Considering a new family SUV? The Subaru Ascent has consistently been a strong contender, offering a blend of space, safety, and capability. If you’re weighing your options between the latest models, you’re likely curious about what separates the 2022 Ascent from its 2023 successor.
While both generations share a solid foundation, subtle yet significant updates can impact your driving experience and overall value. Understanding these differences is key to making an informed decision that best suits your needs and budget.
This comparison dives deep into the specifics of the 2022 Ascent versus the 2023 Ascent, highlighting key changes, feature updates, and performance nuances. Let’s explore which model might be the perfect fit for your next adventure.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | 2022 Ascent | 2023 Ascent |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Boxer 4-cylinder | 2.5L Boxer 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 185 hp | 185 hp |
| Torque | 176 lb-ft | 176 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT | CVT |
| Drivetrain | Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive | Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive |
| Seating Capacity | 7 or 8 passengers | 7 or 8 passengers |
| Infotainment Screen | 6.5-inch or 8-inch | 7-inch or 11.6-inch |
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Standard (wired) | Standard (wireless) |
| Safety Suite | Subaru EyeSight | Subaru EyeSight with updated features |
| Cargo Space (max) | 86.0 cu ft | 86.0 cu ft |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| Ground Clearance | 8.7 inches | 8.7 inches |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Engine & Performance
- 2022 Ascent: Comes standard with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive. While capable for daily driving, some may find it slightly underpowered for heavy loads or spirited acceleration.
- 2023 Ascent: Also features a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, but it now includes a revised CVT for smoother shifts and improved responsiveness. Standard all-wheel drive remains. The refinement makes a noticeable difference in the driving experience, feeling more composed and less strained.
- Winner: 2023 ascent
Exterior Styling
- 2022 Ascent: Features a more traditional SUV design with a prominent grille and upright stance. It offers a practical and somewhat conservative appearance that blends into the crowd.
- 2023 Ascent: Receives a significant exterior refresh with a bolder, more aggressive front fascia, updated headlights, and a larger grille. The rear also gets redesigned taillights. This gives the 2023 model a more modern and distinctive look.
- Winner: 2023 ascent
Interior Design & Quality
- 2022 Ascent: Offers a well-built and functional interior with good material quality for its class. The layout is straightforward and user-friendly, though some design elements might feel a bit dated.
- 2023 Ascent: Boasts an updated interior with a more premium feel. Subaru has enhanced material choices and refined the dashboard design, incorporating a larger infotainment screen more seamlessly. It feels more upscale and contemporary.
- Winner: 2023 ascent
Infotainment System
- 2022 Ascent: Equipped with a standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It’s generally responsive and offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. However, the interface can feel a bit basic compared to newer systems.
- 2023 Ascent: The standard infotainment system is now a larger 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen, which is a major upgrade. The interface is more modern, intuitive, and better integrated into the dashboard. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also available on higher trims.
- Winner: 2023 ascent
Safety Features
- 2022 Ascent: Comes standard with Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, including adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane departure warning. It earned excellent safety ratings.
- 2023 Ascent: Continues to offer the comprehensive EyeSight suite, but with notable enhancements. The 2023 model adds a new center airbag to reduce potential injuries in side-impact collisions and improved Subaru’s already impressive safety credentials.
- Winner: 2023 ascent
Seating & Cargo Space
- 2022 Ascent: Offers comfortable seating for up to eight passengers across three rows. Cargo space is generous, especially with the third row folded down, making it a practical family hauler.
- 2023 Ascent: Maintains the same excellent seating and cargo volume as the 2022 model. The comfortable seating and ample space for luggage or groceries remain a strong suit, making it equally practical for families.
- Winner: Tie
Ride Comfort & Handling
- 2022 Ascent: Provides a comfortable and composed ride, absorbing road imperfections well. The standard all-wheel drive instills confidence in various weather conditions, and handling is predictable for an SUV of its size.
- 2023 Ascent: Benefits from suspension tuning and the improved CVT, resulting in a more refined and quieter ride. Handling feels slightly more responsive, and the overall comfort level is elevated, making longer journeys more enjoyable.
- Winner: 2023 ascent
Technology & Convenience Features
- 2022 Ascent: Offers a good range of convenience features like keyless entry, push-button start, and available panoramic sunroof. However, some advanced tech options like a digital instrument cluster are missing.
- 2023 Ascent: Introduces more modern tech, including available wireless device charging and a digital instrument cluster on higher trims. The larger infotainment screen also contributes to a more technologically advanced feel.
- Winner: 2023 ascent
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Infotainment & Tech | 2023 Ascent |
| Value (Potentially) | 2022 Ascent |
| Design Refinements | 2023 Ascent |
| Overall Capability | Tie |
| Safety Features | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Powertrain: Both the 2022 and 2023 Subaru Ascent share the same reliable 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru’s signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, ensuring consistent performance and traction in various conditions.
