2023 Genesis GV80 vs 2022 Subaru Ascent

The 2022 Subaru Ascent, particularly in its Onyx Edition trim, embraced the trend of blacking out shiny exterior trims, 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, 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 2023 Genesis GV80 exuded sophistication and grace with its quad-lamp headlights and bold grille, complemented by a matte Brunswick Green paint job. The interior continued the dark green theme with quilted leather seats, a split dash with thin horizontal air vents, and plenty of metal and matte wood trim. The centre console featured three large dials for infotainment, transmission, and drive modes, while the two-spoke steering wheel added a unique touch. The 14.5-inch infotainment screen, though slightly awkwardly placed, was part of a spacious and luxurious interior that was a pleasure to spend time in.

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 flat-four engine layout contributed to a lower centre of gravity, enhancing handling. The CVT offered eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, allowing for 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.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 came standard with AWD and offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and a twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6. Our tester featured the turbo V6, delivering 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. While not particularly nimble, the GV80 excelled at highway driving, with smooth power delivery and shifts. The electronically controlled suspension, combined with active noise cancellation, ensured a quiet and comfortable highway commute. However, its acceleration to 100 km/h in about five and a half seconds was slower than some competitors.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent could accommodate up to eight people, though the third row was best suited for children. The Ascent Onyx Edition was equipped for winter weather with features like water-resistant seat material, triple-zone climate control, heated front seats, heated side mirrors, and a wiper de-icer. The second-row seats were easily accessible, 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 a maximum of 2,061 litres with both rows folded.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 boasted luxury features such as heated and ventilated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and Nappa leather upholstery. The Ergo driver's seat offered fatigue-reducing adjustments. While a third row was available, legroom was limited. The GV80 featured Genesis puddle lamps, a proximity key, and a digital key. The tri-zone climate control system and available 21-speaker Lexicon sound system added to the comfort. Cargo space was impressive, with 988 litres behind the second row and 2,378 litres with the seats folded. The GV80's towing capacity was 2,720 kilograms.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent's base trim featured a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, satellite radio, and a CD player. The Touring trim added an 8-inch display with Starlink connected services. While the system was user-friendly, the voice recognition technology needed improvement. The Onyx Edition used standard stereo speakers, but the optional Harman Kardon premium sound system was not available for this trim. Additional technology features included a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera on the Premier trim.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster. While the infotainment screen was slightly out of reach, the dial offered a "clicky" feel and handwriting detection. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, though not wirelessly. The GV80 included wireless charging, multiple USB ports, and a 110-volt outlet. The remote smart parking assist allowed the car to park itself without the driver inside, adding convenience to tight parking situations.

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, the system struggled in direct sunlight and lacked refinement. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights, blind-spot monitoring, reverse automatic braking, and a Starlink Safety and Security subscription plan.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 was equipped with advanced driver aids, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Blind-Spot View Monitor system displayed a video feed of the blind spot in the digital gauge cluster. Highway Drive Assist used cameras, radar, and navigation to provide a hands-on/eyes-up driving aid. The GV80 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Good" rating for crashworthiness from the IIHS, though the headlights and LATCH system received "Acceptable" ratings.