Comparing the 2026 and 2025 Subaru Outback: Key Differences and What You Need to Know

The 2026 Subaru Ascent: Your Definitive Buyer’s Guide for the Tri-State Area The 2026 Subaru Ascent has arrived, and for families in Huntington, Ashland, and Ironton, it represents more than just a model year update—it is the answer to the demand for a safer, smarter three-row SUV. If you are two weeks out from making a decision, you don’t need a brochure; you need answers on reliability, seating configurations, and real-world capability. River City Subaru is here to cut through the noise. Below, we break down the 2026 model, compare it against the competition, and answer the specific questions our customers ask us daily. Ready to see it in person? Call "The Twins" and our team at (304) 736-7777 or visit us at 3506 US, Huntington, WV 25705. Quick Check: Is the 2026 Ascent In Stock? Yes. We are prioritizing inventory for our local families. You can view our live, on-the-lot 2026 inventory right now. ➔ Click Here to View 2026 Subaru Ascent Inventory Table of Contents Availability & Pricing: What to Expect in Huntington Critical Decisions: Captain’s Chairs vs. Bench Seating Real-World Capability: Towing & The "Real AWD" Difference Reliability & Tech: Addressing the Turbo & Infotainment The River City Advantage: Why Buy Here? Availability & Pricing: What to Expect in Huntington The 2026 Subaru Ascent is shipping now. Unlike the inventory shortages of previous years, River City Subaru has secured a robust allocation specifically for the Tri-State market. Whether you are in Barboursville or crossing the bridge from Proctorville, we have focused on stocking the trims that offer the best value for our region, specifically the Premium and Onyx Editions. Incentive Note: Subaru frequently updates incentives for financing and leasing. If you are comparing the Ascent against the Highlander or Pilot, ask our finance team about current loyalty offers that can make the Ascent a significantly better value proposition. Critical Decisions: Captain’s Chairs vs. Bench Seating One of the most common questions we get from families in Charleston and Ashland is: "Which seating configuration is right for me?" The 8-Passenger Bench: Ideal for families with three children who need to maximize seating, or for those who frequently fold the second and third rows flat to carry large cargo (up to 75.6 cubic feet). If you have large dogs, the continuous flat floor of the bench seat is often preferred. The 7-Passenger Captain’s Chairs: Available on Premium trims and standard on higher trims. This creates a center aisle, making it much easier for kids to access the third row without moving a seat. It also separates siblings in the second row, which many parents find leads to a more peaceful drive on road trips to places like Flatwoods. Real-World Capability: Towing & The "Real AWD" Difference Not all All-Wheel Drive systems are created equal. Many competitors use "slip-then-grip" systems that only engage when they detect traction loss. The Subaru Difference: The 2026 Ascent features Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, which powers all four wheels, all the time. Combined with X-MODE®, this system proactively manages traction. For drivers in hilly areas like Fayette Township or snowy winters in Hamlin, this means superior stability before you slip, not just after. Towing Capacity: The Ascent offers up to 5,000 lbs of towing capacity. This is "real-world" ready for our region—capable of hauling a 20-foot boat to the Ohio River or a camper for weekend hunting trips, assisted by the standard Trailer Stability Assist feature. Reliability & Tech: Addressing the Turbo & Infotainment We believe in transparency. Some buyers ask about the reliability of the 2.4L Turbocharged BOXER engine compared to older 6-cylinder engines. Engine Reliability: The FA24 turbo engine in the 2026 Ascent is a mature, battle-tested powertrain used across the Subaru lineup (including the Outback and WRX). It is designed for longevity and low-end torque, meaning you don't have to rev the engine high to get moving, which reduces wear and tear over time. Tech Upgrades: The 2026 model features the updated standard 13.1-inch SUBARU STARLINK® Multimedia Plus system. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are now standard, fixing the "cable clutter" complaint of older models. This system is faster and more responsive, ensuring your navigation and music are ready the moment you start the car. The River City Advantage: Why Buy Here? You have options in the Tri-State area, but River City Subaru offers an ownership experience that goes beyond the sale. We are the home of "The Twins" and the "We Say Yes!" attitude. We don't just sell cars; we support the community, from Hoops Family Children’s Hospital to Little Victories Animal Rescue. Pet Friendly Showroom: We welcome your four-legged friends when you come to visit us! Trade Up Advantage: Use our Trade-In Tool to see how much your current vehicle is worth. We aggressively seek used inventory, often offering above-market value for well-maintained trades. Service Expertise: Our technicians are factory-trained specifically on Subaru’s unique Boxer engines and AWD systems. Schedule your visit easily at our Service Center. Ready for the next step? The 2026 Subaru Ascent is the capable, safe, and tech-forward choice for West Virginia and Ohio families. Don't rely on rumors—experience the difference yourself. View 2026 Ascent Inventory Now Call us at (304) 736-7777 or visit River City Subaru today.

