2024 Subaru Ascent Premium: A Family SUV Review

Hey everyone, and welcome back to the blog! Today, we're diving deep into a vehicle that’s been making waves in the family SUV market: the 2024 Subaru Ascent Premium. If you're in the market for a spacious, capable, and safe ride for your crew, you’re in the right place. Subaru has a reputation for building tough, reliable vehicles, and the Ascent is their flagship three-row SUV, designed to tackle everything from daily commutes to epic road trips. We’re going to break down what makes the Ascent Premium trim tick, its pros and cons, and whether it deserves a spot in your driveway. So, grab a coffee, get comfy, and let’s explore this impressive machine!

First Impressions: What You See is What You Get

Alright guys, let’s talk looks. The 2024 Subaru Ascent Premium isn’t about flashy, attention-grabbing designs. Instead, it opts for a more practical and rugged aesthetic, which, let’s be honest, is probably what most families are looking for anyway. It’s got that classic Subaru DNA – a sturdy stance, a confident front grille, and sharp headlights that give it a friendly yet capable face. The Premium trim sits comfortably in the lineup, offering a balanced blend of style and functionality without going overboard on fancy trim pieces. You get attractive alloy wheels, roof rails that are actually useful for hauling gear, and just enough exterior flair to make it look good in the grocery store parking lot or parked at a trailhead. It’s not trying to be a sports car; it's trying to be your reliable partner in crime for all of life’s adventures, big or small. And in that regard, it absolutely nails it. The proportions are well-balanced, making it look substantial without being overly cumbersome to maneuver, which is a huge plus in crowded urban environments. The body lines are clean and purposeful, hinting at its all-wheel-drive capabilities and its ability to handle less-than-perfect road conditions. It's the kind of SUV that doesn't shout for attention but quietly commands respect through its sheer utility and well-executed design. For a family vehicle, this understated yet robust appearance is a major win.

Under the Hood: Powering Your Journeys

Now, let's get down to the nitty-gritty: what’s powering this beast? The 2024 Subaru Ascent Premium comes standard with Subaru's renowned 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engine. This isn't just any engine; it's a horizontally opposed powerhouse that delivers a healthy 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. What does that mean for you, the driver? It means you’ve got enough grunt to merge onto the highway with confidence, haul a full load of passengers and cargo, and even tow up to 5,000 pounds. Yes, you read that right – 5,000 pounds! That opens up possibilities for trailers, small campers, or all your adventure toys. Paired with Subaru's Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) and their legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, the power delivery is smooth and efficient. The CVT is tuned to keep the engine in its sweet spot for optimal performance and fuel economy, and the AWD system is there to provide sure-footed traction in virtually any condition, from rain-slicked streets to snowy mountain passes. This combination makes the Ascent not just a comfortable cruiser but a genuinely capable vehicle for those who don't want their adventures limited by the weather or the terrain. The turbocharger spools up nicely, providing a responsive feel that’s often missing in larger SUVs. It’s a thoughtful powertrain designed for real-world driving scenarios, ensuring you have the power when you need it without sacrificing efficiency on your daily commute. The engineers at Subaru really know how to make an AWD system work, and the Ascent is a prime example of their expertise. It’s the kind of performance that gives you peace of mind, knowing you can handle whatever the road, or lack thereof, throws your way.

Interior Comfort and Tech: Your Mobile Command Center

Stepping inside the 2024 Subaru Ascent Premium, you'll find an interior that’s all about comfort, practicality, and user-friendly technology. Subaru has always prioritized a clean, ergonomic layout, and the Ascent is no exception. The Premium trim offers comfortable seating for up to eight passengers (or seven if you opt for the captain’s chairs in the second row, a popular choice for families with older kids). The materials used throughout the cabin feel durable and look good – think soft-touch surfaces where it counts, durable cloth upholstery, and plenty of thoughtful storage solutions. The driver's seat is supportive and offers a commanding view of the road, which is essential in a larger SUV. Visibility is excellent all around, thanks to Subaru's large windows and relatively thin pillars. Now, let's talk tech. Central to the dashboard is a 11.6-inch portrait-style touchscreen infotainment system. This is where you'll control your music, navigation (if equipped), climate settings, and vehicle preferences. It’s intuitive and responsive, with large icons that are easy to hit while driving. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, which is a massive win for seamless smartphone integration. No more fumbling with clunky native interfaces; your familiar apps are right there. Beyond the infotainment, you’ll find tri-zone automatic climate control, ensuring everyone in the car is comfortable, regardless of their seating position. USB ports are strategically placed throughout the cabin, so keeping those devices charged on long trips is a breeze. The Ascent Premium also comes with a host of convenience features like push-button start and keyless entry. It’s designed to make your life easier, whether you’re running errands around town or embarking on a cross-country adventure. The cabin feels spacious and airy, creating a pleasant environment for both short drives and long journeys. It’s a place where you can actually relax and enjoy the ride, with all the essential controls within easy reach and readily accessible. The sound system is decent for the trim level, providing clear audio for your music and podcasts. Overall, the interior strikes a fantastic balance between being functional and feeling quite premium for its class, making it a great place to spend time.

