Hey there, fellow car enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into the Subaru Ascent 2022 Premium, shall we? This three-row SUV has been making waves in the family-friendly vehicle market, and for good reason. It's packed with features, offers a spacious interior, and boasts Subaru's renowned safety and reliability. In this comprehensive review, we'll cover everything from its performance and features to its pros and cons, helping you decide if the Ascent Premium is the right vehicle for you. Get ready to explore every nook and cranny of this awesome ride!

Exterior and Design

First impressions matter, right? The Subaru Ascent 2022 Premium presents a bold and confident exterior. The design is practical yet stylish, with a focus on functionality that doesn't sacrifice aesthetics. You'll notice the signature Subaru hexagonal grille, flanked by sleek headlights. The overall stance is commanding, with a high roofline that contributes to the generous interior space. The Premium trim level typically includes features like roof rails, adding to its adventurous appeal. The body lines are clean and modern, giving the Ascent a contemporary look that fits well in any setting, from city streets to rugged landscapes. The exterior design focuses on practicality; the Ascent is built to handle the demands of everyday family life while still looking great.

One of the standout features of the exterior is the emphasis on visibility. Subaru has always prioritized driver and passenger views, and the Ascent is no exception. Large windows provide excellent sightlines, making it easier to navigate traffic and park in tight spots. The placement of the side mirrors and the design of the pillars minimize blind spots, which significantly enhances safety. The ground clearance is also noteworthy, providing the ability to handle various road conditions and even light off-roading adventures. The choice of wheel designs, often in alloy, complements the overall aesthetic, adding a touch of sophistication to the rugged SUV. The exterior lighting, typically LED, not only improves visibility at night but also gives the Ascent a modern and premium feel. Color options vary, but they are all chosen to emphasize the vehicle's ruggedness and family-friendly nature. The exterior is designed to make a statement while making sure it is safe and practical for daily use.

Design and Features

Building upon the core design, the Subaru Ascent 2022 Premium integrates several features that enhance its appearance and functionality. Standard on the Premium trim, you'll find elements that boost both style and utility. Roof rails are a standard inclusion, perfect for attaching accessories like cargo carriers or bike racks, which is a fantastic feature for families who love outdoor activities. The wheels, usually made of alloy, give a premium feel. These components are not merely ornamental; they play a significant role in improving the Ascent’s performance and capacity. The exterior lighting uses LED technology for headlights, taillights, and daytime running lights, improving visibility and boosting the car's overall visual appeal. The selection of exterior colors is also important; they are typically chosen to match the vehicle's sturdy, family-oriented character. The paint options are carefully chosen to ensure durability and ease of maintenance, making the Ascent ideal for everyday use. All of these design elements and features combine to make the Subaru Ascent 2022 Premium visually appealing and incredibly functional.

Interior and Comfort

Step inside, and you'll find a world of space and comfort. The Subaru Ascent 2022 Premium is designed with families in mind, providing ample room for passengers and cargo. The three rows of seating offer plenty of space, even for adults in the third row. The quality of materials used in the interior is noticeably better in the Premium trim, with upgraded cloth upholstery and soft-touch surfaces throughout the cabin. The design is user-friendly, with intuitive controls and a well-laid-out dashboard. Subaru focuses on creating an environment that’s both comfortable and practical. The seats are supportive and designed for long journeys. The abundance of headroom and legroom in all three rows is a standout feature, making the Ascent a comfortable choice for larger families or those who frequently transport passengers. The focus on comfort extends to features like automatic climate control, ensuring a pleasant temperature for everyone, regardless of the weather outside. The interior provides all occupants with a sense of space and ease.

The Subaru Ascent 2022 Premium goes above and beyond with its interior design to provide the highest degree of comfort and convenience. The seats are created to give outstanding support, particularly on extended trips, with the driver's seat often including power adjustments to find the ideal driving position. The upgraded cloth upholstery adds a touch of refinement while being robust enough to endure the daily wear and tear of family life. Soft-touch materials are strategically placed on the dash and door panels, improving the cabin's general atmosphere. The infotainment system is integrated in the center stack, making it easy to access entertainment and navigation features. Automatic climate control, a standard feature in the Premium trim, provides a comfortable environment for all occupants. The interior is designed to be user-friendly, with controls that are simple to use and intuitively positioned for simple operation. The abundance of storage compartments, including door pockets, center console storage, and cupholders, are strategically arranged to keep the interior clean and organized. The Subaru Ascent 2022 Premium is made to give you a pleasant and stress-free driving experience.

