In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Subaru Ascent vs Toyota Highlander. Both SUVs are popular choices in the market, offering style, performance, and versatility.
Our goal is to provide you with an informed decision-making guide, highlighting aspects such as price, dimensions, safety features, and specifications for each model.
What is the Difference Between Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander?
The Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander are both popular three-row SUVs that cater to families and individuals seeking versatile and comfortable transportation.
While they share similarities in their class and intended market, there are distinct differences between the two models that may influence your choice.
Let’s explore some of the key differences between the 2023 Subaru Ascent vs Toyota Highlander.
Pricing
When it comes to choosing between the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Toyota Highlander, pricing is often one of the primary factors that influence car buyers’ decisions.
In this section, we will examine the starting prices of each model, as well as the costs of their top trims, to help you determine which SUV fits your budget and provides the best value for money.
– 2023 Subaru Ascent Price:
The 2023 Subaru Ascent continues to be an attractive option for value-conscious buyers in its segment. The base model starts at $33,895, making it an affordable entry point into the three-row SUV category.
For those seeking the highest level of luxury and features, the top Touring trim is available at $48,195. While this trim’s price might be higher, it offers an array of premium amenities and advanced technologies.
– 2023 Toyota Highlander Price:
Starting at $36,420, the 2023 Toyota Highlander has a slightly higher base price compared to the Subaru Ascent. However, the Highlander compensates for this with its strong reputation for reliability and versatility.
The popular XLE model, which offers a well-balanced blend of features, starts at $41,820. If you desire near-luxury comforts, the Platinum trim is an attractive option, with a starting price of $49,075.
– All-Wheel Drive Options: Subaru Ascent vs Toyota Highlander
Both the Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander offer all-wheel drive (AWD) as an optional feature. For the L, LE, and XLE trims of the Highlander, the AWD option adds an additional $1,600 to the base price.
On the upper trims, including the Platinum, the AWD upgrade costs $1,950. Similarly, the Subaru Ascent provides AWD as a choice for added traction and stability on various terrains.
In terms of comparing pricing, the 2023 Subaru Ascent starts at a slightly lower base price than the 2023 Toyota Highlander.
However, the difference in pricing is not substantial, and both SUVs offer competitive features and capabilities for their respective price ranges.
The top trim of each model, Touring for the Subaru Ascent and Platinum for the Toyota Highlander, represent their respective brands’ premium offerings with advanced features and technology.
Ultimately, your decision will depend on your specific preferences, needs, and budget. If affordability is a priority and you seek a reliable, family-friendly SUV, the Subaru Ascent might be the better choice.
On the other hand, if you are willing to pay a bit more for a well-established name in the SUV market and desire a blend of luxury and performance, the Toyota Highlander could be the SUV for you.
Consider your priorities and conduct a test drive to make the best-informed decision for your lifestyle.
Read also: Subaru Ascent vs VW Atlas
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is a critical consideration for car buyers, especially in the SUV segment, where efficiency impacts long-term costs and environmental impact.
In this section, we explore the fuel efficiency ratings of the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Toyota Highlander to help you make an informed decision based on your driving needs and priorities.
The 2023 Subaru Ascent boasts above-average EPA estimates for its class, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a balance between performance and efficiency.
The Ascent is expected to achieve 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. However, it’s worth noting that the top-tier Limited and Touring models experience a slight decrease in fuel economy, losing 1 mpg in both city and highway categories.
Despite this, the Ascent still performs well in real-world tests, with the top-of-the-line Ascent Limited matching its EPA highway rating of 26 mpg during a 200-mile test.
It’s essential to consider that some rivals, such as the Chevy Traverse and Honda Pilot, may offer even higher efficiency despite having lower government ratings.
While the 2023 Toyota Highlander offers multiple powertrain options, including a new turbocharged engine and hybrid models, providing varying fuel efficiency ratings.
The front-wheel-drive version with the turbocharged engine achieves an estimated 21-22 mpg in the city and 28-29 mpg on the highway, while the AWD model gets an estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
The real fuel efficiency gains can be observed with the hybrid models, where the front-wheel-drive variants attain an impressive 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. These ratings make the hybrid Highlander a top choice for fuel-conscious drivers.
