Space and hybrid efficiency: subaru ascent vs toyota highlander hybrid compared

The midsize SUV segment is a highly competitive one, with numerous automakers vying for a share of the market. Two of the most prominent players in this segment are the Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. Both vehicles offer a spacious interior, impressive performance, and advanced safety features. But how do they compare against each other? This comprehensive guide will delve into the key differences between the Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, helping you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency

The Subaru Ascent comes standard with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid, on the other hand, features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that is paired with two electric motors and a nickel-metal hydride battery. This hybrid powertrain produces a combined output of 243 horsepower. The Highlander Hybrid also comes with a CVT and all-wheel drive as standard.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid has a clear advantage. It achieves an EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The Subaru Ascent, with its more powerful engine, returns an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

Interior and Cargo Space

Both the Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid offer spacious interiors with seating for up to eight passengers. The Ascent has slightly more passenger space than the Highlander Hybrid, with 153.5 cubic feet of passenger volume compared to 141.3 cubic feet. However, the Highlander Hybrid has a larger cargo area, with 16.1 cubic feet of space behind the third row of seats compared to 17.8 cubic feet in the Ascent.

Technology and Features

The Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid both come with a wide range of standard and available technology features. The Ascent comes with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as a 6.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The Highlander Hybrid comes with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as a 7-inch digital instrument cluster.

Both vehicles offer a variety of driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Highlander Hybrid also offers a head-up display and a rear-seat entertainment system.

Safety

The Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid have both earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Ascent received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a “Top Safety Pick+” rating from the IIHS. The Highlander Hybrid received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a “Top Safety Pick” rating from the IIHS.

Price

The Subaru Ascent has a starting price of $33,970, while the Toyota Highlander Hybrid has a starting price of $39,600. The Ascent offers a wider range of trim levels and options, so it is possible to find a model that fits your budget and needs.

Which One is Right for You?

The Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid are both excellent midsize SUVs with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Ascent offers more power and a more spacious interior, while the Highlander Hybrid offers better fuel efficiency and a larger cargo area. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Which SUV has a more powerful engine?

A: The Subaru Ascent has a more powerful engine, with 260 horsepower compared to 243 horsepower in the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.

Q: Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?

A: The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is more fuel-efficient, achieving an EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway compared to 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway for the Subaru Ascent.

Q: Which SUV has a larger cargo area?

A: The Toyota Highlander Hybrid has a larger cargo area, with 16.1 cubic feet of space behind the third row of seats compared to 17.8 cubic feet in the Subaru Ascent.

Q: Which SUV has a better safety rating?

A: Both the Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid have earned top safety ratings from the NHTSA and the IIHS.

Q: Which SUV is more affordable?

A: The Subaru Ascent has a lower starting price than the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, with a starting price of $33,970 compared to $39,600.