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.

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.            

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.

2022 Subaru Ascent Trims and Configurations>>

The Ascent impresses with its powerful engine and smooth ride - Motor Trend

The 2022 Subaru Ascent has been equipped with a 2.4L Turbo H-4 that is capable of generating 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain is coupled with a LinearTronic CVT that's in conjunction with a standard Symmetrical AWD. Also, this AWD comes embedded with an X-MODE function for engine output and transmission ratio optimization. The Subaru Ascent is available with a 4-wheel independent suspension that keeps the wheel grounded irrespective of the terrain. To complement such dynamics, the Active Torque Vectoring is also employed that assists in sharp cornering and neutral steering.

And to curb the unexpected acceleration, the driver can operate the Brake Override System and limit the accelerator pedal input. The 2022 Ascent kicks in 0-60 MPH in 6.9 seconds and can cover a quarter-mile in 15.5 seconds. It can even speed up to 130 MPH. On the contrary, it has 13.1-inch front and 13-inch rear ventilated disc brakes that can decelerate it from 70-0 MPH within a braking distance of 175 ft. Along with that, the ABS and Brake Assist further aid in braking efficiency.

As per data, the Subaru Ascent is 0.3 seconds quicker than Toyota Highlander in 0-60 MPH and costs about $3,000 less than the latter as well. Meanwhile, the Ford Explorer is faster than the Ascent in both quarter-mile drag and 0-60 MPH. However, the Mazda CX-9 is somewhat parallel to its Subaru counterpart in all parameters.

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.

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. 

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.

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

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. 

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

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

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.

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.