Cars

Toyota Highlander vs. Subaru Ascent: Which SUV Is Better for Families?

JH
John H
Senior Cars Expert
8 min read
Welcome, fellow car enthusiasts! ?? Ready to dive into the ultimate SUV showdown? Today, we’re comparing **Toyota Highlander** and **Subaru Ascent**. Think of it as choosing between two superheroes for your family’s adventures—Thor with his trusty hammer vs. Captain America with his unbreakable shield! ?? Buckle up, this will be fun!

How Does the Toyota Highlander Compare to the Subaru Ascent for Family Safety?

Ever wondered which SUV is safer for your family, the Toyota Highlander or the Subaru Ascent? Both are popular choices and great for families, but let's break it down to see which one offers the best safety features.

Crash Test Ratings

First things first, let's talk about crash test ratings. These tell us how well a car can protect you in an accident. The good news? Both the Toyota Highlander and Subaru Ascent score high in crash tests. They both get top marks from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). So, in case of a crash, they're both tough cookies.

Standard Safety Features

Now, what about the standard safety features each car offers? You know, those important gadgets and gizmos that keep you from getting into accidents in the first place.

The Toyota Highlander comes with something called Toyota Safety Sense. It includes things like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features help keep you safe and sound.

The Subaru Ascent, on the other hand, offers Subaru EyeSight. This system also has automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Pretty similar, right?

But get this, Subaru goes a step further by adding standard all-wheel drive. This means better control on slippery roads, which can be a lifesaver in bad weather.

Child Safety

If you have little ones, you'll want to know how each SUV handles child safety seats. Both the Highlander and Ascent have LATCH systems, which make it easier to install car seats. But the Subaru Ascent has a tiny edge because it has more clearly marked anchor points, making it a bit easier to use.

Visibility

Visibility matters a lot when driving, especially with kids in the back. The Highlander has larger windows, giving you a better view of what's around you. However, the Ascent counters this with additional safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, making it easier to see cars that might be sneaking up on you.

Driver Assistance Features

Both SUVs come packed with driver assistance features. The Highlander offers features like road sign assist, which reads road signs and displays them on your dashboard. Cool, right?

The Ascent has a unique feature called DriverFocus. It's like a second set of eyes that watch for signs of driver fatigue or distraction. If it thinks you're getting sleepy or not paying attention, it sends you a warning. Safety first, always!

Which Is Better for Family Safety?

So, which one should you pick for the best family safety? Both the Toyota Highlander and Subaru Ascent are top-notch in safety. It really comes down to your personal preference and what features you find more useful.

If you value standard all-wheel drive and advanced driver monitoring, the Subaru Ascent might be your go-to. But if you prefer a wider field of view and additional driver assistance features, the Toyota Highlander could be your best bet.

Making the Right Choice

Remember, no SUV is one-size-fits-all. What's best for one family may not be for another. Test drive both. Check out the IIHS ratings yourself, and see which one feels safer and more comfortable for you and your loved ones. Happy driving!

Which SUV Offers Better Fuel Efficiency: Toyota Highlander or Subaru Ascent?

Picking the right SUV can be tough, especially when you're worried about fuel efficiency. Let's look at the Toyota Highlander and the Subaru Ascent to find out which one will save you more gas money.

Fuel Efficiency Basics

First off, what exactly is fuel efficiency? It's basically how far a car can go on a gallon of gas. A car with better fuel efficiency means you spend less on gas because you get more miles per gallon (MPG).

Toyota Highlander's Mileage

Let’s start with the Toyota Highlander. This SUV is known for doing well when it comes to fuel efficiency. The standard model gives you about 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway.

Subaru Ascent's Mileage

Next up, the Subaru Ascent. It's a bit different in terms of fuel efficiency. The Ascent offers around 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. Hmmm... seems close to the Highlander, right?

Why Does Fuel Efficiency Vary?

Ever wonder why different cars have different MPG? It’s all about the engine size, weight, and even how you drive!

