2021 BMW X7 vs 2022 Subaru Ascent

The 2021 BMW X7 was a standout in the luxury SUV segment, often seen navigating the bustling streets of Los Angeles. It boasted superior interior quality compared to the Cadillac Escalade, more prestige than the Infiniti QX80 or Lincoln Navigator, and a higher level of technological sophistication than the Lexus LX 570. Its visual presence was significant, especially when compared to the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class. The X7's styling, with its massive grille, was a bold statement that fit well with its large SUV stature, and its interior shared high-tech design and quality materials with the X5, offering a luxurious driving experience.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Ascent introduced a new Onyx Edition trim, featuring a trendy blacked-out exterior that added a sporty flair to the SUV. The Ascent offered a range of trims from Base to Touring, with the Onyx Edition sitting in the middle. It included unique black 20-inch wheels, a special grille design, and water-repellant StarTex synthetic leather seats. While the blacked-out look gave the Ascent a fresh appearance, the interior's gray two-tone scheme was a welcome change from the typical black interiors. However, the StarTex material had a tendency to trap sweat, which could be uncomfortable on hot days.

The 2021 BMW X7 xDrive40i was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, producing 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. It featured an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive AWD system. The eBoost mild-hybrid technology added a 48-volt starter/generator and battery, aiming to improve fuel economy and responsiveness. Despite this, the X7's fuel economy ratings dropped slightly from the previous year, achieving 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. The X7 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, offering a smooth and serene ride with its Dynamic Handling Package and Active Comfort Drive system.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent came with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. It used a CVT and standard AWD, achieving an EPA rating of 22 mpg combined. The Ascent's flat-four engine layout provided a lower center of gravity for improved handling. The CVT offered eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, allowing the Ascent to tow up to 5,000 pounds. The SUV's X-Mode off-road traction control system and 8.7 inches of ground clearance enhanced its off-road capabilities. The Ascent felt nimble and maneuverable in urban settings, though its brakes could be overly responsive in sudden stops.

The 2021 BMW X7 offered a luxurious interior with features like heated and ventilated front seats, a five-zone climate control system, and premium Merino leather upholstery. The second-row captain's chairs were exceptionally comfortable, though the long rear doors could make entry and exit challenging. The third-row seat was surprisingly accommodating for adults, though accessing it required some maneuvering of the power seats. Cargo space was limited behind the third row but expanded to 90.4 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent could seat up to eight people, though the third row was best suited for children. The driver's seat offered a commanding position, and the Onyx Edition was equipped for winter with features like heated front seats and a wiper de-icer. The second-row seats were easy to access, and captain's chairs were available. The Ascent provided ample storage, including a dashboard shelf and large cupholders. Cargo capacity was 17.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 86.5 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

The 2021 BMW X7 featured the Live Cockpit Professional digital instrumentation and iDrive 7.0 infotainment system, both with 12.3-inch displays. The system included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM 360L, and Connected Package Pro. It offered wireless smartphone charging, natural voice recognition, and gesture control, though the latter was inconsistent. The head-up display was difficult to see with polarized sunglasses.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent's base trim came with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a CD player. The Premium trim added an 8-inch display with Starlink connected services. The system's voice recognition needed improvement, requiring specific commands. The Onyx Edition used standard stereo speakers, which lacked premium sound quality. Additional features like a digital rearview mirror and front camera were reserved for the Touring trim.

The 2021 BMW X7 came standard with numerous safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional Package and Parking Assistance Package. The package included evasive-steering assist, traffic-jam assist, and lane-control assist. The X7's ADAS was generally impressive, though it occasionally struggled with lane maintenance and automated lane changes.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover rating. It came standard with EyeSight driver-assistance tech, including adaptive cruise control and lane-centering technology. However, EyeSight's performance was affected by direct sunlight, and its adaptive cruise control lacked refinement. Additional safety features included LED headlights and optional blind-spot monitoring.