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 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is unranked in Midsize SUVs due to missing safety data. Currently, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L's overall score is not available, though its Critics' Rating, Performance score, and Interior score are based on our evaluation of 8 pieces of research and data.
Pros Impressive off-road ability Cushioned ride Well-crafted interior Roomy, comfortable seats in all three rows
Cons Some rivals are more agile
The Grand Cherokee L is all-new for 2021.Three rows of seating.Interior filled with modern, premium touches and tech features.Kicks off the fifth Grand Cherokee generation for 2021.
Pros Impressive list of standard and optional advanced driver aids Unibody construction brings much-needed refinement Handsome interior design Better off-road capability than most SUVs
Cons Base V6 engine provides underwhelming acceleration
This year marks the beginning of a new generation of Grand Cherokee with the arrival of the three-row L model. It makes its debut before the updated two-row Grand Cherokee (reviewed separately), which will switch to this new design for 2022. A 4Xe plug-in hybrid model is likely coming for the 2022 model year.
Pros Deluxe cabin environs, plenty of off-road capability, room for up to seven riders.
Cons Base V-6 not as refined as optional V-8, awkward proportions on smaller diameter wheels, most desirable models are pricey.
