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 heard about the Ascent. But is the Premium trim right for you? Let's break down everything you need to know, from its performance and features to its overall value. Buckle up, because we're about to embark on a comprehensive journey through what makes this car tick!

Overview of the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium

The 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium stands out as a compelling choice in the crowded three-row SUV market. It's designed to cater specifically to families needing space, safety, and reliability. This model year brings subtle refinements and enhancements over previous versions, reinforcing its position as a top contender. Subaru has built its reputation on providing vehicles that handle various terrains and weather conditions with ease, and the Ascent Premium is no exception. It comes standard with Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, ensuring stability and control no matter the road throws at you. Beyond its functional capabilities, the Ascent Premium offers a comfortable and well-equipped interior, making long drives more enjoyable for both the driver and passengers. The exterior design is both modern and rugged, reflecting Subaru's distinctive styling. It's a vehicle that looks as good in the city as it does on a camping trip. With a focus on safety, the Ascent Premium includes a suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies, providing peace of mind for families on the go. Overall, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium combines practicality, comfort, and safety in a well-rounded package, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a versatile and dependable SUV.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's get into the nitty-gritty! The 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium boasts a robust set of features designed to enhance your driving experience. Under the hood, you'll find a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) that provides smooth and efficient power delivery. The standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system ensures excellent traction and stability in various driving conditions, making it a great choice for areas with challenging weather. Inside, the Premium trim offers comfortable seating for up to eight passengers, with cloth upholstery that is both durable and easy to clean. The second-row bench seat can be swapped for captain's chairs for a more luxurious feel. Tech features include an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing seamless connectivity with your smartphone. The Premium trim also includes a Wi-Fi hotspot, making it easy to stay connected on the go. Safety is a top priority, and the Ascent Premium comes standard with Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Additional features include tri-zone automatic climate control, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a rearview camera. With a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, the Ascent Premium is also capable of handling trailers and other recreational equipment. These key features and specifications make the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium a well-rounded and capable SUV.

Interior Comfort and Technology

When it comes to the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium, the interior is designed with both comfort and technology in mind. Stepping inside, you'll immediately notice the spaciousness and thoughtful layout, making it ideal for families or anyone needing extra room. The seats are upholstered in a durable cloth material that's comfortable for long journeys and easy to maintain. The tri-zone automatic climate control ensures that everyone can set their preferred temperature, enhancing overall comfort. The driver's seat is power-adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect driving position. The second-row bench seat provides ample space for passengers, and the option to swap it for captain's chairs adds a touch of luxury and makes accessing the third row easier. In terms of technology, the 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is the centerpiece of the dashboard. It's intuitive and easy to use, with crisp graphics and responsive touch controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration allow you to seamlessly connect your smartphone, giving you access to your favorite apps, music, and navigation. The built-in Wi-Fi hotspot keeps you connected on the go, making it easy to stream movies, browse the web, or stay in touch with work. The Ascent Premium also includes multiple USB ports throughout the cabin, ensuring that everyone can keep their devices charged. Overall, the interior of the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium combines comfort, convenience, and technology to create a pleasant and connected driving experience.

Performance and Handling

The 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium doesn't just offer comfort and space; it also delivers solid performance and handling that you can rely on. The heart of the Ascent Premium is its 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for daily driving, whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. The Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) ensures smooth and efficient power delivery, contributing to a comfortable and refined driving experience. Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is standard on the Ascent Premium, providing excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions. This system automatically distributes power to the wheels with the most grip, helping you maintain control on slippery roads or uneven terrain. The Ascent Premium also features X-Mode, which optimizes the AWD system for even greater traction in challenging conditions like snow, mud, or sand. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and potholes with ease. The steering is responsive and provides good feedback, making it easy to maneuver the Ascent Premium in tight spaces. With a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, the Ascent Premium is capable of handling trailers, boats, and other recreational equipment. Overall, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium offers a balanced combination of performance, handling, and capability, making it a great choice for families and adventurers alike.

Safety Features

When it comes to family vehicles, safety is paramount, and the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium excels in this area. It comes packed with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is standard on the Ascent Premium, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Adaptive cruise control helps maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting your speed to match the flow of traffic. Lane departure warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane, helping you stay on course. Automatic emergency braking can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes to help mitigate or avoid an accident. In addition to EyeSight, the Ascent Premium also includes blind-spot detection with lane change assist and rear cross-traffic alert. Blind-spot detection warns you if there's a vehicle in your blind spot, while lane change assist helps you safely merge into other lanes. Rear cross-traffic alert warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space or driveway. The Ascent Premium also features a rearview camera, which provides a clear view of what's behind you when you're backing up. Other safety features include anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags. Overall, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium is designed with safety in mind, providing peace of mind for you and your family.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's break down the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium into its pros and cons to give you a clear picture of what it offers.

Pros:

• Spacious Interior: The Ascent Premium offers ample space for up to eight passengers, making it ideal for large families or those who need extra room.
• Standard All-Wheel Drive: Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system provides excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions.
• Comprehensive Safety Features: The Ascent Premium comes standard with Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology and other advanced safety features.
• User-Friendly Technology: The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is easy to use and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
• Strong Resale Value: Subaru vehicles are known for their strong resale value, making the Ascent Premium a solid investment.

Cons:

• CVT Transmission: While the Lineartronic CVT provides smooth power delivery, some drivers may prefer a traditional automatic transmission.
• Fuel Economy: The Ascent Premium's fuel economy is average for its class, but it's not the most fuel-efficient option available.
• Cloth Upholstery: While the cloth upholstery is durable, some buyers may prefer leather seats for a more luxurious feel.
• Third-Row Access: Accessing the third row can be a bit challenging, especially with the bench seat configuration.
• Exterior Styling: While the Ascent Premium has a modern design, some may find its styling to be somewhat bland compared to other SUVs in its class.

Final Verdict: Is the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium Right for You?

So, the big question: Is the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium the right SUV for you? Ultimately, the answer depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you're looking for a spacious, safe, and reliable family SUV with standard all-wheel drive, the Ascent Premium is definitely worth considering. Its roomy interior, comprehensive safety features, and user-friendly technology make it a great choice for families on the go. The standard all-wheel-drive system provides added peace of mind in challenging weather conditions, and the strong resale value makes it a solid investment. However, if you prioritize fuel economy or prefer a more engaging driving experience, you may want to explore other options. The CVT transmission may not appeal to everyone, and the Ascent Premium's fuel economy is average for its class. Additionally, if you're looking for a more luxurious interior, you may want to consider upgrading to a higher trim level with leather seats and other premium features. Overall, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium is a well-rounded SUV that offers a lot of value for the money. Its strengths in safety, reliability, and space make it a compelling choice for families, while its standard all-wheel drive provides added confidence in various driving conditions. Consider your needs and preferences carefully to determine if the Ascent Premium is the right fit for you.