Should You Buy The Latest Subaru Ascent? Thorough Review By A Mechanic

[@jasonm3871]

For what it's worth, my father in law was recently hit by an elderly man in a 2022 Ascent. The Ascent went airborne, landed on the front of my FIL's truck, then rolled three times (somehow, my FIL walked away with just a tiny scratch on his arm). The Ascent held up remarkably well. In fact, other than the roof rails missing, I may not have guessed it rolled. The cabin kept it's shape to the point of really not looking like much had happened.

[@ltwig476]

Yeah the main reason I purchased my 2022 Forester was for safety and handling on wet pavement. Plus once you drive a Subie the competitions handling feels extremely loose. It is do to the low slung boxer and symmetrical all wheel. To get that feel you must move up to a more expensive Audie. I really appreciate the confidence in my old age.

[@danarussell4246]

A lady at work was in a crash in her Subaru Forester at I think was 50+ mph. She was walked away without a scratch and bought a new BMW as her replacement vehicle. I never understood how could she not buy another Subaru. Most vehicles you would have been killed in or physically screwed up for life.

[@jasonm3871]

@@danarussell4246 on the upside, her odds of being in an accident in the BMW will be pretty low since it’s going to spend so much time in the shop.

[@ltwig476]

@@danarussell4246 People, especially Americans like taking chances. As I got older and less time left. I started taking less chances and valuing my time greater.

[@nitrocatofficial6939]

​@danarussell4246 ask her please! I used to work at a Kia dealership and a customer came in for the same reason but because she walked away from the accident, she doubled down on the Sorento instead of buying a beamer

[@youtuber5709]

Im a Subaru owner , I live where it snows so naturally the most inportant feature of my Subaru is the excelent AWD , by the way i like your honest review .

[@guyfawkesuThe1]

There was a huge lawsuit against Subaru regarding a boxer engines and timing chains.This thing has two timing chains!

[@nancycy9039]

What is a “boxer”? Something to do with the shape of the engine?

[@jorgemenendez1740]

Subaru is a practical car for the ones who need quality, AWD and safety..

[@jonathenschwartz3019]

We need more reviews of more cars by you. You are the best reviewer who knows stuff mechanically and listening to you is like meditation. More cars 🙏 please

[@HammerPaired]

💯%

[@townhall05446]

FINE = OK OK = NOT GOOD COULD BE A PROBLEM = DISASTER AWAITS

[@Commentleaver-c6x]

Very interesting = stupid and unnecessary

[@cookiemaster4145]

Plastic parts of good quality instead of aluminum???? Specially inside that oven?? Thats asking for disaster to happen.

[@514aam]

​@@cookiemaster4145 not unless it's German, American or Chinese. My mom's 2006 Civic has a plastic valve cover, the thing has 250k+ miles, not a single issue with it, not even an oil leak in that valve cover. On the other hand I have seen aluminum valve covers with leaks at 100k.

[@JosephSalinas-r4r]

I have a 2007 honda element with plastic valve covers @ 450k miles 😮😅no leaks and still drives like brand new...​@514aam

[@alanlangley7246]

@@cookiemaster4145 all new cars are plastic

[@Ravi-kc6fl]

I have a 2020 touring and love it. To us, we preferred it a lot better than the highlander platinum. One thing that wasn’t mentioned, were the headlights. The headlights and fog lights are all LEDs, and are really bright. They are steering responsive, which is a really nice feature. It really helps with visibility around turns.

[@EugeneHonrath]

Same with our 2021.

[@tendertemple6429]

what about gas consumption? Not related but i have a 23 qx60 and in a max 3 days I need to fule and its over 100 CAD

[@Holyheart1]

How about the mpg not to good?

[@minnybiker4505]

I really like your channel! I've been a Toyota fan since I was 15, so naturally i was drawn to your original content. I now drive an Outback. Subaru meets people's needs with a quality product. Solid, reliable, capable, comfortable, and reasonably affordable. Different shapes and sizes? Ascent Outback Forester Crosstrek Impreza... It's all Subaru is... Same formula, different shapes and sizes. The infotainment complaints are valid, but overblown. How often are you changing the climate controls? Set to auto, done. There are buttons for make warmer/cooler, and defrost. I'm not sure what else you need. Radio tuner and volume... Knobs available. 98% of the time I use the buttons on the steering wheel anyway. Are they perfect? No. Sexy? Not to most. Cool? Only to some. But again, for people who aren't needing to impress everyone they don't know... And just need to reliably and comfortably get where they're going, a Subaru is a great solution.

[@dannyrbailey]

Why fix what ain’t broke, hopefully that screen and software can be updated and easily and cheaply repaired to outlast tried and true simple physical controls.

[@_gramcrakka_82]

​@dannyrbailey the latest update a month ago really streamlined it. My wife's outback drove me nuts until that was finally fixed.

[@vsistos3441]

😊​@@dannyrbailey

[@AR-tl5cd]

@minnybiker4505 Excellent post. I couldn’t agree with you more. 👍🏽

[@ramonestrada8990]

This guys Reviews are simply the best. None of the other so called "car experts" come anywhere close to his reviews. Thank you!!!