Living in Huntington, WV, and nearby areas like Barboursville, Nitro, and Charleston means facing winter weather that can be unpredictable and challenging. When the snow falls or ice forms on the roads, having a vehicle that can confidently handle these conditions is essential for your safety and peace of mind. At River City Subaru, we’re more than just a car dealership—we’re a dedicated part of the Huntington community, helping families and neighbors find the perfect vehicle for the Tri-State’s winters. Whether you’re driving across the hills of Perry Township, through the neighborhoods of Woodbend Cove, or commuting from Hurricane, your car's capabilities in snow and ice matter greatly. If you’re asking, “What is the safest car in the snow and ice?” you’re in the right place. This guide dives deep into the best vehicles, drivetrain options, and features that make winter driving safer and more manageable. Plus, we’ll share valuable tips and resources so you can confidently navigate winter roads near 3506 US, Huntington, WV 25705. Call us at (304) 736-7777 to speak with “The Twins,” Chad Rhodes in Sales and Chuck Rhodes in Service, who are here to make your experience welcoming and personalized. Table of Contents Understanding the Safest Cars for Snow and Ice: Key Features Explained Learn what makes a vehicle safe in snowy conditions, including drivetrains, ground clearance, and essential winter safety tech. Why Subaru Outback and Forester Lead the Pack for Tri-State Winters Explore why these Subaru models, with their symmetrical AWD and advanced EyeSight technology, excel on snowy and icy roads in Huntington and beyond. AWD vs. 4WD: Which Drivetrain Is Best for Winter Driving? Understand the differences, benefits, and ideal use cases of All-Wheel Drive and Four-Wheel Drive in snow and ice. The Importance of Winter Tires: The Ultimate Safety Upgrade Discover how winter tires dramatically improve traction and control, complementing even the best AWD or 4WD systems. Top Winter Safety Features Beyond Drivetrain Find out about must-have technologies like traction control, heated mirrors, and adaptive headlights that enhance safety in winter. Maintaining Your Subaru for Winter Safety: Service and Parts Tips on keeping your vehicle winter-ready, including scheduling service appointments and accessing genuine Subaru parts. Explore Our Winter-Ready Inventory and Trade-In Options Browse our new and used Subaru models built for winter and learn how to trade in your current vehicle with confidence. ​ Understanding the Safest Cars for Snow and Ice: Key Features Explained When selecting the safest car for snow and ice, several vehicle attributes come together to create reliable winter performance. The drivetrain is often the first consideration, with All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) systems leading the way because they distribute power to all four wheels, enhancing traction on slippery surfaces. However, safety in winter driving goes beyond just the drivetrain. Drivetrain and Traction AWD systems, like Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD, continuously monitor road conditions and automatically adjust power to the wheels with the most grip. This seamless operation offers superior stability on snow-covered roads and is ideal for the daily drive through places like Huntington’s hills or the sometimes snowy routes to Chapmanville and Greenup. Conversely, 4WD systems, which you might find in trucks or large SUVs, often require manual engagement and are built for rugged, deep snow or off-road conditions. This system is excellent for rural areas or unplowed roads, such as in Perry Township, but may be less convenient for regular urban commuting. Ground Clearance Another critical feature is ground clearance. Vehicles with higher clearance, typically 8 inches or more, can better navigate through deep snow without becoming stuck. The Subaru Outback and Forester offer 8.7 inches of clearance, striking a balance between off-road capability and everyday comfort for Huntington families. Advanced Safety Technologies Modern winter-ready vehicles come equipped with technologies that improve safety and driver confidence: Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control System (TCS) help maintain control by reducing wheel spin and stabilizing the vehicle during slippery turns. Driver-assist systems like Subaru’s EyeSight offer adaptive cruise control and pre-collision braking, useful in low-visibility snowy conditions. Heated mirrors, windshield wiper de-icers, and adaptive LED headlights improve visibility and comfort during winter commutes. These features collectively reduce risks when driving in snow and