Subaru has finally returned in the three-row SUV segment, giving customers looking for a seven- or an eight-passenger crossover an opportunity to visit its dealerships for the first time since 2014, when they still offered the Tribeca.
Subaru has already created a cult following with the Outback but those with bigger families couldn’t satisfy their needs with the company’s jacked-up wagon. The new Subaru Ascent is the answer, posing as the brand’s largest ever model.
Power comes from a new turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four engine that makes 260hp and 277lb-ft (376Nm) of torque. It’s mated exclusively to a CVT transmission that features an eight-speed manual mode. All-wheel drive is of course standard.
The 2019 Ascent comes with Automatic Pre-Collision Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure and more as standard, with the company offering the EyeSight Assist Monitor as an option.
The interior looks modern enough and comes with an infotainment system that features Android Auto and Apple Car Play, as well as an optional eight-inch touchscreen display. Higher trimmed models also look more premium inside, thanks to leather-trimmed dash panels.
Subaru offers both seven- and eight-seat versions of the Ascent, creating in theory a very competitive car to the likes of the VW Atlas, the Honda Pilot and the Toyota Highlander. Is it though? Check the first driving impressions from Redline Reviews, Cars.com and Roadshow on the video playlist below.