Meet the River City Subaru Service Team: Your Experts For Certified Subaru Repairs

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.

Upgrade Your Subaru with River City Trade Up Advantage Discover the River City Subaru Trade Up Advantage® Driving a Subaru means investing in a vehicle renowned for strong resale value and lasting reliability. At River City Subaru, our Trade Up Advantage Program® offers a smart way for drivers in Huntington, Charleston, and surrounding Tri-State communities like Hurricane and Louisa to trade in their current Subaru for a brand-new model—often with monthly payments close to their current ones. Thanks to Subaru’s exceptional retention in the West Virginia and Tri-State marketplace, we can provide trade-in values that often surpass standard offers for well-maintained vehicles. This approach helps local families and professionals from locations like Poca, Dunbar, or Ashland access the latest Subaru safety features and dependability without the usual financial strain of buying new. Top Reasons to Trade Up Today Drivers throughout neighborhoods like Barboursville and St. Albans use this program to "refresh" their ownership experience. By trading in, you gain: Extended Warranty Protection: Enjoy a fresh 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, providing peace of mind for your daily drives around Flatwoods and Chesapeake. Enhanced Safety Features: Access the latest Subaru EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, designed to improve hazard detection on the winding hills and varying weather common between Cascade-Chester and Russell. Reduced Maintenance Expenses: New tires, brakes, and fluids mean fewer service worries, especially while tackling potholes from Route 60 to West Hamlin. Individualized Trade Offers: We base trade values on your Subaru’s unique service record and our current inventory demands, unlike generic online approximations. How Our Trade Up Process Makes It Simple At River City Subaru, led by Chad Rhodes —one half of "The Twins" along with Chuck Rhodes in service—we focus on honest conversations with no pressure. Here’s how easy upgrading can be for families coming from Russell, Chesapeake, or even nearby South Point: Vehicle Review: We assess your Subaru’s mileage, condition, and age to understand its value. Offer Presentation: Receive a guaranteed offer, along with a clear comparison of your current payment against finance or lease options. Pick Your Next Subaru: Choose your new Outback, Forester, Crosstrek, or Ascent from our new inventory, with trims suited for everything from Huntington hills to Fayette Township roads. Trade and Drive: Swap your keys and enjoy your new ride, often within an hour of arrival. Your Subaru Guaranteed Trade-In Program (GTP) Owning a Subaru brings access to the Guaranteed Trade-In Program (GTP), a no-negotiation figure set monthly by Subaru of America. This ensures Tri-State owners from areas like Logan, Chesapeake, or Woodbend Cove receive a fair price regardless of fluctuating market conditions. If your travels include daily routes crossing city limits between Kentucky, Ohio, and West Virginia, especially near Catlettsburg or Huntington, it’s wise to check your current GTP value regularly. Ready to Make the Switch? We invite you to visit River City Subaru at 3506 US, Huntington, WV 25705 to explore your upgrade options with our friendly team. Whether you’re coming from nearby Ashland or Barboursville, our specialists will provide a personal, pressure-free consultation tailored to your needs. Call us anytime at (304) 736-7777 to discuss your trade-in or simply to say hi and learn more about improving your driving experience. You can also receive a customized offer by filling out our online form. Get My Trade Up Offer » More Ways to Enhance Your Subaru Experience Explore our Schedule Service page to keep your vehicle running smoothly across Huntington and nearby areas like Dunbar and Poca. Browse genuine replacement parts designed specifically for your Subaru at our Parts Department, supporting reliable repairs and upgrades for drivers in Hamlin, Chesapeake, or Union Township. Check our Used Vehicle Inventory for quality pre-owned options, perfect for those in Perry Township or Madison looking for value and dependability. Find your next new Subaru model in our extensive New Vehicle Inventory, with options tailored for everyday drives from Huntington hills to Fayette Township roads. Frequently Asked Questions about the Trade Up Advantage® What types of Subaru vehicles qualify for the Trade Up Advantage Program? Most well-maintained Subaru models—whether Outback, Forester, Crosstrek, or Ascent—are eligible to participate. Our team evaluates age, mileage, and condition to provide the most competitive trade-in offer aligned with local standards set by Subaru for our Tri-State community. How does the Trade Up Advantage compare to selling my car privately? While private sales might sometimes bring a higher price, the Trade Up Advantage offers convenience, quick processing, and the benefit of moving straight into a new Subaru without the hassles of advertising, negotiating, or meeting strangers in Huntington or Charleston neighborhoods. Plus, we provide above-market trade values that respect your vehicle’s condition and history. Can I use the Trade Up Advantage if my current Subaru needs maintenance? Absolutely. Our program accounts for your vehicle's overall condition, and minor maintenance issues are evaluated fairly. For drivers in Nitro, South Point, or nearby Crown City, it's beneficial to have your vehicle inspected at our service center before trading in. You can conveniently Schedule Service to address any needed repairs or routine maintenance, ensuring you receive the best offer possible. What happens after I accept my trade-up offer? Once you accept our personalized offer, you’ll select your new Subaru from our inventory. We guide you through the process efficiently so you can leave with your new vehicle promptly, whether that’s a sleek Crosstrek for commuting between Huntington and Hurricane or an Ascent ready for family adventures around St. Albans and Barboursville. Why Choose River City Subaru for Your Trade Up? As more than just a car dealership, River City Subaru is a dedicated part of the Huntington community, committed to supporting our neighbors throughout their vehicle ownership journey. Our "We Say Yes" philosophy, championed by sales lead Chad Rhodes and service manager Chuck Rhodes, ensures that budget-conscious families across the Tri-State area feel welcomed and understood. We back every trade-up with a transparent approach and proudly offer the Lifetime Powertrain Warranty along with our exclusive Trade Up Advantage program. This combination means your investment is safeguarded, easing worries about future repairs while you enjoy confident drives through areas like Fayette Township or Madison. Connect with Us Today Whether you’re driving in from Logan, Chapmanville, or Russell, River City Subaru at 3506 US, Huntington, WV 25705, invites you to stop by, bring the dog, and experience a welcoming environment that feels more like visiting a trusted neighbor than a dealership. We’re here to help you get the most from your Subaru ownership—including evaluating your current vehicle’s worth with our easy-to-use Trade Up Advantage® tool. To discuss your options directly, call us at (304) 736-7777 or fill out the form to receive a no-obligation, personalized trade-in offer. Get My Trade Up Offer »