Engine Size and Weight

The Toyota Highlander has a smaller engine and weighs less compared to the Subaru Ascent. Smaller engines and lighter cars usually mean better fuel efficiency. Simple as that!

Driving Habits

Did you know that how you drive can affect your fuel efficiency? Yep, it matters. Gentle driving and less sudden braking help. So whether you pick the Highlander or the Ascent, drive smart to save more gas.

Hybrid Options

Let’s not forget about the hybrid versions. The Toyota Highlander also comes in a hybrid version that gets even better fuel efficiency: around 36 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway! Impressive, right?

Unfortunately, the Subaru Ascent doesn’t offer a hybrid version yet. So, if you’re eyeing the eco-friendly and wallet-friendly choice, the Highlander Hybrid might be what you need.

Money Talks

So which one should you go for if you’re trying to save money on gas? Let’s break it down.

City Driving

If you mostly drive around the city, both the Highlander and the Ascent offer the same MPG. But remember, if you go for the hybrid Highlander, you’ll get more miles for your bucks!

Highway Driving

If you're a fan of long highway trips, the Highlander scores a bit better. Not a massive difference, but every little bit helps, right?

In Real Life

Alright, let’s talk real life. You’re probably wondering how this plays out during daily commutes and road trips.

Imagine you’re driving the kids to school, going to work, and hitting the grocery store in a week. If you have a Highlander, you'll likely spend a bit less on gas compared to having a Subaru Ascent. For highway-driving fans, hitting the road in a Highlander saves even more.

Test Drive Time!

Still on the fence? The best way to know which SUV feels right for you is to take them both for a spin. Test drives are like auditions for your new car. See which one gives you the feels and fits your lifestyle best.

A Quick Tip

And one quick tip: always check the latest MPG ratings online. Manufacturers sometimes update the numbers. You don’t want to miss that!

Check Out Reviews

It’s always good to read what others are saying too. Car reviews can offer insights you might not think of.

For honest opinions, you can check out this review comparison of the Toyota Highlander and Subaru Ascent.

So there you have it! Grab those car keys and let’s go!

What are the Differences in Interior Space Between the Toyota Highlander and Subaru Ascent?

Hey there! Ever wondered how the interior space of the Toyota Highlander compares to that of the Subaru Ascent? Well, let's dive in and find out.

Room to Stretch

First things first, let's talk about the space inside these popular SUVs. Both the Toyota Highlander and Subaru Ascent have three rows of seats. But how much room do you really get?

Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander can seat up to 8 people. Cool, right? Now, let's break down the space for each row:

Subaru Ascent

The Subaru Ascent also seats up to 8 people. Wondering how the space compares?

So, if you're thinking about the third-row comfort, the Ascent has a slight edge. Neat, huh?

Cargo Space

Now, let's talk about where you put all your stuff! Whether it's groceries, sports gear, or luggage for a road trip, the cargo space is super important.

Toyota Highlander

With all seats up, the Highlander has a decent amount of cargo space. But if you fold down the third row, you get a lot more room. And if you fold down both the second and third rows? Wow, you can fit a LOT!

Subaru Ascent

The Ascent offers similar flexibility. With all seats up, the cargo space is okay. Fold down the third row, and you get more room. Fold down both rows, and you can carry even larger items.

Both SUVs give you options, but the Ascent tends to have a bit more room. Cars.com suggests that the Ascent edges out the Highlander by a small margin.

Practical Storage

Alright, let's not forget about all those smaller storage spaces. You know, cup holders, door pockets, and all those nifty compartments.

Toyota Highlander

Subaru Ascent

So, there you have it! Both SUVs have a lot to offer, but the Subaru Ascent slightly wins on some points when it comes to interior space.

Which one are you leaning towards now?

How Do the Toyota Highlander and Subaru Ascent Rank for Reliability?

Hey there! Looking for info on car reliability? You're in the right spot. Today, we’re comparing two popular SUVs: the Toyota Highlander and the Subaru Ascent. Let's dive into which one ranks better for reliability.

