2022 Chevrolet Suburban vs 2022 Subaru Ascent

The 2022 Subaru Ascent, particularly in its new Onyx Edition trim, embraced the trend of blacking out shiny exterior trim, offering a sporty appearance that was previously absent. This edition featured blacked-out exterior trim and badges, black 20-inch aluminum wheels, a unique grille design, and special interior trim. The interior was wrapped in water-repellant StarTex synthetic leather, available in a grey two-tone scheme with light grey stitching, which was a refreshing change from the typical black interiors. However, the StarTex material had a tendency to trap sweat, making ventilated seats a desirable feature, though they were only available on the Ascent Premier.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Suburban carried forward the brand's full-size truck design language, giving it a supersized appearance with its tall hood, long proportions, and large wheels. The RST trim, in particular, stood out with its Cherry Red Tintcoat exterior, bright-machined black-painted 22-inch wheels, and monochromatic black grille with Black Ice accents. Inside, the Suburban offered a spacious cabin with a range of material quality, from economically comfortable on the base LS trim to plush on the High Country. The RST trim featured Jet Black perforated leather seats with Victory Red stitching, though the predominantly black interior could feel a bit dark despite the chrome sill plates and red seat stitching.

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 came standard with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive (AWD). The Ascent's fuel consumption was rated at 10.5 litres per 100 kilometres combined, with our testing averaging 11.5 L/100 km. The CVT featured eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, allowing for brisk acceleration and commendable passing power. The Ascent also boasted a towing capacity of up to 2,270 kilograms (5,000 pounds) and included Subaru’s X-Mode off-road traction control system, hill descent control, and 22 centimetres of ground clearance.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban offered a choice of three engines: a 5.3-litre V8, a 6.2-litre V8, and a 3.0-litre turbodiesel inline-six, all paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The 5.3-litre V8 produced 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, while the 6.2-litre V8 delivered 420 hp and 460 lb-ft. The 3.0-litre diesel engine offered 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, providing excellent fuel efficiency. The Suburban's maximum towing capacity was 3,765 kilograms (8,300 pounds) with the Max Trailering Package. Our RST test vehicle featured the 6.2-litre V8 and Magnetic Ride Control, offering effortless power and acceleration, making it well-suited for towing and hauling.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent could accommodate up to eight people with a second-row bench seat, though the third row was best suited for children. The Ascent 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. The second-row seats were easy to access, and the available panoramic sunroof extended over them. The Ascent provided 458 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,061 litres with both rows folded down.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban excelled in space, offering seating for up to nine occupants with the optional front-row bench seat. The third row was comfortable for adults, and access was excellent. The Suburban boasted 1,175 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 4,097 litres with the second and third rows folded flat. The power-sliding centre console and hidden storage drawer added to its practicality. However, the Suburban's size made it challenging to maneuver and park in tight spaces, and the switch to electronic push-button transmission controls required some adjustment.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent 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. The system's voice recognition technology needed improvement, and the Onyx Edition's standard stereo speakers lacked sonic quality. The Premier trim offered additional features like a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban offered a wealth of technology, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and Google built-in on LT trims and above. The Chevrolet Infotainment 3 System with an 8-inch touchscreen was standard on the LS, while the LT and above featured a 10.2-inch system with Google built-in. Wireless device charging and a WiFi hotspot were standard on the LT and above. The Suburban's audio system ranged from a basic six-speaker setup on the LS to a premium Bose 10-speaker system on the Premier and High Country.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS and five-star crash-test ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rating in rollover resistance. It came standard with Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist technology, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-centring technology. However, EyeSight's performance was affected by direct sunlight, and its adaptive cruise control and lane-centring technology lacked refinement.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban featured the Chevy Safety Assist suite, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and more. For 2022, front park assist, lane-keeping assistance, and lane-departure warning were added as standard features. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, HD surround vision, and a head-up display. The Suburban received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four stars for front crash protection, five stars for side crash protection, and three stars for rollover resistance.