Subaru Ascent 2022: Family Adventure Ready

Hey guys, let's talk about the Subaru Ascent 2022! If you're in the market for a three-row SUV that can handle everything from school runs to epic road trips, this is a serious contender you absolutely need to check out. Subaru has a reputation for building sturdy, reliable vehicles, and the Ascent is their big bet in the family SUV segment. We're going to dive deep into what makes this car tick, how it performs, and whether it’s the right fit for your crew. Forget those boring, sterile car reviews; we're here to give you the real lowdown, packed with all the info you need to make a smart decision. So, buckle up, because we're about to explore the ins and outs of the 2022 Subaru Ascent.

First Impressions and Exterior: Ready for Anything

The Subaru Ascent 2022 really hits the mark when it comes to a rugged yet refined exterior design. It’s not trying to be a sports car, obviously, but it’s got a presence that says, "I can handle whatever you throw at me." Subaru’s signature grille is there, flanked by sharp headlights that give it a confident look. The overall silhouette is boxy, which is great news for interior space, but it’s softened with some nice body lines and practical roof rails that are practically begging for a cargo box or some kayaks. It looks capable, and let’s be honest, for a family SUV, that’s a big part of the appeal. You want something that looks like it can take on a little adventure, right? The ground clearance is also a plus, meaning you won’t be scraping the bottom when you venture off the beaten path, whether that’s a gravel road to a campsite or just navigating some poorly maintained city streets. The available wheel sizes add a nice touch, making it look a bit more premium depending on the trim level you opt for. Plus, Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system comes standard, which is a huge selling point. This isn’t an optional extra; it’s part of the Ascent's DNA, making it ready for snow, rain, or whatever else Mother Nature decides to throw your way. The rear end is practical, with a good-sized liftgate for easy loading of groceries, strollers, or camping gear. It’s a thoughtfully designed exterior that balances form and function beautifully, proving that family vehicles can indeed look good while being incredibly practical. The 2022 model might not have had a major redesign, but it still holds its own against the competition, offering a look that’s both appealing and utilitarian. When you pull up in the Ascent, people know you mean business when it comes to family adventures.

Interior Comfort and Practicality: Space for the Whole Crew

Now, let's talk about the real star of the show for many families: the interior of the Subaru Ascent 2022. This is where the boxy exterior really pays off. Subaru has packed this SUV with space, comfort, and a surprising amount of practicality. Getting into the second and third rows is remarkably easy, thanks to wide-opening doors and a sliding second-row seat. This is a lifesaver when you're wrangling kids or have adult passengers who don't want to contort themselves. Once you're in, you'll find that the first two rows offer plenty of legroom and headroom for adults, making those long road trips much more enjoyable for everyone. The third row, while typically a bit tighter in SUVs, is surprisingly usable here. It's definitely best suited for kids or shorter adults on shorter journeys, but it’s far from being a penalty box. Subaru understands that families need flexibility, so the second-row seating configuration offers choices: you can get a bench seat for maximum passenger capacity (seven passengers total) or captain's chairs for a more premium feel and easier third-row access (six passengers total). Plus, all Ascent models come standard with Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane-keeping assist – features that are invaluable when you're dealing with family chaos on the road. The materials used throughout the cabin are a definite step up from what you might expect in a non-luxury brand. While it's not Lexus-level plush, it's durable, easy to clean (a HUGE plus for parents!), and feels well-assembled. You won't find too many cheap-feeling plastics here. Storage is also well-thought-out, with numerous cup holders, bins, and pockets scattered throughout the cabin to keep everyone's devices, snacks, and drinks organized. The cargo space behind the third row is decent for everyday use, like grocery runs or packing a few backpacks, and with the third row folded down, you get a cavernous amount of room for bigger hauls. Fold down the second row, and you've got a van-like cargo area ready for IKEA runs or camping gear. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a touchscreen that’s responsive and easy to navigate, and it includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, which are essential these days. Overall, the Ascent's interior is a masterclass in family-friendly design, prioritizing space, comfort, and the everyday usability that busy families desperately need. It's a comfortable, quiet cabin that makes long drives feel less like a chore and more like an opportunity to connect with your loved ones.

Performance and Driving Dynamics: Capable and Confident

When it comes to performance, the Subaru Ascent 2022 focuses on capability and confidence rather than outright speed. Under the hood, you'll find a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers a healthy 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Now, that might not sound earth-shattering compared to some rivals, but this engine is surprisingly peppy, especially when you consider the size and weight of the Ascent. The turbocharger kicks in fairly low in the rev range, providing ample pull for merging onto highways, passing slower vehicles, and even tackling hills with a full load of passengers and gear. It's paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that Subaru has tuned pretty well. While CVTs sometimes get a bad rap, this one does a decent job of mimicking traditional gear shifts, keeping the engine in its power band without excessive droning. It’s smooth and unobtrusive most of the time, which is exactly what you want in a family hauler. The real standout feature, as expected from Subaru, is the standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. This system is legendary for a reason. It constantly monitors traction and distributes power to the wheels that have the most grip, giving you a secure and confident feeling no matter the road conditions. Whether you're dealing with slick roads after a rainstorm, navigating icy winter commutes, or venturing onto a dirt or gravel path, the AWD system inspires confidence. It’s not just about safety; it’s about being able to go where you want, when you want, without worrying about getting stuck. Ride comfort is another strong point. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a smooth and composed ride for all occupants. It doesn't feel floaty or disconnected, but it effectively isolates you from the harshness of rough pavement. Steering is responsive and accurate, making the large SUV feel more manageable than its dimensions might suggest. While it's not a corner-carving machine (and frankly, you wouldn't expect it to be), the Ascent handles winding roads with predictable stability. It’s a vehicle that inspires trust, allowing the driver to focus on the road and the family without being distracted by the car’s antics. Towing capacity is also respectable, topping out at 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, which is enough for a small boat, a couple of jet skis, or a decent-sized travel trailer, adding another layer of versatility for active families. The combination of the turbocharged engine, well-tuned CVT, and Subaru's exceptional AWD system makes the Ascent a truly capable and confidence-inspiring vehicle for a wide range of driving scenarios and family adventures.

