2021 Subaru Ascent vs 2022 Lexus GX
Overview | |
MSRP$32,295 | MSRP$56,125 |
Listings453 | Listings354 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews8.5 out of 10 | Expert reviews4.2 out of 10 |
Pros
Cons
| |
2021 Subaru Ascent Reviews SummaryFew automakers have the brand loyalty enjoyed by Subaru—and with good reason. Its cars, wagons, and SUVs are safe, reliable, and provide features like standard all-wheel drive (AWD). A three-row SUV with all of these benefits seems like a no-brainer, and so the 2021 Subaru Ascent is ideally positioned to differentiate itself from the rest of this family-hauling segment. In addition to its spacious cabin and a long list of standard features, the Ascent gains a few key safety features as newly standard equipment. | |
2022 Lexus GX Reviews SummaryBased on the same rugged traditional body-on-frame SUV platform as the Toyota 4Runner, the 2022 Lexus GX is something akin to a Japanese Land Rover. Designed for maximum off-roading capability and only then refined for use as a luxurious daily driver, it has a standard V8 engine, standard four-wheel drive (4WD), and a standard unquenchable thirst for fuel. And though Lexus markets the GX as a three-row, seven-passenger SUV, it is best used to carry five people and 46.7 cubic feet of cargo behind its second-row seat. | |
No video found | No video found |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine2.4L 260 hp H4 | Engine4.6L 301 hp V8 |
Drive TrainAWD | Drive TrainAWD |
Seating Capacity8 | Seating Capacity7 |
Horsepower260 hp @ 5600 rpm | Horsepower301 hp @ 5500 rpm |
MPG City21 | MPG City15 |
MPG Highway27 | MPG Highway19 |
Engine | |
Engine Name2.4L 260 hp H4 | Engine Name4.6L 301 hp V8 |
Torque277 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm | Torque329 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm |
Horsepower260 hp @ 5600 rpm | Horsepower301 hp @ 5500 rpm |
DrivetrainAWD | DrivetrainAWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City21 | MPG City15 |
MPG Highway27 | MPG Highway19 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity8 | Seating Capacity7 |
Key Features | |
Navigation System | Navigation SystemStandard |
Sunroof/Moonroof | Sunroof/MoonroofStandard |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall5 | Front Crash Overall |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space17.8 cu ft | Cargo Space11.6 cu ft |
Curb Weight4430 lbs | Curb Weight5130 lbs |
Height71.6 in | Height74.2 in |
Length196.8 in | Length192.1 in |
Width85.7 in | Width74.2 in |
Wheelbase113.8 in | Wheelbase109.8 in |
Maximum Payload1570 lbs | Maximum Payload1315 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity2000 lbs | Maximum Towing Capacity6500 lbs |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $32,295 | $56,125 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 8.5 out of 10Read full review | 4.2 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
Cons
| |
Summary | Few automakers have the brand loyalty enjoyed by Subaru—and with good reason. Its cars, wagons, and SUVs are safe, reliable, and provide features like standard all-wheel drive (AWD). A three-row SUV with all of these benefits seems like a no-brainer, and so the 2021 Subaru Ascent is ideally positioned to differentiate itself from the rest of this family-hauling segment. In addition to its spacious cabin and a long list of standard features, the Ascent gains a few key safety features as newly standard equipment. | Based on the same rugged traditional body-on-frame SUV platform as the Toyota 4Runner, the 2022 Lexus GX is something akin to a Japanese Land Rover. Designed for maximum off-roading capability and only then refined for use as a luxurious daily driver, it has a standard V8 engine, standard four-wheel drive (4WD), and a standard unquenchable thirst for fuel. And though Lexus markets the GX as a three-row, seven-passenger SUV, it is best used to carry five people and 46.7 cubic feet of cargo behind its second-row seat. |
Video | No video found | No video found |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 2.4L 260 hp H4 | 4.6L 301 hp V8 |
Drive Train | AWD | AWD |
Seating Capacity | 8 | 7 |
Horsepower | 260 hp @ 5600 rpm | 301 hp @ 5500 rpm |
MPG City | 21 | 15 |
MPG Highway | 27 | 19 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 2.4L 260 hp H4 | 4.6L 301 hp V8 |
Torque | 277 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm | 329 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm |
Horsepower | 260 hp @ 5600 rpm | 301 hp @ 5500 rpm |
Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 21 | 15 |
MPG Highway | 27 | 19 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 8 | 7 |
Key Features | ||
Navigation System | Standard | |
Sunroof/Moonroof | Standard | |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 5 | |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 17.8 cu ft | 11.6 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 4430 lbs | 5130 lbs |
Height | 71.6 in | 74.2 in |
Length | 196.8 in | 192.1 in |
Width | 85.7 in | 74.2 in |
Wheelbase | 113.8 in | 109.8 in |
Maximum Payload | 1570 lbs | 1315 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 2000 lbs | 6500 lbs |
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Subaru Ascent as 7 out of 10 and the 2022 Lexus GX as 4 out of 10 for look and feel.
The 2021 Subaru Ascent, introduced in 2019, fills a long-overdue gap in the Subaru lineup for a three-row SUV. It features a design reminiscent of other popular Subaru models, offering a familiar and cohesive look. The Ascent is available in Standard, Premium, Limited, and Touring trims, each offering a range of features and amenities.
The 2022 Lexus GX, while offering a unique and bold design, receives a lower rating due to its polarizing appearance and the impracticality of its Black Line Special Edition. The vehicle's design, while distinctive, may not appeal to all consumers.














CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Subaru Ascent 7 out of 10 and the 2022 Lexus GX 6 out of 10 for performance.
The 2021 Subaru Ascent is powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer four-cylinder engine, delivering 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It offers a comfortable ride, all-wheel drive, and a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds.
The 2022 Lexus GX is equipped with a 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. It offers a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds and features a full-time 4WD system with a limited-slip differential.
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Subaru Ascent 10 out of 10 and the 2022 Lexus GX 2 out of 10 for form and function.
The 2021 Subaru Ascent provides up to 86.5 cubic feet of cargo space with all rear seats folded down, making it a practical choice for families. In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX offers less cargo space, with 46.7 cubic feet behind the third-row seat and only up to 64.7 cubic feet with the second-row seat folded down.
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Subaru Ascent 9 out of 10 and the 2022 Lexus GX 4 out of 10 for technology.
The 2021 Subaru Ascent features Subaru's StarLink infotainment system with standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available tech features such as a WiFi hotspot and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo.
The 2022 Lexus GX is equipped with a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and a CD player. It also offers a Lexus app and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium surround-sound audio system.
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Subaru Ascent 9 out of 10 and the 2022 Lexus GX 4 out of 10 for safety.
The 2021 Subaru Ascent is an IIHS 2021 Top Safety Pick+ and comes with Subaru’s comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including EyeSight. The 2022 Lexus GX offers standard Lexus Safety System+ and additional safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services.
CarGurus highlights

According to CarGurus experts, the 2021 Subaru Ascent offers a more well-rounded package, with higher ratings in look and feel, form and function, technology, safety, and cost effectiveness. Therefore, based on these ratings, the 2021 Subaru Ascent is the recommended choice for consumers seeking a practical, versatile, and well-equipped three-row SUV.
Choose the 2021 Subaru Ascent if:
- You prioritize practicality and versatility, with ample cargo space and seating for up to eight passengers.
- You seek a well-rounded SUV with a range of standard and available tech features, including a 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo system.
- Safety is a top priority, and you value the Ascent's IIHS 2021 Top Safety Pick+ rating and comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features.
Choose the 2022 Lexus GX if:
- You prioritize off-road capability and towing capacity, with a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds.
- You appreciate a unique and bold design, coupled with a high level of craftsmanship and quality.
- You seek a vehicle with a range of available luxury features, including a 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium surround-sound audio system and Lexus Safety System+.
CarGurus highlights

According to CarGurus experts, the 2021 Subaru Ascent offers a more well-rounded package, with higher ratings in look and feel, form and function, technology, safety, and cost effectiveness. Therefore, based on these ratings, the 2021 Subaru Ascent is the recommended choice for consumers seeking a practical, versatile, and well-equipped three-row SUV.
Choose the 2021 Subaru Ascent if:
Shop Now- You prioritize practicality and versatility, with ample cargo space and seating for up to eight passengers.
- You seek a well-rounded SUV with a range of standard and available tech features, including a 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo system.
- Safety is a top priority, and you value the Ascent's IIHS 2021 Top Safety Pick+ rating and comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features.
Choose the 2022 Lexus GX if:
Shop Now- You prioritize off-road capability and towing capacity, with a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds.
- You appreciate a unique and bold design, coupled with a high level of craftsmanship and quality.
- You seek a vehicle with a range of available luxury features, including a 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium surround-sound audio system and Lexus Safety System+.

By: CarGurus + AI
At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.







































