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2022 Subaru Ascent

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Rating6.7

Ranked #10 in 

Fullsize SUV
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$32,795 - $45,945
Starting Price 

Year

Nathan Dyer's image
Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on July 19, 2024

ProsConsWhat's New

Comfortable ride and handling balance

Sluggish acceleration

New Onyx Edition

Subaru's legendary symmetrical AWD standard across the lineup

In dire need of a redesign

Intuitive and easy to use infotainment system

Standard safety tech across trim levels

Specs & Features

$32,795

price

260 hp @ 5600 rpm

horsepower

277 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm

torque

8-speed CVT

transmission

2.4L 4cyl AWD CVT

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

The 2022 Subaru Ascent is coming majorly unchanged except for a slight update in its trim lineup. The newly added Onyx Edition is joining the Subaru Ascent's pre-existing 4 trim configurations of the Base, Premium, Limited, and Touring. On Sale now across dealerships in the US, the prices for the 2022 Ascent start at an MSRP of $32,295. And leasing this standard 8-passenger SUV can cost you $319/month for 36 months along with a signing payment of $3,219.

The new Onyx special edition is mainly an appearance package, which includes unique blacked-out exterior and interior design elements, and plenty of creature comforts. Powertrain duties are handled by a 2.4L turbocharged boxer-four engine, whereas the 2022 Ascent's towing capacity is rated at 5000 lbs. Regarding its rivals, the Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, and Mazda CX-9 are among a few to share this market space.

Buying Advice

The Limited trim is the best configuration in the lot. The power adjustability, enhanced heating functions, and leather accents are apt to justify its enticing stature. The safety pursuit and added features over the lower trim further make up for its overall appeal. Therefore, Limited Trim should be the one that won't cost more than $40,000 exclusive of taxes.

Read More +

Comparative Analysis against Competition

This model nicely blends the brand's legendary ruggedness with family-friendly features, but there are some trade-offs in performance, interior noise, and features - CarsDirect

The 2022 Subaru Ascent is a carry-over model that features a 2.4L Turbo H-4 engine in AWD layout that is capable of towing up to 5,000 lbs. Its trim level commences with the Base variant at $32,295 and costs $45,445 for the range-topping Touring configuration. The Onyx Edition at $37,995 is a new refreshment in the production having Panoramic Roof and Navigation Multimedia as standards.

The Subaru Ascent is likely to have the same J.D.Power Rating of 82 for the 2022 model year. Such a high-reliability quotient marks its resale price as high as $24,122 after 5 years of ownership. In addition to that, the insurance charges $1,680 per year while the destination fee comes out to be $1,125. Also, the proper maintenance estimating $8,160 for 10 years can allow it to go for 250,000 miles throughout its lifespan.

Buying Advice

The Limited trim is the best configuration in the lot. The multi-way power-adjustability seats, enhanced heating functions, and leather accents are apt to justify its enticing stature. The safety pursuit and added features over the lower trim further make up for its overall appeal. Therefore, the 2022 Ascent Limited Trim would be the one, that we recommend, that won't cost more than $40,000 exclusive of taxes.

Features
7.0/10

The Ascent is the best Subaru for families, but it’s hardly the best SUV in its class - cars.com

The 2022 Subaru Ascent comes in 5 trims namely Base, Premium, Onyx Edition, Limited, and Touring. The Base configuration is priced at $32,295 with which it gets 6-speaker audio system and STARLINK 6.5-inch Multimedia Plus as standards. The Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology and High Beam Assist have been integrated as well for no extra charges. The Premium trim at $34,795 goes on to include the heated front seats and Stain-Resistant Cloth Upholstery for better ambiance and comfort altogether.            