Safety First: Subaru's Commitment to Protection

When it comes to family vehicles, safety is non-negotiable, and this is where Subaru truly shines with the 2024 Subaru Ascent Premium. Subaru's commitment to safety is legendary, and the Ascent is packed with their EyeSight Driver Assist Technology suite as standard. This is a huge deal, guys! EyeSight is essentially Subaru's suite of advanced safety features that act like a second pair of eyes on the road. It includes features like: Pre-Collision Braking, which can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent frontal collision; Adaptive Cruise Control, which maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead, making highway driving much less stressful; Lane Keep Assist, which gently guides you back into your lane if you start to drift; and Pre-Collision Throttle Management, which can reduce engine power if a frontal collision is detected. On top of EyeSight, the Ascent Premium also typically includes Blind-Spot Detection with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, which are invaluable for changing lanes and backing out of parking spots. You also get a Rear-Seat Reminder, a thoughtful addition to ensure you don't leave anything (or anyone!) behind in the back seat. The Ascent’s robust construction, with its high-strength steel frame and multiple airbags, provides a strong protective cage for all occupants. In crash tests, the Ascent has consistently performed exceptionally well, earning top safety ratings from organizations like the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). This unwavering focus on safety is a massive selling point for anyone with children or who simply values peace of mind on the road. You can feel confident knowing that the Ascent is engineered with your protection as its top priority, offering a comprehensive safety net that’s hard to beat in this segment. It's this dedication to safety that builds trust and loyalty with Subaru owners, and the Ascent is a prime example of that philosophy in action.

Driving Dynamics: How Does it Feel on the Road?

So, how does the 2024 Subaru Ascent Premium actually drive? Well, for a three-row SUV, it’s surprisingly composed and comfortable. Thanks to that standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and the well-tuned suspension, the ride quality is smooth over most surfaces. Potholes and rough patches are absorbed effectively, providing a pleasant experience for all passengers. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, like parking lots or navigating city streets. While it’s not a sporty machine, there’s a reassuring stability to its handling, especially on the highway. The turbocharged engine provides adequate acceleration for most situations. Merging and passing are done with confidence, and the CVT does a good job of keeping the engine in its power band without being overly buzzy. It’s a predictable and stable drive, which is exactly what you want in a family hauler. You don't have to worry about the vehicle feeling sloppy or unpredictable, even when loaded with people and gear. The braking is also solid and confidence-inspiring, providing good stopping power when needed. Subaru has managed to strike a great balance between a comfortable ride and competent handling, making the Ascent a joy to drive for its intended purpose. It feels planted and secure, giving the driver a sense of control, which is crucial when you’re responsible for the safety of your family. The noise insulation is also commendable, keeping the cabin relatively quiet even at highway speeds, allowing for easy conversation or enjoying your audio entertainment. It’s a refined driving experience that punches above its weight class, offering a blend of comfort, capability, and control that makes it a strong contender.

The Verdict: Is the 2024 Ascent Premium Right for You?

So, after breaking it all down, is the 2024 Subaru Ascent Premium the SUV for you? If you're looking for a spacious, safe, and highly capable three-row SUV with standard all-wheel drive and a focus on practicality, then the answer is likely a resounding yes. The Premium trim offers a fantastic balance of features, comfort, and value. It’s perfect for families who need ample passenger and cargo space, appreciate advanced safety technology, and want a vehicle that can handle various weather conditions and road types with ease. The standard EyeSight suite, the turbocharged engine, the user-friendly infotainment system, and Subaru's reputation for reliability all contribute to making the Ascent a compelling package. It’s a vehicle that doesn’t compromise on the essentials, providing a secure and comfortable environment for your loved ones. While it might not have the most luxurious interior or the most thrilling driving dynamics, it excels in what truly matters for a family SUV: safety, practicality, capability, and value. It’s the kind of SUV that makes you feel good about your purchase, knowing you’ve got a reliable partner for all of life’s adventures. If you're comparing it to other three-row SUVs, the standard AWD and the comprehensive safety features often give the Ascent a significant edge. It's a smart choice for the modern family.

What do you guys think? Have you driven the 2024 Ascent? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!