When comparing the fuel economy of the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Toyota Highlander, both SUVs offer respectable efficiency figures for their respective classes.
The Subaru Ascent performs admirably, with above-average EPA estimates, though some competitors may be more efficient in real-world scenarios.
On the other hand, the Toyota Highlander, particularly in its hybrid configurations, stands out as a fuel-efficient option, especially for city driving.
Ultimately, your choice will depend on your driving habits and priorities. If you seek a reliable SUV with decent fuel economy and practicality, the Subaru Ascent is a suitable option.
However, if exceptional fuel efficiency is a top priority, especially for city commuting, the Toyota Highlander hybrid models present an attractive proposition.
Conducting a test drive and analyzing your typical driving patterns will aid in determining which SUV best aligns with your needs and values.
Dimensions
When it comes to choosing an SUV, dimensions play a crucial role in determining how well the vehicle accommodates passengers and cargo.
In this section, we compare the dimensions of the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Toyota Highlander to help you understand their sizes and interior space.
– 2023 Subaru Ascent Dimensions
Exterior Dimensions:
| Length | 196.8 inches |
| Overall Width with Mirrors | 86.1 inches |
| Overall Width without Mirrors | 76.0 inches |
| Height | 71.6 inches |
| Wheelbase | 113.8 inches |
| EPA Interior Volume | 171.0 cubic feet |
| Cargo Capacity (All Seats in Place) | 17.8 cubic feet |
| Maximum Cargo Capacity | 75.6 cubic feet |
| Turning Circle | 38.0 feet |
| Ground Clearance | 8.7 inches |
| Angle of Approach | 17.6 degrees |
| Angle of Departure | 21.8 degrees |
| Curb Weight | 4,499 pounds |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 pounds |
Front Seat Dimensions:
| Front Head Room | 41.2 inches |
| Front Leg Room | 42.2 inches |
| Front Shoulder Room | 61.1 inches |
| Front Hip Room | 57.8 inches |
| Leather | Standard |
| Bucket Front Seats | Standard |
| 8-Way Power Driver Seat | Standard |
| Height-Adjustable Driver Seat | Standard |
| Driver Seat with Power Adjustable Lumbar Support | Standard |
| Driver Seat Thigh Extension | Standard |
| 2 Memorized Driver Seat Settings | Standard |
| 4-Way Power Passenger Seat | Standard |
| Multi-Level Heating Driver Seat | Standard |
| Multi-Level Heating Passenger Seat | Standard |
Rear Seat Dimensions:
| Rear Head Room | 40.0 inches |
| Rear Leg Room | 38.6 inches |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 60.3 inches |
| Rear Hip Room | 57.5 inches |
| Split-Folding Rear Seatback | Standard |
| Folding Center Armrest | Standard |
| Multi-Level Heating | Standard |
| Manual Folding Split-Bench Third Row Seats | Standard |
– 2023 Toyota Highlander Dimensions
Exterior Dimensions:
| Length | 194.9 inches |
| Overall Width without Mirrors | 76.0 inches |
| Height | 68.1 inches |
| Wheelbase | 112.2 inches |
| EPA Interior Volume | 155.5 cubic feet |
| Cargo Capacity (All Seats in Place) | 16.0 cubic feet |
| Maximum Cargo Capacity | 84.3 cubic feet |
| Turning Circle | 37.4 feet |
| Ground Clearance | 8.0 inches |
| Angle of Approach | 18.1 degrees |
| Angle of Departure | 23.0 degrees |
| Curb Weight | 4,199 pounds |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,000 pounds |
| Maximum Payload | 1,635 pounds |
| Gross Weight | 5,870 pounds |
Front Seat Dimensions:
| Front Head Room | 39.6 inches |
| Front Leg Room | 42.0 inches |
| Front Shoulder Room | 59.0 inches |
| Front Hip Room | 57.2 inches |
| Leatherette | Standard |
| Bucket Front Seats | Standard |
| 8-Way Power Driver Seat | Standard |
| Height-Adjustable Driver Seat | Standard |
| Driver Seat with Power Adjustable Lumbar Support | Standard |
| 8-Way Power Passenger Seat | Standard |
| Height-Adjustable Passenger Seat | Standard |
| Multi-Level Heating Driver Seat | Standard |
| Multi-Level Heating Passenger Seat | Standard |
Rear Seat Dimensions:
| Rear Head Room | 39.4 inches |
| Rear Leg Room | 38.7 inches |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 58.4 inches |
| Rear Hip Room | 57.0 inches |
| Folding Rear Seatback | Standard |
| Reclining Rear Seats | Standard |
| Folding Center Armrest | Standard |
| Manual Folding Bench Third Row Seats | Standard |
The dimensions of the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Toyota Highlander highlight the differences in their sizes and interior space.
