Rugged Rivals: Subaru Wilderness Vs Toyota Highlander – Which Suv Will Dominate The Wild?

The Subaru Wilderness and Toyota Highlander are two highly capable SUVs that offer distinct experiences for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. While both vehicles boast impressive off-road capabilities and spacious interiors, they differ in their approach to adventure and comfort. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Subaru Wilderness and Toyota Highlander, helping you determine which one suits your lifestyle and driving needs best.

Ruggedness and Off-Road Prowess

The Subaru Wilderness is designed for those who crave rugged adventures and off-road exploration. It features a raised suspension, all-terrain tires, and a protective skid plate, making it capable of tackling challenging terrain with confidence. The standard symmetrical all-wheel drive system provides excellent traction and control in slippery or uneven conditions. Additionally, the Wilderness trim comes equipped with X-MODE, a sophisticated off-road driving mode that optimizes the vehicle’s performance for various terrains.

In contrast, the Toyota Highlander prioritizes on-road comfort and everyday practicality. While it offers all-wheel drive as an option, the Highlander’s focus is on providing a smooth and comfortable ride on paved roads. Its suspension is tuned for a more refined driving experience, and it lacks the rugged features found on the Subaru Wilderness.

Interior Comfort and Features

When it comes to interior comfort and features, the Toyota Highlander excels. It offers a spacious and well-appointed cabin with ample seating for up to eight passengers. The Highlander also boasts a user-friendly infotainment system with a large touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a premium audio system. Additionally, the Highlander offers a wide range of comfort and convenience features, including heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a hands-free liftgate.

The Subaru Wilderness, on the other hand, prioritizes durability and functionality over outright luxury. Its interior is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures, with water-resistant materials and easy-to-clean surfaces. The infotainment system is more basic compared to the Highlander’s, but it still offers essential features such as Bluetooth connectivity and a rearview camera.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency

Under the hood, the Subaru Wilderness is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for both on-road driving and off-road adventures. The Wilderness also comes standard with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that delivers smooth and efficient power delivery.

The Toyota Highlander offers a choice of two powertrains: a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, or a hybrid powertrain that combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors for a combined output of 243 horsepower. Both powertrains are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Highlander’s fuel efficiency is superior to the Wilderness, with EPA-estimated ratings of up to 24 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway for the V6 model and up to 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway for the hybrid model.

Safety Features

Both the Subaru Wilderness and Toyota Highlander offer a comprehensive suite of safety features to keep you and your passengers protected on the road. Standard safety features on both vehicles include airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, and stability control. Additionally, the Wilderness and Highlander come equipped with advanced safety technologies such as lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring.

Which One Should You Choose?

The Subaru Wilderness and Toyota Highlander are both excellent SUVs with unique strengths and characteristics. The Wilderness is the ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers who prioritize ruggedness and off-road capabilities. Its rugged design, capable powertrain, and advanced off-road features make it an exceptional choice for exploring challenging terrain.

On the other hand, the Toyota Highlander is the better option for those seeking a comfortable and versatile SUV for everyday use and family adventures. Its spacious interior, refined driving experience, and impressive fuel efficiency make it a great choice for road trips, daily commutes, and family outings.

Beyond the Comparison: Additional Factors to Consider

Apart from the key differences discussed above, there are a few additional factors to consider when choosing between the Subaru Wilderness and Toyota Highlander:

• Towing Capacity: The Toyota Highlander has a higher towing capacity than the Subaru Wilderness, making it a better choice for towing trailers or boats.

• Brand Reputation: Subaru and Toyota are both reputable brands known for their reliability and customer satisfaction. However, Toyota generally has a higher brand reputation and a stronger resale value.

• Price: The Subaru Wilderness has a lower starting price than the Toyota Highlander, making it a more affordable option for budget-conscious buyers.

In a nutshell: Embark on Your Adventure with Confidence

Whether you’re an avid adventurer or a family seeking comfort and versatility, the Subaru Wilderness and Toyota Highlander are both excellent choices. The Wilderness is the perfect companion for those who crave rugged adventures off the beaten path, while the Highlander excels in providing a refined and comfortable driving experience for everyday use. Ultimately, the choice between these two SUVs depends on your lifestyle, driving needs, and personal preferences. Embrace the adventure and embark on your journey with confidence, knowing that you’ve made the right choice.

Common Questions and Answers

Q1. Which SUV offers better off-road capabilities, the Subaru Wilderness or Toyota Highlander?

A1. The Subaru Wilderness is designed for off-road adventures, featuring a raised suspension, all-terrain tires, and X-MODE, a sophisticated off-road driving mode. The Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, prioritizes on-road comfort and everyday practicality.

Q2. Which SUV has a more spacious and comfortable interior, the Subaru Wilderness or Toyota Highlander?

A2. The Toyota Highlander offers a more spacious and comfortable interior with ample seating for up to eight passengers. It also features a user-friendly infotainment system and various comfort and convenience features. The Subaru Wilderness has a more rugged and functional interior, designed for outdoor adventures.

Q3. Which SUV is more fuel-efficient, the Subaru Wilderness or Toyota Highlander?

A3. The Toyota Highlander offers superior fuel efficiency compared to the Subaru Wilderness. The Highlander’s EPA-estimated ratings are up to 24 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway for the V6 model and up to 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway for the hybrid model.