2023 Subaru Ascent Touring: A Deep Dive
Alright, buckle up, folks! We're diving deep into the 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring model – the top-of-the-line trim for Subaru's family-friendly SUV. This isn't just any review; we're going to break down everything from its features and performance to its pros and cons, helping you decide if this is the right ride for you and your crew. The Ascent, in general, has made waves in the three-row SUV segment, and the Touring model really cranks up the luxury and convenience. So, let's get started and see what makes this particular model tick. We'll be covering a wide range of topics, ensuring you have a solid understanding of what the 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring brings to the table. From the inside out, we'll explore every aspect to help you make an informed decision. Let's get started, shall we?
Design and Exterior Features of the 2023 Ascent Touring
First impressions are crucial, right? The 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring definitely makes a statement. The design is sleek, modern, and undeniably Subaru. It has a robust and confident stance. Let's talk about the exterior features that set the Touring apart. Immediately, you'll notice the distinct styling elements that elevate it above the base models. The Touring trim typically boasts features like chrome accents, premium LED headlights, and stylish alloy wheels, which collectively contribute to a more sophisticated and upscale appearance. The addition of a panoramic sunroof is a major plus, letting in tons of natural light and enhancing the overall spacious feel of the cabin. Plus, the integrated roof rails are not only functional (perfect for carrying kayaks, bikes, or extra luggage) but also add to the SUV's adventurous aesthetic. The Ascent's design is not just about looks; it's also about functionality. The designers have clearly focused on providing a practical vehicle that’s easy to live with day-to-day. The wide stance and the overall dimensions contribute to a stable and confident driving experience, which is particularly important in a larger vehicle designed for families. Moreover, the choice of exterior colors offers a range of options, allowing you to personalize your Ascent to match your style. From classic shades to more vibrant hues, there is something for everyone. And let’s not forget the automatic liftgate, a small but significant convenience that makes loading and unloading groceries or luggage a breeze. These exterior features collectively enhance both the aesthetic appeal and the practicality of the 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring, making it a standout choice in its class.
Wheels, Lighting, and Body Details
Moving into the finer details, the wheels on the 2023 Ascent Touring are typically larger and more stylish than those on lower trims, usually featuring a distinctive design. These not only contribute to the overall aesthetic but can also influence the ride quality and handling. The lighting system is another area where the Touring excels. The premium LED headlights provide excellent visibility, especially at night, ensuring safer driving conditions. The body details, such as the chrome accents on the grille, door handles, and window trim, add a touch of elegance. The Touring trim often includes specific badging, which subtly indicates its premium status. The design choices aren't just cosmetic; they often serve practical purposes, such as improved aerodynamics and enhanced visibility. The attention to detail extends to the integration of various sensors and cameras, which are essential for the advanced safety features that Subaru is known for. The body lines are carefully sculpted to give the Ascent a modern and dynamic appearance. Every element, from the front fascia to the rear, is designed to create a cohesive and attractive overall look. The exterior is robust and capable, communicating strength and reliability, characteristics often associated with the Subaru brand.
Interior, Comfort, and Technology
Now, let's step inside. The 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring truly shines when it comes to the interior, comfort, and technology. This is where the Touring trim really justifies its premium price tag. The cabin is spacious and well-appointed, designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all passengers. The materials are of high quality, with leather upholstery, soft-touch surfaces, and woodgrain-patterned trim adding a touch of luxury. The seats are supportive and comfortable, especially on long drives. The Touring trim typically includes features like heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row seats, ensuring that everyone stays comfortable regardless of the weather. The technology features are also impressive. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a large touchscreen display that offers seamless integration with smartphones via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You can easily access navigation, music, and other apps. The premium sound system provides excellent audio quality, making every journey more enjoyable. The Ascent Touring also offers a host of advanced driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring, making it a safe and secure vehicle for families. The panoramic sunroof, as previously mentioned, adds to the sense of spaciousness, making the cabin feel even more airy and inviting. The thoughtful layout and design of the interior prioritize both comfort and practicality. You'll find plenty of storage space, including cup holders, door pockets, and a center console. The climate control system is effective, keeping everyone comfortable, and the overall ambiance is designed to create a relaxing environment.
Infotainment System and Connectivity
The infotainment system in the 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring is a central hub for all your entertainment and connectivity needs. The large touchscreen display is intuitive and easy to navigate. It allows you to control various features, from the audio system to the climate control. The system supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enabling you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. You can access your favorite apps, make calls, send texts, and use navigation, all through the car's display. The premium sound system delivers excellent audio quality, enhancing the listening experience for both music and podcasts. The system also includes multiple USB ports and power outlets, ensuring that everyone can keep their devices charged. The in-car Wi-Fi hotspot allows passengers to connect to the internet, perfect for streaming movies or browsing the web. Subaru's Starlink system provides additional features, such as remote vehicle access and emergency assistance. The infotainment system is not just about entertainment; it also provides essential information about the vehicle, such as fuel efficiency and performance data. The user-friendly interface and the range of connectivity options make the 2023 Ascent Touring a highly connected and enjoyable vehicle for the whole family.
