2023 Subaru Ascent Premium: Reviews, Features & More

by Jhon Lennon 53 views

Hey guys! Thinking about getting a new family SUV? Let's dive deep into the 2023 Subaru Ascent Premium. This article gives you the lowdown on everything you need to know. We're talking features, reviews, and whether it's the right choice for you and your crew. Buckle up, because we're about to explore what makes this ride a contender in the crowded three-row SUV market!

What is the buzz about the 2023 Subaru Ascent Premium?

The 2023 Subaru Ascent Premium carves a niche for itself by blending Subaru's signature reliability and all-weather capability with the practicality of a three-row SUV. This model stands out as a solid choice for families seeking a vehicle that can handle daily commutes and adventurous weekend getaways with equal aplomb. One of the key highlights of the Ascent Premium is its standard symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, a feature that provides enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions, including snow, rain, and gravel. This makes it an especially appealing option for those living in regions with unpredictable weather. Moreover, the Ascent Premium boasts a comfortable and spacious interior, capable of seating up to eight passengers. The seats are designed to offer ample support, even on long journeys, and the cabin is equipped with user-friendly technology features that keep everyone connected and entertained. Safety is also a top priority, with the Ascent Premium including Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist system, which incorporates features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These technologies work together to help prevent accidents and enhance overall driver awareness. In terms of performance, the Ascent Premium is powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. It provides sufficient acceleration for merging onto highways and navigating city streets, while also offering respectable gas mileage for its class. The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting continuously variable transmission (CVT), which further contributes to the vehicle's efficiency. Overall, the 2023 Subaru Ascent Premium is a well-rounded SUV that offers a compelling package of practicality, safety, and capability. It's an excellent option for families who need a reliable and versatile vehicle that can handle a variety of tasks and driving conditions.

Key Features of the 2023 Ascent Premium

Okay, let's get into the nitty-gritty of what the 2023 Ascent Premium brings to the table. This SUV isn't just about getting you from point A to point B; it's about doing it comfortably, safely, and with a touch of style. Let's break down some of the standout features that make this ride a popular choice for families.

  • Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive: This is Subaru's bread and butter. The standard symmetrical all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional traction and control in various weather conditions. Whether you're dealing with snow, rain, or gravel, this feature gives you added confidence behind the wheel. It's a game-changer for those living in areas with unpredictable climates.
  • EyeSight Driver Assist Technology: Safety is paramount, and Subaru's EyeSight system is there to help. It includes features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These technologies work together to help prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe. Think of it as an extra set of eyes on the road.
  • Spacious Interior: The Ascent Premium offers a roomy cabin with three rows of seating, accommodating up to eight passengers. There's plenty of legroom and headroom for everyone to stretch out and get comfortable, even on long trips. Plus, the seats are designed to provide ample support, so you won't feel fatigued after hours on the road.
  • User-Friendly Technology: Staying connected is essential, and the Ascent Premium makes it easy with its intuitive technology features. The infotainment system includes a touchscreen display, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and multiple USB ports. You can easily access your favorite apps, music, and navigation tools while on the go.
  • Turbocharged Engine: Under the hood, you'll find a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. It provides sufficient acceleration for merging onto highways and navigating city streets, while also offering respectable gas mileage for its class. The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting continuously variable transmission (CVT), which further contributes to the vehicle's efficiency.
  • Towing Capacity: Need to haul a trailer or boat? The Ascent Premium has you covered with its impressive towing capacity. It can tow up to 5,000 pounds, making it a versatile option for families who enjoy outdoor adventures.

In summary, the 2023 Ascent Premium is packed with features that enhance your driving experience and provide added peace of mind. From its all-wheel-drive system to its advanced safety technologies and spacious interior, this SUV is designed to meet the needs of modern families.

Interior and Comfort

Alright, let's step inside the 2023 Subaru Ascent Premium and talk about what it's like to actually live with this SUV. Because let's face it, you're not just buying a car; you're buying a space where you and your family will spend a lot of time. So, how does the Ascent Premium measure up in terms of interior and comfort?

First off, the Ascent Premium offers a spacious and well-designed cabin. The three rows of seating provide ample room for up to eight passengers, making it a great choice for larger families or those who frequently carpool. The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long journeys, and the materials used throughout the cabin feel durable and high-quality. The layout is intuitive, with controls that are easy to reach and use. This might not sound like a big deal, but it can make a significant difference in your daily driving experience.

In terms of comfort features, the Ascent Premium comes standard with a variety of amenities that enhance the overall driving experience. These include automatic climate control, which allows you to set the temperature and forget about it, as well as heated front seats, which are a welcome addition on cold mornings. The available panoramic sunroof lets in plenty of natural light, creating a bright and airy atmosphere inside the cabin.

One of the standout features of the Ascent Premium is its versatile seating configuration. The second-row seats can be easily adjusted to provide more legroom for passengers in the third row, and the third-row seats can be folded down to create a large cargo area. This flexibility makes it easy to adapt the Ascent Premium to your changing needs, whether you're hauling groceries, sports equipment, or luggage.