The Subaru Ascent boasts a slightly longer body and more interior volume, making it a favorable choice for families needing more space.
In contrast, the Toyota Highlander offers a more compact profile, suitable for city driving and maneuverability.
Additionally, the Highlander’s higher maximum payload capacity might be advantageous for hauling heavy loads.
Ultimately, your choice between the two SUVs will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as passenger comfort, cargo capacity, and parking convenience when making your decision.
Conducting a thorough test drive will help you determine which model provides the best fit for your lifestyle.
Read also: Kia Sorento vs Kia Telluride
Color Options
When choosing an SUV, exterior and interior color options are essential considerations to reflect your personal style and taste.
In this section, we compare the available color choices for the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Toyota Highlander to help you find the perfect hue that suits your preferences.
Both the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Toyota Highlander offer a range of attractive color options for their exteriors and interiors.
The Subaru Ascent provides a selection of exterior colors, including vibrant shades like Crimson Red Pearl and Autumn Green Metallic, along with more classic choices like Crystal Black Silica and Crystal White Pearl.
The interior offers two elegant options, Warm Ivory and Slate Black, in high-quality leather.
The Toyota Highlander also presents a diverse array of exterior colors, such as the eye-catching Ruby Flare Pearl and the sophisticated Wind Chill Pearl.
For the interior, the Highlander offers three different options: Graphite, Harvest Beige, and Black, all available in comfortable leatherette.
Choosing the right color combination is a subjective decision, and it depends on your personal preferences and style.
Consider your individual taste, the look you want to achieve, and how well the colors complement each other both inside and outside the vehicle.
A test drive can help you visualize how the colors look in person and assist you in making the final decision between the 2023 Subaru Ascent vs 2023 Toyota Highlander.
Safety Features
Safety is a top priority for any car buyer, and both the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Toyota Highlander offer impressive suites of driver-assistance technologies to enhance on-road safety.
In this section, we compare the standard safety features available in each model, providing you with insights into the advanced safety technologies offered by both SUVs.
– 2023 Subaru Ascent Safety Features
Subaru prioritizes safety and ensures that every Ascent comes equipped with their advanced EyeSight safety suite as standard. The key safety features included in the Subaru EyeSight system are as follows:
- Standard Forward-Collision Warning and Automated Emergency Braking: This system monitors the road ahead and alerts the driver to potential frontal collisions. In emergency situations, it can automatically apply the brakes to help avoid or reduce the severity of a collision.
- Standard Lane-Departure Warning and Lane-Keeping Assist: The Lane-Departure Warning system alerts the driver if the vehicle drifts out of its lane unintentionally. The Lane-Keeping Assist can actively steer the vehicle back into its lane to maintain proper lane position.
- Standard Adaptive Cruise Control: This advanced cruise control system uses radar technology to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, automatically adjusting the speed to match traffic conditions.
– 2023 Toyota Highlander Safety Features:
Following Toyota’s commitment to safety, the 2023 Toyota Highlander also comes with a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assistance features. Key safety technologies in the Highlander include:
- Standard Automated Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection: This system not only detects potential collisions with other vehicles but also with pedestrians. It can apply the brakes automatically to mitigate or prevent accidents.
- Standard Blind-Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: The Blind-Spot Monitoring system warns the driver of vehicles in their blind spots, helping to prevent lane-change accidents. The Rear Cross-Traffic Alert provides alerts when vehicles or pedestrians are approaching from the sides while backing up.
- Standard Lane-Departure Warning with Lane-Keeping Assist: Similar to the Subaru Ascent, the Lane-Departure Warning system in the Toyota Highlander alerts the driver if the vehicle drifts from its lane. The Lane-Keeping Assist helps steer the vehicle back into the lane if necessary.
