2022 Subaru Ascent Touring: Your Ultimate Family SUV

Hey guys! If you're on the hunt for a seriously capable and family-friendly SUV, you've gotta check out the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring. Seriously, Subaru has knocked it out of the park with this one. The Ascent is their biggest SUV yet, designed to tackle everything from daily commutes to epic road trips with the whole crew. And the Touring trim? That's where the magic really happens, guys, packing in all the premium features you could ever want. We're talking comfort, tech, and safety – all wrapped up in a package that can handle whatever life throws at it. So, buckle up, because we're diving deep into what makes the 2022 Ascent Touring a total game-changer in the crowded SUV market. It's not just about getting from point A to point B; it's about enjoying the journey, safely and in style. And let me tell you, the Ascent Touring delivers on all fronts.

Why the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring is a Top Pick

When you're looking at the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring, you're looking at the pinnacle of Subaru's SUV offerings. This isn't just another seven or eight-seater; it's a vehicle engineered with the modern family in mind. Subaru has built a reputation for reliability and, crucially, for Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive being standard on every single model. That means no matter which trim you choose, you're getting incredible traction and stability in all sorts of weather conditions – think rain, snow, or even some light off-roading adventures. The Ascent Touring takes this capability and elevates it with a suite of premium amenities. We're talking about a whisper-quiet cabin, plush leather seating, a panoramic sunroof that lets in tons of natural light, and an advanced infotainment system that keeps everyone entertained and connected. Plus, Subaru's commitment to safety is legendary. The EyeSight Driver Assist Technology comes standard, offering features like adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane departure warning. It's like having an extra set of eyes on the road, giving you that much-needed peace of mind when you've got your most precious cargo on board. The Ascent Touring isn't just a car; it's a mobile command center for your family's adventures, designed to make every drive comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. It strikes a fantastic balance between rugged capability and sophisticated comfort, making it a compelling choice for anyone who needs space without sacrificing luxury or performance.

Under the Hood: Power and Performance

Let's talk nuts and bolts, guys. What's powering this beast? The 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring comes standard with a 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engine. Now, don't let the displacement fool you; this engine packs a serious punch, delivering a healthy 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This isn't just about getting moving; it's about having the power to merge onto highways confidently, overtake slower vehicles with ease, and haul your gear without breaking a sweat. What's really cool about the BOXER engine design is its flat, horizontally opposed layout. This lower center of gravity contributes significantly to the Ascent's stable and composed handling. It feels planted on the road, reducing body roll in corners – a definite plus when you're navigating winding roads or carrying a full load of passengers. Mated to this potent engine is Subaru's Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). Now, I know some people have mixed feelings about CVTs, but Subaru's version is one of the best out there. It’s tuned to provide smooth acceleration and keep the engine in its sweet spot for optimal power delivery and fuel efficiency. Plus, it features an 8-speed manual mode with paddle shifters, giving you a bit more control when you want it. And, of course, standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is the cherry on top. This system constantly monitors traction and sends power to the wheels that need it most, ensuring you have grip in virtually any condition. Whether you're dealing with a sudden downpour, a snowy commute, or venturing onto a dirt road, the Ascent Touring is ready. For those who need to tow, the Ascent is capable of pulling up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, making it suitable for towing a small boat, a couple of ATVs, or a utility trailer. It’s a robust powertrain combination that offers both strength and refinement for daily driving and adventurous excursions.

Interior Comfort and Luxury

Step inside the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring, and you'll immediately feel the difference. Subaru has really upped their game in terms of interior refinement, and the Touring trim is where they pull out all the stops. First off, the leather-appointed seating is just gorgeous. It’s soft, supportive, and looks fantastic. On the Touring model, you get heated and ventilated front seats – a real lifesaver on those scorching summer days or freezing winter mornings. The driver's seat also boasts 10-way power adjustment with a memory function, so you can dial in your perfect driving position and have it remember it for you. The second-row passengers aren’t left out either; they get captain's chairs in the Touring trim, which offer incredible comfort and easy access to the third row. These captain's chairs also come with heating capability! How cool is that? The entire cabin feels spacious and airy, largely thanks to the massive panoramic moonroof that comes standard on the Touring. It stretches almost the entire length of the roof, bathing the interior in natural light and making the cabin feel even larger. Materials throughout the cabin are a significant step up from lower trims, with soft-touch surfaces on the dashboard, doors, and center console. It genuinely feels premium. Storage is also thoughtfully integrated, with plenty of cup holders, door pockets, and a generous center console bin. For those chilly evenings, the Touring model also includes a heated steering wheel, which is an absolute godsend. Ambient interior lighting adds a touch of sophistication, especially when driving at night. Honestly, Subaru has created a cabin that feels both luxurious and highly practical, perfect for long road trips or just the daily grind. It’s a space where everyone can relax and enjoy the ride in absolute comfort.

