2022 Subaru Ascent Premium: Review, Features, And More

by Alex Braham 55 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium. If you're in the market for a reliable, family-friendly SUV, this might just be the ticket. We'll cover everything from its performance and features to its interior comfort and overall value. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Overview of the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium

The 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium is a popular choice in the three-row SUV segment, and for good reason. It's known for its spacious interior, standard all-wheel drive, and a suite of safety features that make it a great option for families. Subaru has built a reputation for reliability and the Ascent continues that tradition, offering a comfortable ride and practical features that cater to daily needs. The Premium trim level adds even more value with upgraded features and technology, making it a sweet spot in the Ascent lineup.

One of the standout aspects of the 2022 Ascent Premium is its symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, a standard feature across all Ascent models. This system provides excellent traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. Whether you're dealing with snow, rain, or just uneven road surfaces, the Ascent's AWD gives you added confidence behind the wheel. The vehicle's handling is also quite commendable; it feels stable and composed, making it easy to maneuver in various driving situations. Add to that the comfortable suspension, which absorbs bumps and road imperfections effectively, and you have a vehicle that's well-suited for both city driving and long road trips.

Safety is another area where the Ascent Premium shines. It comes standard with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist system, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These technologies work together to help prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe. The Ascent has also performed well in crash tests, earning top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. This combination of active and passive safety features makes the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium a smart choice for families concerned about safety.

From a design perspective, the Ascent Premium sports a functional and appealing look. Its exterior is rugged yet refined, with a bold front grille and sleek lines that give it a modern appearance. Inside, the cabin is well-designed with comfortable seating and user-friendly controls. The Premium trim adds touches like stain-resistant cloth upholstery and an upgraded infotainment system, enhancing the overall experience. While it may not be the flashiest SUV on the market, the Ascent Premium prioritizes practicality and comfort, making it a great choice for those who value substance over style.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's break down the nitty-gritty of what makes the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium tick. From its engine to its tech, there's a lot to appreciate. Understanding the specifications can really help you see if this SUV fits your lifestyle.

Engine and Performance

Under the hood, the 2022 Ascent Premium packs a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This engine delivers a respectable 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for daily driving and occasional towing. The turbocharger helps to ensure that the engine feels responsive, even when the vehicle is fully loaded with passengers and cargo. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), the Ascent offers smooth and efficient acceleration. While some drivers may not be fans of CVTs, Subaru's implementation is generally well-regarded for its responsiveness and lack of droning.

One of the key benefits of the Ascent's engine is its ability to balance power and fuel economy. The EPA estimates that the Ascent achieves around 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, which is competitive for its class. Of course, your actual fuel economy may vary depending on your driving habits and conditions, but overall, the Ascent provides a reasonable compromise between performance and efficiency. Additionally, the Ascent has a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, making it capable enough for hauling trailers, boats, or other recreational equipment. This versatility adds to its appeal as a family-friendly SUV.

Interior and Technology

Inside the 2022 Ascent Premium, you'll find a well-appointed cabin with plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The Premium trim includes features like stain-resistant cloth upholstery, which is a godsend for families with kids or pets. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, and the second-row seats offer ample legroom and headroom. Depending on the configuration, the Ascent can seat up to eight passengers, making it a great option for larger families or those who frequently carpool. The third-row seats are best suited for children or smaller adults, but they're still usable for shorter trips.

In terms of technology, the Ascent Premium comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the vehicle. The touchscreen is responsive and easy to use, and the system also includes physical buttons and knobs for controlling essential functions like volume and temperature. Other tech features include four USB ports, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a six-speaker audio system. While it may not be the most cutting-edge infotainment system on the market, it's functional and user-friendly, providing all the essential features you need for a comfortable and connected driving experience.

Safety Features

As mentioned earlier, safety is a major selling point for the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium. It comes standard with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist system, which includes a range of advanced safety technologies. Adaptive cruise control helps to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead, while lane departure warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane. Automatic emergency braking can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes to help prevent or mitigate an accident. These features work together to create a safer driving environment for you and your passengers. In addition to EyeSight, the Ascent also includes features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rearview camera, further enhancing its safety credentials. With its comprehensive suite of safety features and top safety ratings, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium provides peace of mind for families on the go.