Seating and Space

The Subaru Ascent 2022 Premium is designed to provide exceptional comfort and space, making it ideal for families. The vehicle has three rows of seats, providing comfortable accommodations for up to eight passengers. The second-row bench seat is standard, and the captain's chairs are an option, which provides even more convenience and access to the third row. The legroom and headroom in all three rows are especially generous, allowing adults to ride comfortably. The second row may often move forward and backward to improve legroom in the third row or boost cargo capacity. The seats are constructed to provide excellent support, making long trips more pleasant. The design focuses on practicality, so getting in and out of the car is easy. Ample storage space is also available throughout the cabin, with many cupholders, door pockets, and center console compartments to store personal belongings. The large cargo capacity, even with all the seats in use, is a key selling point. The Ascent is a practical and comfortable option for families.

Technology and Infotainment

Let's talk tech! The Subaru Ascent 2022 Premium doesn't skimp on technology. You'll find a user-friendly infotainment system, typically with a large touchscreen display. The system includes features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. Navigation, a premium feature, is also available, ensuring you can find your way on any journey. The sound system delivers great audio quality, making every ride enjoyable. Beyond the infotainment system, the Ascent is equipped with several advanced driver-assistance systems. These features enhance safety and make driving easier. The system is designed to be intuitive and easy to use, meaning you can stay connected and entertained without distraction. The infotainment system is an important part of the vehicle, offering a mix of entertainment and practicality.

Infotainment System and Features

The Subaru Ascent 2022 Premium is equipped with a modern infotainment system designed to keep passengers connected and entertained. The system includes a big touchscreen display, which functions as the control panel for the car's different functions. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, allowing you to connect your smartphone easily and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation. The system also supports Bluetooth connectivity, enabling hands-free calling and audio streaming. Navigation is typically included, making it easy to find your way on any journey. The sound system delivers excellent audio quality, which improves the listening experience. The infotainment system is intuitive and user-friendly, with a clean and clear interface that is easy to navigate. Additional features may include satellite radio, USB ports, and a Wi-Fi hotspot, making the Subaru Ascent 2022 Premium a connected vehicle for the entire family.

Driver Assistance and Safety Features

Subaru is known for its focus on safety, and the Ascent 2022 Premium is loaded with advanced driver-assistance systems. These features are designed to enhance safety and provide peace of mind on the road. Standard safety features include Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which encompasses adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and pre-collision braking. Adaptive cruise control maintains a set speed while automatically adjusting to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front. Lane departure warning and lane keep assist help to keep the vehicle centered in its lane, reducing the risk of accidents. The pre-collision braking system can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an impending collision, mitigating or preventing an accident. Blind-spot detection with rear cross-traffic alert is also included, alerting the driver to vehicles in the blind spot or crossing behind the vehicle while reversing. These features improve safety and help make driving safer for families.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the Subaru Ascent 2022 Premium is powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine provides a good balance of power and efficiency, making it suitable for both city driving and highway cruising. The engine is mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which contributes to smooth acceleration and fuel efficiency. Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system is standard, providing excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions. The Ascent offers a composed ride, with good handling and minimal body roll. The steering is responsive, making the SUV easy to maneuver. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road. Overall, the Ascent's performance and handling are well-suited to its role as a family-friendly SUV.

The Subaru Ascent 2022 Premium provides drivers with a blend of power, efficiency, and driving experience. The 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides a good amount of power, delivering ample acceleration for daily driving and highway cruising. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) works well with the engine, providing seamless and efficient gear changes, which helps to improve fuel economy. Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, which is standard on all Ascent models, is a significant feature. This system provides superior traction and stability, making the Ascent very capable in diverse driving conditions, including rain, snow, and rough roads. The handling is composed and predictable, making the vehicle easy to maneuver and drive. The steering is responsive, providing a precise and enjoyable driving experience. The suspension is tuned for comfort, effectively absorbing bumps and imperfections to keep passengers comfortable. The Ascent's performance and handling characteristics make it an excellent choice for a family SUV, providing a confident and enjoyable driving experience.

Engine and Transmission

The Subaru Ascent 2022 Premium is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This engine offers a good balance of performance and fuel economy, making it a viable choice for families. The turbocharger adds additional power, enabling quick acceleration when needed, such as when merging onto the highway or passing other vehicles. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which contributes to smooth and efficient performance. The CVT optimizes the engine's performance by providing seamless gear changes, which maximizes fuel economy. The CVT also contributes to the smooth and comfortable driving experience. The combination of the engine and transmission ensures that the Ascent can handle a variety of driving situations while maintaining good fuel efficiency. The engine and transmission are designed to provide a balance of power, efficiency, and a comfortable driving experience.

