The new, three-row Subaru Ascent isn’t Subaru’s first foray into the world of three passenger row vehicles, but this model might just make adventurers take notice. The new Ascent bundles Subaru’s latest and greatest technology features with a solid power train and a truly comfortable ride for adult, child or canine passengers. Strong initial demand rendered the new model scarce at some stores but Heuberger Subaru in Colorado Springs now has a steady stream of incoming Ascents.
Seating and Cargo
The Ascent can be had in either seven or eight passenger configurations with a second-row bench seat or captain’s chairs. Either option leaves plenty of leg room for even tall passengers. The third row is a bench in all trim levels and might feel a little on the tight side for some adults but is ample for children. Both rows fold down to yield up to 153 cubic feet of cargo space. Adding a rocket box to the roof will extend the cargo space well beyond the already generous area which may be a good option if you tend to sleep in your Subaru at trailheads.
Adventure Ready
The Ascent benefits from a well developed lineage of capable all-wheel-drive cars already ubiquitous in Colorado and other mountain states. Like its brethren, the Ascent features symetrical-all-wheel-drive and 8.7 inches of ground clearance – as much as most small trucks. The new SUV is also equipped with a 2.4L turbo-charged engine backed by a CVT transmission. The Ascent is remarkable in that it drives like a much smaller car with plenty of power and a responsive throttle. The Ascent has a 5000 pound towing capacity which should cover hauling most toys you’d take on a weekend adventure. X-Mode further increases this Subaru’s rough-road-nimbleness by increasing the all-wheel-drive system’s performance on slippery or unstable surfaces and adds hill descent control to smooth out your egress on steep terrain.
Comfort Your Creatures
The ample space combined with a modern interior and well-designed suspension make for a very comfortable ride that some have described as rivaling luxury vehicles. Options vary by trim level but you can trick your Ascent out with leather, heated steering wheel, gargantuan moon-roof and much more. Rear door openings are nice and wide to accommodate access to the third row. There are also many available charging ports for your phones or other devices. Onboard wi-fi is also an available feature.
Safety The Subaru Ascent comes standard with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. EyeSight monitors traffic movement, provides adaptive cruise control and warns you if you drift out of your lane or a driver ahead of you stops abruptly. The system will apply full braking force in pre-collision situations and has been shown to drastically reduce rear-end crashes. Subaru has a long history of manufacturing very safe cars and the Ascent follows that tradition, scoring the 2019 Top Safety Pick from the IIHS.
