Let's dive into the 2022 Subaru Ascent Limited! If you're in the market for a reliable, family-friendly SUV packed with features, the Ascent Limited might just be your perfect match. This article will explore everything you need to know about the 2022 Subaru Ascent Limited, from its performance and interior comforts to its advanced safety features and technology. So, buckle up and get ready for a comprehensive overview!

Performance and Powertrain

When it comes to performance, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Limited doesn't disappoint. Under the hood, you'll find a robust 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers a satisfying blend of power and efficiency. This engine cranks out 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of oomph for daily commutes, long road trips, and even some light off-roading. The Ascent comes standard with Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, ensuring excellent traction and stability in various driving conditions. Whether navigating snowy roads or tackling a gravel path, the Ascent's AWD system inspires confidence.

The engine is paired with a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT), which is designed to maximize fuel efficiency while providing smooth and seamless gear changes. Although CVTs sometimes get a bad rap for their droning sound, Subaru's CVT is well-tuned and responsive. It mimics the behavior of a traditional automatic transmission, offering simulated gear steps for a more natural driving experience. Fuel economy is respectable for a vehicle of this size, with EPA ratings of around 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. This makes the Ascent a practical choice for families who need a spacious SUV without sacrificing fuel efficiency.

Furthermore, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Limited boasts a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. This makes it a capable tow vehicle for hauling trailers, boats, or other recreational equipment. The Ascent also features trailer stability assist, which helps to keep the vehicle and trailer stable while towing. This feature is especially useful in windy conditions or when making sudden maneuvers. The Ascent's combination of power, all-wheel drive, and towing capability makes it a versatile SUV that can handle a wide range of tasks.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2022 Subaru Ascent Limited, you'll be greeted by a spacious and well-appointed cabin. The Limited trim comes standard with leather upholstery, which adds a touch of luxury and comfort to the seats. The front seats are heated and power-adjustable, providing excellent support and comfort for long drives. The second-row seats are also heated, ensuring that your passengers in the back stay warm and cozy during cold weather. With three rows of seating, the Ascent can comfortably accommodate up to eight passengers. Alternatively, you can opt for the seven-passenger configuration, which replaces the second-row bench seat with two captain's chairs. This configuration provides easier access to the third row and gives second-row passengers more personal space.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent Limited is packed with technology features that enhance the driving experience. The centerpiece of the dashboard is an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is easy to use and responsive. The system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation. The Ascent also comes standard with a Wi-Fi hotspot, which allows you to connect multiple devices to the internet while on the go. Other notable tech features include a premium Harman Kardon audio system, a power moonroof, and a rearview camera.

For added convenience, the Ascent Limited includes features like keyless entry, push-button start, and a power liftgate. The power liftgate makes it easy to load and unload cargo, even when your hands are full. The Ascent also has plenty of storage compartments throughout the cabin, including a large center console, door pockets, and cupholders. The third-row seats can be easily folded down to create more cargo space when needed. With all seats folded, the Ascent offers a generous 75.6 cubic feet of cargo volume, making it one of the most spacious SUVs in its class.

Safety Features

Subaru has always been known for its commitment to safety, and the 2022 Subaru Ascent Limited is no exception. It comes standard with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist system. EyeSight includes features like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. These features work together to help prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe on the road. The adaptive cruise control maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front of you, automatically adjusting your speed as needed. The automatic emergency braking system can detect potential collisions and apply the brakes if you don't react in time. The lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist systems help to keep you centered in your lane, preventing unintentional lane drifts.

In addition to EyeSight, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Limited also comes standard with blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rearview camera. The blind-spot monitoring system alerts you when there is a vehicle in your blind spot, while the rear cross-traffic alert system warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space. The rearview camera provides a clear view of what's behind you, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. The Ascent also features a DriverFocus distraction mitigation system, which uses a camera to monitor the driver's attention level and provide alerts if it detects signs of fatigue or distraction. This feature can help to prevent accidents caused by drowsy or inattentive driving.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent Limited has earned excellent safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It has received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and has been named an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. These accolades are a testament to Subaru's commitment to building safe and reliable vehicles.

Trim-Specific Features of the Limited

The 2022 Subaru Ascent Limited trim stands out with several features that distinguish it from the base and Premium models. As previously mentioned, it includes leather-trimmed upholstery, heated front and rear seats, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. However, there are also other notable upgrades.

On the exterior, the Limited trim gets you chrome door handles, body-color side mirrors with integrated turn signals, and 20-inch alloy wheels. These features give the Ascent a more upscale and sophisticated look. The Limited also includes LED fog lights, which provide better visibility in inclement weather.

Inside, the Limited trim adds a few more convenience features, such as a power-adjustable passenger seat, a memory function for the driver's seat, and a heated steering wheel. The power-adjustable passenger seat makes it easier for your front passenger to find a comfortable seating position. The memory function for the driver's seat allows you to save your preferred seating settings, so you don't have to readjust the seat every time you get in the car. The heated steering wheel keeps your hands warm on cold days.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent Limited also comes standard with a few additional safety features, such as reverse automatic braking. This system can automatically apply the brakes when you're backing up if it detects an obstacle in your path. This feature can help to prevent low-speed collisions and protect pedestrians and other vehicles.

Potential Drawbacks

While the 2022 Subaru Ascent Limited has a lot to offer, it's important to consider some potential drawbacks before making a purchase. One common complaint about the Ascent is its relatively small third-row seat. While it can accommodate adults in a pinch, it's best suited for children or smaller adults on longer trips. If you frequently need to transport adults in the third row, you may want to consider a larger SUV with more third-row legroom.

Another potential drawback is the Ascent's CVT. While Subaru's CVT is well-tuned, some drivers may still prefer the feel of a traditional automatic transmission. CVTs can sometimes feel less responsive than traditional automatics, and they may produce a droning sound under hard acceleration. However, many drivers find that they quickly get used to the CVT and appreciate its fuel-saving benefits.

Finally, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Limited can be a bit pricey, especially when equipped with optional features. The Limited trim is one of the higher trim levels in the Ascent lineup, so it comes with a higher price tag. However, many buyers feel that the extra features and amenities are worth the cost.

Is the 2022 Subaru Ascent Limited Right for You?

The 2022 Subaru Ascent Limited is a well-rounded SUV that offers a lot to families. It has a spacious and comfortable interior, a powerful and efficient engine, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. It's also capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds, making it a versatile choice for those who need to haul trailers or boats.

If you're looking for a reliable, family-friendly SUV that can handle a wide range of tasks, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Limited is definitely worth considering. However, it's important to weigh the pros and cons and consider your specific needs and preferences before making a decision. Be sure to take a test drive and compare it to other SUVs in its class to see if it's the right fit for you.