Storage is also well thought out in the Ascent Premium. There are plenty of cupholders, storage pockets, and bins throughout the cabin, providing ample space to stow your belongings. The center console is particularly spacious, and the door pockets are large enough to hold water bottles and other essentials. The rear cargo area is also generous, offering plenty of room for luggage, groceries, or other cargo. And if you need even more space, you can fold down the rear seats to create a truly cavernous cargo area.

Noise levels inside the Ascent Premium are generally well-controlled, although some road noise may be noticeable at higher speeds. However, the overall ambiance is comfortable and relaxing, making it a pleasant place to spend time, even on long trips. In short, the 2023 Subaru Ascent Premium offers a comfortable and practical interior that is well-suited to the needs of modern families.

Performance and Handling

Alright, let's get under the hood and talk about how the 2023 Subaru Ascent Premium actually performs on the road. Because let's face it, you can have all the fancy features in the world, but if the car doesn't drive well, you're not going to be happy. So, how does the Ascent Premium measure up in terms of performance and handling?

Under the hood, the Ascent Premium is powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides plenty of power for most driving situations, whether you're merging onto the highway, climbing a steep hill, or simply cruising around town. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps to maximize fuel efficiency.

In terms of handling, the Ascent Premium feels confident and composed on the road. The steering is precise and responsive, and the suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and potholes. The Ascent Premium also comes standard with Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, which provides enhanced traction and stability in all types of weather conditions. This makes it a great choice for those who live in areas with snow, rain, or ice.

One of the things that sets the Ascent Premium apart from its competitors is its off-road capability. While it's not a dedicated off-roader like a Jeep Wrangler, the Ascent Premium can handle light to moderate off-road trails with ease. The all-wheel-drive system provides plenty of traction, and the generous ground clearance helps to prevent the undercarriage from scraping on rocks and other obstacles. This makes the Ascent Premium a great choice for families who enjoy camping, hiking, or other outdoor activities.

In terms of fuel economy, the Ascent Premium gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. These numbers are respectable for a three-row SUV, although they're not class-leading. However, the Ascent Premium's fuel economy is still good enough to save you money at the pump compared to some of its competitors.

Overall, the 2023 Subaru Ascent Premium offers a competent and enjoyable driving experience. The turbocharged engine provides plenty of power, the handling is confident and composed, and the all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in all types of weather conditions. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands around town, or embarking on a family road trip, the Ascent Premium is a capable and versatile vehicle that can handle just about anything you throw at it.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's break it down Barney-style. No vehicle is perfect, right? So, let's look at the good, the bad, and the maybe-not-so-bad of the 2023 Subaru Ascent Premium to help you make the best decision. Here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons:

Pros:

  • Standard All-Wheel Drive: This is a huge selling point, especially if you live in an area with snow or rain. It provides excellent traction and stability in all types of weather conditions.
  • Spacious Interior: The Ascent Premium offers plenty of room for passengers and cargo, making it a great choice for families.
  • EyeSight Driver Assist Technology: This suite of safety features helps to prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe.
  • Towing Capacity: The Ascent Premium can tow up to 5,000 pounds, making it a versatile option for those who need to haul a trailer or boat.
  • User-Friendly Technology: The infotainment system is easy to use and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Cons:

  • CVT Transmission: Some drivers may not like the feel of the continuously variable transmission, which can sometimes feel sluggish or unresponsive.
  • Fuel Economy: While the Ascent Premium's fuel economy is respectable for a three-row SUV, it's not class-leading.
  • Styling: The Ascent Premium's styling is somewhat bland and unremarkable, which may not appeal to everyone.
  • Third-Row Access: Access to the third row can be a bit tight, especially for adults.
  • Ride Quality: The ride quality can be a bit harsh on rough roads, especially with the larger wheel options.

In summary, the 2023 Subaru Ascent Premium is a well-rounded SUV that offers a lot of value for the money. It's a great choice for families who need a spacious, safe, and capable vehicle. However, it's not perfect, and there are some potential drawbacks to consider. Ultimately, the best way to decide if the Ascent Premium is right for you is to take it for a test drive and see for yourself.

Final Verdict: Is the 2023 Subaru Ascent Premium Right for You?

So, we've reached the end of our journey exploring the 2023 Subaru Ascent Premium. The big question remains: is it the right SUV for you? Let's recap what we've learned to help you make that decision.

The Ascent Premium shines as a practical and reliable choice for families. Its standard all-wheel drive is a major plus, offering enhanced safety and confidence in various weather conditions. The spacious interior provides ample room for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for road trips and daily commutes alike. Plus, the EyeSight driver-assist technology adds an extra layer of safety and peace of mind.

However, it's essential to consider the potential drawbacks. The CVT transmission may not appeal to all drivers, and the fuel economy, while respectable, isn't class-leading. The styling is also fairly conservative, which may not be to everyone's taste.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual needs and priorities. If you value safety, reliability, and practicality above all else, the Ascent Premium is definitely worth considering. It's a well-rounded SUV that offers a lot of value for the money.

Before making a final decision, it's always a good idea to take the Ascent Premium for a test drive. Get a feel for how it handles on the road, and see if the interior meets your comfort needs. Talk to a Subaru dealer about any specific questions or concerns you may have.

And there you have it! Hopefully, this comprehensive review has given you a better understanding of the 2023 Subaru Ascent Premium and helped you determine if it's the right SUV for your family. Happy car shopping!