Hey everyone! Let's dive deep into the Subaru Ascent 2022 Premium, a fantastic SUV that's been making waves. We're going to explore everything from its features and performance to what makes it stand out in the crowded SUV market. This isn't just a casual glance; we're talking about a comprehensive review to help you understand if this is the right ride for you. Whether you're a long-time Subaru fan or just starting your car-hunting journey, buckle up – it's going to be a fun ride!

Unveiling the 2022 Ascent Premium: Key Features

Alright, guys, let's kick things off by taking a look at the core of the Subaru Ascent 2022 Premium. This SUV is all about blending practicality with a touch of luxury, making it a solid choice for families and adventurers alike. The Premium trim level sits comfortably in the middle of the Ascent lineup, offering a sweet spot in terms of features and value. You're getting a bunch of great stuff without breaking the bank, which is always a win!

First off, space is the name of the game here. The Ascent boasts three rows of seating, comfortably accommodating up to eight passengers. Imagine all the possibilities! Road trips with the whole crew, hauling gear for your hobbies, or just having extra room for the kids and their friends. The versatility is seriously impressive. Plus, the interior is thoughtfully designed, with plenty of headroom and legroom for everyone, even those in the third row. Subaru has done a great job of maximizing space without making the cabin feel cramped.

Now, let's talk tech. The Ascent Premium comes equipped with a user-friendly infotainment system, usually featuring a touchscreen display. You'll find Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, which means you can seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation. No more fumbling with your phone while driving – everything is right there at your fingertips. Subaru also typically includes their suite of advanced safety features, known as EyeSight. This system incorporates things like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and pre-collision braking, all designed to make your driving experience safer and more stress-free. Trust me, these features can be real game-changers, especially on long drives.

Under the hood, you'll likely find a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine provides a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, making the Ascent capable in various driving conditions. It has plenty of punch for everyday driving and can even handle some light off-roading adventures. And of course, being a Subaru, you get standard all-wheel drive. This is a huge advantage, especially if you live in an area with challenging weather conditions. You'll have better traction and control in rain, snow, or even on gravel roads, giving you added confidence behind the wheel. The 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium is a well-rounded SUV. It’s got space, tech, safety features, and a capable engine, making it a strong contender in its class.

Performance and Driving Experience

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty of how the 2022 Ascent Premium performs on the road. We're talking about the driving experience, what it's like to actually drive this thing. Subaru has always been known for its all-wheel-drive system, and the Ascent is no exception. It's a key element that significantly influences how the car handles and feels.

The all-wheel-drive system, typically standard on the Ascent, provides excellent traction and stability. This is a major advantage, especially in challenging weather conditions like rain, snow, or even icy roads. You'll feel more confident behind the wheel, knowing that the car is gripping the road and responding to your inputs. The system intelligently distributes power to the wheels with the most grip, helping to prevent skidding and maintaining control. In terms of power, the 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine offers a good balance of performance and efficiency. You'll have enough power for everyday driving, merging onto the highway, and even passing other vehicles. The turbocharger provides a quick boost of power when you need it, making the Ascent feel responsive and peppy. The engine is generally paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps to optimize fuel efficiency. While some drivers prefer a traditional automatic transmission, the CVT in the Ascent is well-tuned and delivers smooth and seamless shifts.

When it comes to handling, the Ascent is designed for comfort and practicality rather than sporty performance. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a smooth and comfortable ride for passengers. The steering is generally light and easy to manage, making the Ascent maneuverable in city driving and parking situations. However, if you're looking for a vehicle with a particularly sporty or engaging driving experience, the Ascent might not be your top choice. But if your priorities are comfort, safety, and all-weather capability, the Ascent delivers admirably. The Ascent’s performance makes it a solid and reliable SUV, ideal for family trips, daily commutes, and even light off-road adventures. Its all-wheel-drive system and comfortable ride contribute to an enjoyable driving experience, no matter the conditions.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Alright, let's talk about the cozy stuff – the interior of the 2022 Ascent Premium. This is where you and your passengers will spend most of your time, so it's crucial that it's comfortable, functional, and enjoyable. Subaru generally nails this, and the Ascent Premium doesn't disappoint.

First off, let's talk space. The Ascent boasts a spacious cabin, with three rows of seating. This means it can comfortably accommodate up to eight passengers, depending on the seating configuration. There's plenty of headroom and legroom in all rows, even for taller adults. The third row isn't just for kids; it's genuinely usable by adults on shorter trips. Legroom is decent, and access to the third row is relatively easy, thanks to the second-row seats that slide and tilt. Now, let’s talk about the materials and build quality. The Ascent Premium usually offers a mix of materials, providing a balance of durability and comfort. The seats are typically upholstered in cloth or a combination of cloth and leatherette, depending on the specific package. The materials are generally of good quality and hold up well over time. The dashboard and door panels are usually made of soft-touch materials, which adds to the overall feeling of quality.

When it comes to technology, the Ascent Premium is well-equipped. The infotainment system is user-friendly and usually features a touchscreen display. You can connect your smartphone using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to access your favorite apps, music, and navigation directly from the car's screen. The system is intuitive to use, and the display is clear and easy to see. Subaru's EyeSight suite of safety features is also included. This includes things like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and pre-collision braking. These features actively help prevent accidents and make driving safer. The Ascent Premium is a well-designed and comfortable SUV, perfect for families and anyone who values space and technology. The spacious interior, quality materials, and user-friendly technology create a pleasant driving experience for everyone on board. It is the perfect car to go on a trip with your friends and family.

