2021 Subaru Ascent vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2021 Subaru Ascent was a much-anticipated addition to Subaru's lineup, filling a notable gap in the three-row SUV segment. Its design was a natural extension of Subaru's existing models, resembling a larger version of the Forester and Outback. The interior followed suit, with a dashboard design that mirrored other Subaru vehicles, likely to create a sense of familiarity for brand loyalists. The Ascent offered four trims: Standard, Premium, Limited, and Touring, each progressively adding features like larger touchscreens, power-adjustable seats, and premium audio systems. The Touring trim stood out with its luxurious touches, including ventilated front seats and a panoramic sunroof.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia carried forward a design that had remained largely unchanged since 2008, giving it a mature, albeit slightly dated, appearance. Its exterior was marked by a modest grille and elegant wheel arches, maintaining a classic SUV look. The Sequoia's interior, while high-quality and durable, felt outdated compared to modern design trends, with a smaller 7-inch touchscreen and analog instrument panel. However, the Sequoia's spacious cabin and robust build made it a reliable choice for families, especially in the Nightshade Special Edition, which added contemporary styling elements like darkened chrome and black-painted wheels.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent was powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer four-cylinder engine, delivering 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, provided a balanced performance suitable for both city driving and highway cruising. The Ascent's ride prioritized comfort, with 8.7 inches of ground clearance and features like Subaru’s X-Mode system enhancing its capability in snowy conditions and light off-roading. It also boasted a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, supported by standard Trailer Stability Assist.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia, on the other hand, was equipped with a 5.7-liter i-Force V8 engine, producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, offering a robust and reliable performance. The Sequoia's truck-based construction contributed to its impressive towing capacity of 7,400 pounds and a payload capacity of around 1,300 pounds. Despite its hefty weight, the Sequoia provided a smooth and stable ride, with a body-on-frame construction and independent double-wishbone suspension enhancing its off-road capabilities. However, its fuel economy lagged behind, with ratings of 13 mpg city and 17 mpg highway for both RWD and 4WD models.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent offered a versatile interior with 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 86.5 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. While this was generous for its class, some competitors offered more. The Ascent could seat up to eight passengers, with the option for second-row captain's chairs reducing capacity to seven. The first two rows provided ample space, while the third row was more suitable for children on longer trips. The Ascent also featured 19 cupholders and numerous storage compartments, enhancing its practicality for families.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia excelled in passenger comfort, with spacious seating across all three rows and features like three-zone climate control and a power moonroof. Its cargo area offered 18.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 120.1 cubic feet with both rear rows folded, making it ideal for large families or those needing significant cargo space. The Sequoia also included practical features like an auxiliary 12-volt outlet in the cargo area, enhancing its utility for outdoor activities.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent featured the StarLink infotainment system, known for its user-friendly interface and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It came with two front and two second-row USB ports, satellite radio, and Bluetooth connectivity, with options for additional tech features like third-row USB ports and a premium Harman Kardon stereo system.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia's technology felt outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.5-inch TFT driver information screen. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, the system lacked the modernity of its competitors. The Sequoia Limited added navigation and a 12-speaker audio system, with an optional package offering a 14-speaker JBL system. Despite its dated infotainment, the Sequoia featured modern LED lighting and standard safety tech like a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

The 2021 Subaru Ascent earned the IIHS 2021 Top Safety Pick+ designation, thanks to its strong crash test results and comprehensive EyeSight driver-assistance suite. This included features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. Additional safety options included reverse automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia lacked crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, but it was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense P, offering features like pre-collision system with pedestrian detection and adaptive cruise control. The Sequoia also included the STAR safety system, with stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags, enhancing its safety credentials.