Subaru Ascent

The Ascent is Subaru's three-row mid-size SUV — Subaru's largest and most luxurious vehicle, the brand's flagship in the US (since the Tribeca was discontinued 2014). Single generation across the run (2019-present, mid-cycle refresh 2023). Built at Subaru of Indiana Automotive (SIA) plant in Lafayette, Indiana — Subaru's only US assembly plant (also builds Outback and Legacy and Impreza for North America). Single engine: 2.4L FA24 BOXER turbocharged flat-4 with direct injection, producing 260 hp / 277 lb-ft — Subaru's most powerful engine apart from the WRX STI. CVT (Lineartronic). Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard with X-MODE (Hill Descent Control included on top trims). 5,000 lb towing with proper trailering package — class-leading among non-luxury 3-row SUVs at launch. EyeSight Driver Assist Technology standard across the range — adaptive cruise with lane centering, pre-collision braking, lane keep assist. Three-row seating standard, 7- or 8-passenger configurations (8-pax with bench 2nd row, 7-pax with captain's chairs 2nd row optional on Limited / Touring). 19 cupholders standard. Trims (current): Base, Premium, Onyx Edition, Limited, Touring, plus the Onyx Edition Limited from 2023. 2023 mid-cycle refresh introduced standard 11.6-inch SUBARU STARLINK Multimedia Plus infotainment (vertical orientation), refreshed front fascia, dashboard, dual-function X-MODE with Hill Descent Control standard on Onyx / Limited / Touring. EyeSight gained automatic emergency steering. 8.7-inch ground clearance. 20-inch wheels on Limited / Touring. Optional Harman Kardon 14-speaker audio. The Ascent has been Subaru's strongest entry into the volume 3-row SUV segment — competing primarily against Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Mazda CX-9 / CX-90, Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade. There were rumors of an Ascent Wilderness in 2022-2023 but Subaru has not committed to that direction yet.