Driving Experience

Alright, let's talk about what it's like to actually drive the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium. Performance matters, and knowing how it handles is crucial.

On the Road

Behind the wheel, the Ascent Premium offers a comfortable and confident driving experience. The 2.4-liter turbocharged engine provides ample power for most driving situations, whether you're merging onto the highway or navigating city streets. The CVT transmission is smooth and responsive, and the all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability. The Ascent handles well for its size, with minimal body roll and a composed feel on winding roads. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Overall, the Ascent is a well-rounded SUV that's easy to drive and comfortable for both short commutes and long road trips.

One of the standout aspects of the Ascent's driving experience is its quiet and refined cabin. Road noise and wind noise are well-isolated, creating a peaceful environment for passengers. The comfortable seats and smooth ride further enhance the overall experience, making the Ascent a great choice for those who spend a lot of time behind the wheel. Whether you're running errands around town or embarking on a cross-country adventure, the Ascent provides a comfortable and enjoyable ride for everyone on board. The visibility is also quite good, thanks to the large windows and elevated driving position. This helps to give you a clear view of the road ahead and makes it easier to anticipate potential hazards.

Off-Road Capability

While the Ascent Premium is primarily designed for on-road use, it does offer some degree of off-road capability. The standard all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction on loose surfaces like gravel or dirt, and the Ascent has a respectable amount of ground clearance for navigating rough terrain. However, it's important to remember that the Ascent is not a dedicated off-road vehicle like a Jeep Wrangler or Toyota 4Runner. It's best suited for light off-road use, such as driving on forest service roads or navigating unpaved driveways. If you're planning on doing any serious off-roading, you'll want to consider a more capable vehicle. However, for most drivers, the Ascent's off-road capability is more than adequate for handling occasional adventures off the beaten path.

Pros and Cons

Time for a quick rundown of the pluses and minuses of the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium. Every vehicle has its ups and downs, so let's weigh them.

Pros

  • Spacious Interior: The Ascent Premium offers ample space for passengers and cargo, making it a great choice for families. The third-row seats are usable for children or smaller adults, and there's plenty of room for luggage and gear.
  • Standard All-Wheel Drive: Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability in all weather conditions. This is a major selling point for those who live in areas with snow or rain.
  • Comprehensive Safety Features: The Ascent Premium comes standard with a suite of advanced safety technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe.
  • Comfortable Ride: The Ascent Premium offers a smooth and comfortable ride, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and quiet cabin. This makes it a great choice for long road trips.
  • User-Friendly Technology: The Ascent Premium's infotainment system is easy to use and includes essential features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Cons

  • CVT Transmission: While Subaru's CVT is generally well-regarded, some drivers may not be fans of its feel and responsiveness. Some may find it less engaging than a traditional automatic transmission.
  • Third-Row Seating: While the Ascent's third-row seats are usable, they're best suited for children or smaller adults. Larger adults may find them cramped on longer trips.
  • Styling: The Ascent's styling is somewhat bland and unremarkable. It may not appeal to those who are looking for a more stylish and eye-catching SUV.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final word on the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium? It's a solid, reliable, and family-friendly SUV that offers a lot of value for the money. With its spacious interior, standard all-wheel drive, and comprehensive safety features, it's a great choice for those who prioritize practicality and safety. While it may not be the flashiest or most exciting SUV on the market, it's a well-rounded vehicle that's sure to meet the needs of most families. If you're in the market for a three-row SUV, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium is definitely worth a look.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a spacious, safe, and reliable SUV that's capable of handling all types of weather conditions, then the Ascent Premium is definitely worth considering. However, if you're looking for a more stylish or performance-oriented SUV, then you may want to explore other options. Regardless of your choice, be sure to do your research and test drive several different vehicles before making a final decision.