Are you looking for a new three-row SUV? Two choices that many turn to are the Toyota Highlander and Subaru Ascent. Both offer generous space, reliable performances, and cutting-edge features. So, which SUV should you buy? Compare the Subaru Ascent vs. Toyota Highlander here today to get a greater understanding of differences between these two SUV models.

This competitive comparison goes into detail about Toyota Highlander and Subaru Ascent specs, dimension and trim differences, how their performances differ from each other, and what unique features that you can find in these SUVs.

2023 Toyota Highlander vs. 2023 Subaru Ascent Specs & Dimensions

Toyota Highlander vs. Subaru Ascent Engines & Performance

Toyota Highlander Performance: When you compare the performance of the Highlander vs. the Ascent, you see that there are various distinctions between these two SUVs. The Highlander offers Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive with features like Multi-Terrain Select and Trailer-Sway Control for a confident drive, as well as plenty of power from the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, able to produce 265 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. When properly equipped, the Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds. The Highlander also offers the Highlander Hybrid for the hybrid SUV shoppers that want to get a capable SUV with top-notch efficiency.

Subaru Ascent Performance: With Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with X-MODE®, the Subaru Ascent also has a commanding performance. You can find similarities in the towing capability, with the Ascent offering a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. However, you have the ability to tow 5,000 pounds on each Highlander gas model when properly equipped, and on the Ascent, the base Ascent only offers a 2,000-pound towing capacity. You need to move up in trims to get the 5,000 pounds of towing power. The Subaru Ascent comes in slightly less with horsepower and torque as well with its 2.4L 4-cylinder engine with 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque.

Comparing the Toyota Highlander and Subaru Ascent Features

The Toyota Highlander shines with its available features including an available 12.3-inch touchscreen and heated and ventilated front seats. You get Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, along with a premium music listening experience thanks to the offered JBL audio system with 11 speakers and surround sound.

Keeping your compatible devices charged while on the go will be convenient in the Highlander with available Qi wireless charging, and you also get an innovative suite of standard safety technologies with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+.

You get comparable safety features with the Subaru Ascent and EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, and the Subaru Ascent also comes with a touchscreen but measures at 11.6-inches with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.

Subaru Ascent vs. Toyota Highlander Interiors & Trims

The Toyota Highlander interior has a diverse selection of configuration options and available colors and trims that make it ideal for those looking for an SUV that provides you with cabin options. For instance, you have 11 interior colors offered for the Highlander including: Graphite Fabric, Black Fabric, Graphite SofTex, Black SofTex, Harvest Beige SofTex, Black Mixed Media, Cockpit Red Leather, Graphite Leather, Black Leather, Harvest Beige Leather, and Glazed Caramel Leather.

You will also find 6 trims for gas models of Highlander available including the:

• Highlander L
• Highlander LE
• Highlander XLE
• Highlander XSE
• Highlander Limited
• Highlander Platinum

If you include available hybrid models for the Highlander that trim lineup increases with the:

• Toyota Highlander Hybrid LE
• Toyota Highlander Hybrid XLE
• Toyota Highlander Bronze Edition
• Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited
• Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum

The Subaru Ascent offers a great lineup of trims with 8 trims to choose from but lacks the hybrid options of the Highlander. The Ascent trims include:

• Base 8 Passenger
• Premium 8 Passenger
• Premium 7 Passenger
• Onyx Edition 7 Passenger
• Limited 8 Passenger
• Limited 7 Passenger
• Onyx Edition Limited 7 Passenger
• Touring 7 Passenger

In the interior of the Ascent, while you do have an array of interior configurations to explore, they aren’t as vast as the Highlander’s interior choices. The Ascent has 7 interior color and trim combinations that include slate black cloth, warm ivory cloth, Gray StarTex, Slate Black Leather, Warm Ivory Leather, Slate Nappa Leather, and Java Brown Nappa Leather.

Shop for a Toyota Highlander at DARCARS Toyota of Baltimore

The decision about which SUV to buy can be a difficult one, especially with these two great options, the Toyota Highlander, and Subaru Ascent. While both have advanced features and commendable performances, the Highlander pulls ahead of the competition with its ample cargo room, trim level options, engine specs, and more. See which Toyota Highlander for sale in Baltimore, MD, that you want to purchase by exploring the inventory at our Toyota dealership.

You can get acquainted with the Toyota Highlander further at our car dealership! Learn about Toyota Highlander interior features here!

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