All-Wheel Drive and Handling

One of the most notable features of the Subaru Ascent 2022 Premium is its standard symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. Subaru is renowned for its all-wheel-drive technology, which provides drivers with enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions. The all-wheel-drive system actively distributes power between the front and rear wheels, depending on the driving conditions. This provides excellent grip on slick surfaces, such as rain, snow, and ice, increasing the vehicle's safety and control. The all-wheel-drive system provides increased stability during turns and helps the vehicle maintain its course, even in difficult conditions. The handling characteristics of the Ascent are also well-suited to the vehicle's family-friendly nature. The steering is responsive and precise, making the vehicle easy to maneuver. The suspension is tuned for comfort, effectively absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road, which ensures a smooth and pleasant ride. The combination of all-wheel-drive and well-tuned handling makes the Subaru Ascent 2022 Premium an excellent choice for families seeking a safe, reliable, and capable SUV.

Fuel Efficiency

Let's talk about the practicalities. The Subaru Ascent 2022 Premium offers decent fuel efficiency for its class. The official EPA estimates provide a good indication of what you can expect in terms of gas mileage. Actual fuel economy may vary depending on driving conditions and habits, but the Ascent generally performs well for an SUV of its size. The fuel efficiency is a significant factor for families, so it helps to save money over time. You can often achieve better fuel economy by driving with a focus on smooth acceleration and avoiding aggressive braking. The Ascent strikes a good balance between the power and the fuel economy.

MPG and Real-World Performance

Fuel efficiency is a critical aspect for many car buyers, and the Subaru Ascent 2022 Premium strikes a reasonable balance. The SUV's MPG ratings are important in evaluating overall running expenses. The official EPA estimates provide an excellent starting point for understanding what to anticipate in terms of fuel economy in city and highway driving situations. In the real world, fuel economy might vary based on driving circumstances, driving patterns, and the sort of roads traveled. However, the Ascent usually provides a respectable level of fuel efficiency for its size and class. The Ascent's engine and transmission are designed to optimize fuel economy without sacrificing performance. To improve fuel efficiency, you can use driving techniques like smooth acceleration and braking, and you can also maintain your car appropriately. The Subaru Ascent 2022 Premium offers a practical choice for families since fuel efficiency is a vital consideration in vehicle ownership, saving money over time.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The Subaru Ascent 2022 is available in several trim levels, each with its set of features and pricing. The Premium trim sits in the middle of the range, offering a balance of features and value. The pricing for the Premium trim is competitive with other SUVs in its class. Prices can vary depending on optional packages and regional differences. It is crucial to check the most recent pricing from your local Subaru dealer. Understanding the different trim levels and their respective features will help you choose the best option for your needs and budget.

Trim Comparison and Value

The Subaru Ascent 2022 comes in a variety of trim levels, each with its own features and price point. The Premium trim sits in the center of the series, providing a fantastic combination of features and value. Other available trim levels are the Base, Limited, and Touring, each providing a different level of features and luxury. The Base model has standard features at a lower price point, while the Limited and Touring trims offer more premium features and upgrades. The price of the Premium trim is usually competitive with other SUVs in its class, and it provides an attractive option for many families. Prices vary depending on the optional packages and regional differences. Examining the price of each trim level and features is essential to pick the best vehicle for your demands and budget. Checking the most current pricing from your local Subaru dealership is recommended, as prices may change based on availability and other market factors. The value proposition of the Subaru Ascent 2022 Premium lies in its features, safety, and functionality, making it a compelling option in the family SUV market.

Pros and Cons

Every vehicle has its strengths and weaknesses, and the Subaru Ascent 2022 Premium is no exception. Let's weigh the pros and cons to provide a balanced perspective.

Pros:

• Spacious Interior: The Ascent offers ample room for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for families.
• Standard All-Wheel Drive: Subaru's all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability.
• Advanced Safety Features: The Ascent is packed with driver-assistance systems.
• User-Friendly Infotainment: The infotainment system is easy to use and integrates smartphones seamlessly.
• Good Value: The Premium trim offers a great balance of features and price.

Cons:

• Engine Performance: While adequate, the engine might feel underpowered in some situations.
• Fuel Economy: Fuel economy is decent, but not class-leading.
• Infotainment System: The system is good but some may find the graphics and response time could be improved.

Conclusion

So, is the Subaru Ascent 2022 Premium the right SUV for you? If you're looking for a spacious, safe, and family-friendly vehicle, the answer is likely yes! The Ascent delivers on its promises, offering a comfortable ride, a practical interior, and Subaru's renowned reliability. While it has some minor drawbacks, the positives far outweigh the negatives. If you're in the market for a three-row SUV, the Ascent Premium is definitely worth considering. Thanks for joining me on this review. Safe travels, and happy car hunting, everyone!