Lexus NX Hybrid vs Subaru Ascent

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid presented a unique blend of sharp edges and a streamlined profile, fitting snugly between the Lexus UX and RX models. Its design, while not traditionally SUV-like, maintained a familiar Lexus aesthetic. The F Sport Black Line variant added a distinctive touch with a larger mesh grille, dark-finish 18-inch wheels, and a striking Grecian Water blue paint. Inside, the NX Hybrid's interior design, once radical, had become familiar, featuring a stepped center console and a sporty feel. However, the material quality leaned more towards mainstream than luxury, with plastic switchgear and trim.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Ascent introduced the Onyx Edition, which embraced the trend of blacked-out exterior trim. This edition featured black 20-inch aluminum wheels, a unique grille, and water-repellant StarTex synthetic leather seats. The Ascent's interior offered a gray two-tone scheme with metallic trim, providing a sporty appearance. However, the StarTex material had a tendency to trap sweat, making ventilated seats a desirable but unavailable option in this trim. The Ascent's styling and interior aimed to attract youthful buyers with its sporty and practical design.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a total of 194 horsepower. It came standard with all-wheel drive, but its performance was more focused on fuel efficiency than excitement. The NX Hybrid accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 9.1 seconds, with a top speed of 112 mph. The sport-tuned suspension in the F Sport model improved handling, but the steering felt numb, and the drivetrain struggled with quick acceleration.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent, on the other hand, featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It came with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive. The Ascent's acceleration was brisk, and it could tow up to 5,000 pounds. Subaru's X-Mode off-road traction control system and 8.7 inches of ground clearance enhanced its off-road capabilities. While the Ascent felt nimble and responsive, its lane-keeping and lane-centering assistance technologies sometimes created an unstable driving experience.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid offered limited interior space, with the least front headroom in its segment and cramped rear seats. The front seats, however, provided excellent support and comfort. The NX Hybrid's cargo space was also limited, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded. The sloping roofline and thick rear pillars hindered rear visibility, but the dashboard controls were easily accessible.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent accommodated up to eight passengers, though the third row was best suited for children. The Ascent's interior featured a comfortable driving position, triple-zone climate control, and heated front seats. Loading the second row was easy, thanks to wide rear doors. The Ascent offered ample storage, with 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and up to 86.5 cubic feet with both rows folded. The power liftgate and panoramic sunroof added convenience and style.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, featuring an 8-inch display with a difficult-to-use Remote Touch Interface touchpad. While it supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, the system felt dated, with text-heavy menus and outdated graphics. The base audio system was underwhelming, lacking the quality expected from a luxury brand.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Ascent offered a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and satellite radio. The Premium trim added an 8-inch display with Starlink connected services. While the system's voice recognition needed improvement, it was user-friendly, with physical controls for climate and audio. The Onyx Edition's standard stereo speakers lacked sonic quality, but the system was versatile and easy to use.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard, making it a well-equipped luxury crossover.

Similarly, the 2022 Subaru Ascent earned a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS and five-star crash-test ratings from the NHTSA. It featured Subaru's EyeSight driver-assistance tech, including adaptive cruise control and lane-centering technology. While EyeSight had some limitations in direct sunlight, it was effective overall. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and reverse automatic braking.