2023 Subaru Evoltis debuts with bolder face, enhanced safety tech

Subaru unveiled the new Ascent, or Evoltis in the Philippine market. The midsize crossover is coming with a significant amount of changes in the tech and safety departments, as well as in the design that now looks sharper and more assertive.

2023 Subaru Evoltis

The 2023 Subaru Evoltis/Ascent is expected to go on sale in the United States by the third quarter of this year. Of note, the PH-spec model is sourced from the U.S. That said, here are the things we can expect to see in the facelifted version.

Exterior

Right off the bat, the new styling of the new Evoltis unmistakably resembles the design of the Forester. It almost looks like a beefed-up version of the latter, with distinct design details to maximize the larger proportions. One of which is the new front lower bumper that is available with a chrome surround finish on the vents.

It will be available in the U.S. in five trims

As standard, the vehicle is equipped with a set of 18-inch alloy wheels, power windows and side mirrors, and raised roof rails. For the top-of-the-line Touring, the model available in the Philippines, it brings more exterior enhancements including a high gloss black grille, chrome door handles, and satin chrome side mirrors.

Interior

The facelifted version continues to offer a spacious interior that can seat up to eight persons. An option to get captain’s chairs is also made available so second-row passengers can experience a more comfortable ride. With the two rows of seating folded down, the vehicle delivers a cargo room of 2,141 liters.

The Evoltis is underpinned by the Subaru Global Platform

To add refinements to the interior, it features a unique cabin that has a woodgrain-pattern matte trim, with an option to get either Slate Black or Java Brown perforated leather upholstery. Other interior amenities include a moonroof, USB-A and USB-C ports, 19 cup holders, and three-mode ventilated seats for the front passengers.

Tech & Safety

A larger 11.6-inch infotainment touchscreen has been fitted into the center console, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto as standard. It has a voice-activated navigation system paired with what3words (W3W) which provides a quick way of communicating using just three simple words.

A larger infotainment system is integrated

In the safety department, the Japanese automaker improved the EyeSight Driver Assist Technology by adding a wide-angle mono camera. This, along with a dual-camera system, expands the field of view of the system to recognize pedestrians and bicycles sooner. An electric brake booster is also included in the upgrade.

Engine & Performance

No changes under the hood as the new Evoltis is still powered by the same 2.4-liter turbocharged gasoline engine capable of producing 260 horsepower and 375 Nm of torque. It is paired with a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) with an 8-speed manual mode function and paddle shifters.

One significant facelift

Symmetrical all-wheel drive and X-Mode with Hill Descent Control come standard across the range. With these, drivers can expect a more stable ride even during tricky conditions such as slippery roads. Subaru said that the powertrain, which has Trailer Stability Assist as standard, offers a towing capacity of up to 2,268 kg.

Get the latest news about the Evoltis and other cars in the market at Philkotse.com.