LGBT-friendly Subaru continues to reach new heights, primarily boosted by loyalty to popular crossovers like the sporty Crosstrek, compact Forester, and iconic Outback. But, the brand was left at the ropes of the large three-row crossover segment when the failed Tribeca bowed out. So, in developing the first-ever Ascent, Subaru stayed close to the stage with a vehicle that will give loyal owners a larger option in which to take pride.
Driving the Ascent this week was entertaining. At stoplights, people would look, then flip back and look again. I watched the same gymnastics occur outside of my favorite coffee shop. It was if people casually thought it was a Forester or Outback, then realized it was BIG! It is.
But it is also clearly a member of the extended Subaru family. The large grille and swiveling LED headlamps are replicas of those on the Outback. Bodysides are more massive, but echo the Forester’s proportions. Large 20” wheels fit the fenders. Around back, LED taillamps distinguish its visage. Our Touring edition ladled on chrome for the doorhandles, liftgate, and body. It would not look out of place on an Acura lot.
Inside, the Touring package makes a pretty convincing luxury car. There’s much attention to detail that starts with the comfy Java brown leather seats and extends to the stitched dash coverings and woodgrain on the console and doors that’s surprisingly realistic. Stitched coverings on the lower part of the dash feel soft and smooth enough for a Range Rover. The steering wheel fits nicely in your hands.
Our vehicle came loaded with comfort and tech. Tri-zone automatic climate control gives rear passengers their own controls and roof-mounted vents. A twin-pane panoramic roof brings in sunshine. There are also Harman Kardon audio, heated/ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and heated steering wheel. Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connect iThings through Subaru’s new easy-to-use touchscreen with swipe and voice controls plus proper volume and tuning knobs.
To test the aft row, I slipped between the twin rear captain’s chairs and tried to get into the back. There was no legroom, so I started kvetching about how Subaru should have learned from the Tribeca before realizing middle row seats slide and fold forward –to ease entry into the rear and better balance legroom for the two rear rows when six people are aboard. Clever grab handles on the center seats – taken from Japan’s famous Bullet Trains – are much appreciated.
Safety is enhanced by Subaru’s EyeSight system with twin cameras mounted above the rearview mirror to handle forward collision alert with auto braking, adaptive cruise, and lane keep assist systems. Blind spot warnings are part of the safety suite.
Ascent comes exclusively with a 2.4-liter horizontally-opposed turbocharged four-cylinder putting out 260 horsepower and 277 lb.-ft. of torque. It connects to the standard all-wheel-drive system through a continuously-variable transmission. Ascent can move up to 5,000 lbs. on-hitch, but achieves 20/26-MPG city/highway unloaded.
On-road, the four-wheel-independent suspension does a good job of soaking up rough pavement. Since Subaru owners are apt to take their vehicles off-road, the Ascent comes with a high 8.7” of ground clearance and X-Mode with hill descent control to handle more serious trails.
I liked the Tribeca. It was a little small and underpowered, but looked and drove nice (especially after the facelift). It just wasn’t the right three-row crossover for Subaru. With its peppy turbocharged powertrain, roomy interior, and conservative styling, Subaru fans can take pride in all it offers. A base price of $31,995, or $45,670 fully loaded, seems a good value against competitors like the Chevy Traverse, Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Nissan Pathfinder.
Storm Forward!
View Casey’s video of the Subaru Ascent; contact him at [email protected].
2019 Subaru Ascent Touring
Seven-passenger, AWD crossover
Powertrain: 260hp 2.4-liter T4, CVT
Suspension f/r: Ind/Ind
Wheels f/r: 20”/20” alloy
Brakes f/r: disc/disc
Must-have features: Style, Tech
Fuel economy: 20/26 mpg city/hwy
Assembly: Lafayette, IN
Base/As-tested price: $31,995/$45,670