Trims

Base

Premium

 Onyx Edition

Limited 

Touring

MSRP*

$32,295

$34,795

 $37,995

$39,595

$45,445

Features

Cloth seats

Stain-Resistant Cloth Upholstery

 StarTex Water-Repellent Upholstery Leather-trimmed upholstery Second-row captain's chairs
  High Beam Assist

Heated front seats

 7-passenger seating (second-row captain's chairs) Power adjustable driver and front-passenger seats

Ventilated front seats
 

18” Silver-finished alloys

18” Machine-finished gray alloys

 20-inch black-finish alloy wheels

20” Machine-finished Dark Gray alloys

 Power tilt/sliding panoramic moonroof
  Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology Subaru STARLINK Safety and Security Reverse Automatic Braking STARLINK 8.0-inch Multimedia Plus STARLINK 8.0-inch Multimedia Navigation
  6-speaker audio system 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat Heated steering wheel Heated second-row seats Harman Kardon Quantum Surround Sound audio system

The Onyx Edition is a little more expensive with a price tag of $37,995 for which it receives specific StarTex Water-Repellent Upholstery and 20-inch black-finish alloy wheels over the standard 18-inch wheels. The Limited is available at a bare minimum investment of $39,595 that brings on Leather-trimmed upholstery, power-adjustable driver and front-passenger seats, and Heated second-row seats in addition. In the end, the Touring at $45,445 features exclusive STARLINK 8.0-inch Multimedia Navigation and Harman Kardon Quantum Surround Sound audio system.

Fuel Economy
4.0/10

The 2022 Subaru Ascent returns a fuel economy of 23 MPG combined average and 21 MPG in the city. The range practicality can be 521 miles at max with its 19.3-gallon fuel tank. However, the overall range reach falls short to cross 450 miles by 7 miles. Furthermore, the Limited and Touring models of the 2022 Ascent are able to deliver 20 and 26 MPG in the city and highway respectively.

Models

2022 Subaru Ascent

2022 Toyota Highlander

2022 Ford Explorer

2022 Mazda CX-9

MPG (City)

21

21

21

22

MPG (Highway)

27

29

28

28

MPG (Combined)

23

24

24

24

Fuel Capacity (Gallons)

19.3

17.9

 17.9

19.0

Range (City/Highway/Combined; Miles)

405/521/443

375/519/393

376/501/430

418/532/456

Based on the datasheet, the Subaru Ascent is less fuel-efficient, but has a 1.4-gallon bigger fuel tank than the Highlander. This variation helps the former to lead the range coverage by extra 50 miles over the latter. While the CX-9 beats the Ascent by 13 miles, thanks to its extra 1 MPG. 

Interior
9.0/10

The Ascent's interior has all the hallmarks of a large crossover, with a raised driving position and versatile seating configurations - Car And Driver

The interior of the 2022 Subaru Ascent has been designed to be exceptionally spacious and comfortable. In terms of interior trims and accents, the cloth seating occupies the Base cabin which is replaced by the Stain-Resistant Cloth format and StarTex Water-Repellent Upholstery in the Premium and Onyx Edition respectively. Over these, the leather upholsteries such as Slate Black and Ivory Warm are introduced for the Limited and Touring configurations.

The Subaru Ascent gets heated front seats from Premium trim onwards while the heated second row is available for the Limited and Touring only. Considering the convenience as a priority, the power-adjustable front seats are arranged inside the Limited trim but the power ventilation comes incorporated specifically for the Touring trim. As far as cargo capacity of the 2022 Ascent is concerned, it is subjected to expand from 17.8 cu-ft to 47.5 cu-ft behind the second row and the 86.5 cu-ft behind the first row.

