Turbo is key for Subaru's new big crossover

McMINNVILLE, Ore.— Subaru is counting on a new turbocharged boxer engine to help win over buyers for the 2019 Ascent, a three-row crossover that is the newest nameplate in the brand's lineup.

The 2.4-liter direct injection turbocharged boxer, good for 260 hp and 277 pound-feet of torque, will be the only powerplant offered on the model.

"One of the things customers will notice is that even in altitudes where you go to the mountains, the turbo will really be a benefit there where the air tends to be a little thinner," Peter Tenn, car line planning manager, said at the vehicle's media launch here. "But that's where people go to do their adventures, so we were very aware of that."

The boxer engine, one of Subaru's hallmarks, is mounted low in the Ascent. It is paired with a new continuously variable transmission, designed specifically for the new nameplate, Tenn noted.

The Ascent is the only midsize crossover with a turbocharged engine and a CVT.

It has a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and also features what Subaru calls "Trailer Stability Assist." The safety feature detects any yaw, or trailer sway, and will automatically apply braking at whatever corner of the Ascent that's necessary to straighten the vehicle and trailer.