Subaru Ascent vs Toyota Highlander: Best SUV Pick?
Are you choosing between the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander? You’re at the right spot.
These SUVs shine in the busy midsize market, perfect for families or solo adventurers. We’ll compare them on price, performance, comfort, safety, and owner happiness.
The Subaru Ascent is all about all-wheel drive and toughness. The Toyota Highlander is famous for its reliability and tech.
This article helps figure out the best fit for your life and wallet. Explore the features that promise a cozy, secure, and fun ride.
Overview of The Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander
The Subaru Ascent is known for its all-wheel drive available in every model. This makes it a top pick for a family SUV.
This SUV has three rows and lots of space for both people and their stuff. Safety features are a big plus, making it a safe pick for families.
The Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, boasts stronger performance with more horsepower and better gas mileage.
It even has a hybrid option for those who care about the environment and want a versatile family SUV.
Both the Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander can fit up to eight passengers. They are both great choices in the three-row SUV market.
Choosing between the Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander comes down to what features and performance you prefer.
Each one has its advantages, offering solid options for families looking for a reliable SUV.
Price and Trim Levels
Pricing is key when choosing between the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander. The 2025 Subaru Ascent starts at about $40,330.
Meanwhile, the Toyota Highlander starts at $41,270. This price difference is due to the various trim levels offered.
The Subaru Ascent has eight gas-powered trims, like the Premium 8-Passenger and Onyx Edition Touring 7-Passenger.
Each trim has special features to fit your needs. Having these options ensures you get the best value for your money.
On the flip side, the Toyota Highlander offers five gas trims and hybrid models. This range suits those wanting more efficient SUVs.
While pricier, the Highlander’s hybrid options might attract those who are eco-friendly.
| SUV Model | Starting Price | Gas Trim Levels | Hybrid Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subaru Ascent | $40,330 | 8 | No |
| Toyota Highlander | $41,270 | 5 | Yes |
Choosing between these SUVs means looking closely at costs, trims, and features. It’s key to consider what each model offers to meet your needs.
Subaru Ascent vs Toyota Highlander: Performance and Engine Specs
The Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander both bring a lot to the table. But, they do have differences.
Each model has a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. However, the Highlander pulls ahead with a bit more power.
Engine Power and Efficiency
The Toyota Highlander offers 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Meanwhile, the Subaru Ascent is not far behind with 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.
This small difference could make the Highlander a tad more exciting to drive. It has an eight-speed automatic transmission that boosts its efficiency and gives quicker responses.
Fuel Economy Comparison
On fuel economy, the Toyota Highlander leads, getting 22 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on highways. The Subaru Ascent reports doing 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on highways.
This shows the Highlander is the more fuel-efficient choice, saving drivers money at the pump.
Interior Space and Comfort
Choosing the right SUV means looking at how comfy and spacious it is inside. The Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander stand out in this regard, each offering something special for families.
They both have plenty of room for passengers, but they’re different when you compare cargo space and other features.
Passenger Capacity and Cargo Space
The Subaru Ascent can fit up to eight people, perfect for bigger families. On the other hand, the Toyota Highlander usually carries seven people but can make more space with its optional second-row captain’s chairs.
Plus, the Ascent has a bit more room for your legs in the front, with 42.2 inches of legroom compared to the Highlander’s 42 inches.
All passengers will find the back seats comfy for long trips in both SUVs. In terms of cargo space, the Highlander beats the Ascent.
It has up to 84.3 cubic feet with seats down, while the Ascent has up to 75.6 cubic feet.
This difference in cargo space might influence your choice, especially if you need lots of room.
Interior Features and Materials
The Ascent and Highlander are both packed with features that boost comfort and make them easy to use.
The Ascent is all about high-quality materials and lots of places to store your things. The Highlander, though, has a more modern vibe with techy features and easy connection to devices.
Both SUVs are designed with families in mind. The Ascent focuses on toughness and practicality, while the Highlander goes for a more elegant and premium feel.
Each SUV brings its own set of strengths to the table, making them great for family trips.
| Feature | Subaru Ascent | Toyota Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Passenger Capacity | 8 | 7 (optional 8) |
| Front Legroom | 42.2 inches | 42 inches |
| Maximum Cargo Capacity | 75.6 cubic feet | 84.3 cubic feet |
| Interior Materials | Durable and practical | Refined and upscale |
Technology and Infotainment
The Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander come packed with tech made for families. They focus on infotainment systems and safety tech.
These advanced features are designed to make every ride smoother for both drivers and passengers.
Touchscreen and Connectivity Options
The Highlander has a big 12.3-inch screen that’s easy to see and use. The Ascent has an 11.6-inch display.
Both offer great features like:
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
- Bluetooth for hands-free calls and music streaming
- USB ports for charging and connecting devices
These features mean you can stay connected and entertained without hassle.
Advanced Driver-Assistance Features
Both cars have tech that makes driving safer. The Highlander comes with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+. The Ascent has Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology.
Some top safety features are:
| Feature | Subaru Ascent | Toyota Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Yes | Yes |
| Lane Departure Warning | Yes | Yes |
| Automatic Emergency Braking | Yes | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Available | Standard |
| Rear Cross-Traffic Alert | Available | Standard |
These technologies help keep you safe on the road, giving you extra confidence.