Models

2022 Subaru Ascent

2022 Toyota Highlander

2022 Ford Explorer

2022 Mazda CX-9

Seating Capacity

8

8

7

7

Front Row (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Legroom; inches)

41.3/61.1/42.2

41.2/59.0/42.0

40.7/61.8/43.0

39.3/57.9/41.0

Second Row (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Legroom; inches)

40.0/60.3/38.6

39.4/58.7/41.0

40.5/61.9/39.0

38.5/58.1/39.4

Third Row (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Legroom; inches)

36.3/57.2/31.7

36.1/55.0/27.7

38.9/54.6/32.2

35.4/53.1/29.7

Standard Cargo Capacity (cubic feet)

17.8

16.0

21.0

14.4

The infotainment unit of the Ascent has STARLINK 6.5-inch Multimedia Plus as standard in the Base trim along with a 6-speaker audio system. Moving forward adds the STARLINK 8.0-inch Multimedia Plus for the rest of the lineup except for the Touring. The Touring trim has been empowered with STARLINK 8.0-inch Multimedia Navigation. The musical notes in this trim also upgrade to higher pitches and bases with the Harman Kardon Quantum Surround Sound audio system.

Some of the notable interior features are-

  • 3-spoke steering wheel with integrated controls
  • Air vents for all three rows
  • Optional Harman Kardon Quantum Surround Sound audio system 
  • Reclining third-row 60/40-split flat-folding seatbacks
  • Available heated or ventilated front seats
  • Second row of seating can be bench seats or captains chairs
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter handle

Exterior
5.0/10

It kind of looks like the Outback, but in the form of a more conventional midsize 3-row crossover, and we think that's a good thing - Kelley Blue Book

The 2022 Subaru Ascent has remained unchanged in its dimensions and silhouette. The 8-exterior color trims include the contrasts such as the Crystal White Pearl, Crimson Red Pearl, and many more. In addition to these, the LED Steering Responsive Headlights have been made constant across the trim lineup.

The Subaru Ascent takes on the tough terrain while riding on the 18-inch and 20-inch wheels along with all-season tires. Moreover, the rear gets a power liftgate for the higher trim. Even the top is adorned with a raised roof rail throughout the belt but the panoramic roof has been kept only for the Touring trim. 

Models

2022 Subaru Ascent

2022 Toyota Highlander

2022 Ford Explorer

2022 Mazda CX-9

Curb Weight (lbs)

4,430

4,465

4,345

4,317

Length (inches)

196.8

194.9

198.8

199.4

Width (inches)

76.0

76.0

78.9

77.5

Height (inches)

71.6

68.1

69.9

69.0

Ground Clearance (inches)

8.7

8.0

7.9

8.8

Wheelbase (inches)

113.8

112.2

119.1

115.3

Based on the figures given, the 2022 Ascent is lighter in dimensions than the Highlander but has a 0.7-inch higher ground clearance than Highlander. As a result of these, they seem to be at par with one other in off-roading abilities. Simultaneously, Explorer has a 6-inch longer wheelbase than Ascent, assisting the latter in straight line stability.  

  • 20” alloy wheels
  • Express open/close sliding and tilting glass 1st and 2nd-row sunroof w/power sunshade
  • Chrome power heated side mirrors w/ power-folding and turn signal indicator
  • Power liftgate with height adjustment and memory function
  • Auto on/off projector-beam LED low/high DRLs

Safety
9.0/10

It's notable for its respectable list of standard and optional driver aids - Edmunds

Since the 2022 Subaru Ascent is a continued model of the 2021 model year, a 5-star NHTSA and a "Good" IIHS safety ratings are expected to be as it is. Also, it is likely to be inducted in the "Top Safety Pick +" Award by the IIHS.  Apart from these, other advanced safety features to ensure a commanding drive have been listed down: 

  • EyeSight Pre-Collision braking
  • EyeSight Lane keep assist
  • EyeSight Lane departure warning
  • Blind-spot monitoring
  • STARLINK Safety and security
  • Back-up camera and front camera

Competition
7.0/10

2022 Subaru Ascent vs 2022 Toyota Highlander

The 2022 Subaru Ascent has a better performance quotient, power figures, and acceleration than the 2022 Toyota Highlander. It also takes the lead in the cabin's spaciousness, range coverage, and fuel economy while being relatively cheaper. Thus, the Ascent gets the preference. 