ice across local neighborhoods like Woodbend Cove and Barboursville. ​ Why Subaru Outback and Forester Lead the Pack for Tri-State Winters At River City Subaru, we proudly showcase the Subaru Outback and Forester as our premier winter vehicles. Both models come standard with the industry-leading Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, designed to provide balanced power delivery and exceptional traction on snow-covered roads. Symmetrical AWD for Balanced Control Unlike part-time AWD systems, Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD operates full-time, continuously sending power to all four wheels. This contributes to better stability and smoother handling in winter conditions typical around Huntington, Nitro, and Charleston. EyeSight Driver Assist Technology The EyeSight suite includes features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic pre-collision braking. These systems help drivers maintain safety margins, especially on slick roads found near Perry Township or during inclement weather on Route 60. Practical Ground Clearance and Snow Mode Both the Outback and Forester offer ground clearance of 8.7 inches, allowing drivers to confidently tackle snow drifts and rough winter terrain. Additionally, available X-Mode optimizes the vehicle’s traction and engine output for slippery and uneven surfaces, perfect for rural drives near Barboursville or the hills around Hurricane. Comfort Features for Cold Weather Heated front seats, heated steering wheels, and heated side mirrors make winter driving much more comfortable in chilly places like Flatwoods and Chesapeake. These features reduce driver fatigue and improve focus on the road. ​ AWD vs. 4WD: Which Drivetrain Is Best for Winter Driving? Choosing between AWD and 4WD depends on where and how you drive during the winter months. All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Best For: Daily commuting on plowed and maintained roads, suburban neighborhoods like Huntington and Dunbar, and city streets in Charleston. Pros: Fully automatic with no driver input needed, smoother handling, better fuel efficiency than 4WD, and excellent traction control. Cons: May struggle in extremely deep or unplowed snow. Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) Best For: Rural areas, off-road trails, and deep snow conditions, such as remote parts of Perry Township or Union Township. Pros: Offers low-range gearing for maximum torque, superior in challenging terrain and heavy snow, can be manually engaged when needed. Cons: Heavier, less fuel-efficient, and typically requires manual operation. If you are driving regularly in Huntington’s city limits or on Route 60, AWD vehicles like Subaru models provide the balance of safety, convenience, and fuel economy. For those venturing off the beaten path or driving in heavy snow that accumulates in areas like Greenup or Chapmanville, 4WD-equipped vehicles may be preferable. ​ The Importance of Winter Tires: The Ultimate Safety Upgrade No matter how advanced your vehicle’s drivetrain or technology is, the single most critical upgrade for winter safety is your choice of tires. Winter tires are engineered with special rubber compounds that stay flexible in cold temperatures and tread patterns designed to grip snow and ice better than all-season tires. Key Benefits of Winter Tires Improved Traction: Provides 25-50% better grip on ice and snow compared to all-season tires. Shorter Stopping Distances: Critical for sudden stops on slick roads, such as during commutes in Huntington or trips to Hurricane. Enhanced Control: Better handling in turns and on hills, important for navigating the hilly terrain around Barboursville. Even the best AWD or 4WD vehicle struggles without winter tires. For assistance in choosing the right tires or scheduling installation, River City Subaru’s Service Department is here to help. You can Schedule Service today or browse our Parts department for tire options and accessories. ​ Top Winter Safety Features Beyond Drivetrain Winter driving safety extends beyond power distribution and tires. Many Subaru models offer features that make a real difference on snow and ice. Stability and Traction Aids Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Helps keep the vehicle on its intended path during slippery maneuvers. Traction Control System (TCS): Prevents wheel spin on acceleration. Visibility Enhancements Heated Side Mirrors and Windshield Wiper De-icers: Clear ice and snow from mirrors and wipers for better visibility. Adaptive LED Headlights: Illuminate curves and corners better, a boon when driving through darker, snow-covered roads like those in Huntington’s suburbs. Comfort and Convenience