RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. — Subaru Corp. has selected the Falken Ziex ZE001 all-season tire as the exclusive OE fitment on its 2019 Ascent, the car maker's re-entry into the large SUV category.
The three-row, seven- or eight-passenger Ascent, being assembled at Subaru's plant in Lafayette, Ind., will hit dealers' showrooms this summer, according to Sumitomo Rubber North America Inc., producer and distributor of the Falken brand.
Subaru will fit the Ascent with two sizes of the Ziex ZE001 — 245/60R18 (standard fitment) and 245/50R20 (Limited version).
The Ascent launches Subaru right back into the hotly contested three-row crossover segment, one the auto maker has not been able to tap since output of the slow-selling Tribeca ended in 2014.
"We are very proud to have Falken Tires selected for Subaru's new halo SUV," said David Colletti, vice president, OE for the Falken brand.
"It's obvious the Ascent is a very important vehicle to Subaru and critical to its line-up as it becomes Subaru's biggest SUV. We know our Falken ZIEX line of tires is a perfect match to this vehicle."
The ZIEX ZE001 A/S features four circumferential grooves that evacuate water effectively and enhance hydroplaning resistance and stability significantly in wet conditions. Chambered tread block corners support even wear throughout the tire's life, and a solid center rib targets excellent handling response.