2022 Subaru Ascent vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Explorer comes with a much more balanced cabin and performance surge than the 2022 Subaru Ascent and that too within competitive price range. Except for the range practicality, the Subaru Ascent hardly outclasses the former in any parameter. So, Explorer is a better option to choose.

Final Verdict

The 2022 Subaru Ascent is, without a doubt, a worthy 3-row 7-8 seater SUV that has both family-oriented practicality and rugged attributes. The towing prowess along with corresponding fuel economy and power performance vouch for its powertrain supremacy. The interior is equally engaging and comfortable. Therefore, one can have it as his/her top pick. 

Trims

    Base
    $32,795 onwards
    • 6.5-inch infotainment screen
    Premium
    $35,295 onwards
    • Engine: 2.4L 4cyl AWD 8CVT
    • Horsepower: 260 hp @ 5600 rpm hp
    • Torque: 277 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 6.9 sec
    • Top Speed: 130 mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 23 mpg
    Onyx Edition
    $38,495 onwards
    • Engine: 2.4L 4cyl AWD 8CVT
    • Horsepower: 260 hp @ 5600 rpm hp
    • Torque: 277 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 6.9 sec
    • Top Speed: 130 mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 22 mpg
    Limited
    $40,095 onwards
    • Engine: 2.4L 4cyl AWD 8CVT
    • Horsepower: 260 hp @ 5600 rpm hp
    • Torque: 277 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 6.9 sec
    • Top Speed: 130 mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 22 mpg
    Touring
    $45,945 onwards
    • Engine: 2.4L 4cyl AWD 8CVT
    • Horsepower: 260 hp @ 5600 rpm hp
    • Torque: 277 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 6.9 sec
    • Top Speed: 130 mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 22 mpg

Compare to similar cars

6.7
2022 Subaru Ascent

Price

$32,795- $45,945

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

6.74

Horsepower

260 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque

277 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm

Capacity

8

Read Review

8.0
2022 Toyota Highlander

$35,855- $51,295

Gasoline

8.01

295 hp @ 6600 rpm

263 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm

8

Read Review

6.8
2022 Mitsubishi Outlander

$26,995- $36,290

Gasoline

6.8

181 hp @ 6000 rpm

181 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm

7

Read Review

7.2
2022 Chevrolet Traverse

$33,700- $54,745

Gasoline

7.19

310 hp @ 6800 rpm

266 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm

8

Read Review

6.6
2022 Honda Pilot

$38,080- $51,870

Gasoline

6.56

280 hp @ 6000 rpm

262 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm

8

Read Review

7.6
2022 Chevrolet Tahoe

$48,400- $73,000

Gasoline

7.58

355 hp @ 5600 rpm

383 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm

5

Read Review

8.1
2022 GMC Yukon

$51,600- $75,100

Gasoline

8.06

355 hp @ 5600 rpm

383 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm

8

Read Review

7.5
2022 Volkswagen Atlas

$34,335- $51,505

Gasoline

7.46

235 hp @ 5400 rpm

258 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm

7

Read Review

7.2
2022 Ford Explorer

$35,510- $55,775

Gasoline

7.16

300 hp @ 5500 rpm

310 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm

7

Read Review

6.5
2022 Toyota Sequoia

$50,500- $69,775

Gasoline

6.45

381 hp @ 5600 rpm

401 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm

8

Read Review

2022 Subaru Ascent vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    		SourceCompare
    		6.9 sec15.5 sec130 mph
    		5.9 sec14.3 sec-
    		5.9 sec14.4 sec-
    		6.2 sec14.8 sec-
    		6.5 sec14.9 sec114 mph
    		6.5 sec14.9 sec-
    Read More

    2022 Subaru Ascent vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      		SourceCompare
      		21 mpg27 mpg23 mpg19.3 gal.405.3/521.1 mi.
      		24 mpg31 mpg27 mpg14.5 gal.-
      		20 mpg28 mpg24 mpg17.9 gal.375.9/501.2 mi.
      		20 mpg29 mpg24 mpg17.9 gal.375.9/519.1 mi.
      		21 mpg25 mpg23 mpg18.6 gal.-
      		18 mpg26 mpg21 mpg19.4 gal.342/494 mi.

