What To Know
- The Ascent returns an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while the Grand Highlander with the turbocharged engine gets 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
- The Ascent excels in off-road capability and value, while the Grand Highlander offers more power and a more spacious interior.
- The Toyota Grand Highlander has a slightly more spacious interior than the Subaru Ascent, with more legroom and headroom in the third row.
In the realm of midsize SUVs, the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Grand Highlander stand out as formidable contenders. Both vehicles offer spacious interiors, advanced features, and impressive capabilities. If you’re torn between these two exceptional SUVs, this comprehensive comparison will help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Fuel Economy
Engine and Power
The Subaru Ascent is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The Toyota Grand Highlander, on the other hand, offers a choice of two powertrains: a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 265 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque, or a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque.
Fuel Economy
In terms of fuel economy, the Subaru Ascent has a slight edge over the Toyota Grand Highlander. The Ascent returns an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while the Grand Highlander with the turbocharged engine gets 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The Grand Highlander with the V6 engine has slightly lower fuel economy ratings, at 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
Interior and Features
Space and Comfort
Both the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Grand Highlander offer ample space for passengers and cargo. The Ascent has a seating capacity of up to eight, while the Grand Highlander can accommodate up to seven. Both SUVs feature comfortable seats and generous legroom and headroom in all three rows.
Technology and Convenience
The Subaru Ascent comes standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while the Toyota Grand Highlander gets a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen. Both systems offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, as well as a variety of other features such as navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Safety and Reliability
Safety Features
Both the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Grand Highlander have received top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety features on both SUVs include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
Reliability
Subaru and Toyota are both known for their reliability. The Subaru Ascent has a slightly better reliability rating than the Toyota Grand Highlander, according to J.D. Power.
Off-Road Capability
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
The Subaru Ascent comes standard with Subaru’s renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which provides excellent traction and handling in all weather conditions. The Toyota Grand Highlander also offers all-wheel drive as an option.
X-Mode
The Ascent also features X-Mode, a suite of off-road driving modes that optimize the vehicle’s performance for various terrains. The Grand Highlander does not offer a comparable system.
Price and Value
Starting Price
The Subaru Ascent has a starting price of $33,870, while the Toyota Grand Highlander starts at $36,420.
Features and Value
The Ascent offers a more comprehensive suite of standard features than the Grand Highlander, including all-wheel drive, X-Mode, and a larger touchscreen infotainment system. However, the Grand Highlander offers a larger engine with more horsepower and torque.
Which SUV Is Right for You?
The Subaru Ascent and Toyota Grand Highlander are both excellent choices for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The Ascent excels in off-road capability and value, while the Grand Highlander offers more power and a more spacious interior.
Ultimately, the best SUV for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize off-road performance and affordability, the Subaru Ascent is an excellent choice. If you need more power and a larger cabin, the Toyota Grand Highlander is a strong contender.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which SUV has a better safety rating?
Both the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Grand Highlander have received top safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS.
Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
The Toyota Grand Highlander with the 3.5-liter V6 engine has a more powerful engine than the Subaru Ascent.
Which SUV has a more spacious interior?
The Toyota Grand Highlander has a slightly more spacious interior than the Subaru Ascent, with more legroom and headroom in the third row.
Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?
The Subaru Ascent is slightly more fuel-efficient than the Toyota Grand Highlander, with EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
Which SUV is more affordable?
The Subaru Ascent has a lower starting price than the Toyota Grand Highlander.