[@coastalbeer]

I think if you buy the Ascent, you won't hate it !

[@ricodeguzman5338]

I love his car reviews. I just bought my first Subaru, an ascent, two months ago. So happy to see a review on it.

[@msnangiej]

Hows it going? Pros/Cons?

[@ricodeguzman5338]

@@msnangiej had it for about five months now and put about 9,000 miles on it, still loving it, only downside, your gas mileage won’t be as good as syA highlander, or my older cx-9 but still decent especially on the highway. It is full time and after all. It’s a good, solid family car for us with two kids and two dogs, with a busy and active lifestyle.

[@harveyjay777]

Im a Subaru guy and I always watch this channel, never expected for this channel to review a Subaru especially who fixes mostly Toyota. I agree everything what he said about Subaru, the pros and the cons.

[@thor7564]

With the amount of stocks Toyota has in Subaru: not so strange he did a review on it :)

[@TomasCatalan-i3w]

@thor7564... You missed the part that he works for himself now.

[@louisc76]

I have a 2023 Limited with 8 seats. Just hit 12k miles, no issues whatsoever. Agreed Subaru do things their way, and their quality is solidly good. And, the last over the air update installed the automatic vehicle hold shortcut button just above the bank of hvac controls. A solid car overall, and honestly as a Subaru fan I think they present a better value overall since awd is standard. It’s a love it or hate it car for sure- I just happen to love mine.

[@TermlessHGW]

Friend of mine had the pre face-lift one with 1.8 turbo. That thing was already smoking like a steam train from it's tailpipes at 30k miles. He got rid of it soon after.

[@louisc76]

@@TermlessHGW Ascent is only a 2.4 liter turbo. I think you’re talking about another vehicle.

[@BABALAGAJIGAPOO]

@@TermlessHGWhahahaha ok 😂

[@_gramcrakka_82]

I hope you are changing your oil at 5k and will actually service the trans at every 30-40k. Subi says lifetime fluid. It's not.... differentials as well should be done on time or a little sooner. Subi is maintenance heavy.

[@soiah]

CVT on this model - if you get the transmission overheating warning then in the near future it will die, this is not an off-road car despite its awd.

[@Papa_Wrenches]

I’m a Subaru Sr. Master technician. I had a 21 Outback Touring XT, my first brand new car, the transmission started slipping at 12k miles. It was also a bit cramped with the wife, 2 young kids and 2 dogs on a long trip to/from Tahoe out of Seattle. So after the transmission was replaced, I got into a 23 Ascent. Very comfortable, drives very well, tons of space for camping supplies and road trips. 6K miles so far, no transmission issues but I found coolant leaking from the left head gasket on my 1 year service, after noticing my coolant level dropped from full to min in 3 months. Between that service and 2 weeks later when I actually could get it on the schedule, it went through the same amount of coolant. The engine is out and being repaired by another tech due to it being a major warranty repair. *Special note here. It’s actually a 2 layer head gasket now. I was surprised to see that when my engine was taken apart.* This is by no means a common issue, I’ve only seen this on one other FA24DIT with low mileage, and that was a 21MY. I’m religious when it comes to maintenance, I actually follow schedule 2 (severe), but I feel like I’ve had a bad luck with my customer experience with this brand, but I absolutely love working on them. I will say this: Throw some VikingContact 7s on these cars and they just eat snow like it’s nothing!

[@Holyheart1]

What about the mpg ?

[@JoeBuck-uc3bl]

Oh wow I never expected him to ever do a Subaru review. Awesome!! This guy is great.

[@xpavar]

He's done them before.

[@omarpulido8502]

He's done a Crosstrek and Impreza before

[@MauiWauiPineappleExpress]

It's the review channel, he does all kinds of brands on this channel!

[@egorlike1324]

He did a bunch already..

[@flipcoin6301]

Toyota owns part of Subaru

[@subiesojourner777]

After watching a slew of YT videos, especially those from Consumer Reports and the 5 star crash test ratings, now in my 60's I just bought my first ever Subaru. It's a 2024 Forester Wilderness. So far so good, no issues at all.

[@keepingonsunnyside]

Bought a 2019 Ascent Touring new despite it being a new model year, based on glowing review and recommendation by consumer magazine and good experience with a 2018 Forester with manual transmission. The CVT exhibited rubber-band syndrome, weirdly racing the engine when starting off from stop or gentle acceleration on hill. Subaru issued an extended warranty on the transmission due to problems. Had to replace the head unit within a year of ownership. Following year, same consumer magazine did not recommend due to quality issues. Cut my losses and traded it in on Honda Odyssey which was very good vehicle. These days I’m driving a GX 460 and very happy with it as well as my Type R. Will never ever get a CVT again. Thanks for your channel.❤

[@CheapSushi]

Now THIS is a review. This is the best review format I've ever seen for regular people who are going to put money on something that matters for many years.