Why Is Reliability Important?

Makes you think, doesn’t it? Why do we care so much about reliability? Well, a reliable car means less stress, fewer repairs, and more time enjoying the drive. It also means more money saved in the long run. Both the Toyota Highlander and Subaru Ascent are big names, so which one should you trust more?

The Toyota Highlander's Reliability

Let’s talk about the Toyota Highlander first. Toyota has a reputation for making long-lasting vehicles. The Highlander is no exception.

Long-Lasting and Reliable

Toyota cars often reach 200,000 miles and keep going. That’s like driving around the Earth 8 times! The Highlander always scores high in reliability ratings from places like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports.

Common Issues? Hardly Any!

People love their Highlanders. Complaints? Pretty rare. Most issues are minor—think small stuff like the radio acting funny. Nothing major that breaks the bank.

Easy Maintenance

Maintaining a Highlander is also simple. Oil changes, tire rotations—no big surprises. And with so many Highlanders on the road, finding parts is a breeze.

The Subaru Ascent's Reliability

Next up, the Subaru Ascent. Subaru is known for its safe, reliable cars, especially when it comes to all-wheel drive. But how does the Ascent stack up?

A Newer Entry

The Ascent is a newer model compared to the Highlander. Launched in 2018, it's got a shorter track record. But it's quickly made a name for itself.

Solid Ratings

The Ascent also gets good reliability scores. Like the Highlander, it often ranks high in surveys and reports. Subaru's all-wheel-drive system is a big plus, especially for bad weather.

Known Issues

While the Ascent is newer, it has had some problems. Some folks reported issues with the transmission or the battery. These aren’t deal-breakers but worth mentioning.

So, Which Is Better?

Here comes the big question: which SUV is more reliable?

Toyota Highlander Wins

If you want the best of the best for reliability, go with the Toyota Highlander. Its long-standing track record and minimal issues give it the edge. Plus, it’s easy to find parts and service for it.

But Don’t Count Out the Subaru Ascent

That doesn’t mean the Subaru Ascent isn’t reliable. It's still a great choice, especially if you need that killer all-wheel-drive system. Just keep in mind it’s newer and might have a few more hiccups.

What’s Next for You?

Thinking about buying one of these SUVs? Do a test drive! Compare how they feel, their features, and what suits your family the best. Reliability is just one piece of the puzzle.

Have more questions? Feel free to check out more car tips.

Happy driving!

Which SUV Has Better Technology Features: Toyota Highlander vs. Subaru Ascent?

If you're in the market for a new SUV and really love tech, you might be wondering which one has better technology features: Toyota Highlander or Subaru Ascent? Well, buckle up because we're gonna dive into this and help you figure it out!

Toyota Highlander: What Does It Offer?

First, let's talk about the Toyota Highlander. This SUV is pretty amazing when it comes to tech. Are you ready to hear what it has?

Touchscreen and Infotainment

In the Highlander, you'll find an 8-inch touchscreen that can be upgraded to a whopping 12.3 inches on higher trims. That means you won't have to squint when looking at maps or changing your music. Cool, right?

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Wanna connect your phone? No problem! The Highlander supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Now you can use your phone apps directly on the car's screen. Imagine listening to your favorite tunes or using Google Maps right from your car's display. Amazing!

Safety Tech

The Highlander also shines in safety tech. Toyota has something called Safety Sense 2.5+, which includes features like pre-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. These features help keep you and your family safe on the road.

Subaru Ascent: What Does It Offer?

Now, let's see what the Subaru Ascent has to offer in the tech department. Is it as cool as the Highlander? Let's find out!

Touchscreen and Infotainment

The Subaru Ascent comes with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen and can be upgraded to an 8-inch one. Not as big as the Highlander, but still pretty good if you ask me.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Just like the Highlander, the Ascent also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You can easily connect your phone and use its apps, just like in the Highlander. Handy, don't you think?

