2022 Subaru Ascent Touring: A Detailed Review

Oct 23, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 46 views

2022 Subaru Ascent Touring: A Deep Dive Review

Hey everyone! Today, we're diving headfirst into a detailed review of the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring. This SUV has been making waves, and for good reason. It's packed with features, offers a ton of space, and boasts that legendary Subaru reliability. So, if you're in the market for a family-friendly SUV, or you're just curious about what the Ascent Touring has to offer, you're in the right place. We're going to break down everything from its performance and interior to its technology and safety features. Get ready to explore what makes the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring a compelling choice in the competitive SUV market. Let's get started!

Unveiling the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring's Core Features

First off, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring isn't just another SUV; it's a statement. It's Subaru's largest vehicle, designed to comfortably accommodate up to eight passengers (or seven with the captain's chairs in the second row, which is what the Touring trim boasts). This model year brings a host of updates, but it fundamentally builds on the Ascent's strong foundation of practicality and capability. At its core, the Ascent Touring is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder BOXER engine, delivering a peppy 260 horsepower. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which contributes to smooth acceleration and, importantly, good fuel economy for a vehicle of its size. Standard across all Ascent models is Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a feature that significantly enhances its handling and provides added confidence in various driving conditions, whether you're navigating snowy roads or tackling a bit of light off-roading. The Touring trim level, specifically, elevates the experience with premium features, including leather-trimmed upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and a host of advanced driver-assistance systems. These features are designed to make every journey as comfortable and safe as possible. The Ascent Touring also stands out with its generous cargo space. Behind the third row, you'll find ample room for groceries or luggage, and with the rear seats folded down, you can create a vast cargo area capable of handling larger items. Furthermore, the Ascent Touring is well-equipped with technology, featuring a large touchscreen infotainment system, smartphone integration, and a suite of connectivity features. The overall design of the Ascent Touring strikes a balance between ruggedness and sophistication. Its exterior features a bold front fascia, a sculpted body, and a confident stance, while the interior offers a comfortable and well-appointed environment. The choice of materials and the attention to detail reflect Subaru's commitment to quality and craftsmanship, making the Ascent Touring an appealing option for families seeking a versatile and reliable SUV.

Detailed Specs and Performance Insights

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty and talk about the numbers. The 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring has some impressive specifications that make it stand out in its class. Under the hood, the 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engine produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine configuration provides brisk acceleration, allowing the Ascent to merge onto highways with ease and navigate city traffic without feeling sluggish. The CVT transmission, while sometimes a point of contention for driving enthusiasts, works harmoniously with the engine to provide smooth and efficient power delivery. One of the standout features of the Ascent is its all-wheel-drive system. Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is not just a marketing gimmick; it's a genuinely effective system that distributes power to all four wheels, optimizing traction in various road conditions. This is particularly beneficial in areas with inclement weather, providing enhanced stability and control on slippery surfaces like snow or ice. In terms of fuel efficiency, the Ascent Touring achieves respectable numbers for its size. Expect to see around 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, making it relatively fuel-efficient for a three-row SUV. The Ascent also boasts a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, which is more than enough for pulling a small trailer, boat, or camper. The Ascent's dimensions also play a crucial role in its functionality. It offers plenty of headroom and legroom in all three rows, ensuring that passengers of all sizes can travel comfortably. The cargo capacity is equally impressive. With all seats in use, there is still a decent amount of space for groceries. Folding down the rear seats significantly expands the cargo area, making it ideal for carrying larger items. The Ascent Touring's performance isn't just about raw power; it's about the balance of capability, efficiency, and practicality, making it a well-rounded choice for families and adventurers alike.

