Ascent SUV has all of Subaru's standards, and more

Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the Cruisin’ News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

Sacramento, California -- Subaru has a reputation: all-wheel drive masters, boxer engines, styling and safety.

They're wrapped up to the max in a three-row SUV I recently sampled. All the strengths of Subaru were on display in the 2024 Subaru Ascent Onyx Edition Limited, priced at $48,140.

With a surprisingly spacious interior, top-tier federal crash test scores (including a maximum five stars in overall safety) and an enthusiastic power plant, I was immediately impressed with the vehicle's ability to feel right at home off-road or on the highway ... or in the crowded urban jungle.

Power comes from a 2.4-liter turbo boxer engine rated at 260 horsepower and paired with a seamless continuously variable transmission that also features an eight-speed manual mode.

Gears can be selected, if desired, via steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

Need some help off the beaten path?  The Ascent gives you an able assist with the latest off-road technology, including hill descent control and a traction management system.

Twenty-inch wheels and a nearly 9-inch ground clearance also make one feel secure in off-road operations.

While it can tackle the rustic roads, the tested Ascent featured numerous luxury-level features.  Those included a power panoramic moonroof, a Harman Kardon audio system, leather surfaces, LED headlights with high-beam assist and tri-zone climate control.

If you want to haul plentiful supplies in your travels, the Ascent's towing capacity is rated at 5,000 pounds.

Please note that the Ascent trim levels include versions starting at substantially less than $40,000.

All in all, the Ascent is a remarkably versatile machine with all the best hallmarks of the Subaru brand.