2022 Subaru Ascent Premium: A Detailed Review

by Alex Braham 46 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, then you've probably got this one on your radar. We're going to break down everything you need to know, from its performance and features to its overall value. So, buckle up and let’s get started!

Overview of the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium

The 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium is Subaru's answer to the three-row SUV market, designed to cater to families needing extra space and versatility. It’s positioned as a practical choice, balancing comfort, safety, and capability. The Ascent stands out due to its standard all-wheel-drive, a hallmark of Subaru vehicles, making it a reliable option for various weather conditions. It typically seats seven or eight passengers, depending on the configuration, and offers a spacious interior for both passengers and cargo. The "Premium" trim level adds a host of features that enhance comfort and convenience compared to the base model, making it a popular choice for buyers looking for a bit more without breaking the bank. Key features often include an upgraded infotainment system, advanced safety technologies, and enhanced interior materials. Overall, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium aims to deliver a well-rounded package that meets the demands of modern family life, providing a safe, comfortable, and capable driving experience. Its competitive pricing and strong resale value further contribute to its appeal in the crowded three-row SUV segment. Subaru has built a reputation for reliability and longevity, and the Ascent Premium aims to continue that tradition, offering peace of mind to its owners. So, if you are thinking about buying this car, you are in the right place. Let's explore more!

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This engine delivers a solid 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. What does this mean for you? It means the Ascent has enough grunt to handle daily commutes, family road trips, and even some light towing. The turbocharger ensures that power is readily available, even when the vehicle is fully loaded with passengers and cargo. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which is designed to maximize fuel efficiency. While CVTs sometimes get a bad rap for their droning sound, Subaru has done a decent job of tuning it to mimic the feel of a traditional automatic transmission. This makes the driving experience smoother and more predictable. Handling-wise, the Ascent offers a comfortable and composed ride. The standard all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic and parking lots. While it's not a sports car, the Ascent handles corners with confidence and doesn't feel overly bulky or cumbersome. Off-road, the Ascent is surprisingly capable, thanks to its all-wheel-drive system and decent ground clearance. It can handle gravel roads, snow, and light trails without breaking a sweat. However, it's important to remember that it's still an SUV, not an off-road specialist. Overall, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium offers a balanced and capable driving experience. It's not the fastest or most exciting SUV on the market, but it's reliable, comfortable, and well-suited for family duties. Let's continue to the next section.

Interior Comfort and Features

Moving inside the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium, you'll find a spacious and well-appointed cabin designed with family comfort in mind. The Premium trim offers a step up from the base model, with upgraded materials and additional features that enhance the overall experience. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives a breeze. The driver's seat is typically power-adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect driving position. The second-row seats offer ample legroom and headroom, even for adults. You can choose between a bench seat or captain's chairs, depending on your needs. The third-row seats are best suited for children or smaller adults, but they're still usable for short trips. One of the standout features of the Ascent is its user-friendly infotainment system. The Premium trim usually includes an 8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. This allows you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone for navigation, music, and calls. The system is responsive and easy to navigate, with clear graphics and intuitive menus. Other interior features of the Premium trim may include tri-zone automatic climate control, which allows you to set different temperatures for the front and rear of the cabin. You might also find a leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats, and a power liftgate for added convenience. Storage space is plentiful throughout the cabin, with numerous cubbies, bins, and cupholders. The cargo area behind the third-row seats is decent, but it expands significantly when you fold the seats down. Overall, the interior of the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium is a comfortable and functional space that's well-suited for families. It's not the most luxurious SUV on the market, but it offers a good balance of features, comfort, and practicality. Great! Next!

Technology and Safety

In terms of technology and safety, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium truly shines, offering a comprehensive suite of features designed to protect you and your passengers. Subaru has always prioritized safety, and the Ascent is no exception. Standard safety features include Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist system, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and pre-collision braking. These features use cameras and sensors to monitor the road ahead and help prevent accidents. Adaptive cruise control maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front of you, automatically adjusting your speed as needed. Lane departure warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane, while lane keeping assist can gently steer you back into the center of the lane. Pre-collision braking can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent collision. In addition to EyeSight, the Ascent also comes with blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rearview camera. Blind-spot monitoring alerts you if there's a vehicle in your blind spot, while rear cross-traffic alert warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing up. The rearview camera provides a clear view of what's behind you, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. On the technology front, the Ascent Premium includes an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. This allows you to easily access your smartphone's apps, music, and navigation features. The system also includes Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Higher trim levels may offer additional technology features, such as a premium audio system, a navigation system, and a sunroof. Overall, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium offers a comprehensive and impressive array of technology and safety features. It's a safe and connected SUV that's well-suited for families. Are you excited? Let's continue.

Fuel Efficiency and Pricing

Let's talk about fuel efficiency and pricing for the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium. Nobody wants to break the bank at the gas pump, so let’s see how this SUV fares. The 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. These figures are pretty standard for a three-row SUV with all-wheel drive. Keep in mind that your actual fuel economy may vary depending on your driving habits, the weather, and the terrain. If you do a lot of city driving or heavy towing, you can expect to see lower numbers. On the other hand, if you do mostly highway driving, you may be able to achieve slightly better fuel economy. The Ascent has a fuel tank capacity of 19.3 gallons, which gives it a decent range between fill-ups. As for pricing, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium typically starts in the low- to mid-$30,000 range. However, the exact price will vary depending on the options and packages you choose. Keep in mind that destination charges, taxes, and other fees can also add to the final cost. Compared to other three-row SUVs in its class, the Ascent Premium is competitively priced. It offers a good balance of features, performance, and fuel economy for the money. It's also worth noting that Subaru vehicles tend to hold their value well, which can save you money in the long run. When shopping for an Ascent Premium, be sure to compare prices at different dealerships and consider factors like financing options and trade-in value. You may also be able to find incentives or rebates that can lower the price. Overall, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium offers reasonable fuel efficiency and competitive pricing. It's a solid value for families who need a spacious and capable SUV. Great! Let's see the final verdict.

Final Verdict

So, what’s the final word on the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium? Overall, it's a fantastic choice for families needing a reliable, spacious, and well-equipped three-row SUV. It stands out with its standard all-wheel drive, a comfortable and user-friendly interior, and a strong focus on safety. The Ascent Premium offers a balanced package, combining practicality with a touch of luxury, making it a compelling option in its class. While it may not be the flashiest or most powerful SUV on the market, it excels in areas that matter most to families: safety, reliability, and comfort. The standard EyeSight driver-assist system provides peace of mind, while the spacious interior and user-friendly technology make long trips more enjoyable. The fuel economy is reasonable for its size, and the pricing is competitive, offering good value for the money. However, it's essential to consider some potential drawbacks. The third-row seats are best suited for children, and the CVT transmission may not appeal to everyone. Additionally, some competitors may offer more luxurious interiors or more advanced technology features. In conclusion, if you prioritize safety, reliability, and practicality, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium is definitely worth considering. It's a well-rounded SUV that's designed to handle the demands of family life. Before making a decision, be sure to test drive the Ascent and compare it to other SUVs in its class to see if it's the right fit for your needs. Thanks for reading, and happy car shopping!