2022 Subaru Ascent vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2022 Subaru Ascent, particularly in its new Onyx Edition trim, embraced the trend of blacking out exterior trim, offering a sporty appearance that was previously absent. This edition featured blacked-out exterior elements, 20-inch aluminum wheels, and a unique grille design, complemented by a gray two-tone interior with StarTex synthetic leather. While the interior was visually appealing, the StarTex material had a tendency to trap sweat, making it less comfortable on hot days. The Ascent's design was practical, with metallic trim adding a touch of sophistication to the dashboard and door panels.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura MDX Type S Advance trim aimed for a subtle yet luxurious look, with chicane-design LED lights and 21-inch wheels enhancing its stance. The interior boasted perforated Milano leather, aluminum trim, and a Sport Appearance package, with the Type S Advance adding open-pore wood and a leather-wrapped dashboard. Despite its appealing design, the MDX's body tapering at the doors sometimes gave the impression of a dent, and the gloss black plastic on the dashboard made controls less intuitive. The electronic transmission switchgear also proved confusing for some drivers, detracting from the overall luxury experience.

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, achieving an EPA fuel economy rating of 22 mpg combined, though testing showed an average of 20.5 mpg. The Ascent's 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 sometimes created an unstable driving feel.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, delivering 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). The MDX Type S offered various driving modes, including an exclusive Lift mode for increased ground clearance. Despite performance enhancements, the MDX Type S struggled to deliver a cohesive driving experience, with an indecisive transmission, lack of ride compliance, and poor brake pedal modulation. The engine's power increase over the standard V6 was not substantial, and fuel economy was disappointing, averaging 16.9 mpg in testing. The MDX Type S was more agreeable in Normal mode but lacked the dynamic cohesion expected from a performance model.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent accommodated up to eight passengers, though the third row was best suited for children. The Ascent offered a comfortable driving position and was equipped for winter weather with features like heated front seats and a wiper de-icer. The second-row seats were easy to access, and captain's chairs were available. The Ascent provided ample storage, including a dashboard shelf and deep cupholders. Cargo capacity was generous, with 17.8 cubic feet behind the third row, 47.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and a maximum of 86.5 cubic feet with both rows folded.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered three rows of seats, with the option to remove the second-row center section for easier access to the third row. The MDX's interior featured triple-zone climate control and 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage. However, the seats did not provide the expected support for enthusiastic driving. The MDX's third row was tight for adults, making it more suitable for children. Cargo space was practical, with 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row, 39.1 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 71.4 cubic feet with both rear rows down. The MDX's design prioritized style over storage, with limited space in the front center armrest bin.

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. The 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 technology features, like a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera, were reserved for the Touring trim.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment display, operated via a True Touchpad Interface (TTI) on the center console. The TTI design was not intuitive, and the lack of a touchscreen added distraction. The MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In, but the native voice recognition system was frustrating. The MDX's top-tier audio system delivered exceptional sound quality, and the Advance package added a 10.5-inch head-up display. However, the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread signs, leading to incorrect speed limit displays.

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's EyeSight driver-assistance tech included adaptive cruise control and lane-centering technology, though it struggled in direct sunlight and lacked refinement. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and optional blind-spot monitoring.

The 2023 Acura MDX's Acura Watch system included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The MDX also featured blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. While the latest Acura Watch systems were more refined, the lane departure warnings and adaptive cruise control had room for improvement. The MDX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it earned four-star ratings for frontal-impact protection.