For some families, three-row SUVs are necessary. But Subaru families aren’t showing much interest in the Ascent. The Subaru Ascent is struggling against declining sales and might be discontinued as a result. 

The Subaru Ascent struggles against declining sales 

The Subaru Ascent isn’t exactly a staple in the Subaru lineup. It launched in 2019, so it’s been around for six years and it hasn’t taken off like Subaru hoped. 

After facing declining sales for 14 months in a row, the Ascent has officially been put on a watch list. During the first seven months of 2024, the Ascent sold 32,175 SUVs. 

It has a 14% sales decrease compared to the same period in 2023. The Crosstrek, Outback, and Solterra were the only Subaru SUVs with increasing sales in July 2024. 

Because the Ascent is on a watchlist, Subaru will be paying closer attention to it. Subaru wants to see how things go before investing in a remodel. 

If sales continue to be lackluster, then the Ascent could be discontinued. According to Torque News, Subaru could replace the Ascent with a new three-row electric SUV. 

The new electric vehicle could be built in Kentucky and probably developed with the help of Toyota, like the Solterra. 

Or the Ascent Hybrid could debut to provide families with a more efficient powertrain if they aren’t ready to go fully electric. 

Currently, the Ascent has a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. It gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and up to 26 mpg on the highway. That’s the same fuel economy as the Ford F-150. 

Also, the Ascent starts at $34,395, meaning it’s competitively priced. The 2024 Kia Telluride has an MSRP of $36,190. 

Drivers might resist the Ascent because it’s a bit dated. It doesn’t have any significant changes for 2024 aside from a new Bronze Edition and Onyx Edition. 

Only time will determine the Acent’s fate, so stay tuned for updates.