2022 Subaru Forester vs 2021 Subaru Ascent

When the 2021 Subaru Ascent was introduced, it filled a significant gap in Subaru's lineup by offering a three-row SUV. The Ascent's design was a scaled-up version of Subaru's smaller models like the Forester and Outback, making it instantly recognizable as part of the Subaru family. The interior followed suit, with a dashboard design that mirrored other Subaru models, likely to create a sense of familiarity for buyers. The Ascent came in four trims: Standard, Premium, Limited, and Touring, each offering a range of features from driver-assistance technologies to upgraded touchscreens and premium audio systems.

The 2022 Subaru Forester, particularly in its new Wilderness trim, was designed for rugged utility. The Wilderness model featured a suspension lift, higher ground clearance, and extensive protective cladding, giving it a distinctive, albeit polarizing, look. Inside, the Forester emphasized functionality with water-repellant StarTex simulated leather and all-weather floor mats. The interior was practical, with ample storage and easy-to-use controls, although it lacked some modern amenities like seat ventilation. The Forester's roof rails were upgraded to support heavier loads, making it ideal for outdoor adventures.

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, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, provided adequate performance for most driving scenarios. The Ascent excelled in comfort and handling, especially in inclement weather, thanks to its 8.7 inches of ground clearance and X-Mode system. It was also capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds, making it a versatile choice for families.

The 2022 Subaru Forester continued with its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. While not as powerful as the Ascent, the Forester's engine was adequate for most driving conditions. The Wilderness trim featured a CVT designed to provide a 25% increase in initial torque supply, doubling its towing capacity to 3,000 pounds. The Forester's fuel economy was commendable, averaging 25.9 mpg during testing. The Wilderness model also boasted a re-tuned suspension and improved ground clearance of 9.2 inches, making it capable of handling off-road conditions with ease.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent offered 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 made it one of the more spacious options in its class. The Ascent could seat up to eight passengers, with the option for second-row captain's chairs reducing capacity to seven. The first two rows were spacious, while the third row was best suited for children. The Ascent also featured 19 cupholders and numerous storage compartments.

The 2022 Subaru Forester provided 28.9 cubic feet of cargo space without the panoramic sunroof, and 26.9 cubic feet with it. Folding the rear seats expanded the cargo area to 74.2 cubic feet (69.1 with the sunroof). The Forester's interior was designed for practicality, with easy entry and exit, comfortable seating, and ample storage. The Wilderness trim included water-resistant upholstery and all-weather mats, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The upgraded roof rails could support a three-person roof tent, enhancing its utility for camping trips.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent featured the StarLink infotainment system with either a 6.5-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims offered additional features like third-row USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo.

The 2022 Subaru Forester came with a 6.5-inch touchscreen in the base trim, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and HD Radio. Higher trims, including the Wilderness, featured an 8-inch screen, navigation, and a Harman Kardon premium sound system. The Wilderness trim also included a 180-degree forward-view camera, useful for off-roading. The Forester's technology package was comprehensive, with features like remote engine start and PIN Code Access for added convenience.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, thanks to its robust suite of driver-assistance features under the EyeSight system. This included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. Additional safety features like reverse automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert were available.

The 2022 Subaru Forester introduced the next-generation EyeSight 4.0 safety system, offering improved accuracy and smoother operation. It included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centering assist. The Forester also featured a rear-seat reminder system, blind-spot monitoring, and rear automatic braking. The Touring trim added DriverFocus, a facial recognition technology for monitoring driver alertness. The Forester earned a 5-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA and was expected to retain its IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating.