Subaru Ascent vs. Forester

2026 Subaru Ascent Exterior Color Options

Certain colors are only available on select trims

2026 Subaru Forester Exterior Color Options

Certain colors are only available on select trims

2026 Subaru Ascent Available Trims

2026 Subaru Forester Available Trims

Both the Ascent and Forester make safety a priority. They both feature state-of-the-art safety features and driver assistance technologies and are recognized by safety experts.

This recognition is based on trusted Subaru safety engineering like the Subaru Global Platform. Both the Ascent and Forester are built on this protective architecture, which uses high-strength steel to provide durable crash protection and rigidity. They are also both equipped with industry-leading active safety systems like standard EyeSight^® Driver Assist Technology. EyeSight also features driver assistance technologies like Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering, which can take some of the stress out of driving by helping with steering, braking, and throttle control – both in daily traffic and on long road trips. The Subaru DriverFocus^® Distraction Mitigation System is also available on both vehicles and acts as an attentive co-pilot along for the ride, ready to give a helpful alert if you become distracted or drowsy.

The Ascent and Forester both feature standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive across every trim for outstanding capability. The balanced design of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive creates uniform stability and delivers an optimal distribution of power for maximum traction in virtually any weather or road condition. It delivers better handling, improved efficiency, and a quicker response to road conditions than competitors’ optional systems. 

X-MODE^®, also standard on both vehicles, works in conjunction with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive to optimize your traction on slippery surfaces and includes Hill Descent Control, which helps you descend difficult grades. Select Ascent and Forester trims offer an enhanced dual-function X-MODE that lets you choose settings for specific conditions like deep snow, dirt, and mud.

The Ascent and Forester both use the Subaru Lineartronic^® CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). The CVT system features two pulleys that can vary in width connected by a steel chain. By changing this width, the CVT can create an infinite “gearing” across its range, which lets it continuously and smoothly adapt to performance demand by keeping the engine in its most efficient operating range. Both vehicles also offer available manual modes, which allow you to move through these “gears” using paddle shifters and give you more precise engine control.

Like every new Subaru, the Ascent and Forester feature two standard warranties. The Subaru Limited Factory Warranty provides limited bumper-to-bumper coverage for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first, and the Powertrain Warranty covers the engine, transmission, and all-wheel drive and lasts for five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. 

You can also purchase extended coverage for both vehicles through the Subaru Added Security^® Program, which offers two different plans. The Classic Plan covers major parts, including the engine, all-wheel drive (AWD), and transmission (as well as towing and car rental), while the Gold Plus Plan adds coverage to air conditioning, electrical, steering, front suspension, brakes, and other systems.

Because the Forester is a compact SUV and the Ascent is a full-size, 3-row SUV, there is a significant difference in the fuel efficiency between the two vehicles. Since they are both powered by the Subaru BOXER engine, which is designed to maximize efficiency, they are very competitive in their respective classes. However, due largely to the differences in weight and power, the lighter Forester boasts up to 33/26 MPG highway/city, while the Ascent comes in at up to 26/19 MPG highway/city.

As the larger of the two vehicles, it’s not surprising that the Subaru Ascent has a higher fuel capacity at 19.3 gallons compared to the Forester fuel capacity of 16.6 gallons. But when you compare the two SUVs on driving range, it’s a different story. The Ascent can reach more than 500 miles of highway driving range, while the lighter weight of the Forester means it can reach more than 540 miles.