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Subaru Ascent vs Toyota Highlander - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (260 HP vs 265 HP), trunk space and price (38,900 $ vs 39,300 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Subaru Ascent or Toyota Highlander?

Subaru Ascent vs Toyota Highlander: Key differences

Subaru Ascent

  • very slightly cheaper

Toyota Highlander

  • only slightly more power
  • substantially more efficient
  • barely lighter

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Ascent

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Subaru Ascent is very slightly cheaper – starting at 38,900 $ , while the Toyota Highlander costs 39,300 $ . That’s a price difference of around 360 $.

When it comes to city fuel economy, the Toyota Highlander performs substantially better – achieving 36 mpg, compared to 20 mpg for the Subaru Ascent. That’s a difference of about 16 mpg.

Highlander

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Toyota Highlander offers only slightly more power – delivering 265 HP compared to 260 HP. That’s roughly 5 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Toyota Highlander delivers moderately more torque with 310 lb-ft compared to 277 lb-ft. That’s about 33 lb-ft more.

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 8 people.

In terms of curb weight, Toyota Highlander is barely lighter – 4,155 lbs compared to 4,449 lbs. The difference is around 294 lbs.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Toyota Highlander is clearly superior overall in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from $39,300
Highlander

Toyota Highlander

  • Engine Type : Gasoline, Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front Wheel, All Wheel
  • Power HP : 243 - 265 HP
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Subaru Ascent

The Subaru Ascent stands out in the world of midsize SUVs, offering a perfect blend of comfort and capability. With seating for up to eight passengers and an array of standard safety features, it caters to families seeking adventure without compromising on reliability. Its robust design and all-wheel-drive functionality make it a dependable choice for those who love exploring both urban and off-road terrains.

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Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is a trusty family hauler that blends calm road manners with a thoughtfully finished cabin and a bonus row for occasional adults. It won’t set your hair on fire, but with a refined hybrid option, easy-to-use tech, and resale strength that makes rivals sweat, it’s the sensible choice that still feels a bit special.

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Subaru Ascent
Toyota Highlander

Costs and Consumption
Price
38,900 - 50,000 $
Price
39,300 - 53,400 $
FuelEconomy City
19 - 20 mpg
FuelEconomy City
21 - 36 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
25 - 26 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
28 - 35 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
19.3 gal
Fuel tank capacity
17.1 - 17.9 gal

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
7 - 8
Seats
7 - 8
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
4,449 - 4,597 lbs
Curb weight
4,155 - 4,595 lbs
Trunk Volume
-
Trunk Volume
-
Length
196.8 in.
Length
194.9 - 197.4 in.
Width
76 in.
Width
76 in.
Height
71 in.
Height
68 in.

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline, Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Drive Type
All Wheel
Drive Type
Front Wheel, All Wheel
Power HP
260 HP
Power HP
243 - 265 HP
Torque
277 lb-ft
Torque
175 - 310 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
2.4 L
Engine Displacement
2.4 - 2.5 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General
Model Year
2,025
Model Year
2,024
Brand
Subaru
Brand
Toyota
What is the starting MSRP for the Subaru Ascent?

Base pricing begins at 38,900 $.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. Prices shown are manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP). Taxes, registration fees and dealer charges are not included.