Subaru has announced small changes to the Ascent three-row SUV for the 2021 model year. The changes add more standard equipment and enhanced safety features. The model will start at $32,295, which is average for its segment when you consider the equipment buyers get with their purchase and $300 more than the 2020 model.
There are four trim levels of the 2021 Subaru Ascent and numerous available packages. All trim levels carry a destination fee of $1,050. The SUV arrives in Subaru retailers this summer. Here’s how the models break down by trim level.
Subaru builds the Ascent at its plant in Lafayette, Indiana, along with the Impreza, Legacy and Outback.
2021 Subaru Ascent
The base model Subaru Ascent has a price tag of $32,295.
Every Subaru Ascent is powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 pounnd-feet of torque. The engine is paired with a continuously variable tranmsision that has an eight-speed manual mode that can be shifted using paddles near the steering wheel.
The powertrain allows for a 5,000-pound towing capacity. Trailer Stability Assist technology is standard.
Subaru has give each Ascent all-wheel drive and X-Mode with hill descent control.
Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is a standard suite of safety and driver assist technology that now includes standard adaptive cruise control with lane centering and lane keep assist. There are also standard steering responsive LED headlights and high beam assist. Second- and third-row seat belt reminder technology is also standard.
The list of standard features includes tri-zone front and rear automatic climate control; automatic power door locks; power windows and side mirrors; multi-function display; security system with engine immobilizer; rear vision camera; two USB input ports in front section of center console; two USB charging ports in rear section of center console; raised roof rails; 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels; and 19 cupholders.
Additionally, there is a 6.5-inch infotainment touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, Ann AM/FM stereo, CD player, HD radio, satellite radio, and SiriusXM Travel Link.
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2021 Subaru Ascent Premium
The Ascent Premium starts at $34,795. It builds on the base model and adds safety features – blind spot detection with lane change assist ad rear cross traffic alert. It also features body-color side mirrors, rear window privacy glass, eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift lever handle, and tri-zone automatic climate control.
The model comes standard with Subaru’s All-Weather Package, which includes heated exterior mirrors, heated front seats, and windshield wiper de-icer.
Buyers get a upgrades 8.0-inch infotainment touch screen, Wi-Fi capability (subscription required), and available Starlink Connected Services.
In this trim level, buyers can choose between second-row bench seating or captain’s chairs at no additional charge.
For $1,460, buyers can upgrade to an option package that includes keyless access with push-button start, a power rear lift gate, auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink, and reverse automatic braking.
A second package is available and priced at $4,260. it includes all the equipment in the first package ad adds 20-inch machine-finished dark gray wheels, a panoramic moonroof, navigation, and a stowable cargo cover.
2021 Subaru Ascent Limited
The Ascent Limited starts at $39,595. It includes all the standard features of the Ascent Premium and adds reverse automatic braking, keyless entry with push-button start, and a power rear lift gate with automatic lock button for the gate and doors.
LED fog lights, lower door cladding with chrome accents; body-color side mirrors with integrated turn signals; and 20-inch machine-finished aluminum-alloy wheels in dark gray are also standard.
This model gets a significantly upgraded interior. It features leather-trimmed upholstery with 10-way power driver seat with lumbar support and seat bottom cushion extension; four-way power-adjustable front passenger seat; and second-row retractable sunshades. Subaru has added two additional USB charging ports brining the total to six. The model also gets heated second-row seats and a heated steering wheel.
In this trim level, buyers can choose between second-row bench seating or captain’s chairs at no additional charge.
Buyers can opt for a package that includes navigation, a Harman Kardon QuantumLogic surround sound system with 14 speakers, and a panoramic moonroof for an additional $2,950.
2021 Subaru Ascent Touring
The top-tier Ascent Touring is all-in and priced at $45,445. It builds one the Limited model and adds premium features like a high gloss black grille, chrome door handles, and satin chrome power-folding exterior mirrors with integrated turn signals. There’s also woodgrain-pattern matte finish accent trim; three-mode ventilated driver and front passenger seats; and Java Brown perforated leather-trimmed upholstery.
Models also come standard with navigation, Harman Kardon QuantumLogic surround sound system with 14 speakers; panoramic moonroof; rain-sensing wipers; a smart rearview mirror; ad 180-degree front-view camera.
For the 2021 model year, Subaru has added Slate Black perforated leather-trimmed upholstery with silver stitching (only available in conjunction with certain paint jobs).
