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.
Fiat adds the 500X Sport to the lineup. Slotting in above the Trekking, the Sport model has a new front end with LED headlamps and a Sport badge, body-color side moldings, and a restyled rear end with twin chrome exhaust tips. Eighteen-inch wheels are standard, with 19s optional. Inside, the 2020 Fiat 500X Sport features seats with added bolstering, along with simulated-suede inserts and red stitching on both the seats and the restyled, flat-bottomed steering wheel, and aluminum trim on the pedals.
Pros Punchy turbo engine, useful driver-assistance aids, distinctive design.
Cons Priced high for a subcompact SUV, small cargo capacity, cramped passenger quarters.
The 2020 Fiat 500X is a stylish alternative to mainstream models but can be cramped inside.
Pros Quirky styling Standard all-wheel-drive Comfortable ride
Cons No cheaper and more efficient FWD model Competitors offer better value Active safety tech only optional
The 2020 FIAT 500X is unranked in Subcompact SUVs due to missing safety data. Currently, the FIAT 500X's overall score is not available, though its Critics' Rating, Performance score, and Interior score are based on our evaluation of 29 pieces of research and data.
Pros Ritzy cabin
Cons Firm seats Cramped rear quarters Tiny cargo hold
