You know, buying a car feels like a big step. We often worry so much about things. Will it last a long time? What about its value later on? And the yearly costs, honestly, those can add up fast. For many families who need a spacious SUV, the Subaru Ascent has become a real favorite. But here’s the thing to consider: how well does it truly keep its value as the miles pile up? And what are the actual costs of owning one of these? Let’s talk about all this in detail. We’ll look at facts. We will see expert opinions. We will also hear some real-life stories.
The Resale Value of Subaru Ascent: An Overview
The Subaru Ascent arrived in 2019. It was their first three-row SUV. People liked it right away. They talked about its huge inside space. Its safety features were also a big draw. Its all-wheel drive capabilities were a bonus. But as time passes, how does the Ascent’s value hold up? It’s no secret that Subarus generally keep their value well. Kelley Blue Book, a trusted source, says Subarus often do better than many rivals. Honestly, Subaru was even the top brand for resale value in 2022. The Ascent really helped build that strong name.
Most cars lose a lot of value in their first year. It’s usually about 20%. That’s a pretty big drop, right? But the Subaru Ascent is different. It usually keeps around 60% of its value after three years. This is quite good for an SUV. Think about a Honda Pilot, for example. It might only hold about 55% over the same time frame. The Ascent just stands out more here. This shows its toughness. It shows its lasting appeal in the used car market too. To be honest, this difference can save you real money.
Let’s look at some real numbers. A new Subaru Ascent often costs about $35,000. After three years, you might sell it for around $21,000. Now, think about a Ford Explorer, a similar type of car. Its resale value after three years could be closer to $18,000. This gap isn’t small at all. It shows the Ascent’s strong resale value. It really highlights its enduring charm.
Mileage Impact on Value Retention
Now, let’s consider cars with high mileage. The average person drives about 13,500 miles each year. So, a three-year-old Ascent could easily have 40,500 miles on it. Usually, more miles mean less money for a car. But Subarus are famous for living a long time. Many Subaru owners drive their cars far past 200,000 miles. They often do this without big problems occurring. That’s pretty cool, if you ask me.
A study by iSeeCars found something interesting. Subaru models, including the Ascent, are among the top 10 long-lasting cars. They often average over 200,000 miles. This is a very important fact. Especially for people who are buying used cars with lots of miles. It offers real peace of mind to buyers.
But here’s the thing: mileage truly matters for value. Still, the Ascent’s good name for reliability can help. It can make the value drop less noticeable. For instance, a 2019 Ascent with 70,000 miles. It might still sell for around $27,000. This depends on its shape. It also depends on its service records. A similar Chevrolet Traverse with high miles might drop much more in price. This really shows how Subaru’s reliability helps it stand out from the crowd.
Average Ownership Costs of Subaru Ascent
It’s important to know the true cost of a car. Edmunds reports that owning a Subaru Ascent costs about $7,500 each year. This number includes care, insurance, gas, and value loss. Let’s break down these costs. This will give us a much clearer picture.
Fuel Costs
The Ascent gets about 21 miles per gallon in the city. It gets 27 miles per gallon on the highway. If you drive 15,000 miles a year, that uses about 700 gallons of gas. With gas at around $3.50 a gallon, your yearly fuel bill is about $2,450. It’s a good number to keep in mind.
Insurance Costs
Insurance prices vary a lot. Your location matters, of course. Your driving history is important. The type of coverage you choose also counts. Most Subaru owners pay about $1,300 for insurance each year. This amount can certainly change. Always check around for the best prices. It can really save you some money in the long run.
Maintenance and Repairs
Subaru cars are known for being very tough. This usually means lower repair bills for owners. RepairPal says an Ascent costs about $500 yearly for upkeep. This covers basic things like oil changes. It also covers routine brake checks. Subaru also gives you helpful warranties. There’s a three-year or 36,000-mile basic warranty. There’s also a five-year or 60,000-mile engine warranty. These offer initial peace of mind, which is great.
Depreciation
We already talked about this. The Ascent keeps about 60% of its value after three years. This is big for long-term ownership costs. Cars usually lose value quickly when they are new. The Ascent loses value much slower. This can save owners thousands over time. That’s money that stays in your pocket, which is always nice.
Comparative Analysis with Competitors
Imagine comparing the Subaru Ascent to other popular SUVs. Think about the Honda Pilot. Think about the Toyota Highlander. The Ascent truly holds its own in total ownership cost. It’s pretty impressive, actually.
Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot costs about the same upfront. It also offers good reliability to drivers. But it tends to lose value quicker than the Ascent. It usually only keeps about 55% of its value after three years. This means you’ll pay more in total over time, sadly.
Toyota Highlander
The Highlander is another strong rival for sure. It’s also known for good resale value. However, its initial price is a bit higher. It often starts around $38,000. It is super reliable, for sure. Its gas mileage is quite similar to the Ascent’s. But its upkeep costs can be a little higher, sometimes around $600 annually.
From this comparison, it’s clear to me. The Ascent faces tough competition in the market. But its mix of value, reliability, and lower costs makes it a really good choice. Especially for busy families.