Safety Tech

When it comes to safety, Subaru has its own system called EyeSight Driver Assist. This includes lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic braking. So, even though it’s different, it still has features to keep you safe.

Comparing the Two: What's the Verdict?

So, now we've looked at both the Toyota Highlander and the Subaru Ascent. But which one is better when it comes to tech? Here’s a quick comparison:

Infotainment and Touchscreen

The Highlander has a bigger screen option, so if a large display is a big deal for you, it wins this round.

Phone Connectivity

Both SUVs support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so it’s a tie here. You can't go wrong with either option!

Safety Features

Both SUVs offer really good safety tech, but the names and specific features might differ. Toyota's Safety Sense 2.5+ vs. Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist. Take your pick!

Why It Matters

Why do tech features even matter? Well, having great tech can make your drive easier and more fun. Plus, safety features can actually help you avoid accidents. Imagine not having to worry about drifting into another lane because your car has got your back. Feels good, right?

Choose Wisely

So, what's it gonna be? The Toyota Highlander with its bigger screen and cool safety features? Or the Subaru Ascent with its solid tech and safety package? Both are great, so you can't really go wrong.

Final Tips

When choosing, think about what tech features matter most to you. Do you want a larger touchscreen, or are you more interested in connection features for your phone? Safety tech is super important, so don't forget to consider that too.

With that, you're all set to make an informed choice. Happy car hunting!

Toyota Highlander vs. Subaru Ascent: Which Has More Cargo Capacity for Families?

Hey there! If you're like me, you're probably wondering about the cargo space in SUVs. You know, the place where you throw all your stuff when you're headed out for a family trip. Today, let's chat about two popular SUVs: the Toyota Highlander and the Subaru Ascent. We’re gonna keep it simple and fun.

The Basics: Cargo Capacity Explained

First off, let's break down what 'cargo capacity’ means. Basically, it's the amount of space you have to put things—like groceries, sports gear, or even camping equipment. A bigger cargo capacity means you can fit more stuff.

Meet the Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is a popular family SUV. It's known for being reliable and comfortable. But how does it hold up when it comes to cargo? Let's see:

Pretty good, right? Now, keep those numbers in mind. We'll compare them to the Subaru Ascent in a minute.

Say Hi to the Subaru Ascent

Next up, we've got the Subaru Ascent. This SUV is also very popular with families. It's comfy, safe, and even has all-wheel drive. But what about cargo space? Check it out:

Looks like the Subaru Ascent has a tiny bit more space. But let’s dig deeper.

Real-life Examples

Imagine this: You and your family are packing up for a weekend trip. You've got suitcases, a cooler, and a couple of bikes. You need space! In this scenario, the Subaru Ascent might help you fit that extra suitcase or camping gear. But both SUVs offer a lot of room, so you won’t be left hanging.

Ease of Loading

Another thing to think about is how easy it is to load your stuff. Both SUVs have a power liftgate, which means the back door opens with the push of a button. But situating how high or low the cargo area is can also make a difference. The Subaru Ascent sits a bit lower, which could make it easier to lift heavy items in and out.

Flexibility in Seating

Having more seats is one thing, but can you move them around? Both the Highlander and the Ascent have flexible seating. You can fold down the third row if you need more cargo space. The Highlander even offers a cool 'split-fold' seat option, so you can put down part of the seat and still carry a passenger.

The Final Takeaway

So, who wins in the cargo space competition? It’s a close call. The Subaru Ascent seems to have a slight edge in total cargo capacity. But the Toyota Highlander isn't far behind and has some neat features of its own.

At the end of the day, both SUVs offer enough room to keep your family and their stuff comfortable. It might come down to what you like more about each car overall. Maybe you love the Highlander’s style or the Ascent’s all-wheel drive. Either way, you're getting a lot of bang for your buck with both.

Make the Choice That's Right for You

When you're trying to figure out which SUV has more cargo capacity for your family, just think about what you need most. Measure your needs, try them out, and pick the one that feels just right.

Happy driving!

