Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring, a three-row SUV that's been making waves in the family-friendly vehicle market. We'll explore everything from its performance and features to its overall value proposition, giving you a complete picture to help you decide if this is the right car for you and your crew. So, buckle up, and let's get started!

Unveiling the 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring: What's New?

Alright, guys, let's kick things off by highlighting what makes the 2023 Ascent Touring stand out. Subaru gave this model a facelift, adding some fresh design elements and tech upgrades. The most noticeable changes are likely in the front fascia, with a revised grille, updated headlights, and a more aggressive bumper design. These tweaks give the Ascent a bolder, more modern look. Inside, you'll find an updated infotainment system, potentially with a larger touchscreen and improved functionality. Subaru is known for its safety features, and the 2023 model continues this tradition. Expect enhanced driver-assistance technologies and potentially some new safety features to keep you and your passengers safe. One of the key aspects of the Ascent is its focus on practicality. This is a family-oriented SUV, so cargo space and passenger comfort are paramount. Subaru has made some improvements in these areas, ensuring that the Ascent remains a top contender in the three-row SUV segment. The Ascent Touring trim typically offers a premium experience, so we can expect upgraded materials, more luxurious features, and a higher level of refinement compared to the base models. Subaru has also fine-tuned the engine and transmission for improved performance and efficiency. While the core engine remains the same, there might be some adjustments to the power delivery and fuel economy. The 2023 Ascent Touring is designed to be a versatile vehicle, capable of handling daily commutes, weekend adventures, and family road trips with ease. Overall, the updates for the 2023 Ascent Touring are designed to keep it competitive in a crowded market. These updates help to keep the Ascent fresh and appealing to potential buyers. Subaru understands that families want a vehicle that is safe, comfortable, and packed with features. They have made significant improvements in the areas that matter most to buyers.

Performance and Driving Experience

Now, let's talk about what it's like to actually drive the 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring. Under the hood, you'll find a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine produces a healthy amount of horsepower and torque, providing plenty of power for everyday driving situations. The Ascent isn't a sports car, but it accelerates smoothly and has enough grunt for merging onto highways and passing slower vehicles. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps to maximize fuel efficiency. While some drivers aren't fans of CVTs, Subaru's implementation is generally well-regarded. It's smooth and responsive, and it does a good job of keeping the engine in its optimal power band. One of the Ascent's biggest selling points is its standard all-wheel-drive system. Subaru is famous for its AWD, and the system in the Ascent is designed to provide excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions. Whether you're driving in snow, rain, or on dry pavement, the Ascent feels confident and planted. The suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride. It absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road well, making it a good choice for long drives. The steering is light and easy to maneuver, which is great for navigating city streets and parking lots. However, it might not provide as much feedback as some drivers prefer. Overall, the driving experience is very user-friendly. The Ascent is easy to drive, comfortable, and offers a good balance of performance and efficiency. It's a vehicle that's designed to make everyday driving as enjoyable as possible. The Ascent's performance characteristics make it a versatile vehicle. It's capable of handling a wide range of driving conditions. Subaru has focused on delivering a driving experience that is both practical and engaging, making the Ascent a solid choice in its segment. The Ascent excels in offering a blend of comfort, capability, and practicality.