Technology and Safety: Peace of Mind Included

Subaru has always been a leader in safety, and the Subaru Ascent 2022 is no exception. In fact, safety and technology are so intertwined in this SUV that it’s hard to talk about one without mentioning the other. Let's start with the star of the show: Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. This suite of advanced safety features is standard on every single 2022 Ascent trim. We’re talking about things like: Adaptive Cruise Control (which can slow down and speed up automatically to maintain a set distance from the car in front), Pre-Collision Braking (which can apply the brakes automatically if it detects an imminent frontal collision), Lane Departure and Sway Warning, and Lane Keep Assist. These aren't just gimmicks; they are genuinely helpful features that can reduce driver fatigue on long trips and provide an extra layer of protection in potential accident scenarios. Beyond EyeSight, the Ascent also typically includes other safety essentials like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high beams. Plus, the sheer strength of Subaru's construction, with their Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame, provides a robust safety cell for occupants. The Ascent has consistently earned top safety ratings from organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA, which is a testament to Subaru's commitment to safety. On the technology front, Subaru keeps you connected and entertained. The standard infotainment system features a touchscreen (usually 8 inches on most trims) that’s intuitive and easy to use. It comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to seamlessly mirror your smartphone's interface onto the car's display. This means easy access to navigation apps, music streaming, podcasts, and hands-free calling and texting. Higher trims often add features like built-in navigation, a premium Harman Kardon audio system, and even a Wi-Fi hotspot. USB ports are plentiful, ensuring that everyone’s devices can stay charged on the go. The available panoramic moonroof lets in plenty of light, making the cabin feel even more spacious and airy. Subaru also offers a high-resolution rearview camera and available surround-view camera system, which is incredibly useful for parking and maneuvering in tight spaces. The combination of cutting-edge safety features as standard and user-friendly technology makes the 2022 Ascent a smart choice for families who prioritize peace of mind and staying connected on their journeys. It’s about making the drive safer and more enjoyable for everyone.

Fuel Economy: Decent for its Class

Let's talk numbers, guys, specifically fuel economy for the Subaru Ascent 2022. For a three-row SUV that comes standard with all-wheel drive, the Ascent does a pretty respectable job of sipping fuel. Subaru is quoting an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, for a combined rating of 23 mpg. Now, keep in mind that these figures are for the non-turbocharged engine variant; however, the standard 2.4-liter turbocharged engine in the 2022 Ascent also achieves these numbers. It’s important to remember that these are estimates, and your real-world mileage will vary based on driving conditions, your driving habits, how much weight you're carrying, and even the weather. Driving in heavy city traffic, with lots of stop-and-go, will naturally yield lower numbers than cruising on the open highway. Similarly, if you're frequently towing a trailer or packing the Ascent to the brim with passengers and luggage, expect those MPG numbers to drop. However, compared to other three-row SUVs, especially those that might offer optional all-wheel drive rather than standard, the Ascent holds its own quite well. Many competitors in this segment, particularly those with larger V6 engines, might struggle to even reach the low 20s combined. The fact that Subaru has managed to achieve these figures with standard AWD is a testament to the efficiency of the turbocharged four-cylinder engine and the well-tuned CVT. So, while it's not going to win any awards for being a fuel-sipping hybrid, the 2022 Ascent offers a good balance between capability, space, and acceptable fuel economy for its class, making it a practical choice for families who need the versatility of an AWD SUV without completely breaking the bank at the pump.

The Verdict: Is the Subaru Ascent 2022 for You?

So, after diving deep into the Subaru Ascent 2022, what's the final verdict? For families looking for a versatile, safe, and capable three-row SUV, the Ascent is a seriously compelling option. Its standard all-wheel drive, generous interior space, user-friendly technology, and Subaru's legendary safety reputation make it a standout choice. The ability to comfortably seat up to eight people (or seven with captain's chairs), the ample cargo space, and the smooth, confident driving dynamics all contribute to making this a practical and enjoyable vehicle for everyday life and weekend adventures. If you value peace of mind on the road, the comprehensive EyeSight suite of safety features, standard on all trims, is a massive selling point. Plus, the inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto means you’ll stay connected no matter where you roam. While it might not be the flashiest or the quickest SUV on the block, the Ascent prioritizes what truly matters for families: reliability, safety, comfort, and capability. It’s a vehicle that’s built to handle the demands of family life, from hauling kids and their gear to embarking on longer road trips. If you need a dependable SUV that can tackle various weather conditions and terrains with confidence, and you want a vehicle that feels solid and well-built, the 2022 Subaru Ascent should absolutely be on your shortlist. It offers a fantastic blend of practicality and value that's hard to beat in the crowded three-row SUV market. It’s a Subaru, after all – you know it’s built to last and ready for whatever life throws your way. Go check one out, guys!