I think there is a good chance Subaru enthusiasts will rally behind the Ascent. Subaru tried and failed with the Tribeca years ago, but that was also sinfully ugly.
I personally am excited to see what comes out of the modding community with it. We will see what after market manufacturers and tuners decide to do, if they decide to do anything at all. Sure am hoping they embrace this new addition since Subaru has been kinda flat for a while....