2022 Toyota Venza 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 only in a grey two-tone scheme with light grey stitching. While the blacked-out treatment gave the Ascent a sporty look, the StarTex material had a tendency to trap sweat, making ventilated seats a desirable feature, though they were only available on the Ascent Premier.

The 2022 Toyota Venza, reintroduced on the TGNA-K platform, boasted a modern exterior design with excellent proportions, fitting comfortably into the Lexus lineup. Its most striking design feature was a deeply scalloped body side that emphasized power, complemented by a tailgate bisected with LED lighting. The Venza's interior was Lexus-like, with an elegant layout and high-quality materials. The layered dash and well-placed touchscreen display added to the sophisticated feel, while the supportive front seats and spacious rear seats ensured comfort for all passengers.

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 CVT offered eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, contributing to brisk acceleration and commendable passing power. The Ascent's towing capacity was up to 2,270 kilograms, and its X-Mode off-road traction control system, hill descent control, and 22 centimetres of ground clearance provided off-roading capability. However, the lane-keeping and lane-centring assistance technologies could feel uncertain and unstable.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, producing a combined 219 horsepower. The hybrid system balanced electric and gas drive for efficiency and performance, with electric motors at the rear axle providing AWD. Drivers could choose from EV, Normal, Eco, and Sport drive modes, and regenerative braking helped recharge the lithium-ion battery. The Venza offered sprightly performance and agile handling, with a focus on comfort rather than aggressive cornering. Its hybrid setup required no special attention, making it ideal for those without access to charging infrastructure.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent could carry up to eight people, though the third row was best suited for children. The Ascent Onyx Edition featured water-resistant seat material, triple-zone climate control, heated front seats, and a wiper de-icer. Loading the second-row seat was easy, and captain’s chairs were available on most trims. The Ascent offered ample storage, with a useful dashboard shelf and large cupholders. Cargo space was generous, with 458 litres behind the third row, 1,193 litres behind the second row, and up to 2,061 litres with both rows folded.

The 2022 Toyota Venza seated five in two rows, with good headroom and legroom. The cabin felt roomy, especially with the available Star Gaze panoramic sunroof. Convenience features included an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, electric parking brake, and sliding sun visors. The Venza offered 816 litres of cargo space behind the second row and up to 1,560 litres with the second row folded. Toyota focused on creating a quiet cabin, adding sound-blocking and absorbing materials throughout.

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. Premier trim levels included a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a hybrid powertrain that required no charging infrastructure. The Venza LE came with an eight-inch touchscreen, AM/FM/HD Radio, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The XLE and Limited trims added a heated steering wheel, SofTex upholstery, a nine-speaker JBL audio system, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The Limited trim also included a head-up display, rain-sensing wipers, and a digital rearview mirror. Toyota Connected Services were standard, offering Safety Connect, Service Connect, and Remote Connect.

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 with EyeSight driver-assist technology, including adaptive cruise control and lane-centring technology. However, EyeSight's performance was affected by direct sunlight, and the adaptive cruise control lacked refinement. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and optional blind-spot monitoring.

The 2022 Toyota Venza came with the Toyota Star Safety System, including stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and a rearview camera. It featured eight airbags and the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite, offering forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and five stars from the NHTSA. XLE and Limited trims added parking assist with automated braking and a surround-view camera.