2022 Lexus NX vs 2022 Subaru Ascent

The 2022 Subaru Ascent introduced a new Onyx Edition trim level, which featured a trendy blacked-out exterior trim. This edition sat in the middle of the Ascent lineup, offering a sporty appearance with black 20-inch aluminum wheels, unique grille design, and special interior trim. The Onyx Edition was priced at $37,995, excluding destination fees, and included water-repellant StarTex synthetic leather seats. While the gray two-tone interior was appreciated, the StarTex material had a tendency to trap sweat, making ventilated seats a desirable feature, though they were only available on the Touring trim. Overall, the Ascent Onyx Edition provided a sporty look but had some comfort drawbacks.

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned for the model year, came in four series: NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+. The NX 350, available in F Sport and Luxury trims, featured a distinctive spindle grille and new block lettering on the tailgate. The NX was longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, offering more passenger and cargo space. The F Sport trim stood out with a unique mesh-pattern grille, body-color fender trim, and 20-inch gloss black wheels. Inside, the NX adopted a minimalist design, moving away from the button-heavy dashboard of the previous model. However, the integration of many functions into the touchscreen made it challenging to use some features quickly. Despite these changes, the NX maintained high-quality materials and a comfortable interior.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). The Ascent achieved an EPA fuel-economy rating of 22 mpg combined, though testing showed an average of 20.5 mpg. The flat-four engine design contributed to a lower center of gravity, enhancing handling. The CVT offered eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, allowing for brisk acceleration and commendable passing power. The Ascent's X-Mode off-road traction control system, hill descent control, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance provided off-roading capability. However, the lane-keeping and lane-centering assistance technologies could feel unstable, detracting from driving satisfaction.

The 2022 Lexus NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters powered all four wheels, with AWD standard. The NX 350 offered Normal, Sport, and Eco driving modes, while the F Sport trim added Sport S, Sport+, and Custom modes, along with an adaptive variable sports suspension. The F Sport trim felt taut and lean on winding roads, while the Luxury trim provided a softer driving experience. Lexus claimed a 0-60 mph time of 6.6 seconds, which seemed credible. The NX 350 achieved an estimated 25 mpg in combined driving, with observed fuel economy of 22.2 mpg for the F Sport and 25.5 mpg for the Luxury. Despite improvements, the turbocharged engine lacked the refinement of German rivals, and road and wind noise were more noticeable than expected.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent could accommodate up to eight passengers with a second-row bench seat, though third-row comfort was limited for taller adults. The Ascent Onyx Edition was equipped for winter weather with water-resistant seat material, triple-zone climate control, heated front seats, and a wiper de-icer. The second-row seats were easily accessible, and captain’s chairs were available. The Ascent offered ample storage, including a dashboard shelf and large cupholders. Cargo capacity was 17.8 cubic feet behind the third row, 47.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 86.5 cubic feet with both rows folded down.

The 2022 Lexus NX provided more interior room, though it felt cozy from the driver’s seat. The NX was comfortable, especially with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The F Sport trim offered better bolstering for spirited driving. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed roomy accommodations, with rear air conditioning vents and USB ports. The NX’s panoramic sunroof extended over the back seat. Cargo space increased by 14%, offering 22.7 cubic feet behind the back seat and 46.9 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

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. The system included volume and tuning knobs, but voice recognition technology needed improvement. Onyx Edition models used standard stereo speakers, lacking in sonic quality. Touring trim offered additional features like a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera.

The 2022 Lexus NX introduced the new Lexus Interface infotainment system, featuring large touchscreen displays, natural voice recognition, and cloud-based features. A 9.8-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 14-inch screen optional. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Voice Assistant technology, and five connected service subscription plans. A 10-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system available. The new Voice Assistant and Intelligent Assistant systems responded to natural commands. The NX also offered a digital mirror, a 10-inch head-up display, and a digital key capability.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent received 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 with Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assistance tech, including adaptive cruise control and lane-centering technology. However, EyeSight struggled in direct sunlight, and the adaptive cruise control lacked refinement. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and optional blind-spot monitoring.

The 2022 Lexus NX featured the standard Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle Detection, and Curve Speed Management. The Emergency Driving Stop System brought the NX to a stop if the driver was unresponsive. The NX also had blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and Safe Exit Assist. Premium trim added rear pedestrian detection, adaptive front lighting, and semi-autonomous parking assist. A Vision Package offered a panoramic view monitoring system and front cross-traffic alert.