MIAS 2023: Facelifted Subaru Evoltis makes PH debut

When the 2023 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) officially opened its doors, we were expecting to see the all-new Crosstrek make its Philippine debut. Unfortunately, Subaru distributor Motor Image Pilipinas wasn’t able to bring it to the annual motor show.

Luckily, they had another vehicle in store for the Philippine market. Ladies and gentlemen, this is the 2023 Subaru Evoltis, and boy did it get an upgrade inside and out. Also called the Ascent in the US market, the three-row 6-seater crossover SUV from Subaru gets a meaner look, along with a more high-tech cabin to entertain and relax occupants.

Starting with its looks, the 6-seater Evoltis gets a sharper look thanks to a new set of redesigned LED headlights. It also gets a more prominent split-type grille which gives the SUV a more assertive look. A revamped set of LED foglights (and foglight bezels) further provide the Evoltis with a fresher look. Rounding up the exterior changes are the restyled C-shaped LED taillights, updated tailgate trim piece, and stylish new alloy wheels.

Climb aboard and the 2023 Evoltis gets a larger infotainment system. Gone is the 8-inch touchscreen from before as it now gets an 11.6-inch tablet-inspired screen derived from the Outback. Aside from providing improved graphics and a more crisp display, the new touchscreen also comes with wireless connectivity for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. In addition, the touchscreen now houses the controls for the automatic climate control and additional in-car amenities.

Other available in-car amenities in the 2023 Evoltis include power-adjustable front seats, illuminated front cupholders, a Harman Kardon surround sound system, a 360-degree surround-view monitor system, and the Cabin Connect function which provides better communication between the first-row and third-row occupants.

The 2023 Ascent also comes with the latest version of EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. A wide-angle mono camera is now standard for wider coverage of pedestrians, vehicles, and cyclists. In addition, intelligent driver aids such as automatic emergency steering, blind spot detection with lane change assist, and rear cross-traffic alert are available for extra security.

Like the pre-facelift version, the 2023 Evoltis is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer engine. It makes 260 PS at 5600 rpm along with 375 Nm of torque between 2000 to 4800 rpm. Like all other SUVs in Subaru’s lineup, it’s hooked up to a Lineartronic CVT and Symmetrical AWD system.

The 2023 Subaru Evoltis is available across authorized dealerships in the country for PHP 3,780,000. Check it out until April 16, 2023, at this year’s Manila International Auto Show.