How Do the All-Wheel-Drive Systems Compare Between the Toyota Highlander and Subaru Ascent?

So, you’re thinking about getting a new SUV and the Toyota Highlander and Subaru Ascent are on your list? Great choices! One big question you might have is about the all-wheel-drive (AWD) systems. How do they compare?

What's All-Wheel-Drive Anyway?

First, let’s get clear on what AWD means. AWD is a system that helps deliver power to all four wheels of your car. This can help with things like driving on slippery roads during rain or snow. Now, some SUVs have better systems than others. Let’s see how the Highlander and Ascent measure up!

Toyota Highlander AWD

Toyota’s Confidence

Imagine being on a snowy road. The Highlander’s AWD system kicks in automatically. It can tell when you’re losing grip and send power to the wheels that need it most. Feels safe, right?

Dynamic Torque Vectoring

Okay, here comes a fancy term: “Dynamic Torque Vectoring”. What’s that? It means the Highlander can move power between the front and back wheels. This makes driving smoother and helps when you take those sharp turns.

Fuel Efficiency

Plus, the Highlander’s AWD system is smart. It knows when you don’t need AWD. On dry roads, it’ll switch to front-wheel-drive to save gas. Pretty cool!

Subaru Ascent AWD

The Subaru Advantage

On the other hand, Subaru’s known for its AWD systems. They’ve been doing it for years! With the Ascent, you get “Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive”. Big words, but it means balance and control for you.

Always On

The Ascent’s AWD is always on. It constantly checks the road and balances power to keep you steady. Imagine a spider web. No matter where you touch, the spider feels it. That’s similar to how the Ascent's system works.

Going Off-Road

If you love adventures, the Ascent shines off-road. You wanna take that muddy path? No problem! Its AWD system is ready for it. Plus, it helps with hill climbs and rocky terrains. Talk about rugged!

Comparing Highlander and Ascent AWD

Safety First

Both cars keep you safe, but the Highlander’s system is more automatic. It kicks in when needed, while the Ascent’s is always on. What do you prefer, automatic action or constant readiness?

Smooth Rides

The Highlander’s Dynamic Torque Vectoring makes city drives super smooth. You won’t feel much slipping or sliding. But for off-road fun, the Ascent is your buddy. It's built for tough roads.

Gas Mileage

Worried about spending too much on gas? The Highlander’s AWD system can save you some cash. It turns off when you don’t need it. The Ascent’s always-on system might use a bit more fuel. So think about what matters more: saving gas or being ready for anything?

Maintenance

Lastly, maintenance. An AWD system needs care. An always-on system like the Ascent's might need more attention. The Highlander’s automatic system, maybe not as much. Something to think about when considering your long-term costs.

So, Which AWD System Is Better?

Both have their strengths. The Toyota Highlander’s AWD system is smart and fuel-efficient with automatic action. The Subaru Ascent’s system is always ready for anything, offering great control, especially off-road. It comes down to what you need, city comfort or rugged adventures. Don’t worry, you can’t really go wrong with either!

Happy car shopping!

What Are the Pros and Cons of the Toyota Highlander vs. Subaru Ascent for a Family Road Trip?

Planning a family road trip can be super fun but also a bit stressful. One big decision you might face is choosing the right SUV. So, let’s dive into comparing the Toyota Highlander and the Subaru Ascent for your ultimate family adventure.

Pros of the Toyota Highlander

Spacious Interior

The Toyota Highlander is roomy. It has plenty of space for the kids, luggage, snacks, and all those other road trip essentials. You won’t feel squished, which is super important for those long drives.

SMOOTH RIDE

Ever sat in a car where you feel every bump? Not fun! The Highlander offers a smooth ride, making it easier for everyone to relax, maybe even catch a nap.

Advanced Safety Features

Your family's safety comes first. The Highlander has lots of safety features like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. These features help keep you safe and reduce the chances of accidents.

Cons of the Toyota Highlander

Fuel Efficiency

It's not the best on gas. If you’re planning a loooong trip, be ready to spend a bit extra on fuel.