[@tomaszj.9608]

I tend to watch his many other reviews and find him unique and entertaining in a weird way😂. This man knows his stuff and as I new Subaru Ascent owner, I give him a salute and full respect!

[@stonz42]

Thank you sir. Excellent review as usual. I have a 10 year old outback with 140k miles and it’s been trouble free with routine maintenance. Still runs like new and remains quiet with no squeaks or rattles. I’m considering upgrading to an Ascent and I’m really glad you reviewed one. I love your technical reviews and congrats on 1M subscribers. Well deserved!

[@luvingfully]

I enjoy your YT channel because of your well informed advice, generosity and care in all that you do.

[@danarussell4246]

Car Care Nut, I found your review on 4Runners the other year and it influenced which model to get. A few weeks later we went shopping for the wife’s new car. I didn’t see this review until now but my wife loves her 24 Ascent Limited. I was pushing her to a Toyota Highlander but neither of us liked it as much as the Ascent. We drove several other SUV’s and this felt the best to us. I did have concerns about the CVT but they’ve been in Subaru’s since like 2009. I also figured we’ll be dead by the time it has a problem if it ever does. Zero regrets just do your homework and base your decision on what features meet your needs best. You’re the best guy out there doing reviews. Thanks!!!

[@lawrencevkim]

Long-awaited review! Owner of 2021 model, very satisfied with it

[@gosman949]

Lawrence, how much is your ongoing maintenance? Heard it is costly.

[@andersonrodriguez8258]

How’s the cvt holding up

[@andersonrodriguez8258]

Burning oil ?

[@bohdanked]

Same here (2023 model)

[@Parker53151]

Same here, 2019 model. Very reliable. No issues at all.

[@JJJ5.7]

The best auto reviews on youtube. Period. Most of the others are journalists. A mechanics review is more in depth and appreciated. Subaru does use an excessive amount of black plastic cladding. But it is a nice car for cold climates. Design is always a bit quirky. Functional. Good quality. My leather seats started to crack and fall apart. Turns out the leather seat bolsters aren't leather, they're vinyl.

[@yurishvachko1748]

So far, you are the best reviewer I have encountered. All my concerns, revealed and not yet, were covered clearly and short. Much obliged.

[@LittleMountainLife]

Some very valid points here. My biggest pushback is your beef with the price. In this case it would’ve been better to look at a mid trim like my 2023 Premium. Has all of the driver assist safety features, big screen, second row capt chairs, and only cost me $38,000 last January. The value is unmatched compared to other AWD 3rd row SUVs. 35,000 miles on mine already and it’s still drives perfect up and down my gravel mountain road and on the highways.

[@johnmatthews7703]

Glad to see you branching out to include Subaru content. I would enjoy seeing an Outback Wilderness review.

[@kn7x802]

I have 2023 Ascent - this review is RIGHT ON THE DOT. My 2 cent - pro: great for snow/off-road, con: the back row is way too small.

[@sfgosha]

We bought this exact car 2 days ago.. same color, trim, everything. I personally love the looks of it!

[@blissfuljoy6049]

How are you liking it?

[@sfgosha]

@@blissfuljoy6049 Loving it! It's a great car. Loaded with safety features. Drives really well. It catches a lot of attention with the Onyx blacked out wheels and trim. Stereo is awesome. 3 rows of seats. Not much to complain about really.

[@blissfuljoy6049]

@@sfgosha That's awesome. 👍 Thank you for the reply. I'm considering getting one or maybe the Highlander hybrid if possible.

[@sfgosha]

@@blissfuljoy6049 We considered the Highlander. It's definitely a good car. Compared to the Ascent Onyx, it seems more bland, but obviously it's a solid car to own given it's a Toyota.

[@tsgt2007]

Excellent review! I was a Acura and a Honda car owner. For the first time I bought a 24 Subaru Forester and it’s a different car that I’m used to for sure. I like it so far.

[@Papalou1234]

Love the forester test drive quiet drive solid

[@denniss1211]

On my 4th... outstanding value in or out of snow !

[@ronzimm6677]

Aluminum suit

[@Pccpy]

I wish this or newer subarus with turbo have hood scoop. THIS IS the best car review on the planet.

[@anthonyng3014]

Thank you so much for finally doing a Subaru review. You do by far the best in-depth mechanical reviews of everyday cars on KZbin and to have the fa24f finally reviewed by you is Christmas come early for me. I personally own the 2024 Outback XT with this exact engine and I've been commenting on your other videos asking for a review of this engine. I'm not sure if you saw my requests or the stars simply aligned, but thank you thank you thank you!

[@spoutingfiction]

Love the Ascent but we purchased a 2022 touring specifically to avoid the large screen and the new exterior designed. So happy we did.

[@denniss1211]

Best review of the Best !!!! I will disable the attention monitor and tape over the red light ... at 80 I am an excellent driver and never had an accident (small or large) of which I am proud ... on my 4th Forester !

