Subaru Going to New Enhancement with The Ascent three-row SUV

Subaru discovered a new concept with a three-row SUV at the New York Auto Show in a surprise move that signals its return to the large utility segment in 2018. Called the Ascent concept, the show car had a turbocharged boxer 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and will be revealed in production trim next fall at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Subaru has confirmed that it will build a seven-passenger SUV for 2018, so we can only hope that the modern and pleasant design of the concept carries over. With a length of 16.5 feet it should sit nicely between the nearly 17-foot long Chevrolet Traverse and the 16-foot long Hyundai Santa Fe. Inside looks to be roomy and comfortable with second-row captain's chairs and a large infotainment screen. Let's just hope the Ascent features more advance than currently offered with Subaru's Starlink operating system.

The Ascent concept's styling cues have evolved from the previous Visiv-7 concept and offer a better look at what the production model will look like. The Ascent concept measures 198.8 inches long, 78.3 inches wide and 72.4 inches tall. The wheelbase is 117 inches - signaling Subaru is serious about competing with large SUV producers.

Subaru is spending $140 million and adding more 1,200 jobs at Lafayette to support the Ascent and bolster its US manufacturing footprint.