2022 Subaru Ascent vs 2023 Subaru Forester

The 2022 Subaru Ascent introduced a new Onyx Edition trim level, which featured a trendy blacked-out exterior, including black 20-inch aluminum wheels and unique grille design. This trim level sat in the middle of the Ascent lineup, offering a sporty appearance that was previously absent. Inside, the Ascent Onyx Edition boasted a grey two-tone StarTex synthetic leather upholstery, which was water-repellant but had a tendency to trap sweat, making ventilated seats a desirable feature. The interior also featured metallic trim on the dashboard and door panels, creating a modern and appealing atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2023 Subaru Forester maintained a more traditional and functional design, with a focus on simplicity and substance. The Forester Premier trim, which we tested, featured appealing 18-inch alloy wheels and satin chrome exterior trim. Inside, the Forester offered brown leather upholstery with exposed stitching and metallic accents, reflecting Subaru's classic design approach. The interior was practical, with a mix of traditional buttons and knobs for easy control, and the Forester's excellent outward visibility made it easy to drive and park. However, the panoramic sunroof's lack of tinting could lead to excessive solar heating in the cabin.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive, providing a fuel consumption rating of 10.5 litres per 100 kilometres combined. The Ascent's engine, with its flat-four layout, offered a lower centre of gravity for improved handling. The CVT was praised for its eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, allowing for brisk acceleration and commendable passing power. The Ascent also boasted a towing capacity of up to 2,270 kilograms and came with Subaru's X-Mode off-road traction control system, making it capable in various driving conditions.

The 2023 Subaru Forester, on the other hand, featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. It also used a CVT with eight programmed ratios and included Subaru's Intelligent Drive SI-Drive system for a sportier driving experience. The Forester's X-Mode off-road traction control system offered additional settings for deep snow and mud, enhancing its off-road capabilities. During testing, the Forester Premier demonstrated excellent driving dynamics, with light and accurate steering, responsive brakes, and well-tuned suspension. However, the engine was considered merely adequate, and the Forester's fuel economy fell short of its official rating, averaging 9.1 litres per 100 kilometres.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent offered seating for up to eight people, though the third row was best suited for children. The Ascent's interior was designed for comfort and practicality, with features like triple-zone climate control, heated front seats, and a wiper de-icer. The second-row seats were easy to access, and the available captain's chairs added convenience. The Ascent provided ample storage, including 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 Subaru Forester prioritized function over form, offering a practical and spacious interior. The Forester's high seating position and excellent visibility made it easy to drive and park. The Premier trim featured comfortable power-adjustable front seats, though the rear seats lacked support for taller adults. The Forester's doors were well-sealed, and interior storage was plentiful, with multiple pockets and compartments. The cargo area was usefully shaped, with 762 litres of space behind the rear seats and 1,957 litres with the seats folded, making it suitable for various cargo needs.

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. While the system was user-friendly, the voice recognition technology needed improvement. The Onyx Edition used standard stereo speakers, but a premium Harman Kardon sound system was available on higher trims. Additional technology features included a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera on the Premier trim.

The 2023 Subaru Forester featured a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with similar connectivity options, including a CD player. An 8-inch display with navigation and a Harman Kardon audio system was available. The Forester's older Starlink system was preferred for its physical controls and separate climate controls. However, the voice-recognition system was nearly useless, often misunderstanding commands. Users were encouraged to rely on Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for navigation and other functions.

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 rollover resistance rating. It came standard with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-centring technology. However, the system's performance was affected by direct sunlight, and the adaptive cruise control lacked refinement. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and available blind-spot monitoring.

The 2023 Subaru Forester introduced a next-generation EyeSight system with updated software and cameras for improved performance. Adaptive cruise control was standard, and higher trims added Automatic Emergency Steering. The Forester's safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a Rear Automatic Braking system. The DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System was exclusive to the Limited and Premier trims. The Forester received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and five-star crash-test ratings from the NHTSA, though it earned lower ratings in new side-impact and frontal-impact tests.