2022 Subaru Ascent vs 2022 Toyota 4Runner

The 2022 Subaru Ascent introduced a new Onyx Edition trim level, which featured a trendy blacked-out exterior trim. This edition sat in the middle of the Ascent lineup, offering a sporty appearance with black 20-inch aluminum wheels, unique grille design, and special interior trim. The Onyx Edition was priced at $44,995, excluding a $1,875 destination fee in Canada. Inside, the Ascent Onyx Edition featured a gray two-tone StarTex synthetic leather upholstery, which was water-repellant but had a tendency to trap sweat. The interior also included metallic trim on the dashboard and door panels, creating a modern and sporty atmosphere.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner maintained its rugged, adventure-ready design, reminiscent of its 1980s roots. It retained its truck-based construction, sharing underpinnings with the Toyota Tacoma pickup. The 4Runner's high ride height, boxy proportions, and sharply angled front bumper emphasized its off-road capabilities. Inside, the 4Runner's design was functional but dated, with a dash layout reminiscent of the late 2000s. The 4Runner was available in various trims, including Trail, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off Road, Limited, and TRD Pro, each offering unique features and configurations. The Trail model, for instance, included 17-inch dark gray alloy wheels, a Yakima LoadWarrior cargo basket, and a sliding rear cargo deck.

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 (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 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). Subaru's X-Mode off-road traction control system, hill descent control, and 22 centimetres of ground clearance added to its off-road capabilities.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came with a 4.0-litre V6 engine, delivering 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a five-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD with low range. While the V6 was reliable, it felt underwhelming in most driving situations. The 4Runner's ride was harsh and cumbersome, with noticeable body roll. However, off-road, the suspension excelled, absorbing rocks and bumps effortlessly. The TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road models featured Crawl Control and a locking differential, enhancing off-road performance. The 4Runner's towing capacity was up to 2,268 kilograms (5,000 pounds).

The 2022 Subaru Ascent could accommodate up to eight passengers, 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 down.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner offered a maximum of 2,540 litres of cargo capacity in the two-row version, with 1,337 litres behind the second row. The three-row model reduced maximum cargo space to 2,514 litres. The 4Runner lacked a power rear liftgate but featured a power-open/close rear window. While the cabin packaging was not as efficient as newer SUVs, the 4Runner provided ample storage space.

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's standard stereo speakers lacked sonic quality. Additional technology features were available on the Premier trim, including a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, SiriusXM satellite radio, and multiple USB ports. While the system was straightforward and relied on tactile controls, it lacked advanced features like a head-up display. The 4Runner offered a 15-speaker JBL premium audio system as an upgrade.

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 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 lacked refinement. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and available blind-spot monitoring.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, which included forward automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and lane-departure warning. The 4Runner earned four stars in frontal and side-impact testing from the NHTSA and three stars in rollover testing. It was backed by a five-year/100,000-kilometre powertrain warranty.