The 2021 Subaru Ascent's #13 ranking is based on its score within the Midsize SUVs category. Currently the Subaru Ascent has a score of 7.7 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 30 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Roomy seating Spacious cargo area Generous standard features list Standard all-wheel drive
Cons Below-average predicted reliability rating
Subaru's EyeSight suite of advanced driver aids now includes adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist.Steering-responsive LED headlights are now standard.A second- and third-row seat-belt reminder is now standard.
PROS Substantial list of standard and optional driving aids High-quality interior materials Generous ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive Easy-to-use infotainment system
CONS Accelerator pedal is too touchy Invasive engine and tire noise Not much second-row shoulder room, and third row is tight Rolling over bumps at higher speeds sends vibrations through the cabin
The latest Ascent receives a handful of new standard features for 2021. These include LED headlights that turn with the steering wheel as well as automatic high-beams. The Touring model also adds another leather upholstery option: Slate Black with silver stitching. And as if the Ascent's incessant beeping notifications weren't annoying enough, all models now have a seat-belt chime that's meant to remind second- and third-row passengers to buckle up.
Pros Flexible seating configurations, cushy ride quality, every model comes with driver assists.
Cons Apathetic passing power, noisy engine during hard acceleration, third row smaller than some rivals.
Like the regular Q5, the high-performance SQ5 receives a host of exterior updates, including an all-new Sportback variant, for 2021 to freshen its look. New exterior lighting elements, a tweaked grille and bumpers, and new wheel designs differentiate it from last year's model. The top-spec Prestige gets OLED taillights as standard, and two new colors join the palette: Ultra Blue and District Green.
Pros Handsomely-equipped cabin, comfortable ride, decent fuel economy for a performance SUV.
Cons Not overly spacious, turbo V-6 doesn't match rivals' horsepower, handling not as sharp as it could be.
Sportier Sportback does well to not compromise on practicality, but you’ll pay a premium for odd looks.
Pros Impressively practical despite the roof, interior is still top of the class
Cons It will give you an existential crisis. What is it all for?
All-new model for 2021.Has a sleeker style than the regular SQ5.Comes standard with an adaptive sport suspension.Part of the first Q5 Sportback generation introduced 2021.
Pros Impressively comfortable ride for a sport-tuned SUV Luxurious but restrained interior design Nimble handling
Cons Infotainment system is distracting to use Less overall storage space than standard SQ5
