INFINITI QX60 vs Subaru Ascent

The 2022 Subaru Ascent introduced a new Onyx Edition trim level, which featured a blacked-out exterior trim that gave the SUV a sporty appearance. This trim level was positioned in the middle of the Ascent lineup, offering a unique grille design, black 20-inch aluminum wheels, and special interior trim. The Onyx Edition's interior was wrapped in water-repellant StarTex synthetic leather, available only in a grey two-tone scheme with light grey stitching. While the blacked-out treatment added a sporty flair, the StarTex material had a tendency to trap sweat, making ventilated seats a desirable feature, though they were only available on the Ascent Premier.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 underwent a complete makeover, marking the start of its second generation. The exterior design featured a prominent grille, slim LED headlights, and oversized air intakes, giving it a concept-car look with plenty of chrome. The long hood and steeply raked windshield added elegance, while the blacked-out pillars created a floating roof effect. Inside, the QX60 felt wide and open, with quilted leather upholstery on the Autograph trim level. The 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display was well-placed, and the TFT instrument panel provided crisp graphics. The QX60 was crafted with high build quality, originating from the Nissan plant in Smyrna, Tennessee.

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 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 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 it included Subaru’s X-Mode off-road traction control system. While the Ascent demonstrated competence on various terrains, its lane-keeping and lane-centring assistance technologies could feel uncertain and unstable.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 295 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, which provided a superior driving experience compared to the previous CVT. The QX60's fuel consumption was rated at 11.9 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 9.5 on the highway. The suspension was reworked for a smooth ride, and the electric power steering delivered good feel. While the QX60 was not designed for off-roading, it excelled on highways and suburban streets, offering a serene ride and ample comfort for passengers.

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 triple-zone climate control, heated front seats, and a wiper de-icer. The second-row seats were easy to load, and captain’s chairs were available on most trims. The Ascent offered 458 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,061 litres with both rows folded. The dashboard featured a useful storage shelf, and the second row had large cupholders.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60, with its traditional SUV doors and rear liftgate, offered a luxurious interior with ample storage and charging ports. The second-row seats could slide to share space, and the Autograph trim featured captain’s chairs with a removable centre console. The QX60 provided 411 litres of luggage space behind the third row, expanding to 2,135 litres with both rows folded. It had a towing capacity of up to 2,721 kilograms with additional equipment. The centre console offered convenient storage, and the gear selector allowed for open space beneath it.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent came with a standard 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. While the system was user-friendly, the voice recognition technology needed improvement. The Onyx Edition used standard stereo speakers, lacking in sonic quality. Additional features on the Premier trim included a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 featured a 12.3-inch InTouch Interactive infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto. It included six USB ports, a wireless charging pad, and a navigation system. Sensory and Autograph models had a 10.8-inch head-up display and a smart rearview mirror. The QX60 offered a nine-speaker audio system on lower trims, with a 17-speaker Bose Performance series sound system on higher trims. Infiniti InTouch services provided connectivity features via a smartphone app.

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 with Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist technology, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-centring technology. However, EyeSight's performance was affected by direct sunlight, and the adaptive cruise control lacked refinement. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and reverse automatic braking.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but the previous model received high ratings. It came with standard safety features, including airbags, forward emergency braking, and blind-spot warning. ProPilot Assist was standard on all trims except Pure, and optional features included adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system.