Tech and Infotainment

In today's world, a great infotainment system is non-negotiable, and the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring doesn't disappoint. The star of the show is the 8-inch Subaru STARLINK Multimedia system with voice recognition. This high-resolution touchscreen is your hub for navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. It’s intuitive and easy to use, even for those who aren't super tech-savvy. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are standard, which is fantastic. This means you can seamlessly connect your smartphone to access your favorite apps, music, podcasts, and navigation right on the car's screen. It makes using your phone's features on the go so much safer and more convenient. The Touring model also includes a built-in navigation system, so you don't have to rely solely on your phone if you don't want to. For the audiophiles out there, get ready to be impressed. The Ascent Touring comes equipped with a Harman Kardon premium audio system. This system boasts 14 speakers and a 792-watt amplifier, delivering crisp highs, rich mids, and deep bass. Whether you're listening to your favorite playlist or a podcast, the sound quality is truly immersive. Beyond the main infotainment screen, you'll also find a color multi-function display within the instrument cluster. This display can show you vital information like fuel economy, trip data, safety system status, and navigation prompts, keeping your eyes closer to the road. USB ports are plentiful throughout the cabin, ensuring everyone can keep their devices charged on long journeys. The Touring also gets second-row climate control and dedicated USB ports for those in the back, ensuring rear passengers are just as comfortable and connected as those up front. Subaru has really packed the Ascent Touring with tech that enhances convenience, entertainment, and safety, making it a truly modern and connected driving experience.

Safety First: Subaru's Commitment

Subaru has always prioritized safety, and the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring is a shining example of that commitment. The star of the show here is the Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which comes standard on the Touring trim. EyeSight is essentially a suite of advanced safety features that use stereo cameras mounted near the rearview mirror to monitor the road ahead. It’s like having a co-pilot keeping an eye out for potential hazards. Key features include Pre-Collision Braking, which can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent frontal collision. Adaptive Cruise Control is also included, allowing you to set a desired speed and following distance, and the system will automatically adjust your speed to maintain that distance – a real boon on highway drives. Lane Departure and Sway Warning helps keep you centered in your lane, and Lane Keep Assist can provide gentle steering inputs to help you avoid drifting out of your lane. But Subaru's safety doesn't stop there. The Ascent Touring also features Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, which are invaluable for changing lanes and backing out of parking spots. Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive itself is a major safety feature, providing enhanced traction and stability in slippery conditions. The Ascent also boasts a high-strength steel frame designed to absorb and redirect crash energy, and a comprehensive airbag system, including front, side-impact, and curtain airbags. The Rear Seat Reminder system is a thoughtful addition, alerting you to check the back seat before exiting the vehicle, which is crucial for families with young children. The rearview camera provides a clear view behind the vehicle, aiding in low-speed maneuvers. All these elements combine to make the Ascent Touring one of the safest vehicles in its class, providing exceptional protection for you and your loved ones on every journey. It's this unwavering focus on safety that gives Subaru its well-deserved reputation.

Cargo Space and Versatility

For families, cargo space is king, and the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring offers a generous amount of it, along with impressive versatility. Behind the third row, you get 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space. While that might sound a bit tight, it's actually enough room for groceries, sports equipment for a couple of kids, or a few carry-on suitcases. The real magic happens when you start folding down those rear seats. With the third row folded flat, you unlock a substantial 43.5 cubic feet of space. This is plenty of room for larger grocery runs, luggage for a family vacation, or even larger items like flat-pack furniture. Need even more room? Fold down the second-row captain's chairs (or the optional second-row bench seat on lower trims), and you're rewarded with a cavernous 75.6 cubic feet of total cargo volume. This makes the Ascent incredibly versatile, capable of handling big Costco hauls, bikes, camping gear, or whatever else your adventures require. The power liftgate on the Touring model is a convenient feature, allowing you to easily open and close the cargo area with the push of a button – especially handy when your hands are full. The wide liftgate opening and low load floor make it easy to load and unload bulky items. Tie-down hooks are strategically placed to help secure your cargo. For those longer items, the Ascent also comes with roof rails standard, and you can add crossbars to mount a roof box or carrier for even more gear-carrying capacity. The flexibility of the seating configurations and the ample cargo volume mean the Ascent can adapt to your changing needs, whether it's a daily school run, a weekend camping trip, or a major move. It's a practical hauler that doesn't compromise on comfort or style.

The Verdict: Is the 2022 Ascent Touring Right for You?

So, guys, after breaking down the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring, the question remains: is it the right SUV for you? If you're looking for a vehicle that masterfully blends standard all-wheel-drive capability, impressive safety features, a luxurious and comfortable interior, and ample space for up to eight passengers, then the answer is a resounding yes. The Touring trim, in particular, spoils you with premium amenities like leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a top-tier Harman Kardon audio system, and ventilated front seats. It takes the already competent Ascent platform and elevates it into a truly upscale experience. The turbocharged engine provides ample power, while the refined ride and quiet cabin make it a pleasure to drive, whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. Subaru's legendary commitment to safety, highlighted by the standard EyeSight suite, offers unparalleled peace of mind for families. Plus, the versatile cargo space means you're always ready for adventure, big or small. While it might not have the absolute largest cargo hold in its class, the trade-off is a more composed driving dynamic and a premium feel that’s hard to beat. It's a smart, safe, and stylish choice for anyone who needs a reliable family hauler that can do it all. If you value reliability, safety, and a touch of luxury in your next SUV, the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring deserves a serious spot on your shortlist. You really can't go wrong with this one, folks!