Interior, Comfort, and Technology

Inside the 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring, you're greeted with a spacious and well-appointed cabin. The Touring trim level usually boasts premium features and materials. You can expect leather upholstery, wood trim accents, and other high-end touches that elevate the overall feel of the interior. The front seats are generally supportive and comfortable, providing ample legroom and headroom for both the driver and the front passenger. The second-row seats are also quite spacious, easily accommodating adults. The third row is best suited for children or smaller adults, but it's a welcome addition for those who need extra seating capacity. The Ascent is designed with families in mind, and the interior reflects this. There are plenty of cupholders, storage compartments, and USB ports throughout the cabin. Subaru also offers a range of family-friendly features, such as built-in sunshades, rear-seat entertainment systems, and easy-to-clean surfaces. The infotainment system is a key part of the driving experience. Subaru typically equips the Ascent with a user-friendly touchscreen display. The system should include features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps. The infotainment system also controls various vehicle functions, such as climate control, audio settings, and navigation. The Ascent Touring trim often includes premium audio systems, enhancing the listening experience for both the driver and passengers. The interior design of the Ascent is focused on practicality and functionality. The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive. The controls are well-placed, and the overall design is easy on the eyes. The Ascent excels in providing a comfortable and well-equipped cabin. Subaru has made it a priority to create an interior that meets the needs of modern families. With its emphasis on space, comfort, and technology, the Ascent Touring is a great choice for those who value a premium driving experience.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority for Subaru, and the 2023 Ascent Touring is packed with advanced safety features. Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology suite is standard on the Ascent. This suite includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, pre-collision braking, and lane departure warning. These features are designed to help prevent accidents and make driving safer. The Ascent also includes a blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert. This system alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots and helps to prevent collisions when changing lanes or backing up. Subaru vehicles have consistently earned high safety ratings from organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Ascent is likely to continue this trend, providing peace of mind for drivers and passengers. Subaru is dedicated to providing vehicles that meet the highest standards of safety. The Ascent's safety features are designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. In addition to active safety features, the Ascent includes a full complement of airbags and other passive safety systems. The Ascent's focus on safety is a major selling point. Subaru has built a reputation for producing safe and reliable vehicles. The Ascent's safety features are a testament to Subaru's commitment to protecting its customers. The Ascent is a safe and reliable choice for families who prioritize safety.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2023 Subaru Ascent is typically available in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and price points. The base trim level usually provides a good value proposition, with essential features and a reasonable price tag. Moving up the trim levels, you'll find more premium features and amenities. The Premium trim often adds features like a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, and a more advanced infotainment system. The Onyx Edition usually features unique styling elements, such as black exterior accents and special interior trim. The Limited trim often offers even more luxurious features, such as leather upholstery, a premium audio system, and advanced safety technologies. The Touring trim, which we're focusing on in this review, is typically the top-of-the-line model. It usually includes all of the features from the lower trim levels, plus additional upgrades like a panoramic sunroof, a premium audio system, and upgraded interior materials. The price of the Ascent varies depending on the trim level and the options selected. The base trim is usually the most affordable, while the Touring trim is the most expensive. Subaru offers a range of packages and options that allow buyers to customize their Ascent to their specific needs and preferences. When comparing prices, it's important to consider the features that are included in each trim level. The Ascent offers a competitive price point in its segment. It provides a good value proposition, especially when considering the standard features and the all-wheel-drive system. Subaru's trim level structure allows buyers to choose the Ascent that best suits their budget and needs. The Ascent offers a range of options for buyers. The trim levels allow buyers to customize their Ascent to their specific needs and preferences. Subaru offers a competitive price point in its segment.

Pros and Cons

Let's break down the 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring with a quick look at the pros and cons. Starting with the good stuff: the Ascent offers a spacious and comfortable interior, making it great for families. Its standard all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions. The EyeSight suite of safety features is a major plus, giving you extra peace of mind on the road. The ride quality is generally comfortable, and the handling is easy and predictable. Subaru's reputation for reliability is a definite advantage. Now, let's look at the downsides. The infotainment system, while improved, might not be the most intuitive compared to some competitors. The turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while providing adequate power, might not feel as punchy as some of the V6 options in the segment. Fuel economy is decent, but not class-leading. Some might find the styling a bit understated. Despite these minor drawbacks, the pros definitely outweigh the cons. The Ascent Touring is a well-rounded SUV. It offers a great blend of space, safety, and features, making it an excellent choice for families and anyone who needs a versatile three-row vehicle.

Conclusion: Is the 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring Right for You?

So, after taking a close look at the 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring, what's the verdict? If you're looking for a spacious, safe, and family-friendly three-row SUV, the Ascent Touring is definitely worth considering. It offers a comfortable interior, a long list of features, and Subaru's renowned all-wheel-drive system. While it might not be the flashiest or the most powerful SUV in its class, it excels at providing a practical and reliable driving experience. The Ascent Touring is particularly well-suited for families. The Ascent is a great option for anyone who prioritizes safety, space, and all-weather capability. Overall, the 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring is a solid contender in the three-row SUV segment. It provides a compelling combination of features, performance, and value. If you're in the market for a family SUV, be sure to add the Ascent to your list of vehicles to check out. We hope this review has been helpful. Drive safe, and happy car hunting, guys!