22 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but it’s the reality for the 2022 Subaru Ascent Limited, Touring, and Onyx trims. These aren’t vehicles purchased for hypermiling; they are the choice of families who prioritize safety, reliability, cargo space, and the assurance of all-wheel drive over squeezing every possible mile from a gallon of fuel. These buyers need an 8-passenger SUV that can handle ski trips, camping adventures, and the daily grind of suburban life, and for them, the Ascent’s fuel consumption is an acceptable trade-off for its capabilities. They accept it because they understand what it realistically costs to move this much vehicle. Check out ASCENT MPG across all years before making a decision.

City and highway performance

The Ascent’s EPA estimates break down to 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the demands placed on any vehicle navigating stop-and-go traffic, but note that the Ascent’s turbocharged 2.4L engine doesn’t have a huge displacement.

This means it has to work a little harder to get the heavy vehicle moving from a standstill. On the open road, the story improves. At a steady 65-75 mph, the Ascent benefits from its automatic (AV-S8) transmission, which keeps the engine in its sweet spot for efficiency at higher speeds. It also helps the vehicle perform more efficiently on long drives where the engine is running at a consistent speed and the aerodynamics come into play.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Subaru Ascent Limited/Touring/Onyx AWD is $2,000. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices, assuming a fairly balanced mix of city and highway driving.

If you predominantly drive in the city or have a heavier foot, expect this number to climb. Likewise, if you primarily stick to the highway, you might see slightly lower fuel costs. Remember, fuel prices fluctuate, so the actual cost you incur will depend on prevailing rates in your area throughout the year. Of course, regular maintenance might affect fuel economy, too.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy often varies. Many Ascent owners report averaging around 18-24 MPG in mixed driving conditions.

Factors influencing this include driving style, terrain, weather conditions, and the load being carried. A fully loaded Ascent carrying passengers and cargo uphill in the mountains during winter will naturally consume more fuel than an empty vehicle cruising on a flat highway in ideal weather. Keep in mind, too, that the Ascent is equipped with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, which adds weight and a small amount of drivetrain friction, impacting fuel economy compared to front-wheel-drive rivals. Owners looking for more information will want to consider all Subaru fuel economy data.

How it compares

The Ascent’s fuel economy positions it within the competitive set of three-row SUVs, but it isn’t a class leader. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid, for example, boasts a combined EPA rating of 36 MPG, making it a significantly more fuel-efficient choice. However, the Highlander Hybrid comes at a higher price point, and some buyers may prefer the Ascent’s more traditional SUV styling and Subaru’s reliable AWD system. The Honda Pilot, another popular contender, achieves around 23 MPG combined in its AWD configuration, putting it very close to the Ascent. The Ford Explorer, depending on the engine, can range from 21 MPG combined (with the 2.3L EcoBoost) to significantly lower figures with the more powerful V6 options. Ultimately, the Ascent’s fuel economy is a factor, but not the sole determinant, for buyers who value its other strengths, such as standard AWD and a reputation for reliability.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the urge to accelerate rapidly. The Ascent’s turbocharger delivers ample power, but aggressive acceleration puts a strain on fuel consumption. Gradual acceleration, especially from a standstill, will help you conserve fuel around town. Smooth and consistent throttle inputs are also a plus on the highway.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain it at the recommended level, which can usually be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo adds weight to the vehicle, which negatively impacts fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need, such as sports equipment or tools, to reduce the load on the engine. Those roof racks are great, but resist the urge to use them unless you absolutely must. Even just the drag of the empty rack increases fuel consumption.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, minimizing fluctuations in throttle input and optimizing fuel economy. However, avoid using cruise control in hilly terrain, as the transmission may shift frequently, negating some of the fuel-saving benefits.

Consider using a lighter fuel. Subarus tend to thrive on premium fuel, which is higher octane. Using regular grades of fuel will decrease performance and MPG over time, even though it might save you money at the pump right now. A car running at peak performance and efficiency saves you money in the long run.