Subaru has, for the most part, ignored the SUV market, until now. Subaru’s latest vehicle is a new SUV with a new engine. Of course it will be all-wheel drive.
The Subaru Ascent comes with a new 2.4-liter engine in the usual boxer configuration. This engine has 10.6:1 compression (higher than normal for Subaru) and a twin-scroll turbocharger with intercooler. All of this means that it will have 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. The transmission is a CVT style and can tow up to 5,000-lbs.
The wheel base is 113.8-inches with 153.5 cubic feet of passenger volume. Interior of the Ascent sports eight USB ports, 19 cup holders (woah!), 120-volt power outlet, and three rows of seats, each with their own climate control. Up front is a Subaru STARLINK multimedia system with a 6.5-inch (or optional 8-inch) screen. Apple CarPlay is standard – yay! There is even an option for LTE and internal WiFi.
The Ascent is the most versatile Subaru ever with up to nine unique seating configurations and two rows of 60/40 split flat-folding seats offering up to 72.6 cubic feet of cargo space. The Ascent comes standard with a second row bench seat, providing room for up to 8 passengers. Premium and above trim levels offer second row captain’s chairs as a no-cost option and provide occupants with easier access to the third-row. Wide rear door openings, steep C-pillar angles and low entrance point allow easy access for both second and third row passengers. The standard roof rails allow for a number of accessories for carrying items such as bicycles and kayaks.
[via]