2023 Honda CR-V vs 2022 Subaru Ascent

The 2022 Subaru Ascent embraced the trend of blacking out shiny exterior trims with its new Onyx Edition trim level. This edition, positioned in the middle of the Ascent lineup, featured blacked-out exterior trim and badges, black 20-inch aluminum wheels, a unique grille design, and special interior trim. The Onyx Edition's sporty appearance was a departure from the Ascent's previous styling, offering a fresh look for buyers. Inside, the Ascent Onyx Edition boasted a gray two-tone StarTex synthetic leather upholstery, which was water-repellant but had a tendency to trap sweat, making ventilated seats a desirable feature that was only available on the Premier trim.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda CR-V adopted a cleaner and slightly more aggressive look with its sixth-generation redesign. The CR-V's styling was more conservative compared to its predecessor, ensuring it would age well. The CR-V EX-L trim featured 18-inch alloy wheels, dark-tinted rear privacy glass, and leather-wrapped seats, steering wheel, and shift knob. The interior exuded quality and simplicity, with a dashboard modeled after the latest Civic, incorporating metal mesh trim and a larger touchscreen infotainment system. The CR-V's design was both functional and aesthetically pleasing, offering a refined and modern appearance.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 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, and its X-Mode off-road traction control system, hill descent control, and 22 centimetres of ground clearance added to its off-roading capabilities.

The 2023 Honda CR-V retained its 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. The CVT powered either the front or all four wheels, but its droning noise during hard acceleration detracted from the driving experience. Despite this, the CR-V excelled in ride and handling, with a well-tuned suspension, steering, and brakes. It handled speed bumps and uneven pavement with ease, offering a smooth and engaging drive. The CR-V's fuel efficiency was impressive, with a combined rating of 8.4 litres per 100 kilometres, and our testing averaged 8.1 L/100 km on a mountainous route.

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 well-prepared 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 captain's chairs were available on most trims. The Ascent provided ample storage, including a 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 Honda CR-V was touted as the roomiest yet, though the driver's seat felt more car-like than SUV-like. The second row offered more space, with a high seating position and ample legroom. Storage options were plentiful, with a large centre armrest bin, door panel storage, and a tray with an available wireless charging pad. The CR-V's cargo area provided 1,113 litres of space with the rear load floor panel lowered, and 2,166 litres with the back seat folded. The Hybrid model had slightly reduced cargo space.

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. While the system was user-friendly, its voice recognition technology needed improvement. The Onyx Edition's standard stereo speakers lacked sonic quality, and the Harman Kardon premium sound system was not available for this trim. Additional technology features, like a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera, were reserved for the Premier trim.

The 2023 Honda CR-V came with a 7-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The EX-L trim upgraded to a 9-inch display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and an eight-speaker sound system. The top-tier Touring Hybrid offered a Bose premium sound system and navigation with real-time traffic. While the EX-L's technology was an improvement over the previous generation, it lacked some features found in competitors. The CR-V's safety features were comprehensive but did not exceed industry standards.

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's EyeSight driver-assist technology included adaptive cruise control and lane-centring, though it had limitations in certain conditions. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and optional blind-spot monitoring.

The 2023 Honda CR-V improved its driver assist systems with Honda Sensing, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. New features included a seatbelt reminder, rear-seat reminder, and traffic sign recognition. The CR-V's lane-centring assist had room for improvement, but the vehicle was built to Honda's latest safety standards. The CR-V was expected to excel in crash protection, earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.