2022 Hyundai Palisade vs 2022 Subaru Ascent

The 2022 Subaru Ascent introduced a new Onyx Edition trim level, which featured a blacked-out exterior trim that was part of a growing trend in vehicle aesthetics. This trim level was positioned in the middle of the Ascent lineup, offering a sporty appearance that the SUV previously lacked. The Onyx Edition included black 20-inch aluminum wheels, a unique grille design, and special interior trim, with seats wrapped in water-repellant StarTex synthetic leather. The interior featured a gray two-tone scheme with light gray stitching, complemented by metallic trim on the dashboard and door panels. However, the StarTex material had a tendency to trap sweat, making ventilated seats a desirable option, though they were only available on the Ascent Premier.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade, on the other hand, presented an elegant and striking exterior design that set it apart from previous Hyundai models. Its distinctive lines and shapes, from the prominent grille to the sculpted wheel arches, added visual interest to the SUV's profile. The Palisade's design included a continuous strip of glass surfaces that gave the impression of a floating rear roof. Inside, the Palisade offered a polished and elegant cabin with high-quality materials and finishes. The second row featured either a roomy bench or captain's chairs, while the third row provided enough space for two adults on short rides. The Ultimate Calligraphy model was particularly stunning with its Steel Graphite paint and black interior combination.

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 all-wheel-drive (AWD) as standard. 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 engine's flat-four layout 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 was up to 2,270 kilograms (5,000 pounds), and it featured Subaru’s X-Mode off-road traction control system, hill descent control, and 22 centimetres of ground clearance.

In contrast, the 2022 Hyundai Palisade came with a naturally aspirated 3.8-litre V6 engine, producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. The V6 engine featured gasoline direct injection and dual variable valve timing, with an Atkinson-cycle capability for improved efficiency. The Palisade's fuel consumption was estimated at 12.3 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 9.6 on the highway, and 11.1 combined. The Palisade's curb weight ranged from 1,991 to 2,004 kilograms, and it handled nicely with its four-wheel independent suspension. The Palisade's towing capacity was up to 2,267 kilograms (5,000 pounds) with trailer brakes.

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 and a wiper de-icer. The second-row seats were easy to access, and captain’s chairs were available on most trims. The Ascent provided 458 litres of cargo space behind the third row, 1,193 litres behind the second row, and a maximum of 2,061 litres with both rows folded.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade, designed as a minivan replacement, offered comfortable seating throughout the cabin. The third row provided easy access and cupholders, while the second-row captain's chairs were comfortable with ample legroom. The Palisade offered 509 litres of luggage space behind the third row, 1,297 litres with the third row folded, and 2,447 litres with both rows folded. The Palisade featured a compact shift-by-wire setup for its gear selector, and controls were logically arranged. A dual-panel sunroof was standard on the Ultimate Calligraphy, enhancing the ambiance in the rear rows.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent came with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 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's voice recognition technology needed improvement, and the Onyx Edition used standard stereo speakers. Additional technology features on the Premier trim included a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade showcased Hyundai's technological leadership with a standard 1920 x 720 colour touchscreen and a 630-watt Harman Kardon premium audio system on all but the base trim. The infotainment system included wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, HD Radio, and satellite radio. The Palisade featured multiple USB ports, a Qi wireless charging pad, and a 115-volt power outlet on the Ultimate Calligraphy. Hyundai's Blue Link connected car system was standard on Urban and Ultimate Calligraphy, offering remote engine start and vehicle monitoring. The Ultimate Calligraphy also included a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a head-up display.

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. The Ascent came 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. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and reverse automatic braking.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade was also a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and earned five stars from the NHTSA. It featured a comprehensive list of passive and active safety features, including seven airbags, anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, blind-spot collision avoidance assist, rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist, and forward collision-avoidance assist. The Ultimate Calligraphy added Highway Driving Assist, combining adaptive cruise control and automated lane centring.