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Comprehensive Overview of the 2021 Subaru Ascent: Features, Performance, and Safety

July. 04,2025

The 2021 Subaru Ascent is a family-friendly SUV renowned for its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and reliable performance. With versatile seating arrangements, modern infotainment, and robust safety systems, it caters to modern family needs. Its impressive towing capacity and fuel efficiency make it a practical choice for those seeking a reliable, secure, and comfortable vehicle. Highlighted by top safety ratings and technological innovations, the Ascent is an ideal SUV for large families and outdoor adventurers alike, offering comfort, safety, and performance in one well-rounded package.

Comprehensive Overview of the 2021 Subaru Ascent: Features, Performance, and Safety

Comprehensive Overview of the 2021 Subaru Ascent: Features, Performance, and Safety

For families seeking a spacious, reliable, and well-equipped SUV, the 2021 Subaru Ascent stands out as an excellent choice. Introduced as a flagship three-row vehicle in Subaru’s lineup, the Ascent has been continually refined since its debut in 2019 to meet the evolving needs of modern families. With a focus on safety, comfort, and versatility, this SUV offers a range of features that make it a top contender in the family vehicle market. Its robust engine options, advanced safety technologies, and modern infotainment system contribute to a driving experience that balances practicality with enjoyment.

Spacious and Flexible Interior Design

The interior space of the 2021 Subaru Ascent is designed with family needs in mind. It comfortably seats seven or eight passengers, depending on the configuration chosen. The second row options include standard bench seats or optional captain’s chairs, which provide easier access to the third row and improve comfort for passengers. The rear seats are foldable, allowing for a significant increase in cargo capacity—up to 86.5 cubic feet of space when the seats are completely folded flat. This flexibility makes the Ascent an ideal vehicle for carrying large families, sports gear, camping equipment, or other bulky loads without sacrificing interior comfort.

Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance Technologies

Safety is a primary focus for Subaru, and the 2021 Ascent reflects this commitment. The vehicle has received commendable safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), earning top marks for crashworthiness. Its standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology includes features such as pre-collision braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and lane keep assist. These systems act as an extra set of eyes, helping to prevent accidents and mitigate collision severity. Additionally, the Ascent offers forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot detection, ensuring comprehensive safety coverage for all occupants.

Powertrain Options, Towing Capacity, and Fuel Efficiency

The 2021 Subaru Ascent is powered by a capable 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers up to 260 horsepower. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), providing smooth acceleration and efficient power delivery. Standard all-wheel drive enhances traction and stability, especially in challenging road conditions. The vehicle’s towing capacity is impressive, capable of hauling up to 5,000 pounds—making it suitable for trailers, boats, or campers. Despite its power, the Ascent also maintains respectable fuel economy, with EPA ratings of approximately 21 miles per gallon in city driving and 27 miles per gallon on the highway, offering a good balance between performance and efficiency.

Infotainment, Connectivity, and Entertainment

The infotainment system in the 2021 Subaru Ascent features an 8-inch touchscreen display, which offers intuitive control over various vehicle functions. The system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless smartphone integration for navigation, music, and messaging. Voice-activated controls enhance safety by enabling drivers to keep their eyes on the road while managing calls and media. The STARLINK multimedia system provides access to SiriusXM radio, app compatibility, and additional entertainment options. For entertainment on longer trips, the vehicle can be equipped with premium audio options like Harman Kardon sound systems, and rear-seat passengers can enjoy two Apple iPads or Bluetooth headphones, ensuring everyone stays entertained and connected throughout their journey.