[@tomaszj.9608]

Click and Clack brothers’ famous solution! I miss their show😢

[@saberstrikez]

Hey AMD. Software updates just corrected the AVH and HVAC controls on the infotainment. Additionally, that rear bumper center cover can be removed via two plastic turn knobs under the bumper. It can reveal the tow hitch if equipped

[@m3rdpwr]

Yeah, I think that's a nicer idea than the other models where you have to take the whole bumper off, cut out a notch if you add the trailer hitch in afterwards. I had my trailer hitch added to my new Outback, because it did not come factory equipped. I don't plan on towing with it, it was more for a bike rack when I decide to add it.

[@jimf.625]

I have a 2023 Outback Wilderness with the same infotainment system and engine as well as the safety features. For the price point I think it delivers more quality and upscale features than its competition. I’ve gotten used to the CVT and have no issues. Turbo works well. It’s not a rock crawler but is very capable off road.

[@ComfyDadShoes]

I think I’m actually going for an outback for my next vehicle instead paying for something like a 4Runner. I’ll keep my truck for dirty work. I think the outback is such a smartly designed vehicle.

[@hakarumonoka]

I ordered a 2023 Ascent in summer of 2022. I was looking at getting a used one at the time but the dealer let me know about the new body change that was coming so I made the decision to to order and wait. Took a few months and it was finally delivered in October. It has all the bells and whistles and so far it has been a great rig! I only wish it got better mpg but I sort of expected this before hand.

[@joseeduardo4327]

What are you averaging?

[@hakarumonoka]

@@joseeduardo4327 20.9, but sometimes 21. I've seen people getting up to 28 or 29 but I've never seen those numbers.

[@hakarumonoka]

@@joseeduardo4327 about 21.7 at 12k miles

[@tvted6160]

I had a 2018 and turned out to be an oil burner. Subaru wouldn’t acknowledge it. Shame, it was a great car.

[@Srulio]

I have learned quite a lot about the Subaru way from your videos. Thank you for your careful and thoughtful approach.

[@lik2bik]

I have the touring in-transit for me. In the same green w/brown seats. I compared it to the Pilot Black Edition to ad nauseam. I also looked at the Mazda CX90, MDX, Highlander, Jeep, Volvo XC90, VW Atlas and one or two others. I’m coming from an ‘13 and ‘18 Outback (‘13 is going away) and have had very good reliability and support overall from Subaru. I really wanted the MDX for its more luxury and comfort, but I just couldn’t see myself paying that much more. The Pilot met and exceeded all expectations and being a former owner of an ‘08 Ridgeline am very comfortable and confident in the brand and product. It was larger and more capable than the Ascent, only slightly more $$, but one criticism I had of the Pilot is the longer nose up front. I agree with many of your POV on the Subaru. And, I appreciate your mechanical POV. I wanted the 3-row for the convenience and will leave those seats down almost always. I feel Subaru and others should have made that row for two people, not three, but again, my row will stay down or otherwise unused >90% of the time. I do like the compactness of the Ascent. I didn’t want (nor need) something akin to the Chevy Tahoe and I didn’t want to wait for the 2025 Traverse (or Buick kin). I think what convinced me to get the Ascent was Subaru’s reputation, reliability, and confidence I have in SOA (even though I hear rumblings about the service from some Subie owners, I have not had that in my current and previous dealership). It does have some blah styling, I don’t find the rear captains chairs as comfortable or utilitarian as a bench, but the touring is what I’m getting so I have to accept that package. The infotainment system is too tech dependent, but I’m willing to overlook those in favor of what I feel are Subaru’s qualities. And, at the price point, this is a better overall cost and value (maybe not against the Kia Telluride). Great review- thank you.

[@alistairblaire6001]

I love these reviews. Overviews of the interior and infotainment are nice but buyers are really actually interested in whether the car is designed to last and how hard it will be to service

[@wisamputrus6196]

Another great video brother, thank you for what you do for car shoppers👍👍👍👍👍

[@TheTom2video]

I’ve been a Subaru owner since 1999. My first one was the 2000 Forester, then 4 more after that. 2006 B9Tribeca, 2009 Forester, 2019 Ascent and 2020 Legacy Sport. I love my 2019 Ascent. One of the most comfortable SUV’s I’ve owned. Taking many trips from Baltimore to New York in a comfortable manner. The gas mileage is very good. 20-22 local driving and 25-28 on straight highway. The best mpg was 28.8 going to New York. I traded my Tribeca in for the Ascent. That was a good decision on my part. I had to use premium fuel on the Tribeca. Gas mileage was not that good. The most I got was 24.5 mpg.

[@joeythedime1838]

Excellent review as always. One slight correction the Onxy trim comes with Subaru's StarTex water-repellent upholstery, it is not leather. This is the exact same urethane upholstery that Toyota has branded as SofTex.

[@rickm8456]

I have two Toyota’s but I’ll be giving my 2010 Rav to my daughter when she gets her license next year. I’ll definitely be looking at this and the Forester. Most likely used. Would be my first Subaru.

[@MummaBear]

Sound quality is outstanding 👍

[@gm-zz8so]

Ive got a 2014 outback bought new , made many long distance trips as well as commuter driving. Other than regular maintenance it's been a very good car trouble free car. Very simple access to work on. I would only say, just like my Toyota ,change fluids twice as often than recommended for longevity.