Heated Seats and Steering Wheel: Keep you warm during those cold West Hamlin mornings. Remote Start: Warm your vehicle and defrost windows before you even step outside. These features contribute to safer, more comfortable winter driving experiences in places like Hurricane, Nitro, and even the outlying areas of Fayette Township. ​ Maintaining Your Subaru for Winter Safety: Service and Parts Winter preparation doesn’t stop with buying the right vehicle. Proper maintenance ensures your Subaru performs at its best on snow and ice. Regular Maintenance Check brakes, fluids, and battery health before the snow season. Replace worn wiper blades with winter-specific blades. Inspect and maintain tire pressure for optimal performance. Our service team at River City Subaru, located at 3506 US, Huntington, WV 25705, is ready to keep your vehicle ready for winter. Call us at (304) 736-7777 or visit to Schedule Service. Genuine Subaru Parts When repairs or replacements are needed, use genuine Subaru parts for the best fit and reliability. Our Parts Department stocks everything from brake pads to winter wiper blades designed for your vehicle. ​ Explore Our Winter-Ready Inventory and Trade-In Options If your current vehicle isn’t quite ready for the snow and ice of the Huntington area, explore our selection of new and used Subaru vehicles. From the rugged Subaru Forester to the versatile Outback and efficient Crosstrek, you’ll find models equipped to handle winter safely. Browse our New Vehicle Inventory for the latest 2026 models. Explore our Used Vehicle Inventory for great pre-owned options. Thinking about upgrading? Use our easy Trade-In Tool to find out what your current vehicle is worth and get started on a smooth transition. The River City Subaru Promise: Safety, Community, and Support As a locally rooted dealership, we are proud partners with Hoops Family Children’s Hospital and Little Victories Animal Rescue, reflecting our commitment beyond just selling cars. Founded in March 2003 with GM Nick Thomas at the helm, River City Subaru offers more than just vehicles—we provide a community-centered experience. We say yes to your safety, your family’s needs, and your peace of mind with every Subaru we sell, backed by our Powertrain Warranty and the trusted Trade Up Advantage program. Visit us at 3506 US, Huntington, WV 25705 or call (304) 736-7777 to start your winter-ready journey today. Your safest winter drive begins with the right Subaru, expert guidance, and a team that cares about you like a neighbor. Stop by to say hi, bring the dog, and experience the River City Subaru difference.

Meet the River City Subaru Team Dedicated to Your Car Care Leadership and Expertise Behind Every Service At River City Subaru, located at 3506 US-60, Huntington, WV 25705, you're welcomed by Subaru Certified Technicians serving neighbors from St. Albans, Barboursville, and Proctorville, Ohio. Our service center stays open until 7 PM Monday-Friday —longer than competitors—so working professionals at Marshall University, Cabell Huntington Hospital, and St. Mary's Medical Center don't have to leave work early for vehicle service. Service Leadership Chuck Rhodes—Fixed Operations Director Phone: 304-736-7777 Email: chuck@rivercitysubaru.com Chuck and his twin brother Chad have been working for Subaru since 2003 —over 20 years of combined experience serving the Huntington community. Chuck has experience in all aspects of the automotive business, but his passion is leading the Service Department. His goal: provide customers with truly exceptional service on every visit, whether it's a routine oil change or complex diagnostic work. Married with three children, Chuck understands the importance of reliable transportation for families navigating work, school, and life in the Tri-State area. Meet Our Certified Technicians Josh Smith—Shop Foreman / Senior Master Technician Phone: 304-736-7777 Josh brings 6 years of diesel experience, factory Subaru training, and ASE certifications to River City's service bay. As Shop Foreman, he oversees complex diagnostics using Subaru Select Monitor equipment—the same tools used at Subaru corporate facilities. Josh specializes in engine performance, transmission service (including CVT fluid replacement), and diesel repair. A devoted family man with a wife and son, Josh understands the importance of reliable transportation for Tri-State families. His commitment: diagnose it right, fix it right, the first time. Brianna Scarberry—Assistant Service Manager Phone: 304-736-7777 Brianna has been part of the River City Subaru family for years, ensuring transparent service recommendations and fair pricing for Huntington-area drivers. As