NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2026 Subaru Ascent
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Subaru Ascent is a three-row family SUV that slots into one of the most competitive segments in the American market. Built on Subaru's global platform and aimed squarely at families needing genuine passenger capacity, the Ascent competes with the likes of the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. It carries the brand's signature all-wheel-drive standard equipment and positions itself as a practical, safety-conscious choice for households moving beyond smaller crossovers.
The 2026 Subaru Ascent earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 96 out of 100, an exceptional result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Both frontal and side crash protection reached the full 5 stars. No vehicle recalls are on file for this model year.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally regard the Ascent as a competent and well-rounded three-row family SUV, praising its standard all-wheel drive, usable third-row access, and family-friendly feature set. Most professional assessments position it as a sensible, if not class-leading, choice in the competitive mid-size SUV segment, with ride comfort and interior practicality frequently highlighted as genuine strengths.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 21699
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
1 owner complaint on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.