Subaru Outback Vs Highlander: Which Offers The Best Value For Money? Uncover The Truth!
What To Know
- Both the Subaru Outback and the Toyota Highlander offer a variety of trims and options to choose from, so you can find a model that fits your needs and budget.
- The Outback offers superior off-road capability and a more refined interior, while the Highlander has a more spacious interior and a higher towing capacity.
- The Subaru Outback gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the Toyota Highlander gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
When it comes to adventure-ready SUVs, the Subaru Outback and the Toyota Highlander are two of the most popular choices on the market. Both vehicles offer a spacious interior, impressive performance, and a variety of features that make them ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. But which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll put the Subaru Outback and the Toyota Highlander head-to-head to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Capability: Off-Road Prowess and Smooth Handling
Engine Options and Powertrains
The Subaru Outback offers two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque.
All-Wheel Drive Systems
Both the Subaru Outback and the Toyota Highlander come standard with all-wheel drive, which provides excellent traction and stability in all weather conditions. However, the Subaru Outback’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is renowned for its superior performance, especially in slippery conditions.
Towing and Payload Capacity
The Subaru Outback has a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds, while the Toyota Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds. Both vehicles have a payload capacity of around 1,500 pounds.
Interior and Comfort: Spaciousness, Refinement, and Tech Features
Seating and Cargo Space
The Subaru Outback offers seating for up to five passengers, while the Toyota Highlander can accommodate up to eight passengers. Both vehicles have spacious interiors with ample headroom and legroom. However, the Highlander’s third row is best suited for children or occasional use.
Interior Quality and Refinement
The Subaru Outback‘s interior is well-appointed and features high-quality materials. The Toyota Highlander‘s interior is also well-made, but it doesn’t quite match the Outback’s level of refinement.
Infotainment and Technology
Both the Subaru Outback and the Toyota Highlander come standard with a touchscreen infotainment system that includes features such as navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The Outback’s infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive, while the Highlander’s system can be somewhat clunky at times.
Safety and Reliability: Peace of Mind on Every Adventure
Safety Features
The Subaru Outback and the Toyota Highlander both come standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. The Outback also offers a number of advanced safety features, such as lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring.
Reliability
Both the Subaru Outback and the Toyota Highlander are known for their reliability and durability. However, the Outback has a slight edge in this area, as it has consistently ranked higher in reliability surveys.
Price and Value: Finding the Best Bang for Your Buck
Starting Prices
The Subaru Outback has a starting price of $26,945, while the Toyota Highlander starts at $34,810.
Trims and Options
Both the Subaru Outback and the Toyota Highlander offer a variety of trims and options to choose from, so you can find a model that fits your needs and budget.
Which One is Right for You?
The Subaru Outback and the Toyota Highlander are both excellent choices for adventure-ready SUVs. The Outback offers superior off-road capability and a more refined interior, while the Highlander has a more spacious interior and a higher towing capacity. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Beyond the Comparison: Additional Factors to Consider
Fuel Efficiency
The Subaru Outback gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the Toyota Highlander gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
Warranty Coverage
The Subaru Outback comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The Toyota Highlander comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which vehicle has a better safety rating?
A: Both the Subaru Outback and the Toyota Highlander have received excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Q: Which vehicle has a more comfortable ride?
A: The Subaru Outback and the Toyota Highlander both offer a comfortable ride, but the Outback has a slightly softer suspension, which may be preferable for some drivers.
Q: Which vehicle is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Subaru Outback is more fuel-efficient than the Toyota Highlander, with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway compared to the Highlander’s 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
