When shopping for a family SUV, two names often appear in discussions: Toyota Highlander vs Subaru Ascent. Both vehicles have earned a strong reputation in the mid-size SUV market, known for their reliability, safety, and versatility. However, while they share some similarities, several differences set them apart. This article will dive deep into the features, performance, safety, and overall value of the Toyota Highlander and the Subaru Ascent to help you determine which SUV might be the better choice for your needs.
Overview
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander has been a staple in the SUV market since its introduction in 2001. Over the years, it has evolved from a simple, family-friendly vehicle into a more luxurious and technologically advanced SUV. Known for its dependability, comfortable ride, and high resale value, the Highlander has become a go-to choice for families seeking a reliable and practical vehicle.
The latest Highlander, available in both petrol and hybrid versions, offers a sleek design, a roomy interior, and modern technology features. With seating for up to eight passengers and a range of trim levels to suit different budgets, the Highlander continues to appeal to a broad audience.
Subaru Ascent
Introduced in 2018, the Subaru Ascent is a relatively new player in the mid-size SUV segment. However, it has quickly made a name for itself thanks to its standard all-wheel-drive system, spacious interior, and impressive safety features. Subaru is known for producing rugged vehicles that handle well in all weather conditions, and the Ascent is no exception.
The Ascent offers seating for up to eight passengers, a choice of trim levels, and a strong turbocharged engine. Thanks to its off-road capabilities and advanced safety technologies, it is particularly popular among outdoor enthusiasts and those living in regions with harsh weather.
Performance and Driving Experience
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander has two powertrain options: a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine and a hybrid system that combines a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with electric motors. The V6 engine delivers 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for highway driving and towing. On the other hand, the hybrid system produces a combined 243 horsepower and is more fuel-efficient, making it an attractive option for eco-conscious buyers.
The Highlander offers a smooth, comfortable ride with responsive steering and a well-tuned suspension that quickly absorbs bumps and rough roads. While it may not be the most thrilling SUV, it provides a quiet and composed driving experience, making it ideal for long road trips and daily commutes.
The Highlander’s all-wheel-drive system, available as an option, enhances its traction and stability in adverse weather conditions. However, the Highlander is more of a road-focused SUV, and while it can handle light off-road duties, it is not designed for severe off-roading adventures.
Subaru Ascent
The Subaru Ascent has a single powertrain option: a 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. While it may have less horsepower than the Highlander’s V6, the turbocharged engine delivers robust low-end torque, making it more responsive in city driving and when merging onto highways.
One of the standout features of the Ascent is its standard symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, which provides excellent traction and stability in all types of weather conditions. The Ascent handles confidently and controls whether you’re driving on wet, snowy, or unpaved roads. Its 8.7 inches of ground clearance makes it more capable of tackling off-road terrain than the Highlander.
The Ascent’s ride quality is comfortable, but its suspension is tuned more towards handling rough roads and off-road trails. This means it may feel slightly firmer on smooth pavement than the Highlander. However, the trade-off is that the Ascent is better equipped for outdoor adventures and driving in challenging conditions.
Interior and Comfort
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander boasts a well-designed interior with high-quality materials and a modern aesthetic. The cabin is spacious, with seating for up to eight passengers in the lower trims and seven passengers in the higher trims with second-row captain’s chairs. The seats are comfortable and supportive, with ample legroom and headroom in the first and second rows.
While suitable for children or shorter adults, the third row can feel cramped for taller passengers, especially on longer journeys. However, this is a common issue in many mid-size SUVs.
The Highlander offers a generous amount of cargo space, with 16 cubic feet behind the third row, 48.4 cubic feet with the third row folded down, and a maximum of 84.3 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded flat. This provides plenty of room for luggage, groceries, or outdoor gear.
In terms of technology, the Highlander comes equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system as standard, with a 12.3-inch screen available on higher trims. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility are included, along with a Wi-Fi hotspot and multiple USB ports. The infotainment system is user-friendly, though some may find the touch controls less intuitive than physical buttons.
Subaru Ascent
The Subaru Ascent’s interior is designed with practicality and functionality in mind. Like the Highlander, it offers seating for up to eight passengers in lower trims and seven in higher trims with captain’s chairs. The seats are comfortable, with good visibility from all seating positions, and the interior materials feel durable, making it an excellent choice for families with children or pets.