Seating and Cargo Space
The 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring offers a lot of space for both passengers and cargo, making it a practical choice for families. The seating arrangement typically includes three rows, accommodating up to seven or eight passengers, depending on the configuration. The second row can have captain's chairs (offered in the Touring trim) or a bench seat, providing flexibility for different family needs. The third row offers enough space for adults or older children, making the Ascent truly versatile. The seats are designed to provide good support and comfort, even on long journeys. The leather upholstery in the Touring trim adds a touch of luxury. The cargo space is also generous, even with all three rows of seats in use. The Ascent provides ample space for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. The second and third rows can be folded down to create even more cargo space, allowing you to transport larger items. The smart design of the Ascent includes features like a power liftgate and various storage compartments throughout the cabin. The thoughtfully designed layout maximizes space and convenience. The vehicle offers practical solutions to accommodate the needs of a modern family, combining comfort, versatility, and functionality.
Performance and Driving Experience
Let’s get behind the wheel, shall we? The 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engine, delivering a responsive and enjoyable driving experience. While it isn't a sports car, it provides ample power for everyday driving, merging onto highways, and tackling hills. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which contributes to smooth acceleration and good fuel efficiency. Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) is standard on all Ascent models, including the Touring, providing excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions. Whether you're driving on snow, rain, or dry pavement, you can feel confident in the Ascent's ability to maintain control. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road. The steering is light and precise, making the Ascent easy to maneuver, especially in city driving. The Ascent also offers a decent amount of ground clearance, allowing you to handle some light off-road adventures. The driving experience is enhanced by the advanced driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, which make long drives less tiring. The Ascent provides a balanced combination of power, handling, and comfort, making it a great choice for families who need a reliable and enjoyable SUV.
Engine and Transmission
The 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring features a 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engine. This engine produces a good amount of horsepower and torque, providing enough power for various driving situations. The turbocharged design ensures that you get quick acceleration when you need it. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps to optimize fuel efficiency. The CVT is designed to deliver smooth and seamless acceleration, without the traditional gear shifts of a conventional automatic transmission. While some drivers might miss the feel of a traditional transmission, the CVT contributes to the Ascent's overall comfortable driving experience. The combination of the turbocharged engine and the CVT provides a good balance of performance and fuel economy. Subaru's BOXER engine design contributes to a lower center of gravity, which helps to improve handling and stability. The engine and transmission are designed to work together seamlessly, providing a reliable and efficient driving experience for daily commutes and longer road trips.
Handling and Ride Quality
The 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring excels in handling and ride quality, providing a comfortable and controlled driving experience. The standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is a key factor in this, ensuring excellent traction and stability in various road conditions. This feature enhances the vehicle's ability to maintain control, especially on slippery surfaces. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road. The ride quality is smooth and composed, making long journeys less tiring for both the driver and the passengers. The steering is light and precise, allowing for easy maneuverability in city driving and parking situations. The Ascent's design contributes to its stability, minimizing body roll during cornering. The vehicle feels planted and confident on the road. The Ascent provides a balanced combination of comfort and control, making it a great choice for families who want a reliable and enjoyable SUV. Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the Ascent Touring offers a driving experience that is both pleasant and secure.
Safety Features of the 2023 Ascent Touring
Subaru is well-known for its commitment to safety, and the 2023 Ascent Touring is packed with advanced safety features. Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is standard across all trims, including the Touring. This system includes features like pre-collision braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. These features help to prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe on the road. The Touring trim typically adds even more advanced safety features. Blind-spot detection with lane change assist and rear cross-traffic alert are common, helping to monitor the areas around your vehicle that you can't always see. The Ascent also has a robust airbag system, including front, side, and curtain airbags, providing comprehensive protection in the event of a collision. The vehicle's structure is designed to absorb impact energy, minimizing the risk of injury. The Ascent has earned high safety ratings from organizations like the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), reflecting its excellent safety performance. Safety is a top priority for Subaru, and the 2023 Ascent Touring demonstrates this commitment. These features work together to provide a safe and secure driving experience for families. The emphasis on safety is a key selling point for the Ascent, making it a popular choice for those prioritizing the well-being of their loved ones.