Interior: Comfort, Technology, and Space

Step inside the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring, and you'll be greeted by an interior that prioritizes comfort, technology, and space. The Touring trim takes things up a notch with its premium touches, elevating the overall driving experience. One of the first things you'll notice is the leather-trimmed upholstery, which adds a touch of luxury and refinement to the cabin. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, providing comfort on long journeys. The driver's seat typically offers power adjustments, allowing you to find the perfect driving position with ease. The second row in the Touring model features captain's chairs, which not only enhance comfort for passengers but also create a more spacious and accessible environment. The third row, while best suited for children or smaller adults, is surprisingly accommodating compared to some of its competitors. Space is definitely a major selling point of the Ascent. The panoramic sunroof, standard on the Touring, floods the cabin with natural light, making the interior feel even more open and airy. This feature is particularly appreciated by passengers in the rear seats, who can enjoy a great view of the sky. In terms of technology, the Ascent Touring is well-equipped. It boasts a large touchscreen infotainment system, typically measuring around 8 inches, that serves as the central hub for all your entertainment and connectivity needs. The system is intuitive and user-friendly, with easy-to-navigate menus and responsive touch controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation systems. The Touring trim also often includes premium audio systems, enhancing the sound quality for a more immersive listening experience. Furthermore, the Ascent Touring incorporates a range of thoughtful features to enhance convenience and usability. These may include multiple USB ports throughout the cabin, allowing passengers to charge their devices. Climate control is often zoned, ensuring that different areas of the vehicle can be set to different temperatures. The overall design of the interior is clean and modern, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. Subaru has clearly focused on creating a comfortable and functional space that caters to the needs of modern families. From the premium seating to the advanced technology, the interior of the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring is designed to make every journey enjoyable and convenient.

Infotainment and Connectivity Features

Alright, let's get techy! The 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring is loaded with features to keep you connected and entertained on the go. At the heart of it all is a user-friendly infotainment system, usually displayed on a touchscreen. The size of the screen can vary slightly depending on the specific model, but it's typically large enough to make navigation and control easy. The infotainment system supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This means you can seamlessly integrate your smartphone, accessing your favorite apps, music, and navigation directly from the car's screen. No more fumbling with your phone while driving! Bluetooth connectivity is, of course, a given, allowing for hands-free calling and audio streaming. You can easily pair your phone and stream your playlists or podcasts without needing to plug anything in. Multiple USB ports are strategically placed throughout the cabin, ensuring that everyone can keep their devices charged. The Ascent often includes USB-A and USB-C ports, catering to a range of device types. Some trims also feature wireless charging pads, adding to the convenience. Higher trims often come with premium audio systems, providing excellent sound quality. This enhances the overall listening experience, whether you're listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks. Integrated navigation systems are frequently offered, providing turn-by-turn directions and real-time traffic updates. This can be especially useful for long trips or unfamiliar areas. The Ascent Touring also often includes a Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing passengers to connect their devices to the internet. This is a great feature for keeping kids entertained on road trips or for remote work on the go. Subaru's Starlink system is often integrated, providing access to a suite of connected services. These may include remote vehicle start, emergency assistance, and vehicle diagnostics. The infotainment system's design is intuitive, with easy-to-navigate menus and responsive touch controls. Subaru has clearly put effort into creating a system that is both functional and user-friendly, ensuring that drivers and passengers can easily access and enjoy all the available features. The technology in the Ascent Touring isn't just about gadgets; it's about enhancing the overall driving experience and making every journey more convenient and enjoyable.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Systems

Safety is paramount, and the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring doesn't disappoint. Subaru is known for its commitment to safety, and the Ascent is packed with advanced driver-assistance systems designed to protect you and your passengers. The foundation of the Ascent's safety features is Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. This suite of features uses stereo cameras to monitor the road and provide assistance in various driving scenarios. Key features of EyeSight include: Adaptive Cruise Control: This system automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, which is super helpful on long highway drives. Pre-Collision Braking: If the system detects a potential collision, it can automatically apply the brakes to help avoid or mitigate the impact. Lane Departure and Sway Warning: This alerts you if you drift out of your lane or start to sway, helping to prevent accidents. Lane Keeping Assist: This system helps to keep the vehicle centered in its lane, providing gentle steering assistance. In addition to EyeSight, the Ascent Touring includes other safety features such as Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist. This system alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, making it safer to change lanes. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert is also included, which alerts you to approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space. These features are designed to enhance your awareness and help you avoid collisions. The Ascent also boasts a sturdy construction and a comprehensive airbag system, providing further protection in the event of an accident. Subaru's commitment to safety is evident in the Ascent's excellent safety ratings from organizations like the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). These ratings provide reassurance that the Ascent is designed to protect its occupants in the event of a crash. Furthermore, the Ascent Touring often includes additional safety features such as a Driver Monitoring System. This system monitors the driver's attentiveness and can provide warnings if it detects signs of fatigue or distraction. Subaru's dedication to safety is one of the key selling points of the Ascent. The combination of advanced driver-assistance systems, a robust construction, and excellent safety ratings make the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring a safe and reliable choice for families.

