2022 Subaru Ascent vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

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, which was preferable to a black interior. 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.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Aviator presented a more luxurious and sophisticated look. It was a three-row, midsize crossover with a modern Lincoln face and grille, though the wheel designs on the Grand Touring model were considered too plain. The Aviator featured an inviting lighting sequence, electric door handles, and ambient cabin lighting, creating an effortless and welcoming experience. Inside, the Grand Touring model was lavishly appointed with patterned metal trim, gloss black surfaces, chrome accents, and a swanky simulated suede headliner. However, some chrome detailing felt cheap, and the key fob was lightweight and plasticky, detracting from the overall luxury feel.

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, and it offered a towing capacity of up to 2,270 kilograms. The CVT was praised for its performance, providing brisk acceleration and commendable passing power. The Ascent's X-Mode off-road traction control system, hill descent control, and 22 centimetres of ground clearance enhanced its off-roading capabilities. However, the lane-keeping and lane-centring assistance technologies were criticized for creating an uncertain driving experience.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, delivered impressive power with 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. It offered 34 kilometres of electric driving range and averaged 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in hybrid mode. The Aviator featured multiple driving modes, including Pure EV, Preserve EV, Conserve, Normal, and Excite, allowing for efficient power management. The Dynamic Handling Package with adaptive-damping Active Glide suspension provided a smooth and predictable ride. However, the drivetrain was sometimes unpredictable, and the brake pedal exhibited inconsistent behaviour. Despite its commendable handling traits, the Aviator was not particularly fun to drive, focusing more on comfort and isolation.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent could accommodate up to eight people, 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 captain's chairs were available on most trims, and the panoramic sunroof extended over the second-row seats. The Ascent provided 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 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone automatic climate control system, heated and ventilated seats, and massaging 30-way Perfect Position front seats. However, the third row was not suitable for adults, with limited kneeroom and legroom. The Aviator offered 519 litres of cargo space behind the third row, 1,183 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,200 litres. The power-release second-row captain's chairs provided some foot room, but the third row's flat cushion and lack of leg support were drawbacks.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent featured a standard 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. The system's voice recognition technology needed improvement, requiring specific commands. The Onyx Edition used standard stereo speakers, which lacked sonic quality. Additional technology features, like a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera, were reserved for the Premier trim.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring was loaded with technology, including a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. However, it ran on the outdated Sync 3 software, which struggled with voice recognition. The Aviator featured a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system, wireless charging, and the optional Phone As A Key digital key system. The digital instrumentation and head-up display were praised for their visibility, even with polarized sunglasses. The Aviator also included front and rear parking sensors and a surround-view camera system.

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 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 and optional blind-spot monitoring.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic high-beam adaptive-pixel headlights, adaptive cruise control, and a pedestrian detection system. The Aviator also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. However, the lane-keeping system struggled in curves, and the steering wheel controls were unnecessarily complicated. The Aviator received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.