I've driven the CX9 & it is a quite nice SUV, drives more car-like than truck-like.

It, like the Ascent, is only available with a 2.5 turbo I4, but definitely didn't seem to feel like it was lacking power.

A bit more oddball of a choice, but a Ford Flex can be had with AWD, and they're available at some deep discounts as 2019 is the final model year before it's discontinued.
On the used market you can find low mile Limiteds for good prices as well.
Main drawback is it's MPG, which isn't great. Our 2013 SEL on a road trip to CA topped out in the mid-to-high 20s running in the high 70 MPH range on I10.

If you search a bit deeper, you can maybe find one of the EcoBoost Flex, but they're not overly common.

I just leased a Mazda CX-5 Signature, which has the turbo 250 HP engine from the CX-9. This makes my CX-5 very quick, but I think 250 HP is underwhelming for a vehicle the size of the CX-9. You may find you have a similar complaint with the CX-9 that you have with the Subaru Ascent: A fairly big rig with a small power plant.

On the plus side, the CX-9 is a quiet and comfortable vehicle, and Mazda hasn't gotten on the automatic stop/start bandwagon.

quote:

Originally posted by M'headSig:
I just leased a Mazda CX-5 Signature, which has the turbo 250 HP engine from the CX-9. This makes my CX-5 very quick, but I think 250 HP is underwhelming for a vehicle the size of the CX-9. You may find you have a similar complaint with the CX-9 that you have with the Subaru Ascent: A fairly big rig with a small power plant.

On the plus side, the CX-9 is a quiet and comfortable vehicle, and Mazda hasn't gotten on the automatic stop/start bandwagon.

Also, IIRC, the 2.5T in the Mazdas is good for 310hp when fueled with 91/93 octane. I know that was the case in the Mazda6.

I’d stay away from Mazda unless you plan on leasing one/keeping it short term.

Oh, duh.

Don't forget the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade. They both get high marks from reviewers, and are the same product category.

Both look really sharp to my eye.