[@soiah]

on mine at 155k the transmission valve cover had to be replaced because a solenoid died - $2285, a common issue on 2014 to 2019.

[@gm-zz8so]

@@soiah valve body yes, the one solenoid can actually be replaced instead of the whole valve body, but you need a good trans shop to do it.

[@cgpapineau]

Love his honest reports. I wish automakers would get away from these ridiculously large center screens.

[@denniss1211]

Learn to live with the Tesla way.

[@trentrizza4572]

I like the ascent but the AC and a few of the features suck.

[@Parker53151]

I own a 2019 that now has about 70,000 miles on the odometer. The ONLY problem I experienced was a sidewall failure of the crappy Falken OEM tires at about 19,000 miles. I replaced all four tires with Goodyears; no problem since.

[@jerryq1000]

We also have a 2019 as well as a 2018 Outback. So far, my biggest complaint is the mileage. I didn't expect Outback mileage, but it's 30% less...

[@denniss1211]

My 2023 Forester came with that same crap ... 2 flats in first 5K miles so like you ... solid Goodyear and no problems. On my 4th Forester and first problem ... flats!

[@jerryq1000]

Didn’t have any tire issues. But replaced the Generals with Michelin. Bridgestone on the Outback lasted 39k, also replaced with Michelin. NO issues with Michelins.

[@prettysheddy]

​@@jerryq1000 what type of fuel economy are you getting? I am looking into a 2023 limited or 2022 touring. But I am very concerned about fuel economy. Wife is looking at ascent, outback or Sorento hybrid.

[@jerryq1000]

I’m getting 26-27 in town with the Outback. 19-20 in town with the Ascent

[@jonathanpruitt7393]

This channel is incredible. Finally, a car channel that doesn't just read basic information to people.

[@parker4551]

Bought wife a new at the time loaded 2019 Subaru Ascent, transmission failure at 28000, and 56000 miles. Stranded.. Luckily had the warranty. Paint is very thin, better get containments off quickly. Lots of it was built well built but as a package not reliable. Didn't have the windshield cracking problem that many had. Got rid of at 75000 miles since another transmission was probably needed soon.. Maybe they have fixed, but they weren't putting better ones in when hey were failing. Same design..

[@dalenihiser7766]

While I don't own an Ascent, I own it's little brother a 2023 Forester. The Forester has been for the most part flawless. My main gripe would be the driver monitoring system. It's a bit heavy handed. My Subaru journey began about 11 years ago when I bought a 2000 Subaru Legacy with the Outback package for my son when he started to drive. Not even he could break the car. We sold it a couple of years ago and its on the road today. From there I've owned new a 2013 and 2015 Subaru Outback wagons, a new 2019 Subaru Crosstrek and now the Forester. My daily driver is a 2006 Forester. Sure I've had minor issues that needed repairs but nothing outlandish. Keep up with the maintenance and you're good to go. Zero oil consumption issues. Zero headgasket problems. Zero CVT problems. Honestly the best feature of all is the high trade allowance and resale value. I'm able to trade up frequently because these cars hold their value. The only other brands in that league are Toyota and maybe Honda. It sure doesn't happen with a Ford, GM, Stellantis, Nissan, Hyndai/Kia, VW or Mazda products. I have a great respect for the host/reviewer and his reviews. He had more likes than dislikes but the dislikes were more of the subjective opinion of the reviewer which at the end of the day is okay.

[@azr2d1]

Go to any mountain town and it's Subaru everywhere. Anywhere else you barely see them. But they are absolutely the best in the snow. Just use winter tires and it's unstoppable.

[@denniss1211]

I am from Montana but now in Cleveland area (wife can't breath at 6K ) and see lots of Subys... on my 4th Forester.

[@Dozer111]

installed Michelin Cross climate 2 tires on my 2019 ascent. In my opinion, it made all the difference taking the car to the next level in rain or snow.

[@renecperez]

I have seen few of your videos and they are the best reviews of cars. I have a 2021 Subaru Forester and I love that car, huge, spacious, big windows and great visibility! I love the mixture of old school design and high tech. Thank you for such a great content!

[@KG-xu4hd]

23 Accent and 17 Prius prime household here. Happy with both!

[@sindirodriguez1030]

Happy owner of a 2016 outback limited here! So glad to see you doing Subaru reviews 🙂

[@ytj22]

Once you explain that the upper portion of the front grille is functional, it no longer looks odd to me.

[@joseeduardo4327]

Price was great too. For the options you get, it’s a great deal compared to the competition

[@hanhanhanhan7692]

I was debating between this and the Outback XT. Ultimately chose the Outback because I didn’t need the 3rd row. Have been loving my Subaru since! Of course except the infotainment system 😂

[@fredrmitchell]

I own 2019 Ascent, very fair and thoughtful review. Personally on center stack, I like the original with more physical buttons. Wished I had bought center bench instead of captains hairs for ease of cargo.

