2022 Subaru Ascent Touring AWD: The Ultimate Family SUV

What's up, car enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into a ride that's been making waves in the SUV scene: the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring AWD. If you're a parent, a road-tripper, or just someone who appreciates a blend of rugged capability and refined comfort, then you're going to want to stick around. We're talking about a vehicle that Subaru designed with families in mind, packing in all the safety, space, and tech you could ask for, all wrapped up in that signature Subaru AWD goodness.

Engine and Performance: Powering Your Adventures

Let's kick things off with what's under the hood, guys. The 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring AWD comes standard with a 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engine. Now, "BOXER" might sound a little quirky, but it's a Subaru staple, meaning the pistons move horizontally, which keeps the center of gravity nice and low. This translates to better stability and handling, which is a huge win when you're navigating tricky roads or just cruising down the highway. This engine pumps out a healthy 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It's not going to win any drag races, but for a family SUV that needs to haul people and gear, it's more than enough. You'll feel a confident surge of power when you need it, whether you're merging onto the freeway or climbing a steep hill. Plus, Subaru's Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) is tuned for smoothness, ensuring that acceleration feels progressive and unobtrusive. What really sets the Ascent apart, though, is its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Seriously, guys, this isn't an option you pay extra for; it's baked into the Ascent's DNA. Subaru's AWD system is renowned for its ability to provide excellent traction and stability in all sorts of weather conditions – think rain, snow, or even a bit of light off-roading. The system constantly monitors wheel slip and adjusts power distribution to the wheels that have the most grip. This means you can feel confident and secure, no matter what the road throws at you. The ride quality is also worth mentioning. Subaru has done a commendable job of balancing comfort with control. The suspension soaks up bumps and imperfections in the road nicely, making for a comfortable ride on long journeys. Yet, it doesn't feel mushy or disconnected. You still get a good sense of what the road is doing underneath you, which adds to the overall driving confidence. The towing capacity is also respectable, topping out at 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, which is enough for a small camper, a couple of jet skis, or a utility trailer. So, whether you're heading to the mountains for a ski trip, the lake for a summer getaway, or just navigating the daily grind, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring AWD has the power and the all-weather capability to get you there safely and comfortably.

Interior and Comfort: A Haven for Your Family

Now, let's talk about the inside, because this is where the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring AWD truly shines as a family hauler. Subaru really stepped up their game with the Touring trim, making it feel premium and incredibly functional. You've got seating for up to eight people, depending on your configuration (captain's chairs in the second row reduce seating to seven, but offer more comfort for those passengers). The cabin is surprisingly spacious. Adults can actually sit comfortably in the second and even the third rows, which is a rarity in many mid-size SUVs. This is huge, guys, especially if you have older kids or frequently carpool. The seats themselves are plush and supportive, particularly the front seats which are heated and ventilated on the Touring model. The driver's seat also boasts a 12-way power adjustment, making it easy to find that perfect driving position. But it's not just about the seats; it's the little touches that make the Ascent Touring feel special. You've got premium materials throughout, like soft-touch plastics, nice leather trim, and tasteful wood accents. It feels a lot more upscale than you might expect from a Subaru, honestly. The panoramic moonroof is a standout feature, flooding the cabin with natural light and making it feel even more open and airy. For the kids, there are plenty of cupholders (seriously, a ridiculous number) and USB ports scattered throughout all three rows, ensuring everyone can stay charged up and hydrated on long trips. Storage is also plentiful, with a decent-sized cargo area behind the third row that can be expanded by folding down the seats. Subaru has also thoughtfully included numerous smaller storage compartments for stashing away essentials. The infotainment system is another highlight. The Touring trim comes with a large 8-inch touchscreen display that's responsive and easy to use. It features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, so you can seamlessly connect your smartphone for navigation, music, and calls. The Harman Kardon premium audio system is also fantastic, delivering crisp and clear sound quality that will make your commute or road trip playlist sound amazing. Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is also integrated into the cabin, with a camera that can read traffic signs and display them on the infotainment screen. Overall, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring AWD interior is designed to be a comfortable, connected, and convenient space for everyone, making those long family adventures a real pleasure rather than a chore.

