When it comes to purchasing a family-friendly SUV, there are plenty of options to choose from in the...
2025-08-01 07:54:21
The crossover SUV market is constantly growing and evolving, as more and more drivers are drawn to the versatility and space offered by these vehicles. Two popular options in this segment are the Toyota Highlander and the Subaru Ascent. While both of these vehicles offer a lot to drivers, the Highlander vs Ascent debate is one that is worth exploring in order to understand the positive benefits of each.
Room for the Whole Family
One of the biggest selling points for both the Highlander and the Ascent is their spacious and comfortable interiors. Both vehicles offer plenty of room for up to eight passengers and their belongings, making them ideal for larger families or those who frequently carpool. The Highlander boasts a total passenger volume of 141.3 cubic feet, while the Ascent offers slightly more with 154.6 cubic feet. This means that both vehicles provide plenty of legroom and headroom for all passengers, making long journeys more comfortable.
Advanced Safety Features
When it comes to keeping you and your family safe on the road, both the Highlander and the Ascent come equipped with advanced safety features. Both vehicles offer a suite of standard safety technologies, including lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Ascent goes a step further by also including Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which uses cameras and sensors to monitor the road ahead and help prevent accidents.
Confident Handling and Performance
In terms of performance, the Highlander and the Ascent both offer powerful and efficient engines. The Highlander comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 295 horsepower, while the Ascent is equipped with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 260 horsepower. Both vehicles also offer excellent fuel efficiency, with the Highlander achieving up to 29 MPG on the highway and the Ascent achieving up to 27 MPG on the highway. Additionally, both vehicles come with all-wheel drive options, providing confident handling and control on all types of roads and weather conditions.
Versatile Cargo Space
In addition to their spacious interiors, both the Highlander and the Ascent also offer versatile cargo space. The Highlander has a total cargo volume of 84.3 cubic feet with the seats folded down, while the Ascent offers slightly more with 86.5 cubic feet. Both vehicles also feature split-folding rear seats to accommodate larger items, and the Ascent even has available roof crossbars for added storage options.
State-of-the-Art Technology
In today's tech-driven world, having the latest and greatest features in your vehicle is important. Both the Highlander and the Ascent deliver in this regard, offering a range of state-of-the-art technology. The Highlander comes with an 8-inch touchscreen display and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility as standard, while the Ascent offers a larger 11.6-inch touchscreen display with these features as optional upgrades. Both vehicles also come with available Wi-Fi hotspots, making it easy to stay connected on the go.
Final Verdict
After comparing the Highlander vs Ascent, it is clear that both vehicles have a lot to offer. In terms of comfort, safety, performance, and technology, it is a close race between the two. Ultimately, the decision between these two vehicles will come down to personal preference and priorities. If you are looking for a more spacious interior and slightly better fuel efficiency, the Ascent might be the better option for you. But if you want more power and a range of advanced technology as standard, the Highlander might be the way to go. Whichever you choose, both the Highlander and the Ascent are excellent choices for families and individuals who value comfort, safety, and versatility in their vehicles.