Are you guys in the market for a reliable and spacious SUV? Then, let's dive deep into the 2021 Subaru Ascent Premium! This model stands out as a fantastic choice for families needing extra room and Subaru's renowned safety features. We will explore everything from its pricing to its performance, features, and overall value, so you can make a super informed decision. The 2021 Subaru Ascent Premium hits that sweet spot for many buyers. You get a whole lotta car without breaking the bank. This Ascent is equipped with Subaru’s famous symmetrical all-wheel drive, offering enhanced stability and control in various driving conditions. The Premium trim adds a bunch of desirable features, making it a well-rounded package. Inside, you'll find comfortable seating for up to eight passengers, making it perfect for large families or those who frequently carpool. The Ascent Premium includes an upgraded infotainment system with a larger touchscreen, smartphone integration, and additional USB ports for charging devices. Safety is paramount with Subaru, and the Ascent Premium comes standard with EyeSight driver-assist technologies, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The 2021 Subaru Ascent Premium offers a compelling blend of space, safety, and value, making it an excellent choice for families seeking a capable and reliable SUV. Let’s get into the details!

What’s the Price Tag on the 2021 Subaru Ascent Premium?

Let's talk price! Understanding the cost is super important. The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2021 Subaru Ascent Premium typically starts around $35,000. But remember, this is just the starting point. The final price can vary based on several factors. These factors include the options and packages you choose, the dealer you're buying from, and any incentives or rebates you might qualify for. Options like a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio system, or additional safety features can increase the price. Dealer markups can also play a significant role, especially in areas where demand is high. Don't forget to check for regional incentives, such as military discounts, loyalty rewards, or seasonal promotions. These can help lower the overall cost. When comparing prices, look at both the MSRP and the final out-the-door price, including taxes, fees, and any dealer-added extras. Negotiating with the dealer is also crucial to get the best possible deal. Be prepared to walk away if they don't meet your budget. Keep an eye on the used market, too, as you might find a well-maintained 2021 Ascent Premium at a lower price. This is a smart way to save money without sacrificing too much on features and condition. Always factor in the cost of ownership, including insurance, maintenance, and fuel. A cheaper initial price might be offset by higher long-term expenses. Doing your homework and shopping around will ensure you get the best value for your money. Also, consider the resale value of the Ascent Premium, which tends to hold up well compared to other SUVs in its class. This can be a significant advantage if you plan to trade it in later. The price of the 2021 Subaru Ascent Premium is influenced by several variables, making it essential to do your research and negotiate effectively.

Under the Hood: Engine and Performance

When it comes to performance, the 2021 Subaru Ascent Premium is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This engine delivers a solid 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for daily driving and long road trips. The turbocharger ensures that the Ascent doesn't feel sluggish, even when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps maximize fuel efficiency. While CVTs sometimes get a bad rap for their droning sound, Subaru's CVT is well-tuned and provides smooth, responsive acceleration. One of the standout features of the Ascent is its standard symmetrical all-wheel drive. This system distributes power to all four wheels, providing enhanced traction and stability in various weather conditions. Whether you're driving in rain, snow, or on gravel roads, the Ascent feels confident and secure. The Ascent also offers a respectable towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. This makes it a great choice for families who need to tow a trailer, boat, or other recreational equipment. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a smooth and composed ride. It absorbs bumps and road imperfections well, making long journeys more enjoyable. Handling is decent for a large SUV, with predictable steering and minimal body roll. The Ascent isn't sporty, but it's easy to drive and maneuver in most situations. Fuel economy is reasonable for its size, with EPA ratings of around 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. Real-world fuel economy may vary depending on driving conditions and habits. Regular maintenance is essential to keep the engine running smoothly. Follow the recommended service schedule for oil changes, filter replacements, and other routine tasks. Overall, the 2021 Subaru Ascent Premium offers a balanced combination of power, efficiency, and capability. Its turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive, and comfortable ride make it a versatile choice for families.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Let’s step inside! The 2021 Subaru Ascent Premium boasts a spacious and well-equipped interior designed for comfort and convenience. The Premium trim offers a nice balance of features without feeling overly luxurious or basic. Seating is a highlight, with comfortable and supportive seats for up to eight passengers. The second-row seats can be configured as either a bench or captain's chairs, depending on your preference. The third-row seats are surprisingly spacious for a mid-size SUV, making them suitable for adults on shorter trips. The interior materials are of good quality, with soft-touch surfaces in key areas. The design is functional and straightforward, with controls that are easy to use and understand. The infotainment system features an 8-inch touchscreen display, which is responsive and intuitive. It includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. Other tech features include multiple USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Ascent Premium also comes standard with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technologies, which include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features enhance safety and help prevent accidents. Storage space is ample, with plenty of cubbies, cupholders, and door pockets throughout the cabin. The cargo area behind the third-row seats is decent, and it expands significantly when the third-row seats are folded down. Noise insulation is good, with minimal wind and road noise entering the cabin. This creates a more relaxing and enjoyable driving experience. The climate control system is effective, with separate controls for the front and rear passengers. Overall, the interior of the 2021 Subaru Ascent Premium is well-designed and comfortable, offering a range of features that enhance both convenience and safety. From the spacious seating to the user-friendly tech, it's a great place to spend time on long journeys.