Third-Row Space

The third row can be a bit tight, especially for taller kids or adults. If you have a lot of people, they might not be super comfortable back there.

Pros of the Subaru Ascent

Fuel Efficiency

The Subaru Ascent tends to be more fuel-efficient than the Highlander. That means more miles per gallon and less money spent on gas. Cha-ching!

ALL-WHEEL DRIVE

If you’re driving through different terrains, the Ascent’s all-wheel-drive system is top-notch. It grips the road well, providing better traction and safety, especially in bad weather.

SPACIOUS THIRD ROW

Unlike the tight third row in the Highlander, the Ascent offers more space. Your family won’t feel crammed back there.

Cons of the Subaru Ascent

Ride Comfort

While the Ascent is great in many ways, it might not offer as smooth a ride as the Highlander. You might feel a few more bumps along the way.

Towing Capacity

If you need to haul a trailer or a boat, the Ascent doesn't tow as much weight as the Highlander. Something to keep in mind if towing is on your list.

Which One Should You Choose?

It really comes down to what your family needs.

Take a test drive. Feel them out. See what fits your family better. Enjoy the journey!

Which SUV is Better for Larger Families: Toyota Highlander or Subaru Ascent?

Hey there! Are you on the hunt for a great SUV for your big family? Well, two popular choices are the Toyota Highlander and the Subaru Ascent. But which one is better for larger families? Let's dive in!

Seats and Space

One of the first things you want to know is how many people can fit inside. The Toyota Highlander usually seats up to 8 people. That means you can take the whole gang along! However, the Subaru Ascent can also seat up to 8 people. So, what's the difference?

It's about space. In the Ascent, there's a bit more room for everyone. Think of it like having an extra inch or two to stretch out. This may not seem like a lot, but when everyone's in the car, a little extra space can make a HUGE difference.

Legroom and Comfort

The Highlander offers good legroom, but the Ascent takes the cake! In both the second and third rows, you get more space for your legs in the Ascent. Imagine being on a long road trip and everyone complaining about being squished. No fun, right? Well, with the Ascent, you might hear fewer complaints.

Storage and Cargo

Okay, so where do you put all your stuff? Soccer gear, groceries, luggage, you name it. Both SUVs offer a lot of cargo space. But the Subaru Ascent has a bit more room in the back, especially when you fold down the seats. Think of it as having an extra closet in your house. Extra storage means less stress when packing for trips!

Kid-Friendly Features

What about the kids? Both SUVs offer cool features to keep them entertained. The Highlander comes with lots of tech options like a big touchscreen and great sound system. The Ascent also comes fully loaded with tech and even has more USB ports for charging gadgets. More ports mean no more fighting over who gets to charge their device first!

Safety First!

We can't forget safety. Both the Highlander and the Ascent are super safe. They come with features like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. Basically, these features help keep you safe by adjusting speed levels and stopping the car if needed.

Price and Value

Now, let's talk money. The prices for these SUVs are pretty close, but sometimes you can find deals on one versus the other. Think about the extra features you get for the price. Car and Driver has great reviews and even mentions deals sometimes.

Verdict

So, which one should you go for? If you need every bit of extra space, the Subaru Ascent might be your best bet. It offers more legroom and cargo space, making it great for big families. But if you're looking for tech features and style, the Toyota Highlander is also a fantastic choice.

Next Steps

Ready to make a decision? Go for a test drive! Sit in both SUVs and see which one feels better for you and your family. Think about a long-term choice, not just what's fun in the moment. Happy car hunting!

How Do the Resale Values of the Toyota Highlander and Subaru Ascent Compare?

When it comes to buying an SUV, many folks wanna know how much they can sell their car for in the future. Let’s dive into how the Toyota Highlander and the Subaru Ascent stack up when it comes to resale value.

What Is Resale Value?

First off, what’s resale value? It’s the amount of money you can get when you sell your car after using it for a few years. Some cars hold their value really