2022 Subaru Ascent vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid initially presented a bold and distinctive design, characterized by its blunt and bulbous nose, which gave it an aggressive front-end appearance. Over time, however, this design became more familiar and less striking. The SUV's styling was further accentuated by black windshield pillars that created a floating roof effect, and swollen haunches that attempted to balance the overall look. Despite the presence of 20-inch alloy wheels, the exaggerated quarter panels seemed to overwhelm the design. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid Platinum trim offered a two-tone interior with soft leather, but the dashboard's asymmetrical design and glossy black detailing could suffer from reflections. The mix of illumination colours in the gauges also contributed to a busy appearance.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Ascent introduced the Onyx Edition trim, which featured a trendy blacked-out exterior, including black 20-inch aluminum wheels and unique grille design. This gave the Ascent a sporty look that was previously absent. Inside, the Ascent Onyx Edition featured a gray two-tone StarTex synthetic leather upholstery, which was water-repellent but tended to trap sweat. The interior also included metallic trim on the dashboard and door panels, creating a modern ambiance. The Ascent's design was practical, with wide rear doors for easy access and a panoramic sunroof available on higher trims. However, the third-row seats were best suited for children, as taller adults would find them uncomfortable.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned from a V6 engine to a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, resulting in improved fuel efficiency. It achieved a combined fuel consumption rating of 6.7 L/100 km, with a total output of 243 horsepower. While this represented progress in terms of efficiency, the driving experience was less engaging. The Highlander Hybrid's power was adequate for climbing hills and reaching freeway speeds, but the engine sounded strained during hard acceleration. The steering was lifeless, and the SUV exhibited unwanted body movement, especially on uneven roads. However, the regenerative brakes were an improvement over the previous generation, and the electric motor torque provided a smooth urban driving experience.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent, on the other hand, was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive. The Ascent's fuel consumption was rated at 10.5 L/100 km combined, and it achieved a towing capacity of up to 2,270 kilograms. The CVT offered eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, providing brisk acceleration and commendable passing power. The Ascent's X-Mode off-road traction control system and 22 centimetres of ground clearance enhanced its off-road capabilities. While the Ascent felt nimble and responsive in urban settings, its suspension tuning allowed for more body motion on country roads, and the lane-keeping assistance technology could feel uncertain on highways.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum trim provided comfortable accommodations for the driver and front passenger, with features like a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated and ventilated front seats. The second-row bench seat increased seating capacity to eight, but the Highlander felt narrow, making it uncomfortable for three adults in the second row. The third-row seat was low and lacked support, making it suitable only for children. Cargo space behind the third-row seat measured 453 litres, expanding to 1,370 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,387 litres with both rows down. However, the storage options were less generous than the previous generation, and the wireless smartphone charger blocked access to the storage area.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent offered seating for up to eight people, but the third-row seats were best suited for children. The Ascent's interior was designed for comfort, with features like triple-zone climate control, heated front seats, and a wiper de-icer. The second-row seats were easy to access, thanks to wide rear doors, and captain's chairs were available on higher trims. The Ascent provided ample storage, including a useful dashboard shelf and large cupholders in the second row. Cargo space behind the third-row seat measured 458 litres, expanding to 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 higher cargo capacity.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with a range of technology features, including Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Platinum trim featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, an 11-speaker JBL premium audio system, and a navigation system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large knobs and shortcut buttons for easy access. However, the JBL sound system's audio quality varied depending on the music genre. The Highlander also offered Driver Easy Speak technology and a video rearview mirror for improved visibility.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent featured a standard 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 infotainment system was not Subaru's latest, it was easy to use, with separate climate controls. The voice recognition technology needed improvement, as it required specific commands. The Onyx Edition used standard stereo speakers, which lacked sonic quality. Additional technology features, such as a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera, were reserved for the Premier trim.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which included features like automatic high beams, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. The system also offered intersection support and emergency steering assistance. The Highlander received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. However, the adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance could feel uneven and overly sensitive.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS and five-star crash-test ratings from the NHTSA, except for rollover resistance, where it earned four stars. The Ascent featured Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-centring technology. However, the system's performance could be 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.