Suv reliability showdown: subaru ascent vs toyota highlander, the ultimate battle for stability
What To Know
- According to Edmunds, the estimated maintenance and repair costs for the Subaru Ascent over a five-year period are around $1,000 higher than those of the Toyota Highlander.
- The Toyota Highlander received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), while the Subaru Ascent received a Top Safety Pick+ rating.
- In terms of technology, the Toyota Highlander offers a few more features than the Ascent, such as a head-up display and a rear-seat entertainment system.
When it comes to family-friendly SUVs, the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander stand out as top contenders. Both vehicles offer spacious interiors, advanced safety features, and capable performance. But which one reigns supreme in the realm of reliability? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the reliability ratings, maintenance costs, and real-world experiences of these two SUVs to determine which one deserves your trust.
Reliability Ratings
Independent organizations like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports provide valuable insights into vehicle reliability. According to J.D. Power’s 2023 Vehicle Dependability Study, the Toyota Highlander ranks higher than the Subaru Ascent in overall reliability. It received an 84 out of 100 score, while the Ascent scored 78.
Consumer Reports also rates the Highlander slightly higher than the Ascent in terms of predicted reliability. The Highlander earned a 4 out of 5 rating, while the Ascent received a 3 out of 5.
Maintenance Costs
Besides reliability ratings, maintenance costs play a crucial role in determining the overall ownership experience. According to Edmunds, the estimated maintenance and repair costs for the Subaru Ascent over a five-year period are around $1,000 higher than those of the Toyota Highlander. This difference is primarily due to the Ascent’s more frequent recommended maintenance intervals.
Real-World Experiences
To gain a deeper understanding of the reliability of these SUVs, let’s examine real-world experiences from owners. On owner forums and online reviews, the Toyota Highlander consistently receives praise for its exceptional reliability. Many owners report driving their Highlanders for hundreds of thousands of miles with minimal issues.
The Subaru Ascent, on the other hand, has received mixed reviews in terms of reliability. While some owners have had trouble-free experiences, others have encountered various issues, including transmission problems and electrical glitches.
Engine and Transmission
The Subaru Ascent comes standard with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Toyota Highlander offers a choice of two engines: a 3.5-liter V6 with an eight-speed automatic transmission or a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid with a CVT.
In terms of reliability, the Toyota V6 engine and eight-speed automatic transmission have a proven track record of durability. The Subaru CVT, on the other hand, has faced some criticism for potential issues with premature wear and failure.
Safety Features
Both the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, including:
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure warning
- Adaptive cruise control
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
The Toyota Highlander received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), while the Subaru Ascent received a Top Safety Pick+ rating.
Interior and Technology
The Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander offer spacious and comfortable interiors with ample seating for up to eight passengers. Both vehicles feature advanced infotainment systems with touchscreen displays, smartphone integration, and premium audio systems.
In terms of technology, the Toyota Highlander offers a few more features than the Ascent, such as a head-up display and a rear-seat entertainment system.
Which One is More Reliable?
Based on the available information, the Toyota Highlander emerges as the more reliable choice between the two SUVs. Its higher reliability ratings, lower maintenance costs, and positive real-world experiences make it a more dependable option for long-term ownership.
Takeaways: The Verdict
In the battle of Subaru Ascent vs. Toyota Highlander reliability, the Highlander stands victorious. Its exceptional reliability ratings, proven powertrain, and positive owner experiences make it the clear winner in this category. While the Subaru Ascent offers a spacious interior and advanced technology, its lower reliability ratings and higher maintenance costs ultimately diminish its appeal.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Which SUV has the better warranty coverage?
A: Both the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander offer comprehensive warranty coverage, including a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Q: What are the common issues reported with the Subaru Ascent?
A: Some owners have reported issues with the Ascent’s CVT transmission, electrical glitches, and excessive oil consumption.
Q: How does the Toyota Highlander‘s hybrid powertrain affect reliability?
A: The Highlander’s hybrid powertrain is generally considered to be reliable. However, some owners have reported issues with the hybrid battery over time.
