There’s a hole in the Subaru model lineup — and it’s shaped like a minivan. The brand’s family SUV, the , offers many of the same benefits as a minivan. It’s roomy, filled with safety tech, and has more cup holders than seats. But some families might miss the Ascent when they crave true versatility. Those families might prefer a new minivan to Subaru’s three-row SUV when push comes to shove.
Is the Subaru Ascent a minivan?
While the Subaru Ascent shares some traits, it’s not a minivan. Instead, it’s a family-sized crossover SUV.
AND . All-wheel drive, high ground clearance, usable cargo space and the BOXER engine are standard. The difference is in size: the Ascent is the only Subaru with three rows of seats. It carries more people in both 7- and 8-passenger configurations – more than the Outback or Forester.
But it’s not a minivan.
Subaru Ascent does not have sliding doors
The 2023 Ascent lacks one of the most crucial features in the minivan segment. The SUV uses conventional swing doors instead of low-profile sliding doors. This can be a disadvantage when loading and unloading small passengers: the swing doors can quickly turn into dents for the neighbors in the parking lot. In addition, they are another hurdle to overcome when managing family vehicle logistics.
You can’t remove the rear seats from the Ascent without tools and time
The new Ascent offers impressive cargo space. According to , the Subaru has a maximum seating capacity of 86.5 square feet, with all the rear seats folded down. Not bad, but falls short of the 100+ square feet of cargo space found in most minivans.
Part of that involves packing the backseat. The Ascent doesn’t offer “pop-up” seats that fold into the floor to create a giant cargo box. Nor does it have easily removable rear seats. A quick search of the Subaru forums reveals anecdotes of arduous hours spent unscrewing the Ascent’s rear seats for removal.
Two new minivans have all-wheel drive, like the Subaru Ascent
Subaru’s defining feature for decades has been its symmetrical all-wheel drive system. It’s definitely a plus for the 2023 Ascent, offering confident performance in snow and rain. But the Ascent isn’t the only family hauler with all-wheel drive.
Two new. Both the 2023 Toyota Sienna and 2023 Chrysler Pacifica have the ability to deliver power to all four wheels. While they don’t offer the functionality as standard equipment like the Ascent, they do provide capable alternatives. Strap on a set of winter tires; Both minivans will produce admirable all-weather performance.
Is the 2023 Subaru Ascent worth it?
There is a logical argument for choosing a minivan over a Subaru Ascent for family use. Its lack of sliding doors and less cargo flexibility bring it down to its minivan rivals. And the available all-wheel drive brings two models closer to the capabilities of the Ascent.
However, choosing a car is usually not an entirely rational process. Aesthetics matter, and people make decisions with their hearts. This is where Ascent 2023 gets its edge. It allows drivers to stay true to Subaru style and performance while accommodating their growing families. Maybe Subaru has got something wrong with his “love” campaign, after all.
