Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2022 Subaru Ascent
With an overall Carivo score of 7.6/10, the 2022 Subaru Ascent earns a Recommended rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.4/10, while Technology at 6.6/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability comes in at 7.9/10 in our assessment — above the middle of the pack for this class, though not flawless. On safety it earns 8.4/10: respectable, if not class-leading — several competitors bundle more driver-assist tech as standard. Check your trim's official ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance lands mid-pack at 7.0/10: enough power and composure for everyday needs, without the dynamics that distinguish the segment's driver-focused options. Technology scores 6.6/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.
Priced from $35,621–$46,807, 23 MPG, seating 8, the Subaru Ascent sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. Value lands at 7.8/10 — you get what you pay for, no more and no less, with a few rivals offering slightly better per-dollar returns. At 4 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Bottom line: Think of the 2022 Subaru Ascent as the dependable pick rather than the exciting one. Its softer scores in technology are the only real asterisks. Shoppers who value predictability over headlines will be well served.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2022 Subaru Ascent ranks #737 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 70% of the segment. Its 7.6/10 overall score is 0.2 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $35,621 starting price sits close to the segment's median of $36,079.
$0 — 2 campaigns on record; recall work is always free at franchised dealers
Insurance
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Ascent Year Should You Buy?
Smart-money pick: the 2019 Subaru Ascent scores 7.4/10 — within striking distance of the 2022's 7.6 — and starts roughly $3,500 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Above-average reliability record with solid owner satisfaction data
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
NHTSA Recalls — 2022 Subaru Ascent (2 on record)
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle with our free VIN recall checker.
Electrical system / Wiring / Interior/under dash 08/12/2022 · 22V907000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Ascent vehicles. The ground bolt that secures the ground terminal of the Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heater may have been improperly fastened, which could result in melting of the…
Equipment / Other / Labels 07/07/2026 · 26V436000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid, 2025-2026 Forester Hybrid, Forester, and 2019-2026 Ascent vehicles. These vehicles were manufactured with an incorrect Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) on the certification label.…
Source: NHTSA recall database, fetched at page build time.
Own a 2022 Subaru Ascent that's been repaired repeatedly for the same problem? It may qualify under your state's lemon law — run the free lemon law check →
Common Questions — 2022 Subaru Ascent
Is the 2022 Subaru Ascent reliable?
We rate the 2022 Subaru Ascent's reliability 7.9/10 — above the middle of the pack for this class. It has 2 NHTSA recall campaigns on record for this model year (details in the recalls section above — repairs are free at dealers).
How many recalls does the 2022 Subaru Ascent have?
2 NHTSA recall campaigns matched this model and year as of our latest check. Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is the 2022 Subaru Ascent worth buying?
It scores 7.6/10 overall, ranking #737 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 70% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2022 Subaru Ascent cost?
The 2022 Subaru Ascent starts at $35,621 and ranges up to $46,807 across trims (MSRP when new). At 23 MPG, expect roughly $2,283/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Ascent years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 8 Ascent model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (7.7/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
What problems does the 2022 Subaru Ascent have?
The documented issues for the 2022 Subaru Ascent are its NHTSA recall campaigns, which involve: Electrical system, Equipment (details in the recalls section above; repairs are free at dealers). For wear-and-tear patterns beyond recalls, owner forums are the best source — we only report what federal data documents.
Owner Essentials — Subaru Ascent
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More Subaru Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Subaru models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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