium models.

Optional Packages and Add-Ons

Subaru offers several optional packages that let you add features without moving to a higher trim. A technology package on lower trims can add features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. An all-weather package includes heated seats and steering wheel, useful if you live in a cold climate. These packages vary in price and availability depending on which trim you start with.

The Touring trim has fewer optional packages available because it already includes most premium features. If you want maximum customization, starting with a Base or Premium trim and adding packages may give you more choices than buying a Touring outright. Dealer inventory and regional availability affect which packages are offered in your area, so check with your local Subaru dealer for current options.

Pricing and Value Comparison

The 2025 Ascent Base trim is the least expensive entry point into the three-row Ascent lineup. The Premium trim costs more but adds comfort features like heated seats and a power driver's seat. The Onyx Edition XT sits between Premium and Touring in price and offers sportier styling. The Touring is the most expensive but includes leather, navigation, and premium audio.

When comparing value, consider what features matter most to you. If you rarely use navigation and do not need leather seats, a Premium with optional packages might deliver better value than jumping to the Touring. If you want the largest touchscreen and built-in maps, the Touring's price difference may be worth it. Fuel economy is identical across all trims, so you will not save money on gas by choosing a lower trim.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get the Touring's navigation system on a lower trim?

No, the 11.6-inch touchscreen with built-in navigation is exclusive to the Touring trim. Lower trims use an 8-inch screen and rely on Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for navigation. If navigation is important to you, the Touring is your only option for a factory-installed system.

Is the turbocharged engine more expensive to maintain than a regular engine?

Maintenance costs are similar to other turbocharged engines, and Subaru's warranty covers the engine equally on all trims. Turbocharged engines can require premium fuel in some cases, though Subaru rates the 2025 Ascent to run on regular fuel. Check your owner's manual for specific fuel recommendations.

Does the Onyx Edition XT have more power than other trims?

No, the Onyx Edition XT uses the same 2.4-liter turbocharged engine as all other trims. The styling is sportier, but performance and horsepower are identical across the entire lineup. The Onyx Edition XT is a visual upgrade, not a performance upgrade.

What is the main reason to choose the Premium over the Base?

The Premium adds heated front seats, a power driver's seat with lumbar support, and dual-zone climate control. If you spend long hours driving or live in a cold climate, these comfort features justify the price difference. If you rarely drive long distances, the Base's manual climate control and standard seats may be sufficient.

Can I add leather seats to a Base or Premium Ascent?

Leather upholstery is standard on the Touring trim only and is not available as an add-on for lower trims. If leather seats are important to you, the Touring is the only option. Some aftermarket shops offer leather seat covers, but these are not factory options.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.