2021 Subaru Ascent vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L

When the 2021 Subaru Ascent was introduced, it filled a significant gap in Subaru's lineup, which had been missing a three-row SUV. The Ascent's design was reminiscent of Subaru's smaller models like the Forester and Outback, but scaled up to accommodate three rows. The interior followed the same theme, with a dashboard design that could easily be mistaken for other Subaru models, likely an intentional move to create a sense of familiarity among Subaru enthusiasts. The Ascent was available in four trims: Standard, Premium, Limited, and Touring, each offering progressively more features and amenities.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, on the other hand, was an elegant extension of the standard Grand Cherokee, stretched by 11.4 inches to include a third row. The design was unmistakably Jeep, with its seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches, but modernized with slimmer, brighter lighting and improved paint finish. The interior was luxurious, featuring high-resolution screens, real wood, aluminum, and quilted Nappa leather. The Grand Cherokee L was available in multiple trims, from the base Laredo to the high-end Summit Reserve, each offering a range of premium features.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent was powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. The Ascent's ride was focused on comfort, making it a reliable choice for both city driving and light off-roading, thanks to its 8.7 inches of ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive. It was also capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds, making it a versatile option for families.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered two familiar engines: a 3.6-liter V6 and a 5.7-liter V8, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6 produced 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, while the V8 offered 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. The Grand Cherokee L also had a 4xe plug-in hybrid option, which combined a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 17.3-kilowatt-hour battery pack and two electric motors, producing 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. The V6 engine, however, was found to be underpowered for the vehicle's size, while the V8 provided a more satisfying driving experience. The Grand Cherokee L excelled in ride composure and steering feel, with an optional air suspension that offered five ride height settings and various driving modes for different terrains.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent provided 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 47.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 86.5 cubic feet with all rear seats down. This was competitive within the midsize three-row SUV class, though some rivals offered more space. The Ascent could seat up to eight passengers, or seven with the optional second-row captain's chairs. The first two rows were spacious, while the third row was better suited for children on longer trips. The Ascent also featured 19 cupholders and numerous storage compartments.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a spacious interior with plenty of room in all three rows. Second-row captain's chairs were standard, with a 60/40 split bench seat available as an option. The Grand Cherokee L featured Jeep's Uconnect 5 infotainment system, with an 8.4-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a 10.1-inch touchscreen on higher trims. The system was user-friendly, though some graphics and text were difficult to read. The Grand Cherokee L also offered a range of premium features, including a panoramic roof, ample USB ports, and optional rear-seat entertainment screens.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent came with Subaru's StarLink infotainment system, featuring logical menu layouts and large icons. Both available touchscreens were supported by hard buttons and dials, as well as a home button. Standard tech features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, two front and two second-row USB ports, satellite radio, and Bluetooth connectivity. Optional features included third-row USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered a wealth of technology, especially on upper trims. Features included multiple massage modes for the 16-way power adjustable front seats, a head-up display, night vision with pedestrian and animal detection, a 360-degree camera system, and an Active Driving Assist system. The infotainment system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and new for 2022, Jeep added an optional 10.3-inch touchscreen for the front passenger and dual 10.1-inch touchscreens for rear-seat passengers. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, forward automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear parking sensors.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent was an IIHS 2021 Top Safety Pick+, thanks to its crash test results and Subaru’s EyeSight suite of driver-assistance features. EyeSight included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning, along with automatic high beams and headlights that bent with the steering angle. Optional safety features included reverse automatic emergency braking, rain-sensing windshield wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not yet been tested by NHTSA or IIHS. Standard safety features included driver and passenger knee airbags, a rear seat alert, trailer sway control, and various driver aids. Optional safety features on higher trims included automatic parking, front cross-traffic alert, driver attention monitor, and traffic sign recognition.