2023 Land Rover Defender vs 2022 Subaru Ascent

The 2022 Subaru Ascent embraced the trend of blacking out shiny exterior trim with its new Onyx Edition trim level. Positioned in the middle of the Ascent lineup, this edition featured blacked-out exterior trim and badges, black 20-inch aluminum wheels, a unique grille design, and special interior trim. The Onyx Edition's sporty appearance was a departure from the Ascent's previous styling, offering a more dynamic look. Inside, the Ascent Onyx Edition boasted a gray two-tone StarTex synthetic leather upholstery, which was water-repellant but had a tendency to trap sweat, making ventilated seats a desirable feature. Despite this, the interior's metallic trim and overall design set an appropriate mood for the vehicle.

In contrast, the 2023 Land Rover Defender was celebrated for its classic, boxy design reminiscent of the old LR4. The Defender's industrial design was consistent, with square-jawed features and steep angles, giving it a rugged, timeless appeal. Tasteful accents paid homage to the original 1980s Defender, including dome and faux-metal step plates on the hood, skylights along the roof, and a full-size wheel and tire mounted on the hatch. The Defender offered a variety of accessory packages and body styles, including the 90, 110, and 130, providing unmatched versatility. Inside, the Defender's interior was functional and durable, with rubber and plastic coatings designed to resist stains. Despite its high price, the Defender's interior was basic, with exposed screws and plain air vents, maintaining its hardcore character.

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 all-wheel drive as standard. The Ascent's fuel economy was rated at 22 mpg combined, though testing showed an average of 20.5 mpg. The flat-four engine layout contributed to a lower center of gravity, enhancing handling. The CVT offered eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, providing 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 added to its off-road capabilities. However, the lane-keeping and lane-centering assistance technologies could feel uncertain and unstable.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender excelled off-road, with its Terrain Response 2 system adapting the powertrain and chassis to various surfaces. The Defender's permanent four-wheel drive and generous clearance made it a formidable off-road vehicle. On-road, the Defender's performance was less impressive, with excessive body roll, slow steering, and wind noise. The turbocharged inline-six and supercharged V8 engines provided ample power, with the V8 delivering 518 horsepower and 461 pound-feet of torque. The six-cylinder engine, part of a mild hybrid powertrain, offered 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. The Defender's fuel economy varied, with the V8 returning 14/19/16 mpg. Despite its off-road prowess, the Defender's on-road performance was less refined.

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 heated front seats and a wiper de-icer. The second-row seats were easily accessible, and captain's chairs were available. The Ascent provided ample storage, with a useful 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.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender offered unmatched seating configurations, with the Defender 90 seating six with a jump seat. The 110 and 130 models provided additional seating options, with the 130 accommodating up to eight passengers. The Defender's large glass areas and optional panoramic moonroof enhanced visibility. Cargo space varied by model, with the 130 offering 77 cubic feet with seats folded. The Defender's versatility extended to off-road and all-season tires, a metal roof rack, and various available features like a console refrigerator and power-deployable side steps.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent featured a standard 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. The system's voice recognition technology needed improvement, requiring specific commands. The Onyx Edition used standard stereo speakers, lacking in 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 Land Rover Defender offered two touchscreen infotainment systems running Pivi Pro software. The standard 10-inch screen was integrated into the dashboard, while the optional 11.4-inch screen provided greater legibility. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a voice assistant, and navigation were standard. The Defender S included heated 12-way power seats and a Meridian stereo. The X trim added air suspension, a locking rear differential, and a head-up display. A cabin air purifier and configurable ambient lighting were available.

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 EyeSight driver-assistance technology, including adaptive cruise control and lane-centering. However, EyeSight's performance was affected by direct sunlight, and the adaptive cruise control lacked refinement. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and reverse automatic braking.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender had not been rated by U.S. agencies but received five stars in Euro NCAP crash testing. The Defender was equipped with six airbags, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Optional features included a digital instrument panel, head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system. However, a self-steering highway assist was not offered.