EyeSight and Other Key Safety Technologies

Let's zoom in on the specific safety technologies that make the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring a standout in terms of safety. The cornerstone is, as mentioned, Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. EyeSight is more than just a single feature; it's a comprehensive suite designed to provide a higher level of protection on the road. Adaptive Cruise Control is a key element, allowing you to set a desired speed and maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. The system automatically adjusts your speed to keep pace with traffic, making highway driving less stressful and more comfortable. Pre-Collision Braking is another crucial component. Using stereo cameras, EyeSight monitors the road ahead and can detect potential collisions. If a collision is imminent, the system can automatically apply the brakes to help avoid or reduce the severity of the impact. Lane Departure and Sway Warning alert the driver if they start to drift out of their lane or exhibit signs of erratic driving. This helps to prevent accidents caused by driver inattention or fatigue. Lane Keeping Assist complements this by providing gentle steering assistance to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane, especially on highways. Beyond EyeSight, the Ascent Touring incorporates other valuable safety features. Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots, making lane changes safer and more confident. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert is a must-have feature, providing warnings of approaching vehicles when backing out of parking spaces or driveways. The Driver Monitoring System is also noteworthy. This system uses an infrared camera to monitor the driver's face for signs of fatigue or distraction. If the system detects these signs, it can provide warnings to encourage the driver to take a break or refocus. These technologies aren't just about preventing accidents; they're about providing drivers with peace of mind. Subaru's commitment to safety is evident in the comprehensive nature of these features, making the 2022 Ascent Touring a top choice for families and anyone prioritizing safety on the road.

Driving Experience: Performance and Handling

Alright, let's get behind the wheel and talk about the driving experience of the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring. The Ascent is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engine, which delivers a solid 260 horsepower. This engine provides adequate power for everyday driving, including merging onto highways and navigating city streets. The turbocharged nature of the engine ensures that there is enough low-end torque, which contributes to a more responsive feel, especially when accelerating from a standstill. The engine is mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While some drivers may prefer a traditional automatic transmission, the CVT in the Ascent is tuned to provide smooth and efficient power delivery. It helps contribute to decent fuel economy for a vehicle of this size. Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard on all Ascent models, and it's a key factor in the vehicle's handling and overall driving experience. The AWD system provides excellent traction and stability in various road conditions, including rain, snow, and ice. This gives drivers added confidence and control, especially during inclement weather. The Ascent's suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. While it's not designed to be a sports car, it handles well for its size, with minimal body roll in corners. The steering is light and precise, making the Ascent easy to maneuver, especially in tight spaces. The driver can also adjust the driving modes, depending on the driving conditions. These modes may include settings for snow, mud, or deep snow, enhancing the vehicle's capability in challenging environments. The Ascent Touring offers a composed and enjoyable driving experience. It's not a thrill ride, but it provides a smooth, comfortable, and capable ride that's well-suited for families and everyday driving. The combination of the turbocharged engine, the CVT, the all-wheel-drive system, and the well-tuned suspension makes the Ascent a practical and reliable SUV.

Ride Quality and Road Manners

Let's dive deeper into the ride quality and road manners of the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring. The Ascent is designed to provide a comfortable and composed driving experience. One of the key factors contributing to this is the suspension system, which is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road. This means that passengers are less likely to feel the jarring effects of potholes or rough surfaces, resulting in a smoother ride. The Ascent's all-wheel-drive system also plays a significant role in its road manners. The Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive provides excellent traction and stability in various road conditions, including rain, snow, and ice. This enhances the driver's confidence and control, making the Ascent feel secure and planted on the road. The steering is light and precise, making the Ascent easy to maneuver, especially in city driving situations and tight parking spaces. The vehicle's size doesn't feel overly cumbersome, and the driver can easily navigate through traffic and navigate parking lots. The Ascent also offers a relatively quiet cabin. Subaru has made efforts to minimize road and wind noise, which contributes to a more relaxed and enjoyable driving experience. Passengers can converse easily without having to raise their voices, and the overall ambiance is conducive to comfortable travel. The Ascent's driving modes offer additional customization for different driving conditions. The system automatically distributes power to the wheels for optimal traction, and the stability control system can help to maintain control in slippery conditions. These features further contribute to the Ascent's overall ride quality and road manners, making it a well-rounded and versatile SUV.