      2022 Subaru Ascent vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        		SourceCompare
        		196.8 in.76 in.71.6 in.8.7 in.113.8 in. -
        		214.7 in.83.6 in.75.6 in.10 in.123 in. -
        		210 in.81 in.76.5 in.8 in.120.9 in. -
        		208.9 in.79.9 in.75.8 in.9.1 in.121.1 in. -
        		205.9 in.78.6 in.70.7 in.7.51 in.120.93 in. -
        		205.1 in.79.9 in.77 in.9.9 in.122 in. -

        2022 Subaru Ascent vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          		SourceCompare
          		17.8 cu.ft.153.5 cu.ft.86.5 cu.ft.
          		25.5 cu.ft.103.8 cu.ft.122.9 cu.ft.
          		18.9 cu.ft.38.3 cu.ft.120.1 cu.ft.
          		23 cu.ft.96.3 cu.ft.98.2 cu.ft.
          		23.6 cu.ft.157.3 cu.ft.97.4 cu.ft.
          		20.6 cu.ft.154 cu.ft.96.8 cu.ft.

          2022 Subaru Ascent vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            Bed Length
            		SourceCompare
            		86.5 cu.ft.17.8 cu.ft.86.5 cu.ft.-
            		96.8 cu.ft.20.6 cu.ft.96.8 cu.ft.285 ft.
            		87.8 cu.ft.18.2 cu.ft.87.8 cu.ft.-
            		95.4 cu.ft.16.5 cu.ft.95.4 cu.ft.-
            		120.1 cu.ft.18.9 cu.ft.120.1 cu.ft.-
            		98.2 cu.ft.23 cu.ft.98.2 cu.ft.122 ft.

            2022 Subaru Ascent vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Towing Capacity
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              		SourceCompare
              		2000 lbs.1570 lbs.4430 lbs.
              		8500 lbs.1650 lbs.5650 lbs.
              		8400 lbs.2044 lbs.5356 lbs.
              		7400 lbs.1405 lbs.5730 lbs.
              		5300 lbs.1425 lbs.4345 lbs.
              		5000 lbs.1685 lbs.4145 lbs.

              2022 Subaru Ascent SUV Problems, Issues, Complaints, Recalls, and which year to avoid?

              1

              Recalls

              0

              Investigations

              46

              Complaints
              Overall Safety Rating
              Read More

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              2022 Subaru Ascent User Reviews

              4.0

              [1 Reviews]

              1

              [0.0%] [0 Reviews]

              2

              [100.0%] [1 Reviews]

              3

              [0.0%] [0 Reviews]

              4

              [0.0%] [0 Reviews]

              5

              [0.0%] [0 Reviews]

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              MC

              Matthew Cooperman

              2021 Subaru Ascent

              Limited w/7-Passenger 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT)

              4

              User Overall Rating

              Posted On: September 30, 2023

              Subaru Sciatica

              Pros - Good vehicle but uncomfortable

              Cons - Drivers seat causing severe sciatica problems

              Subaru Sciatica is a medical condition caused by the defective seat design. Thousands of owners are experiencing this debilitating pain. Current NHTSA defective product investigation going on now. Dealer Name: Van Bortel Subaru | Dealer City: Rochester Not thrilled with the way my situation is being handled.

              5/10
              Features
              5/10
              Interior
              2/10
              Design
              2/10
              Safety
              5/10
              Reliability
              5/10
              Deal Value
              1/10
              Dealer Review

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