- Seating and Cargo: Families will appreciate that both model years offer flexible seating configurations for up to seven or eight passengers and provide ample cargo space, making them practical choices for hauling gear and people.
- Safety Features: Subaru’s commitment to safety is evident in both models, as both come standard with the EyeSight Driver Assist Technology suite, offering a comprehensive range of active safety features to help prevent accidents.
- Towing Capability: For those who need to tow, both the 2022 and 2023 Ascent boast an impressive towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, suitable for trailers, small boats, or campers.
- Off-Road Prowess: With their standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and generous ground clearance, both model years offer excellent capability for light off-roading and navigating challenging weather conditions, a hallmark of the Subaru brand.
2022 Ascent Vs 2023 Ascent Buying Guide
Interior Comfort and Features
The 2022 Subaru Ascent offers a comfortable and functional interior, with ample space for up to eight passengers. Higher trims boast premium materials, heated and ventilated seats, and a panoramic sunroof. Standard features include a user-friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 2023 model largely retains this well-appointed cabin, focusing on refinement and practicality for families on the go. (See Also: Demeyere 5 Plus Vs Atlantis )
Safety and Driver Assistance
Both model years come equipped with Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, a suite of advanced safety features designed to prevent accidents. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking. The 2023 Ascent continues this commitment to safety, with minor enhancements possible in specific sensor technology or alert systems, ensuring peace of mind for drivers.
Performance and Powertrain
Under the hood, both the 2022 and 2023 Ascent models are powered by a robust 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This powertrain delivers 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, providing confident acceleration for everyday driving and highway merging. Subaru’s signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard on all trims, offering exceptional traction and stability in various weather conditions.
Infotainment and Technology
The infotainment systems in both Ascents are designed for ease of use, featuring responsive touchscreens and intuitive menus. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are standard, allowing seamless smartphone connectivity. While the core functionality remains similar, the 2023 model might see minor software updates or potentially a slightly larger screen size on certain trims, enhancing the overall user experience. (See Also: Nikon 50 1 8 Vs 1 4 )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy 2022 Ascent If…
- You are looking for a capable and safe three-row SUV at a potentially lower price point.
- You don’t require the latest infotainment technology and are content with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- You prioritize proven reliability and a familiar driving experience.
- You want to take advantage of any remaining dealer incentives or discounts on the outgoing model.
Buy 2023 Ascent If…
- You desire the most up-to-date technology, including a larger available touchscreen and wireless smartphone integration.
- You appreciate subtle interior and exterior design refinements that offer a more modern feel.
- You want the latest iteration of Subaru’s safety features with potential minor enhancements.
- You prefer to have the newest model year for resale value considerations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the 2022 and 2023 Subaru Ascent?
The 2023 Subaru Ascent received a mid-cycle refresh, bringing notable updates. Key enhancements include a larger 11.6-inch vertically oriented touchscreen infotainment system on most trims, a revised exterior design with a more aggressive front fascia and updated LED lighting, and improved cabin acoustics for a quieter ride. Powertrain options remain largely the same, but the overall refinement and tech integration were significantly boosted for the 2023 model year.
Is the 2023 Ascent’s infotainment system a significant upgrade?
Yes, the introduction of the larger 11.6-inch vertically oriented touchscreen is a major upgrade for the 2023 Ascent. This new system offers a more modern and intuitive interface, with improved responsiveness and enhanced features. It centralizes many controls, creating a cleaner dashboard design and providing a more engaging user experience for navigation, media, and vehicle settings compared to the 2022 model’s smaller dual screens.
Are there any powertrain changes for the 2023 Ascent?
No, the powertrain for the 2023 Subaru Ascent remains largely unchanged from the 2022 model. Both model years are equipped with the same 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system as standard across all trim levels. (See Also: Samsung Pro Vs Evo 850 )
Which model year is a better value for money?
For those prioritizing the latest technology and design refinements, the 2023 Ascent offers a more compelling package with its updated infotainment and styling. However, if budget is a primary concern and you can find a well-maintained 2022 model at a lower price point, it still delivers a very capable and safe three-row SUV experience with many of the same core strengths, including standard AWD and the EyeSight safety suite.
What are the key exterior design changes in the 2023 Ascent?
The 2023 Subaru Ascent features a refreshed exterior, most notably a bolder front fascia with a redesigned grille and updated LED headlights and taillights. The front bumper and fog light housings have also been restyled, contributing to a more rugged and modern appearance. These subtle yet impactful changes give the 2023 model a more contemporary and assertive presence on the road compared to the 2022 version.
Final Verdict
The 2023 Subaru Ascent represents a significant evolution over the 2022 model, primarily due to its vastly improved infotainment system and refined exterior styling. While the 2022 Ascent remains a competent family SUV, the 2023 model elevates the experience with its larger, more intuitive touchscreen and updated aesthetics, making it the more desirable choice for those seeking modern convenience and contemporary design.
Winner: 2023 Ascent