2021 Subaru Ascent vs 2022 Volvo XC60

When the 2021 Subaru Ascent was introduced, it filled a significant gap in Subaru's lineup, which had been missing a three-row SUV. The Ascent's design was reminiscent of Subaru's smaller models like the Forester and Outback, but scaled up to accommodate three rows. The interior followed a similar theme, with a dashboard design that could easily be mistaken for other Subaru models, likely an intentional move to create a sense of familiarity among Subaru enthusiasts. The Ascent was available in four trims: Standard, Premium, Limited, and Touring, each offering progressively more features, from driver-assistance technologies to premium audio systems.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC60 received subtle styling updates, including a new front fascia with "air blades" and a redesigned rear bumper that concealed the tailpipes. The XC60 shared its Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform with other Volvo models like the XC90 and S90. Inside, the XC60 maintained its clean design with a portrait-oriented touchscreen and minimal clutter. The R-Design trim added some flair with aluminum mesh speaker grilles and textured seats, while the Inscription trim offered Nappa leather upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent was powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. The Ascent's ride focused on comfort, with responsive handling and the ability to absorb road bumps effectively. It featured 8.7 inches of ground clearance, making it suitable for snowy conditions and light off-roading. The Ascent could tow up to 5,000 pounds and included a standard Trailer Stability Assist.

For the 2022 model year, the Volvo XC60 introduced new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains, replacing the previous T5 and T6 engines. The B5 combined a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt electrical system, producing 258 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. The B6 added an electric supercharger, boosting output to 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Both powertrains used an eight-speed automatic transmission, with the B5 offering front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive, while the B6 came standard with all-wheel drive. The XC60 also offered a plug-in hybrid variant, the XC60 Recharge, with a total output of 400 horsepower and 472 pound-feet of torque, and a Polestar Engineered version with 415 horsepower and 494 pound-feet of torque.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent offered 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third-row seats, expanding to 47.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 86.5 cubic feet with all rear seats down. This was competitive within the midsize three-row SUV class, though some rivals offered more space. The Ascent could seat up to eight passengers, with the option for second-row captain's chairs reducing capacity to seven. The first two rows provided ample headroom and legroom, while the third row was more suitable for children on longer trips. The Ascent featured 19 cupholders and numerous storage compartments.

The 2022 Volvo XC60's interior space remained unchanged, offering competitive passenger space within its segment. Front-seat headroom was above average, but rear-seat headroom was limited. Legroom in both rows was about average. The XC60 provided 21.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 49.8 cubic feet with them folded. Plug-in hybrid models had slightly less cargo space. The XC60 offered a commanding driving position with good visibility, aided by large exterior mirrors.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent featured the StarLink infotainment system with logical menus and large icons. It came standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, two front USB ports, two second-row USB ports, satellite radio, and Bluetooth. Available tech features included third-row USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 received a tech overhaul, featuring a 9-inch touchscreen running the Android Automotive operating system, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, and a built-in WiFi hotspot. The system included Google Assistant for voice control, Google Maps for navigation, and access to third-party apps via the Google Play Store. The XC60 also supported over-the-air software updates and promised full iPhone compatibility. Available tech upgrades included a head-up display and premium audio systems from Harman Kardon or Bowers & Wilkins.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent was an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for 2021, thanks to its crash test results and Subaru’s EyeSight suite of driver-assistance features, which included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. The Ascent also offered optional safety features like reverse automatic emergency braking, rain-sensing windshield wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but the 2021 model received top ratings from both organizations. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, automatic post-collision braking, a driver-attention monitor, traffic-sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. New features for 2022 included Ready to Drive Notification and Emergency Stop Assist. Volvo’s Pilot Assist driver-assistance system was available as an option.