Subaru’s Largest Production Vehicle
Subaru has come a long way in America since the first Subaru 360 mirco-car was imported in 1968. Now, the Subaru community has grown into several sub-cultures from the rally enthusiasts, outdoor adventurists, hoonigans, and even pet owners.
Last fall, Subaru announced an all new vehicle aimed at the growing fuel efficient, 7+ passenger SUV market. The 2019 Subaru Ascent, the largest production vehicle in the company’s history. An SUV that’ll be able to carry 8 passengers, 19 cup holders, and drive like a Subaru!
Interior
Subaru plans on giving the Ascent four different trim levels: base, Premium, Limited and touring. Obviously the higher the trim level the more options come as standard. The base model will offer automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and a 6.5-inch multimedia touchscreen – with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility.
All trim levels will have 19 cup and bottle holders, (That’s a lot of thermal mugs), and third row bench seating to allow up to 8 passengers in the Ascent. Standard on all trim levels will be Subaru’s Auto Vehicle Hold which works like Hill Assist. When a driver comes to a complete stop the Ascent will hold itself in place without the driver needing to keep their foot on the brake.
Higher trim levels will have an upgraded 8 inch touchscreen, Wi-Fi connectivity, and leather interior options. Added safety features like high beam assist, blind spot detection, and rear-cross traffic alerts are available once you go above the base trim level.
Exterior
The 2019 Subaru Ascent looks like a Forester that started lifting weights and drinking protein shakes three times a day. Its broad shouldered and bulky, but that’s because it needs to hold up to eight people and whatever cargo they bring with them.
Subaru stated that they wanted the styling of the Ascent to have a “commanding presence”, and I believe they’ve done that. Anyone driving in a smaller crossover will be able to spot Subaru’s emblem overcrowding their rearview mirror.
Specs and Performance on the 2019 Subaru Ascent
Subaru has always taken pride in building small vehicles that offer capability and performance on almost any terrain.
The Ascent isn’t a small vehicle, however, it will be powered by an all-new 2.4 liter turbo BOXER engine producing 260 horsepower. Matched with Subaru’s famous Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and 8.7 inches of ground clearance is a recipe for capability when the road turns wild.
Premium trim levels, and higher, will have a 5,000 lb towing rating. Even with the Ascent’s size Subaru states that it will be able to reach 500 miles of range on a full tank.
Looking Forward to Testing this New Subaru, Off-Road
On paper, the new 2019 Subaru Ascent looks like a great contender in the four cylinder SUV with AWD market. A rival for the Mazda CX-9, Jeep Cherokee, and Ford Edge.
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Jesus Behind the Wheel 