Subaru Ascent 2024 Expert Review
The Subaru Ascent 2024 is the brand’s flagship SUV, designed to offer spacious comfort, advanced safety features, and reliable performance. Ideal for families and adventure enthusiasts alike, the Ascent continues to be a strong competitor in the midsize SUV market. This expert review will cover every aspect of the 2024 Ascent, from its design and performance to its features and overall value.
Exterior Design
The 2024 Subaru Ascent boasts a bold and rugged exterior design that aligns with Subaru’s adventure-ready image. The SUV features a prominent front grille, sleek LED headlights, and a sculpted hood. The overall design is aerodynamic yet robust, giving it a commanding presence on the road. The Ascent is available in a variety of colors and comes with options for different wheel designs, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
Interior Comfort
Inside, the Subaru Ascent 2024 offers a spacious and well-appointed cabin. The three-row seating configuration can comfortably accommodate up to eight passengers. High-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship are evident throughout the interior. The seats are supportive and designed for long journeys, with available leather upholstery and heated options for added comfort. The cabin is also equipped with numerous storage compartments, making it practical for family trips.
Performance and Engine Options
The Subaru Ascent 2024 is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which provides smooth and efficient power delivery. Subaru’s renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is standard, ensuring excellent traction and stability in all driving conditions. The Ascent offers a balanced ride with a suspension system tuned for comfort and control.
Safety Features
Safety is a paramount concern for Subaru, and the Ascent 2024 comes equipped with an extensive array of safety features. Standard safety technologies include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Advanced safety features such as blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system are also available. The Ascent has earned top safety ratings from various institutions, solidifying its reputation as a safe family vehicle.
Technology and Connectivity
The Subaru Ascent 2024 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of technology and connectivity features. The infotainment system features a large touchscreen with intuitive controls, and it supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration. Higher trims offer a premium audio system, navigation, and additional USB ports. The SUV also includes Subaru’s STARLINK Safety and Security services, which provide emergency assistance, remote services, and more.
Driving Experience
Driving the Subaru Ascent 2024 is a pleasurable experience, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and responsive steering. The SUV handles well for its size, offering a smooth and controlled ride even on rough terrain. The turbocharged engine provides ample power for highway driving and overtaking, while the all-wheel-drive system ensures confidence in various weather conditions. The driver assistance features further enhance the driving experience by reducing fatigue and increasing safety.
Pricing and Trims
The Subaru Ascent 2024 is available in multiple trim levels, each offering a different set of features and options. The base model, starting at around $33,000, comes well-equipped with essential features. Higher trims add luxury and convenience features such as leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced safety technologies. The top-tier Touring trim offers the most comprehensive package, including premium audio, ventilated front seats, and more.
Comparison with Competitors
In the crowded midsize SUV segment, the Subaru Ascent 2024 competes with models like the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Ford Explorer. While the Pilot and Highlander offer strong reliability and comfort, the Ascent stands out with its standard all-wheel drive and superior safety features. Compared to the Explorer, the Ascent offers a more balanced ride and better all-weather capability, though it may lag slightly in fuel efficiency.
User Reviews and Testimonials
Owners of the Subaru Ascent 2024 have praised its reliability, spacious interior, and advanced safety features. Many appreciate the all-wheel-drive system, which provides confidence in various driving conditions. However, some users have noted that the fuel efficiency could be better and expressed a preference for a traditional automatic transmission over the CVT.
Environmental Impact
The Subaru Ascent 2024 is designed with a focus on reducing its environmental impact. The turbocharged engine is engineered for efficiency, and Subaru’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in their use of eco-friendly materials and production practices. Additionally, the Ascent is built in a zero-landfill plant, showcasing Subaru’s dedication to environmental responsibility.
Pros of Subaru Ascent 2024
- All-Wheel Drive: Standard across all trims, providing superior traction and stability.
- Spacious Interior: Three rows of comfortable seating with ample cargo space.
- Safety Features: Comprehensive suite of standard and advanced safety technologies.
- Performance: Turbocharged engine offering a good balance of power and efficiency.
Cons of Subaru Ascent 2024
- Fuel Efficiency: Lower than some competitors, especially in the city.
- CVT Performance: May not appeal to drivers who prefer a traditional automatic transmission.
- Third-Row Access: Can be tight for adults compared to some rivals.
Overview
Growing families are flocking to three-row midsize SUVs and for good reason. They’re easy to drive, offer plenty of space for passengers or cargo, and come with a long list of safety features. The Subaru Ascent made a strong debut in 2019 as the largest vehicle in the manufacturer’s lineup, and last year it underwent a significant refresh to keep it competitive against newer rivals. For 2024, it returns unchanged, and even though it checks off all of the boxes for shoppers in this class, it’s upstaged by our top picks.
