Subaru climbs large SUV market again with Ascent
As failed as it can get for Subaru, the B9 Tribeca was a total flop, with its odd front end and premodern overall appearance. But in attempts to compete in the third-row crossover segment, Subaru had no choice but to delve into the market again, but this time delivering something actually sellable.
The 2020 Subaru Ascent should solve this problem.
The Ascent is powered by a fuel-efficient boxer-style turbo engine displacing 2.4 liters and producing 260 hp. It is slightly underpowered at initial takeoff; the zero-60 time came in at 7.3 seconds, but for the class and motor option it came in right in line with its competition.
With this being Subaru’s largest vehicle in their fleet, towing capacity has to live up to the size. It can lug an impressive 5,000 pounds; our Lineartronic CVT transmission tester was actually pretty silent — a lot better than its competitors. As per Subaru, all-wheel-drive is standard.
The Ascent is built on the Impreza platform, but drives and shows comfort more like the Outback-Forester mix. Since the Outback is more like a wagon, the Ascent’s capacities are uplifting as well: 17.6 cubic feet for luggage, 47 cubic feet with the rear seats folded and 86 cubic feet with all seats folded. It’s got midsize appearance outside, but delivers a full-size environment inside.
Comfort for the Ascent is average for a Subaru — typically they are harder than their competitors but on our Premium tester, the cloth seats were actually comfortable.
Competing with the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot and Volkswagen Atlas, the Ascent fits in that category well and comes in right-priced. Our Abyss Blue Pearl Premium test model came with a panoramic power moonroof, 20-inch aluminum wheels, a power rear tailgate and push-button start.
The Ascent has fantastic visibility. Slim A-pillars and dramatic-sized front and side windows helped this and are perfect for sight-seeing in the country or mountainous ranges.
This was our first Subaru tester in a while and with seating for up to eight people, an unbelievable amount of cup holders (19) and four USB charging stations at nearly every available spot was really nice. In addition, the Eyesight driver assist was nice. You can tell that Subaru has upped its game in the safety department and infotainment as the eight-inch STARLINK infotainment system was super easy to navigate, connect to devices and also is Wi-Fi ready, a huge plus for traveling families always on the go.
Subaru lovers now get an economical eight-passenger Outback-like SUV option with maximum towing, seating and capacity. If you like the looks of the Subaru Outback or Forester, but need the space of the past horrific Tribeca, the Ascent is for you, all while doing so at a reasonable price.