[@desabat]

The Ascent and Forester's looks are my favorite in their class - the other SUVs all look very similar to one another

[@TrevorGarmey]

We have owned two Ascents. 2022 Onyx and after that was totaled, a 2023 Onyx Limited. When the 2022 was totaled we received a check for $4000 because the market value after 6 months exceeded our loan balance. These are outstanding vehicles. Our other cars are a 2019 Lexus GX and a 2015 Subaru Legacy (my daily driver). Particularly in the higher trim levels, these vehicles are very comfortable, spacious, and enjoyable to drive. Off road and adverse condition capability is solid. Not the GX of course, but we have really enjoyed what the vehicle can do. Acceleration is slightly sluggish but my fiancé uses this car for her daily driver, so that is not a major issue.

[@ubercdr1313]

The Onyx Limited trim specifically has all black trim on the outside. If you like chrome, the other trims are more shiny. The Onyx Limited seats use a water resistant material (i.e. for pets and messy kids) whereas the regular Limited & Touring trim use leather instead. Premium trims have cloth seats. Also, this past week Subaru has pushed out an over the air update that adds the auto vehicle hold to the main screen - so no more searching for it thank goodness. I have 4 teenagers, two of which are over 6 feet tall and we've taken a couple 7+ hour road trips and they've been comfortable. While we seriously considered a Grand Highlander when shopping for a new family mover, there were none to be found without "market adjustments" pushing up the price to crazy levels. The Ascent is in a weird place. It's isn't top of just about any category. Not the biggest, not the most fuel efficient, not the fastest, and not the most expensive either. But it drives like a big Subaru and that's fine by me. Also, we have our 4runner for when we want to do real off roading. Can't say I've noticed the driver monitoring camera even though it has noticed me.

[@BasicBeachCommunity1]

You are my fave care person. No bs just straight facts and details...THX

[@tammieecho3098]

Really appreciate this thorough review! Would love a review of the Forester, as well.

[@tuan056585]

It's well worth to watch your entire video. I think the reason why Subaru get rid of physical bouton is because it can be controlled wirelessly through StarLink software, in other word, owner can use cellphone for remotely control AC/Heat, temperature,... Beside Doors lock and Starter. Thank you sir for reviewing the Subaru Ascent.

[@lawrencefeldman462]

Toyota and Honda owner. I bought Subaru new and its a fabulous vehicle. Better seats than the other two models. All wheel a plus. Only wish they still kept Manuel transmission.

[@brianbanks3044]

I have the outback with the same engine and am glad I saw all the good words about this engine...in regards to the center console, it takes a bit to get used to it and it is an afterthought beyond that...the red light monitoring my eyes is not distracting but if I look away for 2 seconds, it lets me know STAY ALERT....i could probably turn the volume down on that feature...the price is what really concerns me, my Outback was 46K loaded and I can imagine this vehicle in the base model is going to start at 50K...at that price, I would get a Lexus or high end SUV...i love my subarus though

[@rocketman3158]

Subaru safe, reliable and good value.

[@jordez1]

The magic of good marketing 😊

[@Walterrinho]

@@jordez1 to be fair the only issues is reliability. They unfortunately have had issues come and go, before it was headgaskets, now it’s oil related.

[@AB-jk7tw]

Great review. We have loved the quality and performance of past Foresters and Outback’s we have owned. Would not consider any other brand!

[@LaszloGaspar-s3x]

Reliable not sure about that

[@kevinW826]

@@LaszloGaspar-s3xthey are. I work on all sorts of cars and I have seen Subarus with 300,000 kms or more and they are still running as tight as a drum.

[@beetlybug71]

Now THAT is a fantastic review, he did an excellent job, I especially liked the in-depth info on the engine & drive train. We recently purchased a 2024 Ascent Touring & love it, except for the reasons he stated. But those things are pretty minor compared to their snow/ice capabilities, they are unmatched, we live in an area where we get a lot of that, and we've owned just about every make and model of car/truck out there & nothing even comes close to Subaru when it comes to maintaining control in inclement weather. There is literally no where I can't go when the studded tires go on for the winter!

[@carolfobbie5165]

Yes, I like this guy too. He is very thorough and detailed on the whole vehicle.

[@terence4427]

Nice review. We have a Subaru Ascent Onyx and love it, but it isn't for everyone.

[@rogerrowlett7388]

Fair review. In the latest infotainment system update, they did put the AVH button on the main screen at the bottom. Definitely an improvement! Now I wish they would let me put both the recirculate and A/C buttons on the main bottom screen as well. Android Auto works wirelessly on this infotainment system very well, and really benefits from the big screen.

[@DMETS519]

So informative. Thank you. Almost every review of the new Ascents just say that the 2023-2024 models are only different from the 2019-2022 models because of some minor cosmetic interior and exterior updates. Your explanations prove there were more updates under the hood than i realized.

[@sethlingenfelter]

We have a 2020 Ascent with about 85k. No transmission issues. Did have 2 small oil leaks and a wheel bearing fixed under warranty though.

