Subaru Ascent teased ahead of LA Auto Show debut on 28 November
Subaru has released a teaser for the Ascent, its new three-row SUV, confirming a 28 November reveal at the Los Angeles Auto Show and targeting the North American market.
Subaru has confirmed it will unveil the production version of its new three-row SUV, the Ascent, on 28 November at the 2017 Los Angeles Auto Show. The company released a shadowy teaser image ahead of the event, offering a glimpse of the model’s profile and making clear its intentions for the North American market.
Subaru Ascent: Teaser Ahead of LA Auto Show Debut
Positioning and Market Focus
The Ascent is positioned as Subaru’s largest vehicle to date, filling the gap left by the discontinued Tribeca and providing the brand with a direct rival to the Volkswagen Atlas and other full-size SUVs in the US and Canada. The model has been previewed by the Viziv-7 concept, which measured nearly 200 inches in length, and Subaru’s teaser suggests the production car will remain close to those proportions.
- Largest Subaru vehicle to date
- Direct competitor to Volkswagen Atlas and other full-size SUVs
- Designed to appeal to North American families
- Fills the gap left by the discontinued Tribeca
North American Focus and Production
Subaru has developed the Ascent specifically for North American buyers, where demand for large, family-oriented SUVs remains strong. Production will take place at Subaru’s Lafayette, Indiana facility, which also builds the Outback and Legacy for the US market. The Ascent will be built on the Subaru Global Platform, which underpins the latest Impreza and is designed to accommodate various body styles and powertrains.
| Model | Length (inches) | Width (inches) | Height (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Viziv-7 Concept | 198.8 | 78.3 | 72.4 |
| Expected Ascent (production) | Close to 198.8 | Close to 78.3 | Close to 72.4 |
Technical Details and Platform
While full technical specifications have not yet been released, Subaru has indicated the Ascent will feature a new turbocharged boxer engine with direct injection. Symmetrical all-wheel drive is expected as standard, in keeping with Subaru’s US line-up. The Subaru Global Platform, first seen with the 2016 Impreza, is designed for versatility and safety, supporting a range of vehicle sizes and powertrains.
What to Expect at the LA Auto Show
The Ascent’s LA debut will mark Subaru’s first entry into the three-row SUV segment since the Tribeca. The teaser campaign follows a pattern seen with other Subaru launches. Full details, including interior configuration and powertrain options, will be announced at the show.