Assistant Service Manager, she oversees service quality, appointment scheduling, and customer advocacy—acting as your voice in the service bay. When she's not managing the service drive, Brianna enjoys four-wheeler adventures, road trips through West Virginia, and cheering on Alabama football. Her commitment: every customer leaves informed, satisfied, and confident in their service decisions. Jeremy Workman—Service Technician & Suspension Specialist Phone: 304-736-7777 Jeremy is River City's suspension specialist, focusing on vehicle alignments, strut replacement, and all suspension-related repairs critical for West Virginia's challenging road conditions. A genuine Subaru enthusiast, Jeremy recently completed a full restoration of an early-model Subaru WRX —a project demonstrating the precision and care he brings to every customer vehicle. When not aligning Subarus to factory specifications, Jeremy spends time with his family and takes his WRX out on weekend drives through Appalachian back roads. If your Subaru pulls left, eats tires unevenly, or handles rough, Jeremy's your guy. Amanda Ellis—Express Technician Phone: 304-736-7777 Amanda leads our Express Service department, specializing in quick-turnaround services like oil changes, tire rotations, and multi-point inspections. Her efficiency ensures you're in and out in 30-45 minutes without sacrificing quality or thoroughness. No appointment needed for oil changes—just stop by during business hours and Amanda's team will get you back on the road. Every express service includes a complimentary multi-point inspection covering brakes, fluids, tire wear, and battery health. Cory Taft—Service Technician Phone: 304-736-7777 Cory is a skilled technician handling routine maintenance, brake service, and diagnostic work across all Subaru models. His attention to detail ensures your Subaru receives factory-recommended care every visit, whether it's a 30,000-mile service or a complex repair. Cory's goal: deliver honest assessments and quality workmanship that keeps your Subaru running reliably for years to come. Justin Landes—Service Technician Phone: 304-736-7777 Justin provides expert service across all Subaru models, from oil changes to complex repairs. With training in Subaru's latest systems (including EyeSight driver assist technology), Justin stays current on evolving vehicle technology to properly diagnose and repair modern Subarus. His goal: get you back on the road safely and quickly, with no surprises and transparent communication throughout the repair process. Serving You with Extended Hours and Transparent Service We stand by a "We Say Yes!" philosophy—yes to transparent pricing, yes to genuine Subaru parts, yes to extended service hours ( open until 7 PM weekdays, Saturday 8 AM-4 PM). Our Lifetime Powertrain Warranty on new vehicles offers long-term peace of mind for families from Charleston to Ashland, KY, backed by Subaru's legendary reliability. Schedule service conveniently online: Schedule Service. Customer Resources and Inventory Explore our Trade Up Advantage to value your current vehicle before upgrading. Browse our selection tailored for local driving—from scenic routes near Wayne National Forest to daily commutes on I-64: New Vehicle Inventory —2026 Outback, Forester, Crosstrek, Ascent Used Vehicle Inventory —Certified Pre-Owned Subarus with 152-point inspection Community-Driven Approach You Can Trust River City Subaru proudly partners with Hoops Family Children's Hospital and Little Victories Animal Rescue, reflecting our commitment to the Huntington community beyond sales. Our team—affectionately known as "The Twins," Chad Rhodes (Sales) and Chuck Rhodes (Service)—makes your experience personal, approachable, and stress-free. We're dog-friendly, so bring your furry family member along! Trusted Awards and Eco-Friendly Commitment We uphold Subaru's recognized standards, including certifications from Consumer Reports and the Eco-Friendly Retailer Program. These accolades underscore our dedication to quality service and environmental stewardship—benefiting families around Flatwoods, Russell, and South Point while supporting cleaner, safer drives. Reach Out and Connect Stop by anytime—preferably with your dog—to experience our welcoming atmosphere. To speak with our team or schedule your next service, call (304) 736-7777. Let River City Subaru provide not just exceptional vehicles but also transparent service and long-lasting community ties. Experience the care that makes us more than just a car dealership—your trusted neighborhood partner in every mile. © 2026 by DealerOn | Sitemap | Privacy | Recalls River City Subaru | 3506 US-60, Huntington, WV 25705 | Sales: 681-326-0071