[@louiep9862]

This and STi only models that does not have the Auto Start/Stop feature. I enjoyed my ‘19 Premium CWP which I put 56k on and was for the most part trouble free.Traded for a ‘22 4 Runner LTD.Something about the CVT & turbo that scared me to keep it long term. Great review sir.

[@roberthaferd6386]

He's pretty hard on this one. I think this Ascent looks way better than the first gen.

[@terence4427]

I agree.

[@trentrizza4572]

He missed one critique. The 360 camera sucks. All the other companmies have a better 360.

[@andremontmartin7207]

Thank you for reminding me of my Forester, which I owned from 2015 to 2019, and sold after 72,000 km of pleasure and satisfaction. A somewhat special model, since it was the 2.0 Turbo Diesel with CVT gearbox available in Europe. Unfortunately, after only a few years, Suabrau removed it and it cost him his best sales here in France. Now Subaru has almost disappeared from the market in France. Incomprehensible policy!! I regret this Forester: very roomy, excellent handling, lots of light. I agree with you that this is not a simple SUV, but rather an off-road station wagon; a species unfortunately not very common on the market. Honestly, if I like my full-hybrid RAV4 (2021 model), I miss the much warmer interior of the Forester, a CVT gearbox that operates more quietly than the eCVT. It was certainly one of the best vehicles I have owned, superior in driving pleasure and road behavior to my RAV4, even if the latter is not unpleasant, but much less efficient.

[@benniewalker312]

Owner of a 2019 Ascent, traded in a 2012 Range Rover for it. The Ascent is the single best vehicle I have ever owned. Especially in snow. Just hoping the next gen of this vehicle will be a hybrid. MPG isn’t great, 3rd row needs to be about 3 inches longer for adults to sit back there.

[@reneeann5340]

We wanted a Highlander but my husband couldn't get in and out as easy as the Asent...Subaru for the win!

[@kathyl6948]

Love the review! But a few things you mentioned are specific to this model, the Onyx. Ex: The blacked out details on the exterior. The onyx model is purposely blacked out. The interior on this model isn't actually leather, it's a Subaru made material made with pets in mind. It is easier to clean and puncture resistant. The red light on the eyesight isn't viewable in our vehicle. The brake hold is one step in ours also. We love our Ascent, but do agree with some of the flaws you mentioned.

[@RedDevilRaspberry]

We just bought a 2022 Ascent Touring edition yesterday. 32k miles. It’s literally only been 24 hours but I LOVE IT! It’s our first Subaru. We’ve been loyal Toyota drivers for 25 years, but it was time for a new ride and the price difference was substantially higher with the Highlander which was what we thought we wanted. Time will tell if we did the right thing. 🤞🏼 Thanks for the review!

[@nitrocatofficial6939]

Please update me. I'm considering a 2022 ascent touring with 30k miles. The dealership has an unlimited miles/years warranty that's serviceable all over the country. What are your thoughts?

[@RedDevilRaspberry]

@@nitrocatofficial6939 We’ve had it for only three weeks, but my original statement stands. We love it. It’s such a smooth ride, little engine noise and handles the road very well. The Touring trim comes with every bell and whistle that I thought unnecessary, but now I can’t imagine not having them. Subaru’s Eyesight feature is invaluable, imo. It does exactly what it says it does and without hesitation. I think the only argument I’d make is that the MPG is probably 3-5MPG lower than Subaru says it is, but that’s not a deal breaker for me and certainly not a real “complaint”, just an observation. We did outfit ours with new WeatherTech floor mats all around, including cargo area, and that was just the cherry on top for us. (We are owned by a Saint Bernard so keeping the car as dog hair free as possible is important to us. 🤣) As of today, I would absolutely make the same decision to buy the Ascent. I recommend it highly. Good luck! Let me know what you decide. ✌🏼

[@joey86bu1]

Great stuff man! I'm not buy that they went from aluminum to plastic for "weight savings". They do it for the money which is why they insist on horrible CVT transmissions. Hats off to Mazda for not trying to force that bs upon their customers.

[@OutsideTheTargetDemographic]

I have a manual 2018 Forester, which I love, we just put the wife in a 2020 Outback with......CVT. I don't care for it, I dont trust it, I baby it, BUT, we just did a vacation, 800 miles, two adults two kids dog luggage to the ceiling, 70-80mpg speeds, passing semitrucks...31.8mpg. We will see how long the CVT lasts, but so far, 10k miles, no problems and the wife doesn't know any different.

[@AH-bm4ts]

@@OutsideTheTargetDemographic replace CVT fluid every 30K miles religiously.

[@OutsideTheTargetDemographic]

@@AH-bm4ts But it's a LiFeTiMe FlUiD! 🫣

[@truckercowboyed2638]

The Subaru CVT is not the same as other brands...do your research

[@davewilson7602]

@@OutsideTheTargetDemographichonestly they’re not bad they just probably wont go to very high mileage I wouldn’t expect failure or anything before 100-150k miles

[@rollingreclinerRecumbent]

We've had one for 4 years and I hate it. Driven Subies forever, but I really hate that obnoxious CVT, especially in the hills. The throttle is also impossible to moderate. It's like an on/off switch.