Safety Features and Driver-Assistance Technologies

Alright, safety first, right? Let's break down the safety features and driver-assistance technologies that make the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium a standout choice, especially for families. Subaru has always prioritized safety, and the Ascent is packed with features designed to protect you and your passengers.

At the heart of the Ascent's safety suite is Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. EyeSight is a comprehensive system that uses cameras and sensors to monitor the road and provide assistance to the driver. It includes several key features: Adaptive Cruise Control, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front; Lane Keep Assist and Sway Warning, which helps to keep you in your lane and alerts you if you start to drift; Pre-Collision Braking, which can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an impending collision; and Pre-Collision Throttle Management, which reduces engine power to minimize the impact of a front-end collision. These features are all designed to help prevent accidents and mitigate the severity of a crash. In addition to EyeSight, the Ascent Premium also includes other safety features. These include Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, which help you to be aware of vehicles in your blind spots and warn you of approaching traffic when backing up; Rear-Vision Camera, which provides a clear view of what's behind you when reversing; and a full complement of airbags, including front, side, curtain, and driver's knee airbags.

Structural safety is also a priority for Subaru. The Ascent is built with a high-strength steel frame and has been engineered to absorb impact energy in a collision. The vehicle's design and construction help to protect occupants in the event of a crash. The Ascent has received excellent safety ratings from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), further validating its commitment to safety. The 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium provides a comprehensive safety package, giving you peace of mind on the road. The combination of advanced driver-assistance technologies, structural safety features, and excellent safety ratings makes it a top choice for anyone prioritizing safety in their SUV. It has everything you need to feel confident behind the wheel, knowing that you and your passengers are protected.

Trim Levels and Pricing

Alright, let's talk about options and how much this bad boy costs. The 2022 Subaru Ascent comes in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and price points. We're focusing on the Premium trim, but let's briefly touch on the others to give you the full picture.

The base model is the Ascent, which offers a good starting point with essential features and is the most affordable option. Then you have the Premium, which strikes a balance between features and value. It adds some nice-to-haves without significantly increasing the price. Above the Premium, you'll usually find the Limited, which adds more luxury features like leather upholstery, a premium sound system, and additional tech. Finally, there's the top-of-the-line Touring trim, which is the most luxurious and fully-loaded option, offering things like a panoramic sunroof, more advanced driver-assistance features, and upgraded interior materials. The price of the 2022 Ascent Premium typically falls in the mid-range of the Ascent lineup. While the exact price can vary depending on options and location, you can expect to pay a reasonable amount for the features and value it offers.

The price of any car will depend on a variety of factors: the options you choose, any packages you add, and where you buy the car. It is important to compare prices from different dealerships and to consider any incentives or financing offers that might be available. The Ascent Premium offers a compelling combination of features, space, and value. It's often considered the sweet spot in the Ascent lineup, offering a great balance of comfort, convenience, and technology without breaking the bank. Always make sure to check the manufacturer's website or consult with your local Subaru dealer for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information. Choosing the right trim level depends on your personal preferences and budget. The Ascent Premium is a great choice if you're looking for a well-equipped SUV that offers a comfortable and practical driving experience.

Pros and Cons of the 2022 Ascent Premium

Alright, let's wrap things up with a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium. This will help you make a final decision about whether it's the right SUV for you.

Pros:

• Spacious Interior: The Ascent boasts three rows of seating, making it ideal for families or anyone who needs to transport a lot of passengers or gear. There's plenty of space in all rows, and the third row is surprisingly usable by adults.
• Standard All-Wheel Drive: Subaru's all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions, giving you confidence on the road, no matter the situation.
• Advanced Safety Features: The Ascent Premium comes standard with Subaru's EyeSight suite of driver-assistance technologies, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, pre-collision braking, and more. These features can help prevent accidents and make driving safer.
• User-Friendly Infotainment: The infotainment system is typically intuitive and easy to use, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone.
• Good Value: The Ascent Premium offers a lot of features and space for its price point, making it a good value proposition in the SUV market.

Cons:

• Engine Performance: While the turbocharged engine provides adequate power, some drivers might find it a bit underwhelming, especially when fully loaded. The acceleration isn't as quick as some other SUVs in its class.
• Fuel Economy: The fuel economy is decent for an SUV of this size, but it's not the best in its class. You might find yourself making more frequent trips to the gas station.
• Ride Quality: The ride quality is generally comfortable, but it can feel a bit soft and boaty at times, especially on rough roads. It might not be as engaging to drive as some sportier SUVs.
• Interior Materials: While the interior is well-designed, some of the materials could be upgraded. Some rivals offer a more premium feel with higher-quality materials.

Overall, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium is a great option for those seeking a spacious, safe, and reliable SUV. It's especially well-suited for families and anyone who values all-wheel-drive capability. However, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons based on your priorities and driving needs. If you prioritize space, safety, and all-weather capability, the Ascent Premium is a strong contender. The Ascent is a great choice for those seeking a practical, reliable, and family-friendly SUV.