One of the Ascent’s strengths is its spacious third row, which offers more legroom and headroom than many competitors, including the Highlander. This makes it a better option for those frequently transporting adult passengers in the third row.
The Ascent also provides ample cargo space, with 17.8 cubic feet behind the third row, 47.5 cubic feet with the third row folded down, and a maximum of 86.5 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded flat. While the difference in cargo capacity compared to the Highlander is minimal, the Ascent’s wider opening and lower load floor make loading and unloading bulky items more accessible.
The Ascent comes standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system and an 8-inch screen on higher trims. Like the Highlander, it includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, multiple USB ports and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The infotainment system is straightforward to use, though the smaller screen on the base model may feel somewhat dated.
Safety Features
Toyota Highlander
Safety is a top priority for Toyota, and the Highlander comes well-equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features. Standard on all trims is Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Automatic High Beams
- Road Sign Assist
The Highlander also features a standard rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims offer additional safety features such as front and rear parking sensors, a surround-view camera system, and a head-up display.
Regarding crash test ratings, the Toyota Highlander has consistently performed well, earning high marks from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Subaru Ascent
The Subaru Ascent is equally committed to safety and comes with Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology as standard. This suite of safety features includes:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Pre-Collision Braking
- Lane Departure and Sway Warning
- Lane Keep Assist
In addition to EyeSight, the Ascent also comes standard with a rearview camera, while higher trims add blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and reverse automatic braking. The available DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System further enhances safety by monitoring the driver for signs of distraction or drowsiness.
The Subaru Ascent has also received high safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.
Fuel Efficiency
Toyota Highlander
Regarding fuel efficiency, the Toyota Highlander hybrid is the clear winner. The hybrid model delivers an impressive 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, making it one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in its class. The hybrid is an excellent choice for those prioritising fuel savings and eco-friendliness.
The standard V6 petrol engine is less efficient but still competitive for the segment, with an EPA rating of 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. Opting for all-wheel drive reduces those figures slightly to 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.
Subaru Ascent
The Subaru Ascent, with its turbocharged engine and standard all-wheel drive, offers respectable fuel efficiency for a vehicle of its size and capability. It is rated at 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, which is on par with the Highlander’s V6 model. However, it does not offer a hybrid option, which may be a drawback for those seeking maximum fuel economy.
While the Ascent may not match the Highlander hybrid in terms of fuel efficiency, it compensates with its robust all-wheel-drive system and overall versatility, making it a strong contender for families prioritising capability over fuel savings.
Pricing and Value
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander is priced competitively for the mid-size SUV segment, with the base model starting in the low £30,000 range. Higher trims, such as the Platinum and Limited, can exceed £40,000, especially when equipped with all-wheel drive and additional options.
While the Highlander may have a higher starting price than some competitors, it offers substantial value thanks to its reputation for reliability, high resale value, and comprehensive list of standard features. The hybrid model, though more expensive upfront, provides long-term savings in fuel costs.
Subaru Ascent
The Subaru Ascent also offers a competitive price. The base model starts in the low £30,000 range. Higher trims, such as the Limited and Touring, can reach the mid-to-high £40,000 range, depending on options and packages.
Ascent’s pricing aligns closely with Highlander’s, offering substantial value for those prioritising all-wheel drive, safety features, and off-road capability. Subaru’s reputation for durability and longevity also adds to Ascent’s overall value proposition.
Verdict: Toyota Highlander vs Subaru Ascent
Choosing between the Toyota Highlander and the Subaru Ascent ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. Both SUVs offer a compelling package of features, safety, and comfort but cater to slightly different audiences.
The Toyota Highlander is an excellent choice for families prioritising a smooth and comfortable ride, fuel efficiency (especially with the hybrid model), and high-standard features. Its luxurious interior and reputation for reliability make it a great all-around vehicle for daily driving and long trips.
On the other hand, the Subaru Ascent appeals to those who need a more rugged and capable SUV, especially if you frequently encounter challenging road conditions or enjoy outdoor adventures. Its standard all-wheel-drive system, spacious interior, and impressive safety features make it a top contender for active families.
Ultimately, both the Highlander and the Ascent are solid choices. Your decision will depend on whether you value fuel efficiency, luxury (Highlander), off-road capability, and all-weather performance (Ascent). Whichever you choose, you can feel confident that you’re getting a reliable and versatile vehicle that will serve your family well for years to come.