Although still a quite fresh model, Subaru’s first three-row SUV has already established an excellent reputation, as one of the most practical models in the class. The 2021 Subaru Ascent will represent the third production year and given the company’s well-known conservative philosophy, we have no doubt that bigger changes will come.
The next-year model will continue to deliver excellent quality for the money. Spacious and practical cabin, a long list of standard and available safety features, powerful and fuel-efficient engine, along with excellent AWD system are more than enough reasons to consider this model at least. Some reports are suggesting the addition of the 2021 Subaru Ascent Hybrid for the next year but that is just a rumor at the moment. In any case, the new model should hit the market in the last quarter of 2020.
2021 Subaru Ascent Design
This is the aspect where we definitely won’t see any particular novelty. Some 2021 Subaru Ascent changes may come, but the overall design will remain the same. The large crossover rides on Subaru’s new modular architecture, which offers a nice balance between performances and efficiency. When it comes to the styling, we must say that we were a little bit disappointed with the fact that the production model hasn’t come with more influence from the attractive Viziv 7 concept. The production version came with a far more conservative approach, in the company’s typical manner, with a lot of similarities with models like Forester.
Given the fact that the Japanese manufacturer doesn’t practice bigger changes during production cycles, we have no doubt that the 2021 Subaru Ascent will carry on in the same way. You may count on the same styling, while new color options are probably the only thing we could see in the upcoming model.
Interior
This is definitely one of the strongest points of the crossover. We don’t expect bigger 2021 Subaru Ascent changes in this aspect either but definitely isn’t a bad thing. This cabin features excellent build quality. The dashboard is very attractive, with pretty fine materials. Still, interior space and overall comfort are far more important in Subaru’s case.
Although this model features just a little bit less than 114 inches between the axles, the overall interior space is pretty generous. When it comes to interior dimensions, the first thing we should mention is a pretty generous amount of legroom. You can count on 42.2-inches in the first row, while the 38.6-inch second row also seems pretty solid. Finally, the third row is good for about 31.7 inches, which is also a respectable number for the class. Another great thing to mention is that the third packs three seats. So, the seating capacity goes up to 8 passengers. That’s quite rare for mid-size crossovers.
When it comes to the cargo capacity, you may count on pretty respectable, above-average 86.5 cubic feet. The volume behind the third row is also very generous and goes around 18 cubic feet.
Features
This is where we could see a couple of changes, but keep in mind that the current model is already pretty strong in this aspect. When it comes to tech goodies, all models come standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, multiple USB ports etc. Additionally, you can get a bigger 8-inch touchscreen, as well as things like navigation, premium audio system and more.
Safety is definitely the aspect where this SUV really shines. All models come standard with a rearview camera, forward automatic emergency braking, pre-collision throttle management, adaptive cruise control, lane departure and sway warning, and a head-up display, rear-seat reminder etc. Of course, there is even more in higher trims, where you can upgrade this SUV with automatic emergency braking, cornering headlights with automatic high beams, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, lane change assist, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a rear-vision mirror camera and front-view camera.
2021 Subaru Ascent Engines
As we’ve already mentioned, you can find rumors that suggest Subaru Ascent Hybrid 2021. However, the company is still quiet on this matter. So, we believe that the next-year model will carry on with a gasoline version in the offer only. Of course, we are talking about a new 2.4-liter turbo-four engine, which perfectly balances between power and efficiency. On one side, it features a max output of 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, which is definitely on par with V6 rivals.
On the other side, fuel economy is in range with four-cylinder engines. You may count on above-average 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. This sounds even more impressive if we consider that a CVT gearbox sends power to all wheels. Of course, you can count on Subaru’s excellent all-wheel-drive system.
2021 Subaru Ascent Release Date and Price
When it comes to the 2021 Subaru Ascent Release Date, we are pretty sure that the lack of changes also means the new model will hit the market in a typical time of year. In this case, it would be the last quarter of 2020. The current model starts around 32.000 dollars and we don’t expect bigger changes in the future.