2020 Subaru Ascent vs 2021 Genesis GV80

The 2020 Subaru Ascent, with its practical and utilitarian design, resembled a larger version of the Subaru Forester. It featured gray plastic cladding for protection, an oversized grille, and exaggerated fender flares that added visual strength. The robust roof rails and 20-inch aluminum wheels on most trims contributed to its purposeful appearance. The Ascent's interior, especially in the Touring trim, was more stylish than previous Subaru models, showcasing quality materials and thoughtful details. The Abyss Blue Pearl paint and Java Brown leather interior added a touch of luxury, making it feel like a worthwhile investment.

In contrast, the 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis' first SUV, was a fresh design that balanced innovation with brand identity. Its elegant two-box design featured a long hood, short front overhang, and a massive trapezoidal grille with a diamond mesh. The signature "Quad Lamp" LED headlights and taillights, along with the twin trapezoidal tailpipes, established a distinctive look. Inside, the GV80's cabin was sleek and uncluttered, emphasizing width and spaciousness. The use of authentic materials like real wood, metal, and leather, combined with advanced technology, created a luxurious and sophisticated environment.

The 2020 Subaru Ascent was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It featured a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive (AWD). While the engine provided good acceleration, it was thirsty, averaging 18.9 mpg during testing, below the EPA estimate of 22 mpg. The Ascent's handling was not particularly sporty, with numb steering and a suspension that struggled on uneven surfaces. However, it excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to its Active Torque Split AWD system, X-Mode off-road traction, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 with 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. The V6 models came with standard AWD, while the four-cylinder models had RWD with optional AWD. The GV80 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The 3.5T models included advanced suspension technology for a smoother ride. The GV80's fuel economy varied, with the 2.5T achieving up to 23 mpg combined and the 3.5T AWD rated at 20 mpg combined.

The 2020 Subaru Ascent offered a comfortable interior, especially in the Touring trim, with soft leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The front seats provided significant track travel, making it suitable for tall individuals. The Ascent's interior featured a useful dashboard shelf, ambient lighting, and a logically laid-out control panel. It offered a choice between a second-row bench seat or captain's chairs, with the latter providing added comfort and convenience. The third-row seats were accessible and provided acceptable space for shorter trips. The Ascent's cargo space was generous, with 17.8 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 86 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2021 Genesis GV80's interior was a blend of technology, design, and ergonomics. The center console featured a rotary gear selector and a circular multimedia controller with advanced controls. The HVAC panel had capacitive touch buttons with intelligent masking. The second row was spacious and comfortable, with available power seats and window shades. The third row, standard on certain models, increased passenger capacity to seven. The GV80's interior was luxurious, with power-folding third-row seats and a focus on comfort and convenience.

The 2020 Subaru Ascent came with a Starlink infotainment system, offering Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and more. The Premium trim added an 8-inch touchscreen, text-messaging capability, and a WiFi hotspot. The Touring trim featured a high-resolution screen and navigation. While the system was user-friendly, the voice-control system was outdated. The Ascent also offered a 180-degree front camera view and a PIN Code Vehicle Access system for active lifestyles.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a sixth-generation Genesis UX infotainment system with a 14.5-inch HD screen. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with cloud connectivity and over-the-air updates. The system allowed for user-configurable profiles and NFC digital key functionality for Android users. The GV80 included Genesis Connected Services, offering a range of remote and safety features. A head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster were available on higher trims, along with a premium Lexicon audio system.

The 2020 Subaru Ascent received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. It featured Subaru's EyeSight system, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and more. Premium trim added blind-spot monitoring, while Limited included LED headlights and reverse automatic braking. The Ascent also had a rear-seat reminder system and Starlink Safety Plus connected services.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but Genesis aimed for high safety ratings. It came with 10 airbags, including a front-center airbag, and a range of advanced safety features. The GV80 offered adaptive cruise control with machine learning, highway-driving assist, and Remote Smart Parking Assist for automated parking.