In conclusion, both the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Toyota Highlander prioritize safety and equip their vehicles with standard driver-assistance features to enhance on-road security.
Subaru’s EyeSight safety suite ensures that all Ascent models receive advanced safety technologies such as forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
Meanwhile, the Toyota Highlander’s standard safety package includes automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring with rear-cross-traffic alert, and lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist.
When considering safety, it’s also essential to look at crash test results from reputable sources like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These results can provide valuable insights into the overall safety performance of each SUV.
Conducting a test drive and experiencing the safety features firsthand can also help you assess which model best meets your safety expectations and needs.
Warranty
Warranty coverage is an essential consideration for car buyers as it provides peace of mind and protection from unexpected repairs and maintenance costs.
In this section, we compare the warranty offerings for the 2023 Subaru Ascent vs 2023 Toyota Highlander, helping you understand the extent of coverage and any additional perks that come with each warranty.
– 2023 Subaru Ascent Warranty:
Subaru’s warranty coverage for the 2023 Ascent is considered average for the segment, providing a standard level of protection for a limited period. The warranty details for the Subaru Ascent are as follows:
- Limited Warranty: Covers three years or 36,000 miles, offering protection against defects in materials or workmanship during the specified time frame.
- Powertrain Warranty: Covers five years or 60,000 miles, protecting the essential powertrain components such as the engine and transmission.
- Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance: Subaru does not provide complimentary scheduled maintenance with the purchase of the 2023 Ascent. This means that routine maintenance costs, such as oil changes and tire rotations, will be the responsibility of the vehicle owner.
– 2023 Toyota Highlander Warranty:
Toyota’s warranty coverage for the 2023 Highlander adheres to the industry norm, offering similar protection as the Subaru Ascent but with some additional perks. The warranty details for the Toyota Highlander are as follows:
- Limited Warranty: Covers three years or 36,000 miles, providing coverage for defects in materials or workmanship during the specified period.
- Powertrain Warranty: Covers five years or 60,000 miles, protecting critical powertrain components like the engine and transmission.
- Hybrid-Component Warranty: For the electrified Highlander, Toyota offers a separate hybrid-component warranty that covers eight years or 100,000 miles. This extended warranty provides coverage for essential hybrid components, offering additional reassurance for hybrid owners.
- Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance: The Toyota Highlander provides a significant advantage by offering two years of complimentary scheduled maintenance or 25,000 miles. This benefit covers routine maintenance services, helping to reduce the cost of ownership during the initial ownership period.
When comparing warranty offerings, the Toyota Highlander has a slight advantage over the Subaru Ascent due to its inclusion of complimentary scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles. This feature can result in savings on routine maintenance costs during the early ownership period.
Additionally, the Highlander’s separate hybrid-component warranty provides extended coverage for hybrid models, enhancing the peace of mind for hybrid owners.
While both the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander offer similar limited and powertrain warranty coverage.
The additional benefits of the Toyota Highlander’s complimentary scheduled maintenance and hybrid-component warranty can make it a more appealing choice for those seeking extra value and cost-saving benefits.
As always, it’s essential to review and understand the specific terms and conditions of each warranty to make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and preferences.
Read also: VW Atlas vs Toyota Highlander
Specifications
The specifications of the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Toyota Highlander reveal their engine capabilities and performance characteristics.
In this section, we compare the key specifications of both SUVs, including their engines, transmissions, and towing capacities, providing insights into their power and capabilities on the road.
– 2023 Subaru Ascent Specs:
| Base Engine Size | 2.4 L |
| Cylinders | Flat 4 |
| Base Engine Type | Gas |
| Transmission | Continuously Variable-Speed Automatic |
| Drive Type | All-Wheel Drive |
| Horsepower | 260 hp @ 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 277 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm |
| Valves | 16 |
| Cam Type | Double Overhead Cam (DOHC) |
| Valve Timing | Variable |
| Direct Injection | Standard |
| Max Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs. |
– 2023 Toyota Highlander Specs:
| Base Engine Size | 2.4 L |
| Cylinders | Inline 4 |
| Base Engine Type | Gas |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Shiftable Automatic |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Horsepower | 265 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft @ 1,700 rpm |
| Valves | 16 |
| Cam Type | Double Overhead Cam (DOHC) |
| Valve Timing | Variable |
| Dual Fuel Injection | Standard |
| Max Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs. |
| Max Payload Capacity | 1,635 lbs. |
In comparison, both the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander come equipped with powerful engines that offer competitive performance in the SUV segment. The Subaru Ascent features a 2.4-liter Flat 4 engine with 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.
