Ascent is the newest product of Subaru Motors. The mid-size SUV is also the largest vehicle in the lineup. It brings exactly what we expect from the Japanese carmaker. The highlights are the Boxer engine and AWD system. But, the 2022 Subaru Ascent is about to introduce some interesting changes as a part of the mid-cycle refresh. New trim levels are joining the lineup. Still, Touring remains the best package for the SUV. Mechanical updates might include a six-cylinder engine. Of course, a couple of fresh colors will be available for the 2022 YM.
The nameplate debuted in 2019 and it immediately found the way to hearts of buyers. In the US, Subaru sold 82,000 units, which is an excellent record for the first complete year at dealerships. Model for 2021 will be practically unchanged, with the COVID-19 pandemic causing delays in development and production. So, the new edition is arriving as the 2022 Subaru Ascent, with extra time for the development of special releases.
What’s New for the 2022 Subaru Ascent?
We don’t expect huge changes in the mid-size vehicle. It is still fresh and only minor modifications are taking place on the SUV. Designers will be focused on the interior to provide extra safety, better infotainment, and a more comfortable layout. The mid-size model is pretty spacious, beating most rivals from the same segment with 86.5 cubic feet of total cargo space. When all three rows are up, there is still 18 cu.ft. remaining for items behind rear seats. By default, the 2022 Subaru Ascent will remain an eight-seater, with the 2+3+3 layout. Optionally, some trim levels are going to offer captain’s chairs for the middle row, replacing a bench where three persons can sit.
The company will reshuffle options across all the packages. Four trim levels are currently available. The new one is possible to refresh the lineup. Still, the Touring is the most equipped one with advanced technologies and smart features.
Colors
Minor tweaks will update the look of the 2022 Subaru Ascent. The SUV is going to get revisited headlights and grille, and these are the most notable changes on the exterior. Also, a few colors will join the lineup. the base trim level is now available only with four neutral paintjobs (Crystal Black, Crystal White, Metallic Silver, Metallic Grey). More options are coming with the Premium edition, where the palette is upgraded with four new options: Metallic Bronze, Blue Pearl, Brown Pearl, and Red Pearl. Subaru will expand the offer with at least one or two new paintjobs.
Interior colors also depend on the trim level and material of the upholstery. The black cloth is standard for the base and Premium versions, while Limited and Touring will offer leather. The first model comes in black and ivory themes, while the top of the class version offers black and brown premium leather.
2022 Subaru Ascent Touring Model Highlights
Speaking of the 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring, this is one of the most impressive packages the company ever made. Besides all the options it can offer, the standard list of features is very long. You will recognize this model thanks to the 20-inch alloy wheels with machine finishes. LED lamps are part of the steering-responsive headlight system and fog lights. Chromed details and roof rails are also added. Inside, front seats are both heated and ventilated. Captain’s chairs are standard for the middle row, with heating function.
Leather and wood details are enhancing elegance. The Touring package is also full of advanced features, such as an 8-inch screen as a part of Starlink infotainment. Plus, navigation is standard. Most controls can be found on the three-spoke multi-functional leather-wrapped steering wheel. A total of 19 cups and bottle holders might be a record for the mid-size SUV class. Also, Subaru offers underfloor storage. Harman Kardon is delivering a premium audio system.
2022 Subaru Ascent Specs
The mid-size SUV is already using the most powerful configuration in the family. A turbocharged flat-four Boxer engine can produce 260 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. But, it is not competitive to V6 engines used by rivals. So, Subaru could take the performance to the next level by delivering a new powerplant. There are some indications that the company is working on a six-cylinder drivetrain. Of course, the Japanese engineers will keep the flat design, which is the trademark of the carmaker. Such a unit is going to deliver extra power, although the current four-banger is not lagging.
The 2022 Subaru Ascent could also bring a hybrid setup to maximize the fuel economy. The vehicle is already very efficient with 24 mpg combined, with the Symmetrical all-wheel drive being a standard configuration. The Touring version also offers the X-Mode for a better off-road response. The continuously variable automatic transmission simulates an eight-pace auto gearbox.
Read also: 2021 Subaru Outback and Outback Hybrid: Changes and Redesign
Subaru Ascent must come with 6 cyl engine like had before Outback 3.6R , I had this veh and experience some of fantastic performance. I own 2019 Ascent Touring, 2.4 turbo is fine but when you have to use power fully loaded car is very thirsty , very very, and I towed only Jet ski with effect . My Outback made 21MPG and was mush more quieter, because of RPM on 6 cyl engine.
Most likely they will not do a 6-cylinder engine, because for a V-6 that would be more vertical and higher center of gravity which would be a total redesign of the hood line, the spacing for the whole drivetrain, etc.
Instead, I see another same I-4 horizontally opposed engine with 2 computer-driven hybrid engines boosting total HP to ~320 and getting up to ~290lb-ft torque. This would be a non-plugin model similar to Toyota Highlander Hybrid’s scheme, as Toyota has ~20% of Subaru under ownership.
If the MPG boosted the Ascent to ~30 combined this would be a huge win with more horses, power, and MPG!
They just need to find room for 2 hybrid motors now…