What To Know
- The Highlander offers a few additional safety features that the Ascent does not, such as blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and a surround-view camera system.
- However, the Ascent has a slight edge in terms of technology, with features such as a head-up display and a digital rearview mirror available.
- However, the Highlander offers more standard features than the Ascent, such as a power liftgate and a moonroof.
In the competitive midsize SUV market, the Toyota Highlander and the Subaru Ascent stand out as two popular choices for families. Both vehicles offer spacious interiors, versatility, and impressive safety features. However, each SUV has its unique strengths and weaknesses. This comprehensive comparison will help you decide which car is the right fit for your needs.
Interior Space and Comfort
The Toyota Highlander offers slightly more passenger space than the Subaru Ascent. The Highlander has 139.8 cubic feet of passenger volume, while the Ascent has 131.1 cubic feet. Both SUVs provide ample headroom and legroom in both rows, ensuring comfortable seating for up to eight passengers.
In terms of cargo space, the Highlander has a slight advantage. With the third row of seats folded down, the Highlander offers 48.4 cubic feet of cargo space, compared to the Ascent’s 47.5 cubic feet. However, the Ascent’s hands-free power liftgate is a convenient feature for loading and unloading groceries or luggage.
Powertrain and Performance
The Toyota Highlander offers a choice of two powertrains: a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 295 horsepower and a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine with 243 combined horsepower. The V6 engine provides more power and towing capacity (up to 5,000 pounds), while the hybrid engine offers improved fuel economy (up to 36 mpg combined).
The Subaru Ascent comes with a single powertrain: a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 260 horsepower. This engine provides a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. All Ascent models come standard with all-wheel drive, while the Highlander offers both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options.
Safety Features
Both the Toyota Highlander and the Subaru Ascent have earned 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 automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
The Highlander offers a few additional safety features that the Ascent does not, such as blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and a surround-view camera system. However, the Ascent has a unique EyeSight Driver Assist Technology suite that includes features such as lane centering assist and adaptive headlights.
Technology and Infotainment
The Toyota Highlander and the Subaru Ascent both come with user-friendly infotainment systems. The Highlander’s system features an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Ascent’s system has a larger 11.6-inch touchscreen with similar smartphone integration capabilities.
Both SUVs offer a variety of available technology features, such as navigation, a premium audio system, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. However, the Ascent has a slight edge in terms of technology, with features such as a head-up display and a digital rearview mirror available.
Reliability and Maintenance Costs
Toyota has a reputation for reliability, and the Highlander is no exception. The 2023 Highlander has a predicted reliability rating of 88 out of 100 by J.D. Power, which is above average for the midsize SUV segment. The Subaru Ascent has a slightly lower predicted reliability rating of 83 out of 100.
In terms of maintenance costs, the Highlander is likely to be slightly cheaper to maintain than the Ascent. The Highlander has an estimated annual maintenance cost of $500, while the Ascent has an estimated annual maintenance cost of $550.
Price and Value
The Toyota Highlander has a slightly higher starting price than the Subaru Ascent. The base Highlander LE starts at $36,420, while the base Ascent Premium starts at $33,895. However, the Highlander offers more standard features than the Ascent, such as a power liftgate and a moonroof.
When comparing similarly equipped models, the Highlander and the Ascent are priced very competitively. The Highlander Limited Platinum starts at $49,355, while the Ascent Touring starts at $49,105.
Which SUV is Right for You?
The Toyota Highlander and the Subaru Ascent are both excellent choices for families. The Highlander offers slightly more passenger and cargo space, a more powerful engine, and a higher predicted reliability rating. The Ascent has a more advanced infotainment system, standard all-wheel drive, and a unique EyeSight Driver Assist Technology suite.
Ultimately, the best SUV for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize space, power, and reliability, the Toyota Highlander is a great choice. If you prefer advanced technology, all-wheel drive, and unique safety features, the Subaru Ascent is worth considering.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. Which SUV has more passenger space?
The Toyota Highlander has slightly more passenger space than the Subaru Ascent.
2. Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
The Toyota Highlander offers a more powerful V6 engine than the Subaru Ascent.
3. Which SUV has a higher safety rating?
Both the Toyota Highlander and the Subaru Ascent have earned top safety ratings from the NHTSA and the IIHS.
4. Which SUV has a more advanced infotainment system?
The Subaru Ascent has a more advanced infotainment system with a larger touchscreen and more features.
5. Which SUV has a lower predicted reliability rating?
The Subaru Ascent has a slightly lower predicted reliability rating than the Toyota Highlander.