Chris Woodyard

USA TODAY



NEW YORK -- This time, Subaru is trying to get ahead of generational change with a new SUV that it hopes will capture the family market.

Subaru introduced the Ascent crossover concept, a three-row SUV that has surprisingly conventional looks for that class of vehicle. It's upright, not the sleeker, more wagon-like configuration of much of the rest of its lineup.

It's a concept, but Tom Doll, president of Subaru of America, introducing the car here at the New York Auto Show, says it is surefire for production. "Yes, it will be made," he said.

He says Subaru made a mistake in past generations by becoming a favorite of younger, single people or small families but missing out as they added more kids. Now, as Millennials gradually need seven seats in their SUV, Subaru will be ready to retain them with Ascent.

While the SUV's looks break from past Subaru's, it's innards are true to the brand. The car has the same "boxer" engine, in which the cylinders are in a different arrangement than in a conventional motor, as other Subarus.

The new Subaru will be built at the company's plant in Layfayette, Ind