Subaru’s Ascent joins an ever-growing trio of SUVs.
The Subaru Ascent three row SUV has finally arrived after many concepts and rumors. The new Subaru Ascent SUV features a sleek design and a turbocharged boxer engine of 2.4-liters. This gives the automaker the tools it needs to be a success in a different segment.
The Ascent is the largest Subaru model ever. Its design draws inspiration from the Forester, but it has a tougher look thanks to the larger lines around the fenders. The SUV’s 113.8-inch wheelbase makes it just one inch longer than the Ford Explorer. At 196.8 inches, the Subie measures in at around two inches less than its Ford counterpart. The Ascent is based on the revised Subaru Global Platform, which is already under the Impreza as well as the Crosstrek. Subaru claims that stiffened joints make the Ascent more quiet, vibration-free, and less harsh than other applications.
Buyers get the new turbocharged, direct injection, 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It generates 277 horsepower and 260 pound-feet torque. Subie’s CVT has an updated version that features a simulated 8-speed mode. The transmission transmits power through the automaker’s legendary all-wheel drive layout. This also includes active torque vectoring on Ascent. This powertrain can tow up to 5,000 pounds. The company will soon announce fuel economy.
Subaru offers Ascent premium amenities such as standard EyeSight driver assistance suite, three-zone automatic climate and standard EyeSight climate control. The cabin has eight USB ports and a 120-volt power outlet at the rear. There are also 19 cup holders. The Ascent has eight-person seating. Buyers can choose to have a pair captain’s chairs in their second row, for a seven-person arrangement. This is available on all models except the base model. Standard trims include a 6.5-inch infotainment display, while higher trims get an 8.0-inch display.
Subaru will sell the Ascent in four trim levels: base, premium, limited, and touring when it goes on sale in the early summer 2018. They will be built at the company’s Lafayette, Indiana plant.