Technology and Safety: Peace of Mind on Every Drive

Let's talk about what really matters when you're driving your most precious cargo: technology and safety, and the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring AWD absolutely nails it. Subaru has always been a leader in safety, and the Ascent Touring is no exception, packing in an impressive suite of features designed to protect you and your passengers. First off, the standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive we talked about earlier? That's a safety feature in itself, providing superior grip and stability in challenging conditions. But Subaru goes way beyond that with their EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. This is like having an extra set of eyes on the road. It includes features like Pre-Collision Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, and Lead Vehicle Start Alert. Adaptive Cruise Control is a game-changer for highway driving; it maintains a set speed and distance from the car in front of you, automatically braking and accelerating as needed. Lane Keep Assist gently nudges you back into your lane if you start to drift. Pre-Collision Braking can even help prevent or mitigate a frontal collision. On the Touring trim, you get even more advanced safety features, like Blind-Spot Detection and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. These systems are invaluable for monitoring those tricky blind spots when changing lanes or backing out of parking spaces. The rearview camera is also standard, providing a clear view of what's behind you, and the Touring model gets a high-resolution version. Parking in tight spots is made easier with the available front and rear parking sensors. The cabin itself is built with Subaru's Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame, which is designed to absorb and redirect impact energy away from the occupants in the event of a collision. You also get a comprehensive array of airbags throughout the cabin. Beyond safety, the tech in the Ascent Touring is designed to keep you connected and entertained. The aforementioned 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is fantastic. But Subaru also includes a premium Harman Kardon audio system, multiple USB ports, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Touring model also features a built-in navigation system, which is convenient if you don't want to rely solely on your phone. And for those long trips, the rear-seat reminder system is a thoughtful addition, helping you remember to check the back seat for children or pets before you exit the vehicle. The 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring AWD isn't just a comfortable place to be; it's a technologically advanced and incredibly safe environment, giving you the peace of mind you need to focus on the road and enjoy your journey with your loved ones. It truly embodies Subaru's commitment to safety and innovation.

Fuel Economy: Surprisingly Efficient for its Size

Now, let's get real for a second, guys. When you're looking at a three-row SUV with standard all-wheel drive and a turbocharged engine, fuel economy isn't always the first thing that comes to mind. However, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring AWD actually performs admirably in this department, especially considering its size and capabilities. Subaru has managed to strike a pretty good balance between power and efficiency. The EPA estimates for the 2022 Ascent are around 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. While this might not set any records for a compact sedan, it's quite competitive within the mid-size, three-row SUV segment, particularly when you factor in the standard AWD system, which typically reduces fuel efficiency. The aforementioned Lineartronic CVT plays a big role here. It's designed to keep the engine in its most efficient operating range, helping to maximize mileage. The turbocharged engine also allows for smaller, more efficient engine displacements while still providing ample power, which is a smart engineering move. For families who are constantly on the go, whether it's school runs, sports practice, or weekend getaways, these fuel economy figures translate into manageable running costs. You're not going to be paying astronomical prices at the pump compared to some of its less efficient competitors. It's also worth noting that these are EPA estimates, and your real-world mileage may vary depending on driving habits, road conditions, and how much weight you're carrying. However, with smart driving practices, like maintaining a steady speed on the highway and avoiding excessive idling, you can certainly get close to those figures. The fuel tank capacity is also a respectable 19.3 gallons, giving you a decent driving range before needing to refuel. This means fewer stops on those long road trips, which is always a plus when you've got impatient passengers. So, while the Ascent Touring isn't a hybrid, it offers a surprisingly efficient package for a vehicle of its size and capability. It proves that you don't necessarily have to sacrifice too much in terms of fuel economy to get the space, safety, and all-wheel-drive performance that families often need. The 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring AWD demonstrates that practicality and efficiency can go hand-in-hand.

Conclusion: The Smart Choice for Modern Families

So, after breaking down the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring AWD, what's the final verdict? It's a resounding success, guys. Subaru has delivered a truly compelling package that checks all the boxes for what most modern families are looking for in an SUV. It masterfully blends robust capability with upscale comfort and cutting-edge technology, all while prioritizing safety – a hallmark of the Subaru brand. The standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is a massive confidence booster, ensuring you and your loved ones can tackle any weather or road condition with security. The spacious and well-appointed interior, especially in the Touring trim, offers a premium experience with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The advanced safety features, like the comprehensive EyeSight suite, provide invaluable peace of mind on every journey. And while fuel economy might not be its absolute strongest suit, it's surprisingly competitive for its class, making it a practical choice for everyday use and long-distance adventures. The 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring AWD isn't just another SUV; it's a thoughtful and well-executed vehicle that understands the demands of family life. It offers a refined driving experience, ample power, and the versatility to adapt to whatever your life throws at it. If you're in the market for a reliable, safe, and comfortable three-row SUV that doesn't skimp on features or performance, the 2022 Ascent Touring AWD should absolutely be at the top of your list. It's a smart investment for families seeking adventure and everyday convenience.