2021 Subaru Ascent Touring: Is It Worth The Price?

Hey car enthusiasts, let's dive headfirst into a deep analysis of the 2021 Subaru Ascent Touring! We're going to explore its value, features, and whether it lives up to the hype and, most importantly, if it's worth the price tag. The Ascent Touring, being the top-tier trim, offers a blend of luxury, practicality, and Subaru's renowned safety features. But does it truly justify its premium positioning in the competitive mid-size SUV market? Let's break it down, shall we?

Decoding the Ascent Touring's Allure

The 2021 Subaru Ascent Touring isn't just another SUV; it's a statement. It's designed for families who value space, comfort, and safety above all else. But before we get carried away, let's look at what makes this trim level so special. The Touring trim sits at the pinnacle of the Ascent lineup, boasting a host of premium features not found in the lower trims. Think of it as the luxury liner of the Ascent family! You get upgraded leather upholstery, a panoramic moonroof, a premium sound system, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies. These are features that elevate the driving experience and provide a sense of sophistication. But the real question is, do these upgrades justify the increased cost? We'll get there, guys, we promise!

To really understand the Ascent Touring's value, we have to consider its competitors. The mid-size SUV segment is a battleground, with heavy hitters like the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Mazda CX-9 all vying for a piece of the pie. These SUVs offer similar features and capabilities, so the Ascent has to stand out to earn its place. Subaru has always leaned on its unique selling points: standard all-wheel drive and a strong emphasis on safety. The Ascent Touring doubles down on these strengths while adding a layer of luxury and refinement. Standard all-wheel drive provides superior handling and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist system is also standard, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking. The Touring trim enhances these features with things like a DriverFocus distraction mitigation system, which keeps an eye on the driver to prevent drowsiness or inattention. So, when comparing the Ascent Touring to its rivals, it’s not just about the bells and whistles, but about the peace of mind and the added level of safety that comes standard.

The design of the Ascent also plays a key role. It's a handsome SUV with a rugged yet refined look. The Touring trim gets some exclusive styling cues, like chrome accents and unique wheels, that make it even more attractive. Inside, the cabin is spacious and well-appointed, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The third-row seats are surprisingly usable, making the Ascent Touring a true family-hauler. Plus, Subaru's infotainment system, while not the flashiest, is user-friendly and packed with features. You get a large touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and a premium audio system to enjoy your favorite tunes. So, when evaluating the value of the Ascent Touring, you are not just getting a list of features, you are getting a complete package that offers comfort, safety, and practicality.

Digging Deeper: Features and Specs That Matter

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty. What exactly does the 2021 Subaru Ascent Touring offer? This is where we break down the specifics and see if the features justify the price tag. The Ascent Touring is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engine, which produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. It's mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps maximize fuel efficiency. While not the quickest SUV in its class, the Ascent provides adequate power for everyday driving and offers a smooth and comfortable ride. The standard all-wheel drive system gives you confidence in various driving conditions. It automatically distributes power to the wheels with the most grip, improving handling and stability. This is a huge selling point for Subaru, and it's something that sets the Ascent apart from many of its competitors.

Inside the cabin, the Touring trim is all about luxury and convenience. You get high-quality leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic moonroof that floods the cabin with natural light. The infotainment system includes a large touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium audio system. There are also plenty of USB ports and charging outlets to keep everyone's devices powered up. The third row of seats is surprisingly spacious, making the Ascent Touring a true seven- or eight-passenger SUV, depending on the configuration. You can choose captain's chairs in the second row for easier access to the third row. Safety features are, of course, a major focus for Subaru. The Ascent Touring comes standard with the EyeSight driver-assist system, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, pre-collision braking, and more. The Touring trim also adds the DriverFocus distraction mitigation system, which uses a camera to monitor the driver's face and alert them if they appear distracted or drowsy. These features help create a safe and secure driving environment. When you're driving in the Ascent Touring, you know you and your passengers are well-protected. So, the specs, features, and safety tech all add up to a compelling package, but let's see how they translate to the overall value.

Let’s compare the Ascent Touring to its rivals. The Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, for example, offer similar levels of space and practicality, but they might not have the same level of standard safety features. The Mazda CX-9 is known for its stylish design and engaging driving dynamics, but it might not offer as much cargo space. The Ascent Touring strikes a good balance between these competing factors. It's spacious, safe, and comfortable, with a touch of luxury thrown in. However, the exact value will depend on your specific needs and priorities. If you prioritize safety and all-weather capability, the Ascent Touring is a strong contender. If you value a more engaging driving experience, you might prefer the Mazda CX-9. If you need maximum space and versatility, the Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander could be better choices. Therefore, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons and see which one best fits your lifestyle and budget.

Value Assessment: Is the Ascent Touring Worth the Investment?

Okay, guys, here comes the big question: Is the 2021 Subaru Ascent Touring worth the price? To answer this, we need to consider several factors, including the features, performance, and the competition. The Ascent Touring is a well-equipped SUV that offers a lot of value for its price. It provides a luxurious and comfortable driving experience, with plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The standard all-wheel drive and advanced safety features are major selling points. But, like all things, it's not perfect. The CVT transmission might not be for everyone, and some may find the infotainment system a bit dated. However, the Ascent Touring's strengths outweigh its weaknesses, especially when you consider its price point compared to its competitors. But let's dig deeper to see if it makes sense for you.

Compared to other top-tier trims of mid-size SUVs, the Ascent Touring generally holds its own in terms of value. While some competitors might offer slightly more luxurious interiors or more powerful engines, they often come with a higher price tag. The Ascent Touring provides a good balance of features, performance, and price, making it an attractive option for many buyers. Subaru's reputation for reliability and resale value is also a plus. The Ascent is likely to hold its value better than some of its competitors, which is something to consider when making your purchase decision. So, how do we sum it up? Well, the Ascent Touring delivers strong value for those who prioritize safety, all-weather capability, and a comfortable driving experience. The standard all-wheel drive and advanced driver-assist features are valuable assets, especially for families. If you are looking for an SUV that offers a good blend of luxury, practicality, and safety, the Ascent Touring is a great choice. But, if you are looking for more performance or a more engaging driving experience, you may want to look elsewhere. The ultimate decision will depend on your unique needs and preferences. So, take the time to test drive an Ascent Touring and compare it to its competitors. You'll then be able to determine whether it's the right fit for you and your family. That is how you will be able to truly answer the question: Is the 2021 Subaru Ascent Touring worth the price?

In the end, the 2021 Subaru Ascent Touring offers compelling value. It delivers a spacious, safe, and comfortable driving experience. While it may not be the cheapest option in the mid-size SUV segment, its features, safety, and standard all-wheel drive justify the price for many families. It's a strong contender in a competitive market, and its appeal lies in its practicality, reliability, and emphasis on safety. So, to answer the question, yes, the 2021 Subaru Ascent Touring is a solid value proposition, especially for those who prioritize safety, space, and all-weather capability.