2023 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2022 Subaru Ascent

The 2022 Subaru Ascent, particularly in its new Onyx Edition trim, embraced the trend of blacking out shiny exterior trim, giving it a sporty appearance. 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 in a gray two-tone scheme with light gray stitching, which was a refreshing change from the typical black interiors. However, the StarTex material had a tendency to trap sweat, making it less comfortable on hot days. Despite this, the Ascent Onyx Edition offered a visually appealing and sporty look, with metallic trim on the dashboard and door panels enhancing the overall mood.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid presented a more refined and luxurious aesthetic. The RX 350h Luxury test vehicle, with its Macadamia semi-aniline leather and Ash Bamboo wood trim, exuded a sense of luxury. The RX 500h F Sport Performance model, with its black interior, artificial suede on the door panels and seat bolsters, and dark gray aluminum trim, offered a sportier vibe. The RX models maintained a clean, minimalistic interior design, with contemporary textures and detailing, and featured backlit ambient lighting. The exterior design, while not groundbreaking, was consistent with Lexus's signature style, though the new RX models appeared smaller due to design changes. Overall, the RX Hybrid models offered a blend of luxury and sportiness, appealing to those seeking a more upscale driving 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 all-wheel drive as standard, with an EPA fuel-economy rating of 22 mpg combined for versions with 20-inch wheels. During testing, it averaged 20.5 mpg. The Ascent's flat-four engine layout contributed to a lower center of gravity, enhancing handling. The CVT, with eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, provided brisk acceleration and commendable passing power, allowing the Ascent to tow up to 5,000 pounds. The SUV's X-Mode off-road traction control system, hill descent control, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance offered more off-roading capability than many competitors. However, the lane-keeping and lane-centering assistance technologies could feel unstable, detracting from the driving experience.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid offered two distinct hybrid powertrains. The RX 350h, with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, produced 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque, achieving an estimated 36 mpg in combined driving. It accelerated to 60 mph in about 7.4 seconds. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, delivered 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, reaching 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. It featured a six-speed automatic transmission and an exclusive Direct4 AWD system. The RX 500h's adaptive damping suspension, upgraded brakes, and rear-wheel steering provided a dynamic driving experience, though its fuel economy was lower, averaging 20.9 mpg during testing. The RX 350h, on the other hand, offered a more efficient and quieter ride, averaging 32 mpg. The RX Hybrid models provided a balance of performance and efficiency, with the RX 500h catering to those seeking a sportier drive.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent accommodated up to eight passengers, though the third row was best suited for children. The SUV offered a comfortable driving position and was equipped for winter weather with features like triple-zone climate control and heated front seats. 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 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 Lexus RX Hybrid prioritized comfort and luxury. The RX 350h Luxury model featured ten-way power-adjustable front seats with premium leather, while the RX 500h F Sport Performance offered eight-way power-adjustable seats with larger bolsters. The RX models had a lower roofline, resulting in tight rear headroom, but offered good leg support and legroom. Cargo space was improved, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 46.2 cubic feet with the back seat folded, matching the standard RX 350. The RX Hybrid models provided a comfortable and spacious interior, though rear headroom was limited.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent featured a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with 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 and remote engine starting. The system was user-friendly, with physical knobs and buttons, though voice recognition needed improvement. The Onyx Edition used standard stereo speakers, lacking in sound quality, and the Harman Kardon premium sound system was not available for this trim. Additional technology features, like a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera, were reserved for the Touring trim.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid introduced a new infotainment system, requiring a subscription for connected services after the trial period. The Lexus Interface offered Drive Connect with a cloud-based navigation system and an Intelligent Assistant. The system worked well, though it had some limitations, such as the inability to view multiple screen menus simultaneously and reflections on the screen. The available head-up display included dual-function touch-sensing control pads on the steering wheel, which could be distracting, especially with polarized sunglasses. The RX Hybrid models offered a modern infotainment experience, though some usability issues persisted.

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. It came standard with Subaru's 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 and lane-centering lacked refinement. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and optional blind-spot monitoring.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid was equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, intersection turn assistance, and curve-speed reduction for adaptive cruise control. Proactive Driving Assist was also available, maintaining safe distances and recharging the battery through regenerative braking. The system had some irritations, such as the front cross-traffic alert's reliance on the HUD, which was not visible with polarized sunglasses. The RX Hybrid models offered comprehensive safety features, though some aspects required refinement.