Is the Subaru Ascent Better than the Toyota Highlander?

When it comes to family-friendly SUVs, the new Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander often top the list. But which one truly stands out as the better choice? We’ve put these midsize three-row SUVs head-to-head to find out.

The Subaru Ascent outperforms the Toyota Highlander in crucial areas. With standard all-wheel drive, higher towing capacity, more cargo space, and a lower starting price, the Ascent offers superior value and capability for families. While the Highlander is a solid SUV, the Ascent’s practicality and versatility make it the clear winner in this comparison.

In this detailed breakdown, we’ll explore the features that set the Ascent apart and showcase why it’s the smarter choice for your family. From performance and safety to comfort and affordability, we’ll reveal how the Ascent edges out the competition at every turn.

Key Takeaways

• The Subaru Ascent’s standard all-wheel drive and higher towing capacity provide superior versatility and capability compared to the Toyota Highlander, making it better equipped for diverse driving conditions and family adventures.
• With more cargo space and a lower starting price, the Ascent offers better value for families, combining practicality and affordability in a way the Highlander can’t match.
• The Ascent’s user-friendly infotainment system, spacious interior, and overall performance make it a more well-rounded family SUV, outperforming the Highlander in key areas that matter most to buyers in this segment.

1. Spacious Comfort: Ascent’s Roomy Interior Beats Highlander

The Subaru Ascent’s spacious interior outshines the Toyota Highlander, offering more room for both passengers and cargo. With 17.8 cubic feet behind the third row compared to the Highlander’s 16, the Ascent provides ample space for all your gear, whether you’re headed to Lake Lavon for a weekend getaway or a big shopping trip at Stonebriar Centre.

The Ascent’s third-row legroom of 31.7 inches trumps the Highlander’s 27.7 inches, ensuring even adults can ride comfortably on long drives through the bustling streets of Dallas. This extra space makes the Ascent the ideal choice for growing families in the McKinney area who need versatility and comfort in their daily drives.

2. All-Weather Readiness: Ascent’s Standard AWD Advantage

When it comes to tackling diverse North Texas weather conditions, the Subaru Ascent stands out with its standard symmetrical all-wheel drive system. Unlike the Highlander, which only offers AWD as an option, every Ascent comes equipped to handle everything from sudden summer thunderstorms to the occasional winter ice storm that can paralyze the DFW Metroplex.

The Ascent’s turbocharged BOXER® engine delivers 260 horsepower at lower RPMs, providing responsive acceleration whether you’re merging onto Central Expressway or navigating the winding roads of nearby Lake Texoma. This combination of AWD and powerful performance gives Ascent drivers confidence in any driving situation, from Frisco to Allen and beyond.

3. Towing Prowess: Ascent’s Pulling Power for Texas-Sized Adventures

Both the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander boast a 5,000-pound towing capacity, but the Ascent’s standard all-wheel drive and responsive engine make it the superior choice for hauling. Whether you’re towing a boat to nearby Lewisville Lake or a camping trailer to Cedar Hill State Park, the Ascent’s powertrain delivers smooth, confident performance.

The turbocharged engine’s low-end torque provides excellent pulling power, especially useful when navigating the hilly terrain around Lake Ray Roberts or the steep boat ramps at Lake Lavon. For Plano and Carrollton families who love outdoor adventures, the Ascent’s towing capabilities make it the ideal companion for exploring all that North Texas has to offer.

4. Value-Packed: Ascent’s Affordable Luxury for Texas Families

The Subaru Ascent delivers exceptional value with its lower starting price of $34,395, compared to the Highlander’s $39,270. This price difference allows McKinney families to get more features and capabilities without breaking the bank, leaving extra room in the budget for season passes to Hawaiian Falls or memberships at the Heard Natural Science Museum.

Despite its more affordable price tag, the Ascent doesn’t skimp on quality, offering a well-built interior and a host of standard features that rival more expensive SUVs. For budget-conscious Texas families who don’t want to compromise on performance or comfort, the Ascent represents unbeatable value in the midsize SUV segment.

5. Tech-Savvy: Ascent’s User-Friendly Infotainment for Modern Texans

The Subaru Ascent’s recently updated infotainment system offers a more intuitive and user-friendly experience compared to the Highlander. With improved touchscreen menus and responsive voice commands, the Ascent makes it easy for drivers to stay connected while navigating the busy streets of Frisco or planning a route to the Dallas Arboretum.

The system’s ease of use is particularly beneficial for families juggling multiple activities, from coordinating pickup times at Allen High School to finding the best BBQ spots in McKinney. This tech-forward approach aligns perfectly with the needs of modern Texas families, enhancing both safety and convenience in their daily drives.

A Final Word on the Subaru Ascent vs.Toyota Highlander Comparison: Why the New Ascent Comes Out on Top

While both SUVs offer comfort and safety, the new Ascent’s features combined with standard all-wheel drive, spacious interior, and value-packed features make it the clear choice for North Texas families. Its lower starting price also means you’ll have extra cash for season passes to the Dallas Zoo or tickets to the State Fair of Texas.

Ready to elevate your family’s driving experience? Look no further than Brandon Tomes Subaru, your trusted Subaru dealer serving McKinney, Allen, Frisco, and beyond. Our knowledgeable staff is passionate about matching you with the perfect Ascent model to suit your lifestyle and budget. We pride ourselves on our commitment to the local community, just like Subaru does with its vehicles.

Stop by our showroom at 4660 State Highway 121, McKinney, TX 75070, or contact us to test drive the new Ascent and feel the difference for yourself. At Brandon Tomes Subaru, we’re not just selling cars; we’re helping North Texas families create lasting memories on the road. Come see why the Subaru Ascent is the top choice for savvy Texas drivers!