I believe the captains chairs is an option in the limited trim level as well.
I could have spent probably 30-45 minutes back there without complaining. Another hour or so if you want to listen to me complain.Did you actually sit in the back row for any length of time. Were your knees up in the air or were they pretty level? Do you think you sit back there for more than one hour?
Have you ever had car seats in the 3rd row? Its a pain in the butt always climbing back there to buckle them in. But surprisingly I have had a few people want to order the touring trim with 8 seats...I would put the car seats in the third row when there is a 2nd row bench. The only reason for me to do captains chairs in the 2nd row is to put car seats there or if it is an easier pass through (like a minivan.) So, no go on the 2nd row captain's seats for me. Sorry if I came off a bit hyperbolic but in the moment it just seemed like such a lost opportunity on Subaru's part. I do understand that not everyone has the same needs or kids at the same stage.
I'm a big fan of the captain's chairs myself. I find them to be more comfortable for riding longer distances and coupled with the moon roof, make the backseat feel huge. We only have one child so we typically take turns sitting in the back with him on long trips to keep him entertained and to pick up dropped toys (because you know it happens a lot!). It will be so much nicer to have my own comfy, reclining seat for trips.
We have only had our Ascent a little over a week but have left the 3rd row up all the time except for loading groceries in. 90% of the time it will just be 3-4 people riding in the car at a time but having the 3rd row accessible will be nice when we want to pack 2 cars of people into 1 car.
I started a thread on the topic, and there's lots of talk about the pros and cons of both, but no one has any real insight into why Subaru made the decision, especially as it impacts what are arguably safety features in the form of the smart rear view mirror, and front facing camera. I have no issue with reserving colours or materials to particular trim levels, and even 'luxury' features like the ventilated seats, but at least give people an option to get all the safety tech on their 8 seater!!!