Subaru Ascent vs Toyota Highlander: Safety Ratings and Reliability
Choosing an SUV for your family means safety is top of mind. The Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander shine in safety ratings.
They come packed with advanced safety tech to protect everyone on board. The Toyota Highlander includes the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ package.
It’s full of technologies to assist drivers. This makes the Highlander very reliable. The Subaru Ascent has the EyeSight system, but it might not match the Highlander’s offerings.
Consumer Reports shows both SUVs have great crash test results. This proves they’re dependable.
Safety features matter a lot when choosing a family car. With either SUV, you can be sure you’re getting a safe ride.
Driving Experience and Handling
The driving experience is key when choosing between the Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander.
The Highlander’s engine and transmission make it respond quickly, which makes driving more fun. It’s lighter than the Ascent, making it easier to handle on the road.
Both SUVs are smooth to ride in, but the Highlander is better at keeping road noise down. This makes it nicer for long drives or commuting in the city.
The Highlander also has better steering and suspension. This means it can take corners more smoothly, giving you more control and confidence when you’re driving.
Knowing these details helps you understand how each SUV performs on the road. This ensures you choose the right one for your needs and lifestyle.
Owner Satisfaction and Reviews
When picking an SUV, what owners say matters a lot. Both the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander make their owners happy.
The Subaru Ascent has a strong score of 4.8 out of 5 on TrueCar, while the Toyota Highlander is slightly ahead with 4.82. These scores show both cars are top choices for many.
What do people love about these cars? Subaru Ascent owners enjoy its space and features for families. Toyota Highlander fans talk about its power and dependability.
These opinions help you see what might be best for you. Thinking about what’s important? Comfort, safety, and tech usually top the list.
Owners say these are key for satisfaction. Below is a quick comparison to show how both cars stack up based on what people say:
| Aspect | Subaru Ascent | Toyota Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Owner Satisfaction Rating | 4.8/5 | 4.82/5 |
| Spaciousness | Widely praised | Well-received |
| Safety Features | Highly rated | Extensively equipped |
| Performance | Favorable feedback | Strong performance noted |
| Reliability | Consistent reliability | Highly regarded |
Final Thoughts on Subaru Ascent vs Toyota Highlander
When looking at these options, think about what each car does best for you. The Subaru Ascent is great for big families or if safety is a big deal to you.
It offers a lot of room for passengers and focuses on keeping them safe. The Toyota Highlander, however, is known for its powerful performance, saving fuel, and having the latest tech.
If you want a smooth ride that also has modern features, this might be your pick. Consider how these aspects match your needs.
Each model has unique points that might make it the right choice for you. Thinking about both the good and bad will help you pick an SUV that fits what you want and need.
| Feature | Subaru Ascent | Toyota Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Passenger Capacity | Up to 8 | Up to 7 or 8 |
| Max Cargo Space | 86.5 cubic feet | 84.3 cubic feet |
| Fuel Economy | 20-27 MPG | 21-29 MPG |
| Safety Ratings | 5 stars | 5 stars |
| Starting Price | $33,000 | $36,000 |
Conclusion
In the SUV face-off between the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander, both shine as top picks for families. Each one has its special features.
It shows why picking one that fits your needs and budget is key. Whether it’s space or technology that matters most to you, each SUV stands out in its own way.
Choosing shouldn’t just be about the specs. It’s also about how the SUV feels when you drive it.
That’s why going to your local dealers and taking each vehicle for a spin is important. It helps you pick the one that feels right for your family.
In the end, the best SUV for you is the one that fits your lifestyle and future plans. Spend time thinking about what you really need.
This way, you’ll make a choice that keeps your family happy for the long haul.
FAQs
What are the main differences in performance between the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander?
The Toyota Highlander boasts a stronger engine, with 265 horsepower and higher fuel efficiency – 22 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The Subaru Ascent offers 260 horsepower and 20 MPG in the city, 26 MPG on the highway.
How do the interior space and cargo capacity compare in these SUVs?
The Subaru Ascent leads in front-row legroom, offering 42.2 inches. But, the Toyota Highlander shines in cargo space, providing 84.3 cubic feet. The Ascent comes in at 75.6 cubic feet.
Which SUV offers better technology features?
The Toyota Highlander is ahead with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+. This tech provides more driver-assistance systems than Subaru’s EyeSight.
Are both vehicles equipped with all-wheel drive?
Yes, the Subaru Ascent includes all-wheel drive as standard. The Toyota Highlander offers it as an option on some trims.
What is the starting price for the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander?
The Subaru Ascent’s starting price is about ,330. The Toyota Highlander starts at roughly ,270.
How does customer satisfaction compare between the two models?
According to TrueCar, the Subaru Ascent scores an average of 4.8 out of 5. The Toyota Highlander is slightly ahead with a rating of 4.82. Both vehicles are well-liked by their owners.
What safety features are standard in both SUVs?
The Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander are equipped with advanced safety features. Yet, the Highlander’s Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ package is more comprehensive than the Ascent’s EyeSight technology.
Which SUV is more family-friendly in terms of interior features?
Both SUVs are designed with families in mind. Your choice may hinge on whether you prefer the Ascent’s captain’s chairs or the Highlander’s bench seating.
