2022 Subaru Ascent ready for dirt roads and a thirsty family
Subaru’s largest SUV has a daring new look for 2022. The Onyx edition offers a cool aesthetic, with blacked-out grille and darkened 20-inch wheels. Inside, washable synthetic leather seats are quickly ready for the next adventure.
Still, most folks shopping the three-row midsize are more focused on Subaru’s signature feature, standard all-wheel-drive, and the family seating of up to eight. They’ll find plenty of cargo space, cubbies and 19 cup/ bottle holders. Yeah, that’s 2.37 holders per thirsty occupant, so bring a back-up bottle.
The Ascent, like the rest of the Subaru lineup, can take the family on light off-road adventures with help from its ground clearance of 8.7 inches, traction management system and hill descent control. It can handle dirt roads full of puddle dips and jutting rocks, and this Subie can drag along a boat or a couple of ATVs with a tow-rating of up to 5,000 pounds.
It’s equally adept on pavement. Steering is responsive and it has a tight 38-foot turning circle. Its four-wheel independent suspension system is tuned for comfort. Parking
sensors front and rear help guide it into tight spaces at the mall.
The Ascent, which debuted as a 2019 model, looks a lot like Subaru’s Outback: same grille and simple headlight design but on a taller front.
On the highway it is stable and confident with ample passing power. The ride is comfortable for the long hauls but more could be done to isolate the cabin from wind and road noise.
Ascent’s cabin is roomy and comfortable with family-friendly materials that are easy to clean. Top trims like the Limited get heated leather seats, with 10-way power on the driver’s seat and 4-way for the passenger.
Instrument gauges flank a reconfigurable driver data display. A separate screen atop the dash contains off-road info and particulars on Subaru’s X-Mode, which controls the engine, torque and braking to meet snow, dirt or mud conditions.
An 8-inch touchscreen is home to navigation and infotainment with compatibility to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system is not as elaborate as some but has big icons, is responsive to inputs and easy to learn.
Subaru has an extensive list of safety features beyond its AWD, including its EyeSight driver-assist package with automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with lane-keep assist, lane departure warning and reverse automatic braking.
It’s an uphill battle for the Ascent against heavyweights like the Toyota Highlander, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Kia Telluride, with as much as four times the sales. And while there have been some reliability issues in the first couple of years, Consumer Reports magazine says they appear to have been corrected.
The Ascent is ready to serve those with a hunger for exploring and a thirst that requires (are you kidding?) 19 cup and bottle holders.