Driver-Assistance Technologies
The 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring is equipped with a suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies that enhance safety and make driving easier. The EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is a centerpiece of the safety features. It uses a system of cameras to monitor the road and detect potential hazards. Adaptive cruise control automatically adjusts the vehicle's speed to maintain a safe distance from the car in front. Lane-keeping assist helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane, preventing unintentional lane departures. Pre-collision braking can automatically apply the brakes to help avoid or mitigate a frontal collision. Blind-spot detection monitors the areas around the vehicle that are difficult to see, alerting you to the presence of other vehicles. Rear cross-traffic alert helps warn you of approaching vehicles when backing up. These technologies work together to provide an extra layer of protection, reducing the risk of accidents and making driving safer. They can also reduce driver fatigue, especially on long journeys. The driver-assistance technologies in the 2023 Ascent Touring contribute to the vehicle's overall safety rating and make it a highly desirable choice for families.
Safety Ratings and Crash Test Results
The 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring has consistently received high safety ratings from major safety organizations. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have both evaluated the Ascent and given it excellent ratings. These ratings are a testament to the vehicle's structural integrity and its advanced safety features. The IIHS typically awards the Ascent with the Top Safety Pick+ rating, their highest accolade. This indicates that the vehicle performs exceptionally well in crash tests and is equipped with advanced safety technologies. The NHTSA also gives the Ascent high ratings in its crash tests, assessing the vehicle's ability to protect occupants in various collision scenarios. These ratings are based on rigorous testing that simulates real-world accident conditions. The results of these crash tests are publicly available, allowing consumers to make informed decisions about vehicle safety. The high safety ratings of the 2023 Ascent Touring provide peace of mind to buyers, knowing that their vehicle is designed to protect them and their passengers in the event of an accident. These excellent ratings are a significant selling point, making the Ascent a top choice for safety-conscious consumers.
Pros and Cons of the 2023 Ascent Touring
Alright, let’s weigh the good with the bad, shall we? The 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring has a lot going for it, but it's not perfect. It's important to consider both the pros and cons before making a decision. On the plus side, the Ascent offers a spacious and comfortable interior, with three rows of seating and plenty of cargo space. The standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive provides excellent traction and stability, and the advanced safety features are a major selling point. The infotainment system is user-friendly, and the premium sound system is a nice touch. However, there are some potential drawbacks to consider. The fuel economy isn't the best in its class, and some drivers might find the CVT transmission less engaging than a traditional automatic. The price of the Touring trim is higher than the base models, reflecting its premium features. It's crucial to assess your priorities and needs to determine whether the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. For families, the pros often far outweigh the cons, but it's still worth taking a closer look at both sides of the coin. Considering these factors will help determine if the 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring is the right choice for you.
Advantages of the Ascent Touring
The 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring boasts numerous advantages that make it a compelling choice for families and anyone seeking a versatile SUV. One of the main benefits is its spacious interior. The three rows of seating provide ample room for passengers, and the generous cargo space makes it easy to transport luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. The standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is a significant advantage, providing excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions, making it a reliable vehicle for all seasons. The advanced safety features, including EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, offer an extra layer of protection and peace of mind. The Touring trim's premium features, such as leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system, enhance the driving experience and add a touch of luxury. The Ascent's overall reliability is a significant advantage, as Subaru vehicles are known for their durability and longevity. The Ascent provides a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience, making it a great choice for both daily commutes and longer road trips. These advantages make the 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring a strong contender in its segment.
Disadvantages of the Ascent Touring
While the 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring has many strengths, it's essential to consider its potential disadvantages. One of the most common criticisms is the fuel economy, which may not be as high as some competitors in its class. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) can be a point of contention for some drivers, who may prefer the feel of a traditional automatic transmission. The price of the Touring trim is relatively high, and the added features do come at a premium. Some may find that the infotainment system, while user-friendly, lacks some of the more advanced features or the responsiveness found in other vehicles. While the third-row seating is useful, it might be a bit cramped for taller adults on long journeys. The design, while modern, may not be to everyone's taste. Considering these potential disadvantages is crucial to determining whether the 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring aligns with your specific needs and preferences. By understanding the drawbacks, you can make an informed decision and choose the vehicle that best fits your lifestyle.
Final Thoughts: Is the 2023 Ascent Touring Right for You?
So, after taking a deep dive into the 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring, the question remains: Is it the right SUV for you? If you’re looking for a spacious, safe, and well-equipped three-row SUV, the answer is likely yes. The Touring trim offers a premium experience, with upgraded features that enhance comfort and convenience. The standard all-wheel drive and advanced safety technology add to its appeal. However, if fuel economy is a top priority, or if you prefer a more engaging driving experience, you might want to consider other options. The higher price tag is also a factor to consider. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to take a test drive. Experience the Ascent Touring firsthand. Get behind the wheel and see if it feels right. Consider your needs, your budget, and your lifestyle. If you value space, safety, and a premium experience, the 2023 Subaru Ascent Touring is a solid choice. It's a well-rounded SUV that offers a lot to love, especially for families. Just make sure to do your research and see if it checks all the boxes for you.
