You get to choose between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive in this five-seat SUV. There are also two levels of trim available. The Ascender S starts at $25,959 and includes a number of nice safety items like traction control, electronic stability control, daytime running lights, anti-lock brakes, and automatic headlights. Also included are power windows, mirrors and door locks, and dual-zone climate control. The Ascender is one of the few vehicles that still comes with a full-size spare as standard equipment instead of it being an option.
Move up to the Ascender LS and you get a six-disc CD changer, heated outside mirrors, a leather covered steering wheel, a limited slip differential, a power sunroof, power seats, and a roof rack. There is also a preferred equipment package that adds an alarm, cruise control, a cargo cover, floor mats, a universal garage door opener, and vanity mirrors. Side curtain air bags are available, as is a Luxury Package that includes various exterior treatments, a power passenger seat, heated front seats, a Bose speaker system, adjustable pedals, and memory features.
Inside the Ascender is a fairly modern interior. The front seats are comfortable thanks to adjustable lumbar support for both the driver and front passenger. The rear seat folds, increasing available cargo space from 43.7 to 80.1 cubic feet. If you need to tow a trailer to carry more of your belongings, you'll be happy to know the Ascender can pull more than 5,200 pounds.