Ascent is the largest Subaru vehicle. It is a mid-size SUV with exceptional capabilities and seating for eight people. The first update of the model launched in 2018 will happen next year. The new SUV is going through a facelift process. Under the hood remains the turbocharged four-cylinder unit. Of course, that is a popular Boxer, and it uses an all-wheel drive. The 2021 Subaru Ascent will keep all the trim levels it currently offers, and the price will range from $33,000 for the base SUV and up to $47,000 for the most expensive trims.
The 2021 Subaru Ascent will belong to the mid-size three-row segment. So far, the SUV showed the potential to fight with models that are present for a long time. Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander are two most impressing Japanese models. In the USA, the domestic representative is Ford Explorer. In future that will be Jeep Grand Cherokee as well. Volkswagen Atlas is going through a refresh and it should be very competitive in upcoming seasons. All in all, buyers will benefit from this wide offer.
2021 Subaru Ascent Specs
Under the bonnet of the 2021 Subaru Ascent is a 2.4-liter Boxer engine capable to provide 260 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. This is respectable output for a turbo-four drivetrain. On the other hand, some of the above-mentioned models are using very powerful V6 engines with more than 300 horsepower. Subaru will stick to the same powertrain, although fans are crying for a larger displacement. All-wheel drive is the only possible setup. The energy is distributed through a CVT transmission. Towing capacity is actually very good, especially having in mind it comes from a four-cylinder engine. The new Ascent will be able to tow more than 5,000 pounds.
What is Boxer Engine?
The four-cylinder unit is actually flat-four. It lays horizontally and pistons movement will remind you of two boxers. Its horizontal position is different than for the standard drivetrains. There are a few advantages of such a system. Better fuel economy is definitely one of them. The power goes from the engine directly to transmission without losing flow. Even with all-wheel drive Subaru’s vehicles are more efficient than its counterparts with 2WD setup.
You will also fall in love with the handling and stability of vehicles using a Boxer engine. The 2021 Subaru Ascent will take benefits of lower gravity center. It will improve maneuverability, handling, and cornering. Standard engines are using more components, making them vibrating a lot. That is not the case with Boxer units. The low center of gravity will also improve safety.
2021 Subaru Ascent Restyling
For the 2020 model, the company added some extra features, but they didn’t update the price. After new changes, the price will probably go up. Well, the front fascia and headlights might carry the most significant updates. Side skirts and the rear end will probably take a minor portion of changes. Inside, designers will have a simple, but yet complicated task. The 2021 Subaru Ascent will have to offer more space. The SUV is coming on the same platform, meaning the dimensions will remain very similar.
Cargo Space, Dimensions, Weight
The new 2021 Subaru Ascent will be 197 inches long with a wheelbase of 114 inches. This is enough for three rows of seats. With the second and third row folded, you will get 87 cubic feet of cargo space. Behind the middle-row, there are 47,5 cubic feet. With all seats up 18 cubic feet remains behind the rear bench. The overall weight of the new Ascent will drop thanks to the higher usage of lightweight materials. Aluminum and carbon fiber will also make the SUV more expensive. However, it will keep the performance and improve fuel economy.
Trim Levels
There are four trim levels available for the current SUV. All of them will be part of the lineup for the 2021 Subaru Ascent. Besides the standard offer, for slightly more money you can get a Premium package. However, it is not the most luxurious offer, since there are two more vehicles that cost higher. Limited is a mid-range offer with leather seats and 20-inch alloy wheels as standard features. Top of the class model is Ascent Touring with seven-seat layout, special side mirrors, and a panoramic moonroof. Inside, ventilated front seats are available only for this trim, as well as captain’s chairs for the middle row.
Release Date
Subaru has just released the new model for 2020 season. So, the next one will arrive after a year or more. We believe the 2021 Subaru Ascent is coming late next year and it will keep the base price. Other trim levels are going to modify their MSRPs. For example, the Limited version will jump over $40,000, while the Touring will be closer to $50,000. With additional options, such as auto-dimming exterior mirrors, STARLINK Entertainment, or remote engine start, the price will definitely go over this mark. The base SUV is going to cost $33,000.
