Are you in the market for a new SUV in 2022? One of the most popular automakers, especially in the SUV segment, is Subaru and its lineup of reliable models. A few years ago, in 2018, the automaker unleashed its new model, the Subaru Ascent. This model has become quite popular among fans and received excellent reviews for the new model year. If you’re interested in buying one, which 2022 Subaru Ascent trim should you buy?

What are the 2022 Subaru Ascent trims?

There are five trims available for the 2022 Subaru Ascent SUV. The base model, Premium, Onyx, Limited, and Touring trims are among them. As with all models, each one is more expensive than the last but comes with more and more features and amenities. Which of them provides the most bang for its buck?

According to KBB, there is quite a difference between each trim level. Since most of them are so close in price, that often means they’re almost the same. That is not the case with the 2022 Subaru Ascent. Most importantly, even the base model comes with plenty of standard equipment. This includes all-wheel drive, LED steering-responsive headlights, 6.5-inch Subaru Starlink Multimedia, Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist tech, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and more.

Is the most expensive 2022 Subaru Ascent Touring worth over $5,000 more?

Only a few thousand dollars are separating each trim level until you reach the top. A Touring model costs over $5,000 more than the Limited trim, so is it worth all that cash? According to KBB, the Touring model gets a power sunroof, an 8-inch navigation system, a Harman Kardon audio system, a 180-degree front-view mirror, a 120-volt power outlet, and a smart auto-dimming rearview with compass mirror and Homelink.

While that seems like a lot of extra equipment, it isn’t worth the price. We wouldn’t recommend paying that much more for just a few outlets, a sunroof, and some mirror tech. Most equipment people will use, and need comes with more affordable models, even as low as the Premium trim.

What 2022 Subaru Ascent trim should you buy?

KBB recommends either the Onyx or Limited Edition because the options provide an excellent value for the price. However, not all reviewers agree with that. Car and Driver say the Premium model is the best option because it “packs the best balance of desirable features and overall value.” We have a hard time disagreeing with CAD, as most of the extras added onto the Onyx and higher models are the technology that typically goes unused.

In conclusion, you should buy the 2022 Subaru Ascent Premium. For just shy of $35,000, you get plenty of features, technology, safety equipment, and the Subaru reliability you’d expect. Higher trims are good options if you can afford them, but we don’t think the fancy extras are worth the price. The truth is, most people who pay for all that extravagance don’t end up using it anyway.