2019 Subaru Ascent

Pros: Ample cargo and passenger room; easy-to-use infotainment controls; comprehensive list of available safety and convenience features

Cons: Nonlinear power delivery; some desirable features restricted to top trim levels

CG Says: Subaru introduces an all-new three-row midsize crossover SUV for 2019. The Ascent is the largest passenger vehicle Subaru has ever sold, although it’s not Subaru’s first midsize SUV—the notably smaller Subaru Tribeca was produced from 2006 to 2014. The Ascent seats eight passengers when equipped with a second-row bench seat, and seven with the available second-row captain’s chairs. The sole powertrain is a 260-horsepower turbocharged 2.4-liter “flat” four mated to a CVT automatic transmission with standard all-wheel drive. Standard safety features include Subaru’s EyeSight suite of high-tech safety features (which includes forward collision warning and mitigation, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control). Also standard is a handy Lead Vehicle Alert feature that sounds a warning tone when the car ahead of you at a stoplight begins to move (so that you’re not left sitting there if your attention has been diverted). Standard on the top-line Touring model is a rearview mirror that displays a camera image that isn’t blocked by rear-seat passengers or cargo, and a Front View Monitor that displays a 180-degree view in front of the vehicle. Subaru’s family-friendly new SUV has generous passenger and cargo room, along with a decent ride/handling balance for a vehicle its size. The Ascent is packed with comfort and high-tech safety features that make it a compelling new entry in the three-row SUV field.