When it comes to three-row crossover SUVs., the Subaru Ascent checks all the right boxes. Does that mean it’s the right choice for your family? The Ascent is available in four different trim levels—Base, Premium, Limited, and Touring—each with its own unique standard and optional features and equipment upgrades.
But for many car shoppers, the choice ultimately comes down to the Ascent Limited versus Premium with its more premium features and high value. We’ll outline the key differences between these two popular trims to help you make the call.
| Feature | Premium | Limited |
| Starting MSRP | $36,295 | $41,995 |
| Heated Steering Wheel | ❌ | ✅ |
| Ventilated Front Seats | ❌ | ✅ |
| Heated 2nd Row Seats | ❌ | ✅ |
| Driver Seat Memory | ❌ | ✅ |
| Front View Camera | ❌ | ✅ |
| 360-Degree Camera | ❌ | ✅ |
| Auto-Fold Power Mirrors | ❌ | ✅ |
| Rain-Sensing Wipers | ❌ | ✅ |
| Reverse Automatic Braking | ❌ | ✅ |
| Built-In Navigation | ❌ | ✅ |
The Limited trim builds on the Premium with additional luxury and tech features to make your drive more pleasant along with added safety tech to give you some peace of mind. But is it worth the extra cost?
We’ll look at what sets these Ascent models apart so you know what you’re getting at each level. Let’s dive into the key differences between these two popular Ascent trims.
The Ascent Premium is already well-equipped with a fantastic list of standard features. It comes with:
As you can see, the Premium level comes generously equipped even in its base configuration. For many buyers, this represents an excellent value with must-have features for convenience, comfort, versatility and driver assist.
Step up to the Limited trim, and Subaru augments the Ascent with additional technology, convenience and driver assist systems including:
There’s no question you get quite a few meaningful upgrades with the Limited that add both premium feel and extra tech. The telescoping exterior mirrors, seat memory settings, ventilated front seats and heated 2nd row seating are particularly nice upgrades for comfort. And you’ll appreciate the 360 degree camera system and front view camera when maneuvering in tight spaces.
But just how important are these features for your needs? Getting a car seat in and out of that third row would be easier with auto folding mirrors. And if you live in a climate with rain or snow, heated seats and rain sensing wipers could be a real perk.
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It’s also useful to note a few of the things that don’t change between the Ascent Limited and Premium models. Both come standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, X-MODE with Hill Descent Control for added traction and 8.7 inches of ground clearance. These are important for confidence when driving in trick winter conditions.
You also get Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist technology standard on both Limited and Premium models. EyeSight includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, lane departure warning and other active monitoring systems.
And all Ascents have a 5-star safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS when equipped with available blind spot detection and rear cross traffic alert systems. So both trim levels deliver awesome safety credentials backed by Subaru’s reputation for safety leadership.
Notably, you also get the same 2.4-liter turbo BOXER engine on Premium and Limited trims. This provides a robust 260 horsepower along with 277 lb-ft of torque. And it allows the Ascent to tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. In other words, you aren’t missing out on capability by opting for the more affordable Premium.
MSRP pricing represents one of the biggest variables between the Ascent Premium and Limited models. Here’s a look at the difference in retail cost:
As you can see, opting for the top-of-the-line Limited represents more than a $5,700 price premium over the already well-equipped Ascent Premium. That’s over 15 percent higher cost.
You’ll need to weigh whether the additional features and equipment upgrades merit this pricing jump for your needs and budget. Keep in mind that most optional packages and stand-alone options can be added onto lower Premium models—including the popular All-Weather Package with heated second-row seats.
So while the Limited does bundle quite a few nice-to-have amenities, you have some flexibility with adding options to the Premium trim at lower cost.
Also watch this video of Subaru Ascent Premium!
To recap the key differences in simplified form, here are answers to common questions shoppers have about Subaru Ascent trim levels and features.
There are four Ascent trim levels in order from lowest to highest: Base, Premium, Limited and Touring. The Base is relatively uncommon since the Premium adds so many expected features for little price bump. Most buyers decide between Premium and Limited levels.
There are no set packages labeled specifically “Premium.” However, the Ascent Premium trim level includes an impressive array of upgraded features over the base model, including 18-inch wheels, heated seats, keyless access and more. There’s also an available All-Weather Package with heated rear seats, windshield wiper de-icer and heated steering wheel that’s popular.
The range-topping Ascent Touring includes all Limited features and adds ventilated 2nd row seats, a Harman Kardon premium sound system with 14 speakers, and a unique Java Brown perforated leather interior option. The Touring trim also includes exclusive cabin amenities like open pore woodgrain accents.
Yes, all Subaru Ascent trim levels from the Premium up through Touring include a large panoramic power moonroof as standard equipment. With the touch of a button, you get a expansive glass sunroof for an airy open cabin environment.
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In summary, while the Ascent Limited does upgrade key elements of the experience and provides the highest level of standard features, the Premium still impresses. For many families, the Premium hits the sweet spot of must-have amenities and high value without going over budget.
Carefully assess whether the Limited’s upgrades reflect your priorities or if you’d be just as happy saving money with the very polished Ascent Premium. Either way, you end up with Subaru’s versatile 3-row family hauler packed with safety, technology and capability for adventures.
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