What To Know
- In terms of fuel economy, the Highlander with front-wheel drive earns an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
- 5-liter engine earns 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged engine gets 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
- The Highlander is a solid choice for those seeking a bold and rugged SUV with ample space and a powerful engine.
When it comes to midsize SUVs, two titans stand out: the Toyota Highlander and the Subaru Outback. Both vehicles offer ruggedness, versatility, and ample space for families and outdoor enthusiasts. But which one is the right choice for you? This comprehensive comparison will shed light on their key features, performance, and value to help you make an informed decision.
Exterior Design
The Highlander boasts a bold and muscular exterior, exuding a sense of adventure. Its sharp lines and aggressive grille give it a commanding presence. The Outback, on the other hand, has a more refined and understated design, with a focus on practicality. Its sleek silhouette and rugged cladding convey both style and functionality.
Interior Comfort and Space
Both vehicles offer spacious and well-appointed interiors. The Highlander has seating for up to eight passengers, while the Outback offers seating for five or seven. The Highlander’s cabin is designed with comfort in mind, featuring premium materials and intuitive technology. The Outback’s interior is equally impressive, with ample legroom, headroom, and a panoramic sunroof that floods the cabin with natural light.
Performance and Fuel Economy
The Highlander is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with front-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive is available. The Outback offers a choice of two engines: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
In terms of fuel economy, the Highlander with front-wheel drive earns an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The Outback with the 2.5-liter engine earns 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged engine gets 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
Off-Road Capabilities
Both the Highlander and the Outback offer all-wheel drive systems for enhanced traction in inclement weather and light off-roading. However, the Outback has a slight edge in this area, thanks to its standard X-Mode system. This system provides optimized settings for different driving conditions, including snow, dirt, and gravel.
Safety Features
Safety is a top priority for both Toyota and Subaru. The Highlander and the Outback come standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Highlander also offers blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as standard, while the Outback makes these features available as options.
Technology and Connectivity
Both vehicles offer a wide range of infotainment and connectivity features. The Highlander comes with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a premium audio system. The Outback features a larger 11.6-inch touchscreen, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a navigation system.
Price and Value
The Toyota Highlander has a starting price of $35,855, while the Subaru Outback starts at $26,995. The Highlander offers more standard features and a more powerful engine, but the Outback provides better fuel economy and a lower entry price. Ultimately, the best value depends on your individual needs and priorities.
Final Thoughts
The Toyota Highlander and the Subaru Outback are both excellent midsize SUVs that offer a blend of performance, versatility, and safety. The Highlander is a solid choice for those seeking a bold and rugged SUV with ample space and a powerful engine. The Outback, on the other hand, is ideal for buyers who prioritize fuel efficiency, off-road capabilities, and a more refined interior.
FAQ
Q: Which vehicle has a higher towing capacity?
A: The Toyota Highlander has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, while the Subaru Outback has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.
Q: Does the Highlander offer a hybrid option?
A: Yes, the Toyota Highlander offers a hybrid option that combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for improved fuel economy.
Q: Which vehicle has the better warranty?
A: Both the Toyota Highlander and the Subaru Outback offer a comprehensive warranty package. The Toyota Highlander has a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The Subaru Outback has a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.