2022 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2022 Subaru Ascent

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover underwent a subtle evolution rather than a complete redesign. Its front and side profiles remained largely unchanged from the previous generation, with a broad, rounded face and expansive sheet metal. A notable update was the vertical accent strip under the mirrors, replacing the old L-shaped trim. The rear saw the most significant change, with thin LED strips integrated into a darker trim element, replacing the square taillights. The Range Rover continued to emphasize its size, especially in the long-wheelbase version, which added eight inches in length. Inside, the Range Rover's cabin was simplified with fewer buttons and a larger tablet-like touchscreen, offering a modern look. Premium leather and rich wood trim elements adorned the interior, providing a luxurious feel. The Range Rover's solid build and quiet cabin made it a standout in the luxury SUV segment, rivaling even more expensive alternatives like Maybach or Bentley.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent introduced the Onyx Edition trim, featuring a blacked-out exterior trim and badges, black 20-inch aluminum wheels, and a unique grille design. This trim level added a sporty appearance to the Ascent, which was previously lacking. Inside, the Ascent Onyx Edition featured StarTex synthetic leather upholstery in a gray two-tone scheme with light gray stitching. While the interior color was appealing, the StarTex material tended to trap sweat, making ventilated seats a desirable addition. The Ascent offered a range of trim levels, from Base to Touring, with pricing starting at $32,295. The Onyx Edition was priced at $37,995, with an optional package available for an additional $2,000, including a panoramic moonroof, navigation system, and cargo cover.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered two powertrains: the base P400 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, and the P530 with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine delivering 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The P400 powertrain provided effortless acceleration, with Land Rover estimating a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds. The Range Rover's handling was surprisingly agile for its size, with well-managed body roll and standard rear-wheel steering for sharper turns. The Terrain Response system enhanced off-road capability, while the ride quality remained smooth and quiet.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent was equipped 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 achieved an EPA fuel-economy rating of 22 mpg combined, with our testing averaging 20.5 mpg. The CVT featured eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, allowing for brisk acceleration and commendable passing power. Subaru's X-Mode off-road traction control system, hill descent control, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance provided off-road capability. The Ascent's responsive acceleration, excellent visibility, and absorbent suspension made it nimble and maneuverable in urban and suburban settings. However, the lane-keeping and lane-centering assistance technologies could feel uncertain and unstable.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered ample space in the first two rows, enhanced by large windows and a panoramic sunroof. Front seats were cushioned for long-distance comfort, with available massage functions. Storage options included two glove boxes, a wireless charging pad, and a large center console bin. The second row provided power recline and sliding adjustments, with climate controls and USB-C charge ports. The optional third row was accessible with a button, though headroom was limited for adults. Cargo space behind the third row was 17.1 cubic feet, expanding to 43.1 cubic feet with the third row folded and 93 cubic feet with both rows down. The split tailgate and air suspension height adjustment aided in loading cargo.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent accommodated up to eight passengers, though the third row was best suited for children. The Ascent Onyx Edition featured water-resistant seat material, triple-zone climate control, and heated front seats. Loading the second row was easy, with wide rear doors and available captain's chairs. The panoramic sunroof extended over the second row, and storage options included a dashboard shelf and large cupholders. The 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 86.5 cubic feet with both rows down. A shallow storage area under the floor offered additional space.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover featured a new 13-inch touchscreen with the Pivi Pro infotainment system, offering sharper graphics and quicker responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a wireless charging pad. The Meridian audio system delivered impressive sound quality, with an optional 35-speaker upgrade available. Other tech features included Amazon Alexa integration, remote automated parking, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent came with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering 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. The system's voice recognition technology needed improvement, and the Onyx Edition's standard stereo speakers lacked sonic quality. Additional tech features for the Touring trim included a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS. Standard safety features included frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and a surround-view camera system. The Range Rover's safety features performed well, though some rivals offered additional items like advanced high beams and emergency stop functions.

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