The Subaru Ascent Concept is an early look at a three-row, seven-passenger SUV that's headed for production soon. Besides a roomy, premium interior, it will feature an all-new turbocharged engine. Edmunds engineering editor Jason Kavanagh gives more details about this future SUV set to reach dealers in early 2018.
Transcript
[Music] this is the Subaru ascent concept and it's a preview of a production version of a three row 7 passenger SUV that Subaru is going to release next year of the same name now this is a significant vehicle for Subaru because it's the biggest vehicle they've ever made it's bigger than a Volkswagen Atlas in every dimension and if you remember the Tribeca this looks a whole lot better than the Tribeca and I think that's going to do really well for the interior on this concept looks pretty killer but you can expect a lot of the concept car flourishes won't make it into the production example but still it's got really nice perforated leather wood metal trim it looks like a really premium experience so if Subarus doing it right they're going to incorporate a lot of those elements into the production version what do you think of a Subaru ascent leave us a comment below
Don't worry if you don't remember Subaru's first attempt at a three-row SUV. Subaru might prefer it that way. And for those who do remember the Tribeca SUV, produced for eight years starting in the mid-2000s, Subaru aims to wipe your memory clean with the new 2019 Subaru Ascent. With its new three-row SUV, Subaru is back in the big family SUV game, this time for keeps.
The Ascent draws on Subaru's combined strengths in its existing SUV lineup, including the Crosstrek, Forester and Outback models, and applies them to a bigger template. As such, the Ascent offers impressive utility, a fuel-efficient engine, and a third row that adults can actually use.
The Ascent comes with standard seating for eight passengers; with the optional second-row captain's chairs, it will seat seven. You can even keep the second-row bench seat as you move up the trim levels until you hit the seven-passenger-only top Touring trim. The Ascent offers plenty of passenger room and cargo space, and it should tackle most gear and active family pursuits with aplomb.
A new turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, rated at 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, does the heavy lifting for the 4,500-pound SUV. It comes paired to a continuously variable automatic transmission and, of course, Subaru's signature standard all-wheel-drive system. The new powertrain doesn't sacrifice fuel economy either. At 23 mpg combined, the new turbo-four Ascent is right on par with its competitors' all-wheel-drive versions. What's more, the new engine is capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds. And with nearly 9 inches of ground clearance, the Ascent should also prove capable of getting far off the highway when the mood strikes.
The 2019 Subaru Ascent is available in base, Premium, Limited and Touring trim levels. Base models offer good value with features such as three-zone climate control, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, and standard driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Premium trims step it up a bit with more desirable features such as heated front seats and upgraded infotainment. Limited trims start to bring in some luxury elements such as leather upholstery and heated second-row seats, while Touring trims pour it all on with ambient cabin lighting, upgraded leather and a 14-speaker premium sound system.
Built in Indiana and starting around $33,000, the 2019 Subaru Ascent promises exceptional versatility for active families. When it comes time to see if the Ascent is right for you, let Edmunds guide you to the best deal.
2019 Subaru Ascent Overview
The 2019 Subaru Ascent is offered in the following submodels: SUV. Available styles include 8-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT), Touring 7-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT), and Premium 8-Passenger w/OP 14 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT). Ascent models are available with a 0-liter gas engine, with output up to 0 hp, depending on engine type. The 2019 Ascent comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: continuously variable-speed automatic. The 2019 Ascent comes with a 3 yr./ 36000 mi. basic warranty, a 3 yr./ 36000 mi. roadside warranty, and a 5 yr./ 60000 mi. powertrain warranty.
Is the 2019 Subaru Ascent a good car? Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2019 Subaru Ascent and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2019 Ascent featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
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