Toyota highlander vs subaru outback: the ultimate suv showdown!
What To Know
- In terms of comfort, both SUVs offer a range of amenities, including heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system.
- The Toyota Highlander has a starting price of $36,420, while the Subaru Outback has a starting price of $28,105.
- While the Highlander provides more power and a more upscale interior, the Outback offers better fuel efficiency and a more affordable starting price.
The world of mid-size SUVs is a competitive battleground, with two titans standing out: the Toyota Highlander and the Subaru Outback. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of space, comfort, and capability, but which one emerges as the ultimate victor? In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the intricacies of these two formidable SUVs, uncovering their strengths, weaknesses, and the factors that set them apart.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency: Dueling Powertrains
Under the hood, the Toyota Highlander offers a choice of two powertrains: a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission or a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission and an electric motor for a hybrid configuration. The V6 engine produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, while the hybrid system generates a combined 243 horsepower.
The Subaru Outback, on the other hand, offers a single powertrain option: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This engine produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. While the Highlander’s V6 engine provides more power, the Outback’s CVT offers smoother gear transitions.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Highlander hybrid excels with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined, while the V6 model returns 23 mpg combined. The Outback, with its smaller engine, boasts an impressive 26 mpg combined.
Interior Space and Comfort: Roomy and Refined
Both the Toyota Highlander and Subaru Outback offer spacious and comfortable interiors. The Highlander provides ample seating for up to eight passengers, with generous legroom and headroom in all three rows. The Outback offers seating for five, with a spacious front row and a second row that offers plenty of legroom. The Outback’s cargo capacity is slightly larger than the Highlander’s, with 32.5 cubic feet behind the second row and 75.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down.
In terms of comfort, both SUVs offer a range of amenities, including heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system. The Highlander’s interior features a more upscale design, while the Outback’s interior is more rugged and utilitarian.
Safety and Driver Assistance: Peace of Mind Behind the Wheel
Safety is a paramount concern for both Toyota and Subaru. The Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which includes a suite of advanced driver assistance systems, such as lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Outback also comes standard with Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which offers similar features, as well as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Both SUVs have received top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Off-Road Capability: Adventure Ready
While both the Toyota Highlander and Subaru Outback are primarily designed for on-road driving, they both offer some off-road capabilities. The Highlander is available with an all-wheel drive system that provides enhanced traction on slippery surfaces. The Outback comes standard with all-wheel drive and offers a higher ground clearance than the Highlander, making it better suited for tackling rough terrain.
Reliability and Resale Value: Proven Track Records
Toyota and Subaru have long-standing reputations for reliability. The Highlander has consistently ranked highly in reliability surveys, and the Outback has also earned accolades for its dependability. Both SUVs are expected to hold their value well over time.
Pricing and Value: A Matter of Cost
The Toyota Highlander has a starting price of $36,420, while the Subaru Outback has a starting price of $28,105. The Highlander offers a wider range of trim levels and features, which can increase the price significantly. The Outback offers a more affordable entry point, but its top-of-the-line trims can also be quite expensive.
The Verdict: A Close Contest
The Toyota Highlander and Subaru Outback are both exceptional mid-size SUVs that offer a compelling blend of space, comfort, and capability. While the Highlander provides more power and a more upscale interior, the Outback offers better fuel efficiency and a more affordable starting price. Ultimately, the choice between these two SUVs depends on your individual needs and preferences.
If you prioritize power, interior space, and a premium experience, the Toyota Highlander is the better choice. If you value fuel efficiency, affordability, and off-road capability, the Subaru Outback is the way to go.
What People Want to Know
Q: Which SUV has a more spacious interior?
A: The Toyota Highlander offers more seating capacity and legroom, especially in the third row.
Q: Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Subaru Outback with its 2.5-liter engine offers better fuel economy than the Toyota Highlander.
Q: Which SUV has a better safety rating?
A: Both the Toyota Highlander and Subaru Outback have received top safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS.
Q: Which SUV is better for off-roading?
A: The Subaru Outback offers better ground clearance and a standard all-wheel drive system, making it more suited for off-road adventures.
Q: Which SUV has a lower starting price?
A: The Subaru Outback has a lower starting price than the Toyota Highlander.