2021 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: The 2021 Subaru Ascent adds standard adaptive cruise control, lane centering, lane-keep assist, automatic high-beam headlights, and steering-linked headlights. Subaru introduced an all-new three-row midsize crossover SUV for 2019. The Ascent is the largest passenger vehicle Subaru has ever sold and seats eight passengers when equipped with a second-row bench seat, or 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 entry in the three-row SUV field.