2023 Subaru Ascent / 2023 Toyota Highlander

2023 Subaru Ascent Compared to the 2023 Toyota Highlander 

As the largest Subaru model available, the 2023 Subaru Ascent gives mid-Michigan families an enjoyable SUV to ride in while still maintaining adventure-ready brand quality. Equipped with the familiar Symmetrical AWD platform much like its other Subaru counterparts, every Ascent delivers the reliable everyday handling drivers need in Michigan throughout the year. When compared to a competitor such as the 2023 Toyota Highlander, the drivers of a new Ascent will have several advantages over its more expensive rival.  

Performance 

Propelled by a turbocharged 2.4L SUBARU BOXER® four-cylinder engine, the Ascent delivers 260 horsepower of satisfying speed across Michigan. This is comparable to the 265 horsepower that the 2.4L four-cylinder engine in the Toyota Highlander offers. The Subaru pairs its engine with a Continuously Variable Transmission while the Toyota has an eight-speed automatic. Boasting the excellent Symmetrical AWD platform as its standard drivetrain, the Ascent is great at catering to whatever mid-Michigan driving condition a driver faces. The Highlander comes with a standard FWD platform with AWD available on select trims.   

Interior Features 

When it comes to interior space, the 2023 Subaru Ascent has considerably more than the 2023 Toyota Highlander. The Ascent offers 153.2 cubic feet of passenger space, while the Highlander comes with 144.5. Both standard models can seat up to eight passengers. While both SUVs offer plenty of infotainment content, the Subaru STARLINK® Multimedia Plus system lets passengers access the Ascent’s content with a large 11.6-inch touchscreen display. Meanwhile, the Highlander is equipped with a standard eight-inch display. Both vehicles allow compatible smartphones to connect through Bluetooth®, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto for convenience. Each also comes with SiriusXM® radio capability for diverse entertainment options for everyone in the vehicle to enjoy.  

Safety Features 

Thanks to the Symmetrical AWD system that every 2023 Ascent sports, every iteration of the SUV is well-designed to meet any Michigan driving scenarios all year long. In comparison, the standard FWD platform for the 2023 Highlander lacks versatility when it comes to providing extra steering assistance when the roads get slippery during winter. Both SUVs are capable family cruisers when it comes to long highway trips. With the inclusion of Adaptive Cruise Control on both vehicles, drivers can focus their attention on the sights of their surroundings without needing to think about the speed-related elements of the drive.  

Purchase a New 2023 Subaru Ascent Today at Thelen Subaru 

If you need more comparison information between the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the 2023 Toyota Highlander, Thelen Subaru would like to speak with you. Visit our Bay City dealership and speak to one of our friendly sales professionals. Mid-Michigan Subaru drivers across the region trust Thelen with their Subaru-related needs because we put an emphasis on providing a personalized shopping experience that sets us apart from the rest.