2022 Subaru Ascent vs 2023 Genesis GV70

The 2022 Subaru Ascent, particularly in its Onyx Edition trim, embraced the trend of blacking out shiny exterior trim, offering a sporty appearance that was new to the model. This edition featured blacked-out exterior trim and badges, black 20-inch aluminum wheels, a unique grille design, and special interior trim. The interior was wrapped in water-repellant StarTex synthetic leather, available only in a gray two-tone scheme with light gray stitching. While the blacked-out treatment gave the Ascent a sporty look, the StarTex material had a tendency to trap sweat, making it less comfortable on hot days. The Ascent's interior also featured metallic trim on the dashboard and door panels, adding to its appeal.

In contrast, the 2023 Genesis GV70 showcased a design that connected it stylistically to the G70 compact luxury sedan, with split-bar headlights and a strong chrome line that visually linked it to its sedan counterpart. The GV70's interior was a testament to luxury, using top-notch materials and boasting excellent fit and finish. The design was both contemporary and classic, with climate controls integrated into a curving bezel and a touchscreen that rose organically from the dash. The GV70's cabin was equipped with a full touchscreen backed by a rotary dial and helpful button controls, offering a blend of luxury and functionality.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent was powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It came standard with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive (AWD). The Ascent's engine featured a horizontally-opposed layout, contributing to a lower center of gravity for improved handling. The CVT was praised for its performance, offering eight programmed ratios and manual shift control. The Ascent could tow up to 5,000 pounds and had an EPA fuel-economy rating of 22 mpg combined, though testing showed an average of 20.5 mpg. 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, its lane-keeping and lane-centering assistance technologies were noted to cause an uncertain feel when engaged.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine with 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD. The GV70's performance was well-rounded, blending comfort and sharp handling. The GV70 Electrified featured a 77.4-kWh battery pack powering two electric motors, producing a combined 429 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, with a Boost Mode increasing output to 483 horsepower. The electric GV70 had a range of 236 miles and could fast charge from 10 to 80 percent in 18 minutes. The GV70's handling was slightly more comfort-oriented, but it still offered a refined driving experience.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent could accommodate 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 water-resistant seat material, triple-zone climate control, and heated front seats. The second-row seats were easy to access, and captain's chairs were available. The Ascent provided 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space 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 panoramic sunroof reduced cargo space slightly.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 offered 56.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 28.9 cubic feet with the seats in use. It came standard with a hands-free power liftgate. The GV70's front seats were comfortable and adjustable, but rear legroom was tighter, requiring front-row occupants to slide their seats forward. The rear bench could recline for added comfort. The GV70's interior featured decently large cupholders and a helpful tray in the center console.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent's base trim featured a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with 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 and remote engine starting. The system's voice recognition technology needed improvement, and the Onyx Edition's standard stereo speakers lacked sonic quality. Additional technology features were reserved for the Touring trim, including a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 came with a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The touchscreen was user-friendly, with large icons and logical menu navigation. The GV70 also featured a rotary dial for scrolling and selecting, though it was located near the vehicle's rotary shifter, which could cause confusion. The GV70 was equipped with four USB ports, wireless device charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a nine-speaker stereo system. Ambient lighting, a digital instrument panel, and the Genesis digital key were available features.

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 standard with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assistance technology, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-centering technology. However, EyeSight's performance was affected by direct sunlight, and its 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.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 offered a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technology, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, driver attention monitoring, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The 2.5T's Advance Package added a blind-spot camera system, reverse automatic emergency braking, and a 360-degree parking camera system. The GV70 Electrified included most driver-assistance features as standard, with the head-up display available in the Prestige trim.