Outback wilderness vs. highlander: the suv face-off for adventure seekers
What To Know
- In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Subaru Outback Wilderness and Toyota Highlander, helping you make an informed decision about which one is the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
- The Subaru Outback Wilderness delivers an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
- The Toyota Highlander is slightly more efficient, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway for the V6 model and 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway for the hybrid model.
The Subaru Outback Wilderness and Toyota Highlander are two of the most formidable contenders in the all-terrain SUV segment. Both vehicles boast rugged capabilities, spacious interiors, and advanced technology, making them ideal for adventure-seekers and family-oriented drivers alike. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Subaru Outback Wilderness and Toyota Highlander, helping you make an informed decision about which one is the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
Design and Exterior
The Subaru Outback Wilderness exudes ruggedness with its beefy front bumper, hexagonal grille, and blacked-out trim. Its aggressive stance is further enhanced by all-terrain tires mounted on 17-inch wheels. In contrast, the Toyota Highlander presents a more refined appearance with its sleek lines, chrome accents, and optional 20-inch wheels. Both vehicles offer ample ground clearance, ensuring confidence when tackling rough terrain.
Interior and Space
Inside, the Subaru Outback Wilderness offers a spacious and well-appointed cabin. The front seats provide ample support and visibility, while the rear seats offer generous legroom and headroom. The Wilderness trim level adds unique accents and durable materials throughout the interior. The Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, boasts an even more spacious cabin with three rows of seating. The second and third rows offer ample space for passengers and cargo, making it an excellent choice for larger families.
Powertrain and Performance
Under the hood, the Subaru Outback Wilderness is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive. The Toyota Highlander offers a choice of two engines: a 3.5-liter V6 producing 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, or a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid system that delivers 243 horsepower. Both engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and available with all-wheel drive.
Off-Road Capabilities
The Subaru Outback Wilderness is designed specifically for off-road adventures. It features a dual-function X-MODE system that optimizes traction and stability in various conditions. The Wilderness also benefits from a raised suspension, skid plates, and a front-view camera. The Toyota Highlander, while not as trail-ready as the Outback Wilderness, still offers impressive off-road capabilities with its available all-wheel drive system and multi-terrain select system.
Safety and Technology
Both the Subaru Outback Wilderness and Toyota Highlander are equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Outback Wilderness also offers a driver monitoring system and reverse automatic braking. In terms of technology, the Outback Wilderness features an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, while the Highlander offers a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen with a premium audio system.
Fuel Economy and Price
Fuel economy is an important consideration for many buyers. The Subaru Outback Wilderness delivers an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. The Toyota Highlander is slightly more efficient, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway for the V6 model and 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway for the hybrid model. Prices for the Subaru Outback Wilderness start at $38,145, while the Toyota Highlander starts at $35,955.
Which One is Right for You?
The Subaru Outback Wilderness and Toyota Highlander are both excellent choices for adventure-minded drivers and families alike. The Outback Wilderness excels in off-road performance and rugged styling, while the Highlander offers more space and fuel efficiency. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.
What You Need to Know
Q1: Which vehicle has a better off-road rating?
A1: The Subaru Outback Wilderness has a better off-road rating due to its dual-function X-MODE system, raised suspension, and skid plates.
Q2: Which vehicle is more spacious?
A2: The Toyota Highlander is more spacious, offering three rows of seating and ample cargo room.
Q3: Which vehicle has a higher towing capacity?
A3: The Toyota Highlander has a higher towing capacity of 5,000 pounds compared to the Subaru Outback Wilderness’s 3,500 pounds.
Q4: Which vehicle is more affordable?
A4: The Toyota Highlander is slightly more affordable, with a starting price of $35,955 compared to the Subaru Outback Wilderness‘s starting price of $38,145.
Q5: Which vehicle has a better fuel economy?
A5: The Toyota Highlander has a better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway for the V6 model and 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway for the hybrid model.