On the other hand, the Toyota Highlander comes with a 2.4-liter Inline 4 engine that delivers a slightly higher horsepower of 265 hp and impressive torque of 310 lb-ft.
Regarding transmission, the Subaru Ascent is equipped with a Continuously Variable-Speed Automatic, offering smooth and efficient power delivery.
The Toyota Highlander, however, features an 8-speed shiftable automatic transmission for precise gear changes.
Both SUVs share the same maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs, making them capable of handling moderate towing needs, whether it be trailers, boats, or small campers.
While the Toyota Highlander boasts slightly higher horsepower and torque figures, the Subaru Ascent’s all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions.
Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your driving preferences and priorities, whether you prioritize a front-wheel-drive setup for fuel efficiency and city driving (Toyota Highlander) or an all-wheel-drive system for more versatile performance (Subaru Ascent).
It is recommended to take both SUVs for a test drive to experience their performance firsthand and determine which one better suits your driving needs.
Pros and Cons
When considering the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Toyota Highlander, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each SUV to make an informed decision that aligns with your preferences and needs. Here, we outline the strengths and weaknesses of both models.
2023 Subaru Ascent Pros:
- High-Quality Interior Materials: The Subaru Ascent offers a well-crafted interior with high-quality materials, providing a comfortable and premium feel for passengers.
- Generous Ground Clearance and Standard All-Wheel Drive: The Ascent’s ample ground clearance and standard all-wheel-drive system make it a capable SUV for tackling various terrains and weather conditions.
- Excellent Outward Visibility: With its upright design and large windows, the Subaru Ascent provides exceptional outward visibility, enhancing driver confidence on the road.
- Strong Towing Capacity: The Ascent boasts a robust towing capacity of 5,000 lbs, making it suitable for hauling trailers, boats, or other recreational gear.
Cons:
- Accelerator Pedal is Too Touchy: Some drivers may find the Ascent’s accelerator pedal overly sensitive, which can result in jerky acceleration.
- Invasive Engine and Tire Noise: The Ascent’s cabin might experience higher levels of engine and tire noise, which could be a drawback for those seeking a quieter ride.
- Limited Second-Row Shoulder Room and Tight Third Row: While the Ascent offers ample passenger space overall, the second-row shoulder room might feel slightly cramped for some, and the third-row seating is better suited for children or smaller individuals.
2023 Toyota Highlander Pros:
- Comfortable, Quiet Ride: The Toyota Highlander provides a smooth and quiet ride, ensuring a pleasant driving experience for occupants.
- Easy to See Out of: The Highlander’s design offers excellent visibility from the driver’s seat, enhancing safety and convenience on the road.
- Above-Average Fuel Efficiency for a Three-Row SUV: The Highlander’s fuel efficiency is noteworthy for its class, making it an appealing option for those conscious of their fuel consumption.
Cons:
- Third Row is Kids-Only: The third-row seating in the Toyota Highlander is more suitable for children or smaller passengers, limiting its comfort for adult occupants.
- Not Much Cargo Space Behind the Third Row: The Highlander’s cargo space behind the third-row seats might be limited for larger families or those requiring extensive luggage capacity.
Conclusion
The 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Toyota Highlander each have their respective strengths and weaknesses.
The Subaru Ascent stands out with its high-quality interior, generous ground clearance, and strong towing capacity.
However, it does have some drawbacks, including a sensitive accelerator pedal and limited shoulder room in the second row, and tight space in the third row.
On the other hand, the Toyota Highlander impresses with its comfortable ride, excellent visibility, and above-average fuel efficiency.
It may not have as much cargo space behind the third row, and its third-row seating is more suitable for children.
Ultimately, your decision between the two will depend on your specific priorities and preferences. Consider factors such as passenger comfort, cargo space, driving preferences, and intended use when choosing between the Subaru Ascent vs Toyota Highlander.
Taking both SUVs for a test drive will provide valuable firsthand experience to help you make the best choice for your lifestyle.
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