The Subaru Ascent: A Triumphant Return to 3-Row SUVs

Subaru's Long-Awaited Family SUV

After nearly a decade-long absence from the three-row SUV segment following the discontinuation of the Tribeca, Subaru has made a powerful comeback with the Ascent. This spacious family hauler represents Subaru's most ambitious foray into the competitive midsize SUV market, combining the brand's legendary safety and capability with newfound interior versatility.

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First unveiled as a concept at the New York International Auto Show, the production-ready Ascent quickly demonstrated that Subaru had been carefully studying the needs of modern families. The vehicle maintains Subaru's distinctive design language while offering the practicality that three-row SUV shoppers demand.

What Makes the Ascent Stand Out?

The Subaru Ascent distinguishes itself in several key areas:

• Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive - Unlike many competitors that offer AWD as an option, Subaru includes its renowned AWD system on every Ascent trim
• Class-Leading Safety - Equipped with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology as standard across all models
• Spacious Interior - Clever packaging provides more usable space than exterior dimensions suggest
• Powerful Turbocharged Engine - 2.4L turbo BOXER engine delivers 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque
• Exceptional Value - More standard features than most competitors at each price point
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Ascent vs. The Competition

When compared to other midsize three-row SUVs like the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Ford Explorer, the Ascent holds its own with several advantages:

The Ascent's combination of standard features, interior space, and capability makes it one of the most compelling options in its class, particularly for families living in areas with challenging weather conditions.

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Family-Friendly Features

Subaru designed the Ascent with modern families in mind, incorporating thoughtful touches throughout:

• 19 Cup Holders - More than any other vehicle in its class
• Available Rear Seat Reminders - Helps prevent accidentally leaving items (or children) in the back
• Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control - Keeps all passengers comfortable
• Available Integrated Booster Seats - Second-row outboard seats can accommodate child booster seats
• Quiet Cabin - Extensive sound deadening materials reduce road noise

These thoughtful details demonstrate how Subaru has carefully considered the real-world needs of families who will use the Ascent daily.

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Performance and Capability

Beneath the Ascent's family-friendly exterior lies impressive performance credentials:

Engine: The 2.4L turbocharged BOXER engine provides strong acceleration while maintaining respectable fuel economy (20 mpg city/26 mpg highway for AWD models). The flat-four configuration contributes to the Ascent's low center of gravity, enhancing stability.

Transmission: A continuously variable transmission (CVT) with an 8-speed manual mode simulates gear shifts for more traditional driving feel when desired.

Off-Road Capability: With 8.7 inches of ground clearance and Subaru's X-MODE for enhanced traction on slippery surfaces, the Ascent can handle light off-road duties better than most family SUVs.

Towing: When properly equipped, the Ascent can tow up to 5,000 pounds - enough for a small boat or camper.

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Trim Level Breakdown

The Ascent is available in four well-equipped trim levels:

• Base: Includes EyeSight, tri-zone climate control, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and more
• Premium: Adds power liftgate, heated front seats, and available options packages
• Limited: Features leather upholstery, driver memory seat, and upgraded infotainment
• Touring: Top-tier model with premium audio, ventilated seats, and advanced safety tech

Even the base model comes generously equipped, making the Ascent an exceptional value in the three-row SUV segment.

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Safety and Technology

Subaru has packed the Ascent with advanced safety and tech features:

Standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology includes:

• Pre-Collision Braking
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Lane Keep Assist
• Lead Vehicle Start Alert

Available advanced features:

• Reverse Automatic Braking
• Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System

The Ascent earned top marks in all IIHS crash tests and was named a Top Safety Pick+, Subaru's commitment to safety remains unmatched in the segment.

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Who Should Consider the Subaru Ascent?

The Ascent is ideal for:

• Growing families needing more passenger and cargo space
• Outdoor enthusiasts who value all-weather capability
• Shoppers prioritizing safety above all else
• Those who frequently travel with adult passengers in the third row
• Buyers seeking premium features at mainstream prices

While the Ascent excels in many areas, those who prioritize maximum fuel economy or sporty handling might prefer other options. However, for most families needing three rows of seating, the Ascent represents one of the most well-rounded choices available.

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Final Verdict

The Subaru Ascent marks a triumphant return to the three-row SUV segment for the brand. It successfully addresses the shortcomings of the Tribeca while incorporating all of Subaru's strengths - legendary safety, standard AWD, and rugged capability - in a package that works beautifully for families.

With its spacious interior, thoughtful family-friendly features, and strong value proposition, the Ascent deserves serious consideration from anyone shopping for a three-row SUV. It particularly shines for families living in areas with challenging weather conditions or those who frequently venture off paved roads.

While the midsize SUV segment is crowded with excellent options, the Ascent's unique combination of attributes makes it stand out from the crowd. For many buyers, it represents the perfect balance of practicality, safety, and capability.

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