This is the 3-row midsize SUV that costs the least over 5 years

Say you’re a growing family whose idea of fun often involves something active and preferably outdoors, yet you also want a safe, sensible vehicle that won’t cost you a fortune in the years ahead. There’s a good chance the Subaru Ascent would fit right in your wheelhouse. All-new just two years ago, the Ascent is Subaru’s FUJHY, +1.01% largest and most family-friendly vehicle, with the ability to seat up to eight passengers. And no matter the size of your family or budget, all can appreciate that the 2021 Ascent has the lowest 5-year cost of ownership in its class.

The Ascent takes all the traits that make so many buyers love the Subaru brand – standard all-wheel drive, ample ground clearance, tough construction, and a roomy interior – and amplifies them. This 3-row Subaru SUV has the size and capability to accommodate today’s busy families.

The Ascent bucks the trend by offering only one engine choice – a turbocharged 4-cylinder – but like the vehicle itself, it’s more capable than you might think. It boasts 260 horsepower and enough muscle to tow up to 5,000 pounds – comparable to some rivals’ V6 capability.

If you couldn’t care less about horsepower and towing, the Ascent will surely appeal to busy parents and active individuals with features like standard Apple AAPL, -1.22% CarPlay/Android Auto integration, a full roster of the latest active safety and driver-assist features, and copious cargo room.

A base Ascent starts just over $32,000, while a high-end Touring model at around $45,000 will rival a luxury SUV. It has second-row captain’s seats, fine leather upholstery, a sweet Harman Kardon audio system, and panoramic moonroof. Common to them all is a low cost of ownership that will only add to your satisfaction in the years to come.

KBB’s 5-Year Cost to Own is the total amount of vehicle-related costs you will likely have to cover during the first 5 years of owning a car. This includes out-of-pocket expenses like fuel and insurance, and vehicle depreciation (loss in value).

This story originally ran on KBB.com.