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.
The 2020 GMC Terrain seats five people and is available in four trim levels: the base SL, SLE, SLT, and Denali. Optional diesel engine is no longer available.Updated suspension for Denali models intended to improve ride quality.Changes to standard and optional safety equipment.At the top of the Terrain range is the Denali, which receives unique styling cues and interior trim as well as most of the optional features from the above trim levels. A new optional Denali Premium package tops it all off with features such as ventilated front seats, adaptive cruise control and a surround-view parking camera system.
Pros Comfortable and upscale interior Optional 2.0-liter engine is efficient and powerful Touchscreen interfaces are intuitive and easy to use
Cons Price with options runs higher than average for the class Disappointing base engine Less cargo space behind the back seat than most competitors
The 2020 GMC Terrain is a stylish crossover SUV that we wish had more standard safety gear.
Pros Arresting style Rides well Denali feels almost luxurious Good infotainment system
Cons Annoying all-wheel-drive system Thirsty engines Active safety should be standard Price escalates fast
The 2020 GMC Terrain features an impressive set of standard safety features and a handsome cabin, but neither area is best in class. Add in moderate performance and a small cargo area, and the Terrain's spot in the bottom half of our compact SUV rankings is understandable.
Pros Lots of standard advanced safety features Considerable rear-seat legroom Upscale, comfortable cabin Good city mpg rating with base engine
Cons Small cargo area behind back seat Sleepy base engine Above-average price for the class