[@143jeg]

I love that color, especially in the blacked out onyx trim.

[@LlyleHunter]

Nice review. This is the first review I’ve seen on this channel. I do wish however that there was a test drive included but your commentary was excellent.

[@tonybennett638]

A M D you and Scotty Kilmer 100% informative...love your work.

[@Mac-t4y]

It is a blasphemy when you compare AMD to Scotty.

[@theIdlecrane]

this is a scaled up hatch back, that is spot on!

[@marybarras2153]

Very nice review. I think you might like the Touring trim level better. Not much more than the Onyx. Looks more luxurious. We appreciate the driver monitoring system. If you drive a lot and get tired it catches that. It is also used to monitor who is driving and adjusts the seats and mirrors automatically. Subaru 2022 Outback owner with 155,000 miles. Absolutely no issues!!

[@matthart5817]

You have a '22 Outback with 155k miles??? Do you drive 24/7 or something? Just go from coast to coast of North America multiple times a year? How did you put that many miles on in 2-3 years??

[@rayjensen4480]

This was a good review! And GREAT viewpoint compared to others! I own a 2024 Ascent Limited. It's my second one. I put 60,000 miles on the first one, a 2021. Have you ever been "tapped" in the rear by another vehicle, and it dented your pretty painted rear bumper? THAT.....never happens with Subarus! Know why? Because....of that heavy duty black plastic rear bumper! Just like a lot of things with Subarus.....it's really FUNCTIONAL! And in the center, where you mention that section looks like it's for a "trailer hitch"? That is exactly where the trailer hitch is LOL! Right behind....that center panel! Functional again! And the reason that everything on that model looked "black".....is because it's a specific one, an ONYX edition. None of the others are like that, and I agree with you....all. of the black is gross. That one also has the "synthetic" leather interior as well. The only Ascent that does. Better for kids and pets etc. A good review! Do some more!

[@TCPUDPATM]

This is a fantastic review with great information not found elsewhere. Thanks!

[@m3rdpwr]

I think the biggest complaint I've heard about this, is the gas mileage is much worse than it claims to be. Just bought an Outback touring XT, and I'm pretty happy with it. My biggest complaint would be being from Massachusetts, you cannot get the app for it because of the right to repair bill. The infotainment system can be herky-jerky sometimes and the lack of some physical buttons can be annoying sometimes as well. I also have a 2014 ram 1500 with a large display but it has many physical buttons which I appreciate.

[@rollingreclinerRecumbent]

We average 21.9 mpg. We were getting 23mpg with our old 6cyl Tribeca.

[@lindajohnson4901]

@@rollingreclinerRecumbent I manually calculated my mileage on the Subaru Ascent 2023 and I'm getting 18miles to the gallon. I did not see that coming when I purchased the car last year or I might would have rethought the purchase. My twins both have 2018 Subaru Legacy's, and they get awesome gas mileage.

[@PatriotSteve]

i'm getting 25.7 with my Limited turbo.

[@m3rdpwr]

@@PatriotSteve I can get that, if I do mostly highway driving. However I drive drive a lot of City, and I end up somewhere in the 24s usually.

[@cesarpenailillo6627]

I have seeing many of your reviews. I must say that its very good the work you do on each of your reviews. I appreciate that very much. Greetings from L.A California

[@darabu.julhaz6955]

Well, your automotive review is the only AUTHENTIC, COMPLETE, INFORMATIVE and TRULY HELPFUL automotive review out of all others on the KZbin channel ! I give your channel 10 out 10 score !!!

[@RythymJunky]

Just found your channel….absolutely love your reviews and thoroughness!❤✌️

[@nofeerz]

I love my 2020 very comfortable seats no back or leg pain even after 8 hr drive love features of touring these features now are must have

[@chrisnatiotis1423]

Rented one a couple of years ago and was surprised how nimble it was to drive. My daily is an Outback and I was thinking this would feel a lot larger, but it didn’t. It has tons of storage on the inside and loved the power from that Turbo, a lot quicker then my NA 2.5 in the Outback. The Green Onyx model reviews looks great.

[@loriwitkop1389]

Thank you for this review! I'd love to hear you on a Subaru Outback please!

[@KO-pk7df]

You can love everything but that having to deal with the screen is the big deal breaker! That part of driving the car, getting in/out etc. and having to fiddle with the screen is just a reason to keep my old one and just keep maintaining it and keep driving it.

[@Alex-se3uy]

I shopped this one for my family and the Grand Cherokee L - ended up going with the Grand Cherokee but this was a really close call.. It wasn't until I drove both that I went with the Jeep. The CVT in the Subaru while "fine", just didn't feel good to me. I also felt the Jeep was quieter, but again not by much. Much respect for Subaru for building a seemingly good vehicle.

[@romanmartynenko3575]

Awesome review. I own Ascent since 2019 and still love it! And you highlighted every important feature! It is not a perfect car, but it is A LOT of a car in one package. AWD is great for Canadian winters and mountains where I live.