2022 Subaru Ascent vs 2021 Buick Enclave

The 2021 Buick Enclave harkened back to the brand's glory days with its large, shiny, and impressive design. After a period of decline, Buick found its footing by offering globally sourced and rebadged GM vehicles. The Enclave stood out as a significant model, embodying the brand's past while catering to the modern SUV market. It was the largest of Buick's SUV lineup, offering a luxurious appearance, especially in the Avenir trim, which featured a unique grille, brightwork, and polished 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Enclave Avenir boasted a minimalist design with organic forms, polished accents, and soft leather, although the wood trim was not genuine. The interior was simple, save for the electronic transmission shifter, which required some getting used to.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Ascent introduced a sporty look with its new Onyx Edition trim, featuring blacked-out exterior trim and badges, black 20-inch wheels, and a unique grille design. The interior of the Onyx Edition was equipped with water-repellant StarTex synthetic leather in a grey two-tone scheme, complemented by metallic trim on the dashboard and door panels. While the blacked-out treatment gave the Ascent a sporty appearance, the StarTex material had a tendency to trap sweat, making ventilated seats a desirable feature. The Ascent's styling was subjective, but it aimed to attract buyers looking for a rugged and sporty SUV.

The 2021 Buick Enclave was powered by a 3.6-litre V6 engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. It delivered 310 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 266 pound-feet of torque at 2,800 rpm. Front-wheel drive was standard on the Essence grade in Canada, while all-wheel drive was available on higher trims. The Enclave's towing capacity reached up to 2,268 kilograms (5,000 pounds) when properly equipped. The V6 engine provided strong acceleration, and the nine-speed automatic transmission ensured smooth shifts. The Enclave's suspension, especially with the Avenir Technology Package, offered a premium-tuned ride with continuously variable damping, making it suitable for various driving environments. Fuel efficiency was rated at 11.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with the potential to travel over 900 kilometres on a single tank.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It came with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive. The Ascent's fuel consumption was rated at 10.5 litres per 100 kilometres combined. The flat-four engine design contributed to a lower centre of gravity, enhancing handling. The CVT offered eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, providing brisk acceleration and commendable passing power. The Ascent's towing capacity matched the Enclave's at 2,270 kilograms (5,000 pounds). Subaru's X-Mode off-road traction control system, hill descent control, and 22 centimetres of ground clearance added to its off-roading capabilities. The Ascent's suspension and steering provided a nimble and maneuverable feel, although the lane-keeping and lane-centring assistance technologies could be intrusive.

The 2021 Buick Enclave was one of the largest SUVs in its class, offering spacious and comfortable seating for six or seven passengers. Its cabin was designed for serenity, with features like Active Noise Cancellation and laminated windshield glass. The Avenir trim included a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support and massage functions, as well as heated and ventilated front seats. The Enclave's interior featured a stylish centre console with ample storage. The third-row seat was genuinely useful, providing comfort comparable to competitors like the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride. Cargo space was generous, with 668 litres behind the third row, 1,642 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,764 litres with the second row down.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent could accommodate up to eight passengers, though the third row was best suited for children. The Ascent Onyx Edition offered a comfortable driving position and was equipped for winter weather with features like heated front seats, heated side mirrors, and a wiper de-icer. Loading the second row was easy, thanks to wide rear doors. The Ascent provided ample storage, including a dashboard shelf and large cupholders. Cargo space measured 458 litres behind the third row, 1,193 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,061 litres with both rows down. The base model without the panoramic sunroof offered slightly more cargo space.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's infotainment system met basic expectations with quick response times, voice recognition, and a user-friendly interface. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. Upgrades included a premium sound system, navigation, wireless charging, and a surround-view camera. However, the 8-inch touchscreen and 10-speaker Bose sound system fell short compared to competitors. The rear camera mirror was a notable feature, providing a live video view of what's behind the Enclave.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent's base trim featured a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, and satellite radio. The Touring trim added an 8-inch display with Starlink connected services. While the system was user-friendly, the voice recognition technology needed improvement. The Onyx Edition used standard stereo speakers, lacking in sonic quality. Additional technology features, like a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera, were reserved for the Premier trim.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's safety systems worked well, but many features were restricted to higher trims. In Canada, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard. The Driver Confidence Plus Package, available on Premium and Avenir trims, included forward-collision warning, low-speed automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and more. The Enclave received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though frontal-impact protection rated four stars. The IIHS gave it high marks, but a Marginal headlight performance rating prevented a Top Safety Pick accolade.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent earned a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS and five-star crash-test ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating. The Ascent came standard with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology, including adaptive cruise control with lane-centring. However, EyeSight's performance was affected by direct sunlight, and the adaptive cruise control and lane-centring technology lacked refinement. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and reverse automatic braking.