2021 Subaru Ascent vs 2022 Subaru Ascent

When the 2021 Subaru Ascent was released, it marked Subaru's overdue entry into the competitive three-row SUV market. Prior models like the Tribeca had failed to make an impact due to their controversial designs and subpar offerings. The Ascent, however, looked like the quintessential Subaru SUV, magnifying the design elements of the smaller Forester and Outback into a three-row midsize SUV. Its cabin mirrored these models, perhaps on purpose, to make shoppers feel a sense of familiarity.

The 2021 Ascent came in four trims: Standard, Premium, Limited, and Touring. The standard trim was well-equipped with numerous driver-assistance features, a 6.5-inch touchscreen, and tri-zone climate control. As one moved up the trims, the Ascent offered more luxury and convenience features. The range-topping Touring trim provided features such as second-row captain's chairs, ventilated front seats, and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo system.

The 2022 model year introduced the Onyx Edition, adding a dose of sportiness to the lineup. It featured blacked-out exterior trim and badges, black 20-inch aluminum wheels, a unique grille, and special StarTex synthetic leather interior trim. This trim aimed to appeal to younger and more adventurous buyers. The seats were water-repellant, emphasizing functionality. However, this material tended to trap sweat, which could be uncomfortable on hot days. Despite its shortfalls, the Onyx Edition's styling and features added a new dimension to the Ascent lineup.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent came with a turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer four-cylinder engine across all trims. This engine generated 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, channeling power through a CVT to Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. Although it lacked a premium engine option, the standard engine was competent in daily driving situations. It offered refined comfort, great handling, and was effective in snow and light off-road conditions due to the 8.7 inches of ground clearance and Subaru’s X-Mode system. The Ascent could tow up to 5,000 pounds and featured standard Trailer Stability Assist.

Similarly, the 2022 Subaru Ascent retained the same turbocharged 2.4-liter engine, producing identical horsepower and torque figures as the 2021 model. The CVT in the 2022 model also featured eight programmed ratios and manual shift control using paddle shifters. This setup allowed for brisk acceleration and commendable passing power. The 20-inch wheels resulted in a combined fuel economy rating of 22 mpg. Notably, testers averaged 20.5 mpg.

The driving dynamics in the 2022 model were agile and responsive, aided by the absorbent suspension and excellent outward visibility. This made it nimble in urban settings and unexpectedly athletic on country roads. However, the lane-keeping and lane-centering assistance technologies caused an unstable feel at times, diminishing driving satisfaction when engaged. Turning them off improved the driving experience significantly.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent provided 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third-row seats, which expanded to 47.5 cubic feet with the third row folded down. When both the second and third rows were folded, the Ascent offered up to 86.5 cubic feet of cargo space. This figure was competitive, though slightly less than some rivals like the Volkswagen Atlas and Chevrolet Traverse. The Ascent also came standard with a power liftgate, though not hands-free.

The 2022 Ascent featured the same cargo capacities: 17.8 cubic feet with all seats up, 47.5 cubic feet with the third row down, and 86.5 cubic feet with both rows folded. Notably, models with the panoramic sunroof saw a slight decrease in cargo space. The second-row seats were spacious and accessible thanks to nearly 90-degree-opening rear doors. The third row remained cramped for adults but was suitable for children. The Onyx Edition's interior was prepared for foul weather, with water-resistant seat material and useful storage solutions.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent's StarLink infotainment system was intuitive, featuring logical menu layouts and large icons on both available touchscreens. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, four USB ports, satellite radio, and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims offered additional tech like third-row USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and a premium 14-speaker Harman Kardon stereo.

The 2022 Ascent continued with a 6.5-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, depending on trim level. It retained Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, and satellite radio, and still included a CD player. Upgraded trims added features like a WiFi hotspot and remote engine start. Although the voice recognition system needed improvement, the overall usability was enhanced by separate climate controls.

The Onyx Edition's stereo system was standard and lacked the sonic quality one might expect. For tech lovers, the premium sound system was crucially reserved only for the Touring trim, which limited options for other buyers.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ due to its strong crash test results and Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assistance suite. Standard features included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. Additional safety options encompassed reverse automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.

The 2022 Ascent maintained the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating and received five-star NHTSA ratings except for rollover resistance, which earned four stars. EyeSight was effective in most situations but faced occasional issues, such as difficulties under direct sunlight and some inconsistencies in adaptive cruise control and lane-centering functionalities. Additional safety features carried over from the previous year, aiding in overall vehicle safety performance.