What To Know
- The Ascent has only been on the market for a few years, but it has already made a strong impression on reliability ratings.
- However, the Subaru Ascent is still a relatively new vehicle, and it has shown promising signs of reliability in its early years on the market.
- The Ascent has a more rugged and adventurous look, while the Highlander has a more refined and sophisticated appearance.
The Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander are two of the most popular midsize SUVs on the market, renowned for their spacious interiors, versatile features, and impressive capabilities. However, when it comes to reliability, which one reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the reliability history, safety ratings, and maintenance costs of both vehicles to help you make an informed decision.
Reliability History
Subaru Ascent: The Ascent has only been on the market for a few years, but it has already made a strong impression on reliability ratings. J.D. Power’s 2023 Vehicle Dependability Study ranked the Ascent above average, with a score of 84 out of 100.
Toyota Highlander: The Highlander has a long-standing reputation for exceptional reliability. It has consistently earned high ratings from J.D. Power, with the 2023 model receiving a score of 85 out of 100.
Safety Ratings
Subaru Ascent: The Ascent has received top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It earned a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick++ by IIHS.
Toyota Highlander: The Highlander has also achieved impressive safety ratings. It received a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and was awarded the Top Safety Pick+ distinction by IIHS.
Maintenance Costs
Subaru Ascent: The Ascent’s maintenance costs are comparable to other midsize SUVs. According to RepairPal, the average annual maintenance cost for an Ascent is around $500.
Toyota Highlander: The Highlander’s maintenance costs are slightly lower than the Ascent’s. RepairPal estimates the average annual maintenance cost for a Highlander to be around $450.
Key Differences
- Powertrain: The Ascent offers a more powerful engine than the Highlander, with 260 horsepower compared to 295 horsepower.
- Fuel Economy: The Highlander has a slight advantage in fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 24 mpg combined compared to 21 mpg combined for the Ascent.
- Seating Capacity: The Ascent offers seating for up to eight passengers, while the Highlander can accommodate up to seven.
- Towing Capacity: The Highlander has a higher maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds compared to the Ascent’s 5,000 pounds.
Which SUV is More Reliable?
Based on the available data, the Toyota Highlander has a slight edge in terms of reliability. It has consistently earned higher ratings from J.D. Power and has a longer track record of dependability. However, the Subaru Ascent is still a relatively new vehicle, and it has shown promising signs of reliability in its early years on the market.
Making the Right Choice
Ultimately, the best choice between the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize reliability and a proven track record, the Highlander is an excellent option. However, if you value a more powerful engine and a higher seating capacity, the Ascent is a compelling choice.
Beyond Reliability
In addition to reliability, there are several other factors to consider when choosing between the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander, including:
- Design and Style: Both SUVs offer stylish and modern designs, but they have distinct personalities. The Ascent has a more rugged and adventurous look, while the Highlander has a more refined and sophisticated appearance.
- Technology and Features: Both vehicles offer a wide range of technology and convenience features, such as infotainment systems, navigation, and safety features. However, the Highlander offers a few more advanced features, such as a panoramic moonroof and a 12.3-inch touchscreen display.
- Off-Road Capabilities: The Ascent has a slight advantage in off-road capabilities, thanks to its standard all-wheel drive and X-Mode system. However, the Highlander is also capable of handling light off-roading with its available all-wheel drive system.
Informed Decision
By carefully considering the information presented in this comparison, you can make an informed decision about which SUV best meets your needs. Whether you prioritize reliability, performance, or a combination of factors, the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander are both excellent choices that will provide years of dependable service.
Common Questions and Answers
Which SUV has the better warranty?
- The Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander both offer comprehensive warranties. The Ascent comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The Highlander offers a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?
- The Toyota Highlander is slightly more fuel-efficient than the Subaru Ascent. The Highlander has an EPA-estimated 24 mpg combined, while the Ascent has an EPA-estimated 21 mpg combined.
Which SUV has a higher towing capacity?
- The Toyota Highlander has a higher maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds compared to the Ascent’s 5,000 pounds.