What To Know
- The Highlander Adventure trim has a fuel economy rating of 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
- However, if you need a more spacious interior, a higher towing capacity, and a more luxurious ride, the Toyota Highlander Adventure is the better option.
- The Wilderness has a fuel economy rating of 22 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, compared to the Highlander’s 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
The Subaru Wilderness and Toyota Highlander are two highly capable SUVs that cater to outdoor enthusiasts and adventure-seekers. Both vehicles offer impressive off-road capabilities, spacious interiors, and a host of advanced features. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between these two formidable SUVs, helping you make an informed decision for your next adventure.
Off-Road Prowess
Subaru Wilderness: The Wilderness trim of the Subaru Outback is designed for rugged off-roading. It features a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. The Wilderness also boasts a raised ground clearance of 9.5 inches, a heavy-duty suspension with revised springs and dampers, and a front-mounted skid plate for added protection.
Toyota Highlander: The Toyota Highlander is offered in a dedicated Adventure trim for off-road enthusiasts. This trim level includes a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. The Highlander Adventure is equipped with a torque-vectoring all-wheel drive system, a multi-terrain select system, and an optional Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) for improved off-road handling.
Interior Space and Comfort
Subaru Wilderness: The Wilderness trim offers a spacious and well-appointed interior. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, and the rear seats provide ample legroom and headroom. The Wilderness also features a large 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, heated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.
Toyota Highlander: The Toyota Highlander has a more spacious interior than the Wilderness, with three rows of seating that can accommodate up to eight passengers. The front seats are plush and offer good visibility, while the second-row seats are adjustable and comfortable. The Highlander also boasts a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.
Fuel Economy
Subaru Wilderness: The Wilderness trim has a fuel economy rating of 22 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
Toyota Highlander: The Highlander Adventure trim has a fuel economy rating of 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
Towing and Payload Capacity
Subaru Wilderness: The Wilderness has a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,310 pounds.
Toyota Highlander: The Highlander Adventure has a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,645 pounds.
Safety Features
Subaru Wilderness: The Wilderness comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
Toyota Highlander: The Highlander also features a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and pre-collision braking with pedestrian detection.
Price
Subaru Wilderness: The Subaru Wilderness starts at $36,995.
Toyota Highlander: The Toyota Highlander Adventure starts at $43,555.
Final Verdict: Subaru Wilderness vs Toyota Highlander
The Subaru Wilderness and Toyota Highlander are both excellent choices for adventure-seekers. The Wilderness offers superior off-road capabilities, while the Highlander provides more interior space and a higher towing capacity. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize off-road performance and a rugged exterior, the Subaru Wilderness is the ideal choice. However, if you need a more spacious interior, a higher towing capacity, and a more luxurious ride, the Toyota Highlander Adventure is the better option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which vehicle has a better infotainment system?
A: Both the Subaru Wilderness and Toyota Highlander offer impressive infotainment systems. The Wilderness features an 11.6-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, while the Highlander has a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen with similar connectivity features.
Q: Which vehicle has a more comfortable interior?
A: The Toyota Highlander has a more spacious and luxurious interior than the Subaru Wilderness. The Highlander’s seats are more plush and offer better support, and the cabin is more refined and quieter.
Q: Which vehicle is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Subaru Wilderness is more fuel-efficient than the Toyota Highlander. The Wilderness has a fuel economy rating of 22 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, compared to the Highlander’s 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.