

The top-of-the-line Ascent Limited earned 26 mpg on our route, matching its EPA highway rating. Still, the Ascent has above-average EPA estimates and confirmed the latter in our 200-mile real-world test. Those who select the top-tier Limited and Touring models will lose 1 mpg in both categories. The Ascent is expected to earn 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

The brake pedal on our test vehicle was firm and progressive, with no play or touchy feedback. Its light and accurate steering responded to quick maneuvers and felt relaxed at higher speeds. While the Subaru lacks the fun-to-drive nature found on the Mazda CX-9, the sizable three-row was nicely composed. Unfortunately, we noticed a lot of wind and road noise while cruising on the highway. It wore 20-inch wheels but still rode smoothly over bumpy roads and soaked up harsh impacts. The Subaru has a comfortable ride that isolated us from rough surfaces. The Ascent even has paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel for those who want more control over the transmission. Its throttle response was particularly abrupt at low speeds around town. While the Subaru's continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) contributed to a noisy ride during our test, the gearless gearbox was otherwise receptive and steady. Its 260-horsepower turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder powertrain delivers middling acceleration and can be noisy under duress, but it'll pull a camper trailer or speedboat.

With the company's trademark all-wheel-drive system, the Ascent is well suited for four-season family road trips. We'd choose that option on our Subie, since it also adds hands-free passive entry, a power-operated rear gate, and rear automated emergency braking. The Ascent Onyx comes with captain's chairs exclusively. Those who want to ditch the second-row bench seat are in luck, as Premium, Limited, and Touring all have an available 7-passenger option for an additional fee. Compared with the base model, the Premium gets standard upgrades that include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot. Every model has all four wheels spun via the same plucky turbocharged four-cylinder powertrain, but the base Ascent and the Premium have slightly better EPA fuel-economy ratings than the top two trims. We think the Premium model packs the best balance of desirable features and overall value. The lone option package for the Onyx Edition adds onboard navigation, a panoramic sunroof, and a retractable cargo cover.

It also comes standard with a hands-free power liftgate, a heated steering wheel, passive entry with push-button start, and rear automated emergency braking. An appearance package based on the seven-seat Premium model, it includes unique black-out exterior elements and 20-inch rims. What's New for 2022?įor 2022, the only change to the Ascent lineup is the new Onyx Edition. The Ascent has a cushy ride and is available with highly configurable second-row captain's chairs, but its third row is smaller than some rivals-and some desirable features are reserved for the pricier trim levels. a CVT) that can be a slow and noisy tandem at highway speeds. Unfortunately, the largest Subaru also has a four-cylinder engine and a gearless transmission (a.k.a.
#2022 subaru ascent onyx edition colors driver
Every version of the mid-size crossover is equipped with numerous driver assists, including adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. With standard all-wheel drive and abundant passenger space, the three-row 2022 Subaru Ascent will appeal to the brand's fans, especially those with a growing family.
