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 a competitor like the Honda Pilot. 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 are comfortable overall but might be thought of as 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 wheels 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 such an expensive vehicle. The Touring, with a large-format sunroof, blind spot and rear cross traffic monitors, a power tailgate, heated steering wheel, an auto-dim rearview mirror, tow-package wiring and a towing capacity increases to 2270 kilograms (5000 lb.) from 908 kilograms (2000 lb.), is good value. The Onyx trim sports fashionable black-out trim, captain chairs for the middle row and larger wheels and tires, but is overpriced. Moving up to the Limited includes navigation, leather upholstery, a Harmon-Kardon brand audio system, a power passenger seat but loses the captain chairs to a bench seat, and is good value. The Premier adds Nappa-process leather, ambient lighting and a few minor items, but looks overpriced.

Predicted average reliability for the first five years. Long-term engine durability is unknown. Expensive servicing. An extended powertrain warranty is recommended if the vehicle is to be kept past the five year/100,000 kilometer powertrain warranty.