Safety Features: Keeping You and Your Family Safe

Safety is a top priority for Subaru, and the 2021 Ascent Premium is packed with features designed to protect you and your passengers. The Ascent comes standard with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology. This includes adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. Lane departure warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane, and lane keep assist can gently steer you back into position. Automatic emergency braking can detect potential collisions and apply the brakes if you don't react in time. These features can help prevent accidents or reduce their severity. In addition to EyeSight, the Ascent also includes blind-spot detection with rear cross-traffic alert. This system warns you if there's a vehicle in your blind spot or approaching from the side when you're backing up. The Ascent has received excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It has earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ award from IIHS. These ratings reflect the Ascent's ability to protect occupants in a variety of crash scenarios. Other standard safety features include antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a full suite of airbags. The Ascent also has a rearview camera, which makes it easier to back up and park. For added security, the Ascent comes with Subaru's STARLINK safety and security system. This includes automatic collision notification, SOS emergency assistance, and stolen vehicle recovery. Overall, the 2021 Subaru Ascent Premium offers a comprehensive suite of safety features that provide peace of mind for you and your family. From advanced driver-assist technologies to robust crash protection, the Ascent is designed to keep you safe on the road.

Pros and Cons: Is the 2021 Subaru Ascent Premium Right for You?

Alright, let's break it down! The 2021 Subaru Ascent Premium has a lot to offer, but it's not perfect for everyone. Let's weigh the pros and cons to see if it's the right fit for you.

Pros:

• Spacious Interior: The Ascent offers plenty of room for passengers and cargo, making it great for families.
• Standard All-Wheel Drive: Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive provides enhanced traction and stability in all weather conditions.
• Safety Features: The Ascent comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including EyeSight driver-assist technology.
• Towing Capacity: With a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, the Ascent can handle trailers, boats, and other recreational equipment.
• User-Friendly Tech: The infotainment system is easy to use and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Cons:

• CVT Transmission: Some drivers may not like the feel of the continuously variable transmission.
• Fuel Economy: While not terrible, the Ascent's fuel economy could be better compared to some competitors.
• Handling: The Ascent isn't the sportiest SUV on the market, with handling that's adequate but not particularly engaging.
• Third-Row Access: Getting into the third row can be a bit tight, especially for adults.
• Price: While the Ascent offers good value for the money, it can be more expensive than some other mid-size SUVs.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy the 2021 Subaru Ascent Premium depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize safety, space, and all-wheel drive capability, it's definitely worth considering. However, if you're looking for a sportier driving experience or better fuel economy, you may want to explore other options. Consider your priorities and do your research to determine if the Ascent is the right SUV for you.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the 2021 Subaru Ascent Premium?

So, what’s the final word? The 2021 Subaru Ascent Premium is a solid choice for families looking for a reliable, safe, and spacious SUV. It offers a well-rounded package with a strong emphasis on safety and practicality. With its standard all-wheel drive, ample passenger space, and user-friendly tech, the Ascent is well-suited for daily commutes, family road trips, and everything in between. While it may not be the flashiest or most exciting SUV on the market, it excels in the areas that matter most to families. The safety features are top-notch, providing peace of mind on the road. The interior is comfortable and functional, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. And the all-wheel drive system ensures confident handling in a variety of driving conditions. Of course, the Ascent isn't without its drawbacks. The CVT transmission may not appeal to everyone, and the fuel economy could be better. But overall, these are minor issues compared to the Ascent's strengths. If you're in the market for a mid-size SUV and safety and reliability are your top priorities, the 2021 Subaru Ascent Premium should definitely be on your list. Just be sure to do your research, compare prices, and take a test drive to see if it's the right fit for you. You won't regret it!