Pros and Cons: A Balanced View

Alright, let's take a look at the good, the bad, and the so-so of the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring. This way, you can get a clear picture of what this SUV has to offer. On the plus side, the Ascent Touring is packed with a ton of space. It's a three-row SUV, making it ideal for families. It offers plenty of legroom and headroom in all three rows, and the cargo capacity is impressive. The standard all-wheel drive is a huge advantage, especially if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions. It provides excellent traction and stability, boosting your confidence on the road. The EyeSight suite of safety features is a major draw, including adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Touring trim level boasts a luxurious interior with premium features such as leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system. However, nothing is perfect, right? Here are some cons to consider. The engine, while capable, isn't the most powerful in its class. Some drivers may find the acceleration to be a bit sluggish, especially when fully loaded. The CVT transmission, while smooth, may not appeal to those who prefer the feel of a traditional automatic transmission. Fuel economy is decent for a three-row SUV, but it's not class-leading. Some competitors offer slightly better fuel efficiency. The infotainment system, while functional, might not be as visually striking or feature-rich as some of the competitors' offerings. The third row is best suited for children or smaller adults, so taller passengers may find it a bit cramped. Overall, the Ascent Touring offers a compelling package, with a great balance of space, safety, and features. Its strengths lie in its practicality, reliability, and all-weather capability. It's a fantastic option for families who prioritize safety and space.

Summary of Advantages and Disadvantages

To give you a concise overview, here's a breakdown of the key pros and cons of the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring:

Pros:

Spacious Interior: The Ascent offers ample room for passengers in all three rows, making it ideal for families and larger groups.
Standard All-Wheel Drive: Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive provides excellent traction and stability in various road conditions.
Comprehensive Safety Features: The EyeSight suite of driver-assistance technologies offers enhanced protection and peace of mind.
Premium Touring Trim: The Touring trim includes luxurious features such as leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system.
Versatile Cargo Space: The Ascent offers generous cargo capacity, with a large cargo area that can be expanded by folding down the rear seats.

Cons:

Engine Performance: The 2.4-liter turbocharged engine may not feel as powerful as some competitors' engines, especially when fully loaded.
CVT Transmission: Some drivers may prefer the feel of a traditional automatic transmission over the CVT.
Fuel Economy: While decent, the fuel economy is not class-leading for a three-row SUV.
Infotainment System: The infotainment system, while functional, may not be as visually appealing or feature-rich as some competitors' systems.
Third-Row Space: The third row is best suited for children or smaller adults, and taller passengers may find it cramped.

This summary provides a quick reference to the strengths and weaknesses of the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring, helping you to make an informed decision when considering this SUV.

Conclusion: Should You Buy the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring?

So, after all this, the big question: Should you buy the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring? Well, if you're in the market for a spacious, safe, and reliable SUV that's perfect for families, then the answer is a resounding YES! The Ascent Touring truly shines when it comes to practicality and functionality. It offers tons of space for passengers and cargo, ensuring everyone can travel comfortably. The standard all-wheel-drive system provides peace of mind, especially if you live in an area with challenging weather conditions. The advanced safety features are top-notch, keeping you and your loved ones protected on the road. The Touring trim takes the experience up a notch with its premium touches, making every drive feel luxurious. However, it's not for everyone. If you prioritize blistering acceleration or are a driving enthusiast who loves the feel of a powerful engine, the Ascent might not be the best choice. If you're looking for class-leading fuel economy, you might find some competitors that offer slightly better numbers. Ultimately, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring is a fantastic choice for anyone who values space, safety, and reliability. It's a well-rounded SUV that's perfect for families and anyone who needs a versatile vehicle that can handle anything life throws your way. So, if you're looking for an SUV that offers a great balance of features and value, the Ascent Touring is definitely worth considering. Go take one for a test drive, and see for yourself! You won't be disappointed.