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.
Elevation Edition debuts with black wheels and exterior trim.Wireless functionality for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.Minor changes to trim option packages.
Pros Refined ride quality Quick acceleration from optional V6 engine Simple, easy-to-use cabin layout Modern onboard technology keeps you connected
Cons Cabin isn't particularly luxurious, even in the priciest trim level Some rival SUVs offer more cargo and third-row space Lackluster base engine
GMC has made a few packaging changes to the Acadia for 2021. The Pro Safety Plus package, which includes several driver-assistance features, is now standard on SLT, AT4, and Denali. An Elevation Edition package is now available on the SLE and SLT and includes 20-inch wheels and black exterior accents. A heated steering wheel joins the Premium package for SLT and AT4 trims. .
Pros Square-jawed styling, intuitive infotainment interface, cargo-friendly interior.
Cons Costs more than interior materials suggest, tight third-row passenger space, mediocre fuel economy.
The 2020 GMC Acadia’s expanded lineup and new styling look worth the wait.
Pros Good looks Infotainment upgrades worthwhile Intriguing new turbo-4
Cons Active safety tech should be standard A little narrow inside Push-button shifters not our favorite
