We’ve owned two Outbacks, two Foresters and two Ascents. They have all been exemplary. You might get the impression from “the Internet” that there are lots of problems with the Ascent, but in reality, folks with problems complain loudly while those that don’t are out happily driving around and not really talking about it as much. Subaru generally takes care of things, too. They took care of the early “growing pains” and have continually worked to make improvements. There are still instances of “that car”…just like with every brand.
We recently went to one vehicle from two. Despite really liking the MY20 Forester Limited which was an excellent vehicle…a “mini Ascent” in so many respects, we only have our new MY23 Ascent Touring now. It has the size and capabilities that I prefer. The only thing that could make it better for me is for it to be a PHEV, but that’s a few years off in reality.
On the subject of fuel economy, you should not expect to get the kind of performance you do with your Outback. The Ascent is a two and a quarter ton brick on wheels with a turbo engine and you have to drive it accordingly if you want to maximize your fuel economy. I get about 18 in my primarily local, around town driving and typically get 26+ on the highway at 65-70 on cruise control. Sometimes more.
