2022 Volvo XC40 vs 2022 Subaru Ascent

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was a testament to Volvo's approach of easing traditional car owners into the electric vehicle (EV) world without drastic changes. From the outside, it closely resembled its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterpart, maintaining the same basic shape and structure. The most noticeable difference was the solid panel in the grill, replacing the traditional airflow design needed for engine cooling. This subtle change, along with the absence of tailpipes and the presence of "Recharge" badging, marked its EV identity. The XC40's design was a nod to Volvo's Swedish roots, with features like Thor’s Hammer daytime running lights and a floating roof illusion. Inside, the XC40 boasted a Scandinavian design sensibility, offering an airy and roomy cabin despite its compact SUV classification. The harmonious dash elements and premium finishes underscored its luxury status.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent, particularly in its new Onyx Edition trim, embraced the trend of blacked-out exterior trim, giving it a sporty appearance. This edition featured black 20-inch aluminum wheels, unique grille design, and water-repellant StarTex synthetic leather seats. The interior was marked by a gray two-tone scheme with metallic trim, although the StarTex material had a tendency to trap sweat. The Ascent's design was practical, with wide rear doors for easy access and a panoramic sunroof extending over the second-row seats. The SUV was equipped for winter with features like heated front seats and a wiper de-icer. However, the third-row seating was best suited for children, as taller adults found it cramped. The Ascent offered ample storage, with a useful dashboard shelf and large cupholders, although cleaning them could be challenging.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack, driving two permanent magnet electric motors for all-wheel drive (AWD). It delivered an impressive 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds. The gasoline versions, the T4 and T5, offered 0-100 km/h times of 8.5 and 6.4 seconds, respectively. The Recharge featured regenerative braking, which recaptured energy during deceleration, and offered a one-pedal driving mode for enhanced regenerative braking. Its low centre of gravity, due to battery placement, contributed to its stable handling. The XC40 Recharge had a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge, with a fuel efficiency rating of 2.8 Le/100 km combined. Fast-charging capabilities allowed it to charge from 0-80% in 40 minutes.

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 AWD. The Ascent's fuel consumption was rated at 10.5 litres per 100 kilometres combined, with a towing capacity of up to 2,270 kilograms. The CVT offered eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, providing brisk acceleration and commendable passing power. Subaru's X-Mode off-road traction control system and 22 centimetres of ground clearance enhanced its off-roading capabilities. The Ascent's suspension provided a comfortable ride, although it exhibited more body motion during spirited driving. On highways, the lane-keeping and lane-centring assistance technologies could feel uncertain, but turning them off improved the driving experience.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge excelled in form and function, offering clever storage solutions and comfort features. The absence of a gasoline engine allowed for a front trunk, ideal for storing the charging cable or small items. Inside, the cabin featured ample storage cubbies, including door pockets for water bottles and map pockets on the front seat backs. The front seats were comfortable, while the rear seats were suitable for outboard passengers but tight for a middle passenger. The XC40 Recharge offered up to 1,628 litres of cargo space with the second row folded and had a towing capacity of 907 kilograms.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent could accommodate up to eight people, although the third row was best suited for children. The driver's seat offered a comfortable and commanding position, and the Onyx Edition was equipped for winter with features like heated front seats and a wiper de-icer. The Ascent's wide rear doors facilitated easy access, and captain's chairs were available on most trims. The SUV provided ample storage, with a dashboard shelf and large cupholders in the second row. The Ascent offered 458 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,061 litres with both rows folded. The base model without the panoramic sunroof had slightly higher cargo capacity.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was loaded with technology, including Pilot Assist, which combined adaptive cruise control with automated lane centring. It featured a heat pump to support climate control, extending the vehicle's range. The infotainment system included a 9.3-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, running on the Android Automotive operating system. It offered Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play store, along with Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth connectivity. The system supported over-the-air updates, although the range reporting method, which showed a percentage of remaining charge, could induce range anxiety.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent's base trim came with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity. The Touring trim added an 8-inch display with Starlink connected services. The system included volume and tuning knobs, but the voice recognition technology needed improvement. Onyx Edition models used standard stereo speakers, which lacked sonic quality. The Premier trim offered additional features like a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge received the highest Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. It featured an extensive list of standard safety equipment, including collision warning and avoidance, blind-spot information system, lane keep assist, and a high-strength protective cage for the battery. The XC40 Recharge also introduced a new sensor platform, enhancing active safety features, and Volvo's Connected Safety system, which shared road condition data with other connected Volvo vehicles.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent also earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and received 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, EyeSight's performance could be affected by direct sunlight, and the adaptive cruise control and lane-centring technology lacked refinement. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and reverse automatic braking.