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2020 Subaru ascent
Model Options
Base, Premium, Limited, and Touring are the four trims available. You can have the base model in your parking spot for a pinch under $32,000. If you splurge for the top Touring model be prepared to add a double-digit increase to that price tag.
What’s new for 2020?
At no additional charge, the new Ascent adds a standard rear-seat reminder alert system. Power-folding side mirrors have also been added. At the Premium level, each Ascent now features one-touch controls to turn the interior lighting on or off.
Interior
With room for 7-8 passengers in this three row SUV this is a great family vehicle. The third row is smaller than some of its rivals. The Ascent offers flexible seating positions, plenty of cupholders and creative storage tricks. Only the top two trims are available with features like heated rear seats, memory driver’s seat, leather-trimmed upholstery and more.
Drive Time
The standard all-wheel-drive system makes the Ascent well suited for family road trips any time of the year. It’s four-cylinder powertrain can be noisy but it will be able to pull a speedboat or camper trailer. There are paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel for those who want more control. On those family road trips you will get an above average EPA, getting 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
Tech and Safety
Well with the highs there are lows. This low comes in the form of the Subaru infotainment system, which lacks the intuitive controls and customization settings that are found on some competitors. Don’t let that be a dealbreaker because it still has features that you want and love, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 4G LTE mobile hotspot. The standard display touch screen has large icons that are easy to see and it responds to your inputs quickly.
Every Ascent above the base model is available with most safety upgrades. Optional extras include automatic high-beams, blind-spot monitor, and read automated emergency braking. Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking, standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist, and standard adaptive cruise control are key safety features.
Final Thoughts
In a category that is becoming more popular and has a lot of competition the Outlander Sport seems to fall short in too many areas to stay in the race. If your wallet allows, you can add the available options and possibly create a vehicle that will be a good fit for you.
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