The 2.4L turbo four is quick, flexible and though it is smooth for a big four, it can’t match the sonic delights offered by the V6 engine is a cars like the Honda Pilot or Kia Telluride. The CVT transmission is programmed to simulate the operation of a conventional automatic and responds quickly to driver commands. The accelerator pedal is a touch sensitive and drivers need to exercise restraint to ensure a smooth launch from a stop. Though the steering feels light at low speeds, it firms up as velocity increases. That said, steering is less precise than in competitors like the Honda Pilot and Mazda CX-9. Subaru always sweats the details regarding suspension design and the Ascent delivers a supple ride. The active cruise control can slow the car very close to a total stop but can be a bit slow to react. The cabin of the Ascent is a tastefully conservative design constructed from attractive components. The supportive seats ally with a comfortable driving position to put operators at ease. The second-row bucket seats on the Ascent driven by the APA were comfortable overall but were thought to be a touch narrow by larger occupants. The third-row seat can accept either two adults or three children. Third-row legroom is unexceptional for adults but headroom is good. Cargo space is expansive when the Ascent is in two-row mode. A comprehensive storage compartment rests under the trunk floor but some owners might prefer greater trunk depth.

Only one powertrain, a 2.4L turbo four sending power to all four whees via a CVT, is offered. Seven and eight seat versions of the Ascent, are available.

With the EyeSight active safety suite, active L.E.D. headlights, wireless iOS-Android cellphone interface, deep-tint glass, a power driver’s seat and heated front seats, the base convenience trim is well equipped but lacks blind spot and rear cross traffic monitors, an oversight in an expensive car. The Touring, with a large-format sunroof, blind spot and rear cross traffic monitors, rear self braking, a power tailgate, heated steering wheel, an auto-dim rearview mirror, tow-package wiring and a towing capacty increases to 2270 kilograms (5000 lb.) from 908 kilograms (2000 lb.), is very good value. The Onyx trim sports fashionable black-out trim but offers nothing of value for the money. Moving up to the Limited includes navigation, the more sophisticated X-Mode drive system, leather upholstery, a Harmon-Kardon brand audio system, the Cabin Connect internal intercom system, power passenger seat, a heated rear seat and a driver’s seat cushion extender, is good value. The Premier adds Nappa-process leather, a 360 degree camera system, ambient lighting, ventilated front seats, a garage door opener and an extra 120V power outlet, at a reasonable price. Where available, the second-row captain seats are a no-cost option.

Predicted average reliability for the first five years but there have been a number of teething troubles for the vehicle in its first year. Long-term engine durability is unknown. Expensive servicing. Three year/60,000 kilometre basic warranty and a five year/100,000 kilometre powertrain warranty. An extended powertrain warranty is recommended if the vehicle is to be kept past the five year/100,000 kilometre powertrain warranty.