2022 Subaru Ascent vs 2021 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a significant shift in Volvo's design philosophy, maintaining its traditional styling while adding a touch of modern character. The XC90 retained its boxy profile and blunt front end, but introduced softer lines, more chrome, and distinctive LED headlights with "Thor’s Hammer" daytime running lights. The Inscription trim, with its extra chrome and optional 21-inch alloy wheels, was the most eye-catching, while the R-Design and Momentum trims offered sportier and more understated looks, respectively. Inside, the XC90 embraced "Swedish minimalism," featuring high-quality materials like matte-finish wood and optional wool upholstery, creating a refined yet understated cabin atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Ascent introduced a bold new look with the Onyx Edition trim, featuring blacked-out exterior trim, badges, and 20-inch aluminum wheels. This trim level added a sporty flair to the Ascent's appearance, which was previously more conservative. Inside, the Ascent Onyx Edition featured a gray two-tone StarTex synthetic leather upholstery, which was water-repellent but had a tendency to trap sweat. The interior also included metallic trim on the dashboard and door panels, creating a modern and functional cabin. While the Ascent's styling was subjective, the blacked-out treatment gave it a distinct and sporty appearance.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all based on a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 model featured a turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The T6 model added a supercharger, increasing output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid, or Recharge, combined the T6 engine with electric motors, delivering a total of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. While the XC90 provided ample power, the small engine struggled with flexibility compared to larger engines in competitor SUVs. The XC90's ride quality was excellent, thanks to an optional air-suspension system, and it offered a respectable towing capacity of 2,250 kilograms.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent 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 engine, with its flat-four layout, provided a lower centre of gravity for improved handling. The CVT offered eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, ensuring smooth acceleration and commendable passing power. The Ascent's towing capacity matched the XC90 at 2,270 kilograms. Subaru's X-Mode off-road traction control system and 22 centimetres of ground clearance enhanced its off-road capabilities. However, the Ascent's lane-keeping and lane-centring assistance technologies could feel uncertain and unstable on highways.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 was available in six-seat or seven-seat configurations, with headroom and legroom in all three rows being average for the segment. The third row was tight for adults, and the seats lacked support. The XC90's interior featured a power sunroof, four-zone climate control, and high-quality materials. Cargo space was limited, with 317 litres behind the third row, 965 litres with the rear seats folded, and 1,815 litres with both rows folded. The XC90 offered a hands-free power tailgate for added convenience.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent could accommodate up to eight passengers with a second-row bench seat, but the third row was best suited for children. The Ascent's interior featured a comfortable driving position, triple-zone climate control, heated front seats, 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 was generous, with 458 litres behind the third row, 1,193 litres with the second row folded, and 2,061 litres with both rows folded. The base model without the panoramic sunroof offered slightly more cargo space.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and Bluetooth. The system was user-friendly, with a portrait-oriented touchscreen that allowed easy navigation. However, the text and typeface could be challenging to read while driving. The XC90 also offered a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system and a head-up display.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent came with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system in base trim, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, and satellite radio. The Touring trim added an 8-inch display with Starlink connected services. The system included volume and tuning knobs, but the voice recognition technology needed improvement. The Onyx Edition used standard stereo speakers, while the Premier trim offered a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received the highest "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS for non-hybrid models, with top "Good" scores in all crash tests. It also earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. The XC90 offered a comprehensive suite of standard driver assistance features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent also received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS and five-star crash-test ratings from the NHTSA. It came standard with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-centring technology. However, EyeSight's performance could be affected by direct sunlight, and its adaptive cruise control and lane-centring technology lacked refinement. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and reverse automatic braking.