Well, this is awkward. The Subaru Ascent wasn’t invited to sit with the best three-row SUVs. This is a little surprising, as the 2022 Subaru Ascent is often referred to as an excellent family SUV. So, let’s see why Consumer Reports has some beef with it.
Consumer Reports doesn’t recommend the 2022 Subaru Ascent
2022 Subaru Ascent | Subaru
According to Consumer Reports, the 2022 Subaru Ascent is far from being one of the best three-row SUVs you can buy. In fact, it ranks as number 11 out of 14 options on the list of best midsize three-row SUVs.
What are the better SUV options? Consumer Reports ranks the 2022 Kia Telluride, 2022 Toyota Highlander, and 2022 Hyundai Palisade are the top three options. Even the Nissan Pathfinder came ahead of the Ascent.
On another interesting note, the 2022 Kia Sorento landed in last place. But today, we will focus on potential issues with the Ascent. It earned an overall score of 60 out of 100, so it may have displayed less than desirable features during testing.
Is the 2022 Ascent reliable?
Consumer Reports gave the 2022 Subaru Ascent a predicted reliability rating of one out of five. That’s not the most confident score, and it’s based on problems that were reported in previous model years.
The rating is based on surveys that Consumer Reports sends out to thousands of readers, allowing them to list the issues they faced. There are 17 potential trouble areas, ranging from the paint, breaks, engine to the transmission, electronics, fuel system, and more.
It looks like the engine, transmission, drive system, fuel system, electric system, climate system, suspension, brakes, body, paint, power equipment, and electronics each received reports of problems.
However, the majority of these issues are for the 2019 model. The 2020 and 2021 models have a considerable amount of fewer issues. This could mean that the Ascent has corrected these problems.
But Consumer Reports also gave the Subaru Ascent a predicted owner satisfaction rating of three out of five. The Ascent scored a 53 out of 100 in the value category, which measures how much people received for the price they paid.
What is wrong with the Subaru Ascent?
The 2022 Subaru Ascent | Subaru
We wouldn’t say anything is exactly wrong with the 2022 Subaru Ascent. It starts at about $32,295, putting it on par with rivals like the Kia Telluride. Plus, it has standard all-wheel drive and plenty of driver-assist features.
The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 260 hp is known for having a sluggish acceleration, and it’s quite noisy. It has a smooth ride but isn’t very sporty or engaging. Plus, wind noise is noticeable at highway speeds.
Also, the third row is tight. It’s too small for adults, so put the kids back there. Only the higher trim levels offer coveted features such as heated seats and leather upholstery. Plus, it offers less cargo space than its rivals.
The infotainment system lacks customization options and physical controls, making it more distracting to use. However, it does come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Some people will blame the predicted reliability rating for the Ascent’s low score. However, the lack of value, cargo space, and unrefined driving characteristics could also have a significant impact.
Keyword: Consumer Reports Dismissed the 2022 Subaru Ascent for Better Options