Are you the type who idealizes the concept of “disconnecting?” Have you rejected streaming services to curate your own music collection? Does the thought of a monthly subscription make you nauseous? First of all, I think we’d vibe well. Secondly, there’s an SUV meant for you. It’s named the Subaru Ascent, and it still features a 3.5-millimeter auxiliary audio jack.
I’ve been using an Ascent Touring for nearly a week now, and honestly, I’m enjoying it more than I anticipated. However, I won’t spoil the review here—the focus of this piece is the unexpected little port I discovered next to the USB-C and USB-A.
I honestly can’t recall the last instance I spotted one in a brand-new vehicle. That’s mainly my oversight; the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 conceal them in their center consoles. You’ll also find the same jack in the Subaru Legacy, which is the second-oldest model the brand still markets—just behind the Ascent, by a narrow margin.
It’s not surprising that Subaru’s more recent offerings, such as the Forester and Outback, lack this convenience. The WRX doesn’t include it either, though it still provides an option for a CD player mounted in the center console. You can choose that for the Ascent as well; regrettably, mine doesn’t have it. It slightly reduces your storage space, but if I were spending $40-to-$50K on one of these, I would definitely check that option box for $450.
And if I could locate my iPod, I’d quickly grab a cable and head out on the road with around 6,000 songs in my library. Sure, I already have them on my iPhone, but Apple Music drives me up the wall. Every time I open the app, it pushes me to listen to a radio station I’ve never shown interest in, or a playlist generated by its infallible algorithmic insight into my musical tastes. I just want to scroll through a wheel and get on with life.
Curious how many other vehicles still support this neglected port? So am I; the first result when I search “cars with aux jacks” is a forum conversation from 2007. It’s undoubtedly a declining group, like new cars featuring manual transmissions. Or those with V12 engines. Perhaps a bit less prestigious, but this is an exclusive club I’d want my car to be a part of nonetheless, even if there are hardly any smartphones over $400 that still have headphone jacks.
What I know for sure is that the Subaru Ascent, which first hit the market in 2018, won’t be here forever. It will most certainly be succeeded in not too long. Maybe that’s a good thing, maybe not. But one loss will be the 3.5-mm audio jack, and I will grieve its absence.
Does your relatively new vehicle still have an aux jack? Let the author know at [email protected]
The 2026 Subaru Ascent continues to enhance its standing as a family-oriented SUV, delivering a mix of roominess, comfort, and technology. A standout feature in this model is the presence of a 3.5mm Aux jack, catering to individuals who favor conventional audio links alongside modern wireless alternatives.
The 3.5mm Aux jack offers passengers the ability to connect their devices directly to the vehicle’s sound system, providing a dependable means to enjoy music, podcasts, or other audio content without depending on Bluetooth or other wireless technologies. This feature is especially advantageous for those with older devices or those who prefer a wired connection for improved sound quality and reduced lag.
In addition to the Aux jack, the 2026 Subaru Ascent comes with a comprehensive infotainment setup that features a touchscreen interface, smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and various USB ports. This assortment guarantees that all passengers can remain connected and entertained throughout their travels.
The Ascent’s roomy interior, which accommodates up to eight passengers, is designed with family trips in mind. The vehicle provides ample storage space, flexible seating arrangements, and numerous compartments for storage, making it an excellent choice for both road trips and daily commutes.
Safety is a fundamental priority for Subaru, and the 2026 Ascent exemplifies this commitment. It includes the latest in driver-assistance technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, enhancing the overall safety for all occupants.
In summary, the 2026 Subaru Ascent’s incorporation of a 3.5mm Aux jack, along with its sophisticated infotainment system and family-centric attributes, positions it as an attractive option for those in search of a dependable and adaptable SUV. Whether for everyday use or family excursions, the Ascent effectively satisfies the varied needs of contemporary drivers.
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