2022 Subaru Ascent vs 2021 Lexus NX

For 2021, Lexus offered three versions of the NX: the NX 300, NX 300 F Sport, and the NX 300h hybrid. This review focused on the gasoline models, specifically the performance-oriented F Sport version. The NX retained Lexus's familial design, with sharp lines and a sculpted exterior similar to the smaller UX and larger RX. Standard features included power-folding outside mirrors and 17-inch wheels. The F Sport variant added a honeycomb grille, triple-beam LED headlights, and 18-inch F Sport wheels, among other sporty enhancements. Inside, the F Sport models featured exclusive quilted NuLuxe sport seats and optional Circuit Red interior color schemes. The material fit and finish were excellent, though the gauge cluster and center stack design appeared dated compared to newer competitors.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent introduced the Onyx Edition trim, which featured blacked-out exterior trim and badges, black 20-inch aluminum wheels, and unique interior trim. The Onyx Edition's seats were wrapped in water-repellant StarTex synthetic leather. Priced at $37,995, the Onyx Edition also offered an optional package with a panoramic moonroof, navigation system, and cargo cover. The blacked-out treatment gave the Ascent a sportier appearance. Inside, the gray two-tone StarTex upholstery was complemented by metallic trim on the dashboard and door panels. However, the StarTex material tended to trap sweat, making ventilated seats a desirable but unavailable option for this trim.

The 2021 Lexus NX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The standard six-speed automatic transmission was adequate but lagged behind newer multi-speed transmissions. The NX accelerated from zero to 60 mph in around seven seconds. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available. The AWD system could transfer up to 50% of torque to the rear axle. Fuel economy for the FWD model was 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined, while the AWD model had a combined rating of 24 mpg. The NX F Sport featured an adaptive suspension system and three drive modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport. The NX had a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds and a top speed of 124 mph.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent came with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive were standard. The Ascent's fuel economy was rated at 22 mpg combined, though testing showed an average of 20.5 mpg. The flat-four engine layout provided a lower center of gravity for improved handling. The CVT featured eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, allowing the Ascent to tow up to 5,000 pounds. The Ascent's X-Mode off-road traction control system, hill descent control, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance enhanced its off-road capabilities. The Ascent felt nimble and maneuverable in urban settings, though its braking response could be overly sensitive. On highways, the lane-keeping and lane-centering assistance technologies could feel unstable, but turning them off improved the driving experience.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an upscale interior with comfortable front seats and adequate second-row legroom. Heated and ventilated seats were available. The NX offered 17.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second-row seats, expanding to 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded down. These figures were among the smallest in its class. A power liftgate with kick sensor technology and power-folding rear seats were available options.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent could seat up to eight people with a second-row bench seat, though the third row was best suited for children. The Ascent Onyx Edition included triple-zone climate control, heated front seats, heated side mirrors, and a wiper de-icer. Loading the second-row seat was easy, thanks to wide rear doors that opened nearly 90 degrees. Captain’s chairs were available, and the panoramic sunroof extended over the second-row seats. The Ascent provided 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 47.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 86.5 cubic feet with both rows folded down. Models with the panoramic sunroof had slightly less cargo space.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a 10.3-inch screen available in the Navigation package. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and HomeLink. The Navigation package added Lexus Enform Destination Assist and a 14-speaker Mark Levinson audio system. Standard features included keyless entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth, a USB port, HD Radio, and a WiFi hotspot. The Lexus Enform Remote mobile app allowed users to control various functions remotely.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent came with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, and satellite radio. Premium trim added an 8-inch display with Starlink connected services, including a WiFi hotspot and remote engine starting. The system's voice recognition technology needed improvement, requiring specific commands for accurate responses. Onyx Edition models used standard stereo speakers, while the Harman Kardon premium sound system was reserved for higher trims. Additional technology features for the Touring trim included a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera.

The 2021 Lexus NX came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which included a rearview camera, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, traffic-sign recognition, automatic high beams, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. Optional safety features included park assist, a surround-view camera system, and adaptive headlights. The NX received top "Good" scores from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Lexus backed the NX with a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty and a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent earned 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. The Ascent came standard with Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assistance technology, which included adaptive cruise control with lane-centering. However, EyeSight's performance could be affected by direct sunlight, and the adaptive cruise control and lane-centering technology lacked refinement. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights with automatic high-beam assist. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available starting from the Premium trim. Reverse automatic braking and a Starlink Safety and Security subscription plan were also available.