Historical Context of Subaru’s Value Retention
To truly grasp the Ascent’s value, we should look back in time. Subaru has built a strong name for being dependable and long-lasting cars. This brand’s success really began in the 1990s. They focused heavily on all-wheel drive. They also focused on excellent safety features. People really caught on to that unique combination.
From the super popular Subaru Outback to the brand’s deep commitment to safety. Every model helped build Subaru’s fantastic reputation. The Ascent really benefits from this long history. Many people see Subaru as a reliable and durable brand. This long history boosts the Ascent’s resale value significantly. Buyers trust a brand they already know well. This trust translates to a higher demand in the used car market.
Future Trends: What’s Next for Subaru Ascent?
Looking forward, I am excited about the Subaru Ascent’s future direction. Car buyers want electric and hybrid cars more and more these days. Subaru is starting to change with this very important trend. The company plans to add more hybrid options soon. This might affect the value and costs of current gasoline models.
I am eager to see how this shift will impact the Ascent’s resale value down the line. If electric cars become very common, gasoline SUVs might see less demand. This would affect their resale values. Still, the Ascent’s name for reliability and safety might give it a solid edge. It has a very solid foundation of trust.
Also, technology keeps moving forward so quickly. Driver-assist systems and connectivity features are becoming standard expectations. Subaru has already put many advanced safety features into the Ascent. This could make it even more wanted in the used car market later on. It’s a very smart move for them.
Actionable Steps for Owners and Buyers
For current Ascent owners, maintaining its value is key. Regular maintenance is crucial. Keep all your service records carefully. This shows proper care to future buyers. Getting any small damages repaired quickly helps too. A clean car sells better, always.
For those looking to buy a used Ascent, do your homework. Get a pre-purchase inspection. Look at the car’s service history. Ask about any accidents it may have had. A well-cared-for Ascent is a fantastic buy. It truly can last a very long time.
FAQs About Subaru Ascent Ownership Costs and Value Retention
How does high mileage affect the value of a Subaru Ascent?
High mileage usually lowers a car’s value. But the Ascent is known for being durable. This helps its resale value stay higher. It’s a real benefit.
What are the average maintenance costs for a Subaru Ascent?
The average yearly cost for Ascent maintenance is about $500. Routine services make up most of this. It’s quite reasonable for an SUV.
How does the Subaru Ascent compare to its competitors in terms of value?
The Ascent keeps a higher resale value generally. This is true against cars like the Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander. It makes it a good long-term buy.
What factors most influence the resale value of a Subaru Ascent?
Mileage, physical condition, and market demand matter greatly. Subaru’s strong name for reliability helps too. A full service history also boosts value.
Is the Subaru Ascent a good investment for families?
Yes, it seems to me it is. The Ascent has good resale value. It’s reliable and costs less to own over time. This makes it a solid buy for many families.
Does the Ascent’s all-wheel drive system impact its long-term reliability?
Many believe Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive helps. It reduces stress on parts. This can lead to better longevity for the vehicle as a whole.
What’s the typical lifespan of a Subaru Ascent engine?
Engines often last over 200,000 miles with good care. Regular oil changes are key for this. Following the service schedule is vital.
Are parts expensive for the Subaru Ascent compared to other SUVs?
Parts are generally average in price. They are not usually overly expensive. Availability for common parts is also good.
How does the Ascent’s safety rating affect its insurance costs?
High safety ratings often mean lower insurance rates. The Ascent’s good ratings can help save you money each year. Insurance companies like safe cars.
Can I expect to get more for my Ascent if it has a full service history?
Absolutely! A complete service history boosts resale value significantly. It shows the car was well cared for by its previous owner.
Does where I live affect my Ascent’s resale value?
Yes, regional demand can matter. Some areas have higher demand for Subarus. This can mean better resale prices for your car.
What makes Subaru stand out for value retention in the auto industry?
Subaru’s focus on safety and reliability helps immensely. Their standard all-wheel drive is also a big draw for many buyers. It’s a unique selling point.
Are there any common issues with high-mileage Ascents that buyers should know?
Some owners report minor electrical issues sometimes. However, major drivetrain problems are rare. Regular check-ups can catch small issues early.
Should I buy an extended warranty for a used Ascent, especially a high-mileage one?
It might be a good idea for peace of mind. Especially if the car has higher miles already. It can cover unexpected repair costs.
How can I find out the current market value of a specific used Ascent?
Use trusted online tools like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds. They provide estimates based on mileage and condition. This helps you price it correctly.
Conclusion: The Value of Subaru Ascent
In closing, the Subaru Ascent is truly a great SUV. It’s perfect for many families. It holds its value well, even with many miles under its belt. Its yearly ownership costs are competitive too. This makes it a smart choice for long-term car buyers. With its safety features, comfort, and toughness, the Ascent is more than just a car. It’s an investment in family peace of mind.
I believe that the Subaru Ascent will stay a strong contender in the SUV market. The car world keeps changing and evolving. Its history and current trends position it very well for future success. As families pick their next car, the Ascent deserves a top spot on their list. Imagine driving a vehicle that not only meets your family’s every need but also keeps its value year after year. That’s the lasting promise of the Subaru Ascent. I am happy to know this information is useful for you!
