2021 Subaru Ascent vs 2020 Subaru Ascent

The 2020 Subaru Ascent resembled an enlarged version of the Subaru Forester, showcasing a utilitarian appeal that was characteristic of Subaru’s SUV lineup. Gray plastic cladding circled the lower edges of the vehicle, offering comprehensive protection. The design was accentuated by an oversize grille and pronounced fender flares, lending the vehicle a sturdy appearance. Roof rails emphasized its practical nature, and the attractive 20-inch aluminum wheels were standard on three out of four trims.

The base Ascent, starting at $31,995, came with 18-inch wheels and lacked privacy glass, while the Premium trim at $34,395 enhanced the detailing and infotainment system. Leather seats were introduced in the $39,345 Limited trim, and the Touring trim, priced at $45,045, featured exclusive leather and luxury finishes. The test model, a Touring trim painted Abyss Blue Pearl, at a cost of $46,285, featured Java Brown leather, adding a touch of elegance to an otherwise practical design.

The car’s interior boasted high-quality materials and thoughtful details, with features such as a panoramic sunroof and wood trim. Though CarGurus experts admired the Touring trim, they recommended the Ascent Premium with the Convenience and Sporty option packages for better value under $40,000.

In contrast, the 2021 Subaru Ascent continued to build upon the design language seen in the 2020 model, looking like a three-row version of the smaller Forester or Outback. Introduced to fill a long-standing gap in Subaru’s lineup, the Ascent embraced familiar Subaru design elements, ensuring consistency across the brand’s SUVs.

The cabin design closely mirrored other Subaru models, emphasizing a seamless transition for loyal Subaru owners. The trim options remained consistent: Standard, Premium, Limited, and Touring. The Standard trim was well-equipped with driver-assistance features, a 6.5-inch touchscreen, and more, while the Premium trim upgraded the touchscreen to an 8-inch unit and added several comfort features. Limited trim further enhanced passenger comfort, and the Touring trim added luxury features like ventilated front seats and a Harman Kardon stereo.

The 2020 Subaru Ascent came equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, mated to a CVT, and paired with Subaru's AWD system. This combination offered good acceleration, particularly beneficial in elevations where turbocharging helped retain engine power.

However, fuel efficiency was a drawback. On tests, it averaged only 18.9 mpg, against an EPA estimate of 22 mpg, resulting in a driving range of under 365 miles per tank. Handling-wise, the Ascent was not designed for sporty driving. It felt unresponsive, with a slow steering setup and suspension easily unsettled by pavement undulations. The CVT’s behavior under throttle was unpredictable, sometimes delivering surges of power or sluggish responses. The clunky shifter added to the mixed driving experience, especially when parked on inclines.

Despite these quirks, the Ascent's off-road capabilities shone, with Active Torque Split AWD, X-Mode off-road traction, Hill Descent Control, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance making it a solid choice for adventure seekers.

Similarly, the 2021 Subaru Ascent retained the same powertrain with a turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer engine producing identical figures. It maintained the practical, all-around performance crucial for an SUV of its size. It handled well around town, managed highway speeds confidently, and tackled passing maneuvers without hassle.

The 2021 model’s ride quality was fine-tuned for comfort rather than sportiness, excelling in absorbing road imperfections. Its standard AWD, combined with 8.7 inches of ground clearance and X-Mode system, made it reliable in snowy or lightly off-road conditions. It also featured a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, with Trailer Stability Assist standard, enhancing its functionality for towing needs.

The 2020 Subaru Ascent offered commendable comfort, especially in the Touring trim with soft leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat included a manual thigh support extension. While the front passenger seat lacked a height adjuster, it was positioned well off the floor.

The second-row captain’s chairs, standard on the Touring trim, provided comfort with sliding seats, heated cushions, side window shades, dual quick-charge USB ports, and integrated cupholders. The third row was accessible through these chairs and offered acceptable space for adults on shorter trips, while children enjoyed generous side windows and available USB ports.

Cargo space in the 2020 Ascent was practical, with 17.8 cubic feet behind the third-row seats. Folding the third row increased this to 47 cubic feet, and with all rear seats down, it expanded to 86 cubic feet. This flexibility made the Ascent appealing for families and active lifestyle users.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent offered similar cargo space with 17.8 cubic feet behind the third-row seats. However, it slightly increased to 47.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 86.5 cubic feet with all rear seats down. Although this was generous, competitors like the Volkswagen Atlas and Chevrolet Traverse offered even more.

Standard seating for eight could be reduced to seven with optional captain's chairs, which were spacious in the first two rows, and adequate for adults in the third row for shorter trips. The 2021 model also retained the practicality of 19 cupholders and numerous cubbies, reiterating Subaru’s focus on family and gear-friendly interiors.

The 2020 Subaru Ascent's technology suite encompassed the Starlink infotainment system with a touchscreen, buttons, and dials. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, HD Radio, and integrated apps. Premium trim and above featured an 8-inch touchscreen and additional capabilities such as text-messaging, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, and Starlink Safety and Security services. The Touring model added navigation and a high-resolution screen.

Voice-control capabilities were lacking, with delayed responses and limited command recognition, which detracted from the tech experience. However, pairing devices was straightforward, and the Harman Kardon speakers delivered premium sound quality. Rear and front camera systems enhanced visibility, and the innovative PIN Code Vehicle Access system catered to active lifestyles.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent built on this foundation, retaining the Starlink system and logical menu layouts. Both available touchscreens – 6.5-inch or 8-inch – featured large icons, supported by hardware buttons and dials. Standard tech included front and second-row USB ports, satellite radio, and Bluetooth. Upgrades included third-row USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and a premium Harman Kardon stereo.

The 2020 Subaru Ascent earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, highlighting its robust safety features. EyeSight ADAS included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Premium models added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The innovative EyeSight Assist Monitor helped drivers stay informed about cruise control status and lane-keeping, without a full head-up display. The vehicle also included a new rear-seat reminder system and various Starlink Safety Plus connected services.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent continued to uphold Subaru's safety reputation, again achieving the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating. EyeSight was standard, with additional driver-assistance features such as automatic high beams and bendable headlights. Optional features included reverse automatic emergency braking, rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, reinforcing the Ascent’s commitment to occupant safety.