Auto123.com - Helping you drive happy

Subaru Goes Over to the Dark Side with the 2022 Ascent Onyx

2022 Subaru Ascent Onyx | Photo: Subaru
Get the best interest rate
Daniel Rufiange
The new variant will slot in between the Touring and Limited variants

Subaru has introduced a new variant that will join its Ascent lineup for 2022 as part of a mild mid-generation update for the SUV. Meet the Ascent Onyx.

The idea behind the Onyx is straightforward enough: give the mid-sized three-row SUV dark colours, accents and tones inside and out for a sophisticated, lightly meaner demeanour. The 20-inch alloy wheels are black, as are the exterior side mirrors, front grille and assorted other exterior components.

2022 Subaru Ascent Onyx, profile
2022 Subaru Ascent Onyx, profile | Photo: Subaru
2022 Subaru Ascent Onyx, interior
2022 Subaru Ascent Onyx, interior | Photo: Subaru

Inside gets black accents as well, in addition to new seat covering called StarTex, the material of which is water-repellant and designed to be easier to clean.

As its hits the midway point of its current (and first) generation, the Ascent gets only mild changes besides that new Onyx trim. What that means is that shoppers won’t find an Ascent Wilderness edition when visiting their Subaru dealer.

2022 Subaru Ascent Onyx, three-quarters rear
2022 Subaru Ascent Onyx, three-quarters rear | Photo: Subaru

The model retains the current engine, a flat-4 2.4L unit that delivers 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, wedded to a CVT (continuously variable transmission) that is calibrated to mimic the shifting of an 8-speed automatic. Official fuel consumption ratings for the model with powertrain are 10.4L/100 km combined. The SUV has a towing capacity of 5,000 lb.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent with its new Onyx edition will be arriving at dealerships at some point this summer, and we expect pricing to be announced as that point approaches. Take note however that U.S. pricing is remaining unchanged for the next model-year across the range, except for course for the new Onyx.

2022 Subaru Ascent Onyx, front
2022 Subaru Ascent Onyx, front | Photo: Subaru
2022 Subaru Ascent Onyx, second row of seats
2022 Subaru Ascent Onyx, second row of seats | Photo: Subaru
2022 Subaru Ascent Onyx, seat
2022 Subaru Ascent Onyx, seat | Photo: Subaru
2022 Subaru Ascent Onyx, door
2022 Subaru Ascent Onyx, door | Photo: Subaru
2022 Subaru Ascent Onyx, wheel
2022 Subaru Ascent Onyx, wheel | Photo: Subaru
2022 Subaru Ascent Onyx, badging
2022 Subaru Ascent Onyx, badging | Photo: Subaru
Daniel Rufiange
Daniel Rufiange
Automotive expert
  • Over 17 years' experience as an automotive journalist
  • More than 75 test drives in the past year
  • Participation in over 250 new vehicle launches in the presence of the brand's technical specialists