Subaru Ascent Concept previews next-generation 2018 Tribeca

Remember the Subaru Viziv-7 Concept from the Los Angeles Auto Show last year? Well, Subaru has revised that concept as it inches closer to production and it’s now called the Subaru Ascent.

The handsome seven-seater previews the all-new 2018 Subaru Tribeca, although how much of that good looks will make it into production unscathed remains to be seen – as the company is notorious for churning out painfully toned down production models.

However, apart from the motor show headlights, wing mirrors, door handles and giant 21-inch two-tone alloy wheels, the Ascent concept appears relatively production ready. So there’s hope.

Inside, the interior looks even more showroom reality, with an Impreza-inspired dashboard. Of course, being a show car means more bling than the production model, including a large vertical centre display that incorporates the climate controls, touchscreen window switches, digital instruments and a stubby electronic gear lever.

The concept measures 5,050mm long, 1,989mm wide and 1,839mm tall, with a 2,972mm wheelbase. Unlike a conventional seven-seat SUV, the Ascent features two captains’ seats for the centre row, with three-abreast seating in the third row.

Subaru has not revealed any other details except that the production model will be powered by an all-new turbocharged and direct-injected boxer engine. It will sit on a modified version of the Subaru Global Platform, which also underpins the Impreza and will be built in the U.S.