How Does the 2025 Subaru Ascent Compare to the Toyota Highlander?

2025 Subaru Ascent Premium 8-Passenger vs. 2025 Toyota Highlander LE

The 2025 Subaru Ascent Premium and the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE are two competitive midsize SUVs, each offering spacious three-row seating, modern technology, and family-oriented features. However, the Subaru Ascent sets itself apart with its standard all-wheel drive (AWD), expansive interior dimensions, and advanced safety systems, making it the ideal choice for families seeking adventure and comfort. This comparison will detail how the Ascent outshines the Highlander in critical areas.

Exterior Design

The Subaru Ascent boasts a rugged yet refined exterior design for outdoor adventures. Standard features include 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, raised roof rails for added versatility, and LED Steering Responsive Headlights that enhance nighttime visibility. Additionally, the Ascent is available in various bold color options, such as Crystal Black Silica and Crimson Red Pearl, ensuring a standout presence on the road. In contrast, the Toyota Highlander LE features a sleeker, more urban design. It includes standard LED headlights and taillights, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a lower-profile look. While stylish, the Highlander’s exterior lacks the same adventure-ready design cues that make the Ascent versatile.

Performance

Under the hood, the Subaru Ascent has a 2.4-liter turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® engine that delivers 260 horsepower and 277 lb.-ft. of torque. Paired with a Lineartronic® CVT and standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD), the Ascent ensures exceptional grip and control on all terrains. This combination makes it a standout option for families who need an SUV capable of handling snow, rain, and off-road excursions. The Toyota Highlander LE also features a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, producing a slightly higher 265 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque. However, the Highlander’s standard drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive (AWD is optional), which may not offer the same traction and confidence as Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.

Fuel Efficiency

With standard all-wheel drive, the Subaru Ascent achieves an EPA-estimated 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. This balance of power and efficiency makes it an excellent choice for families traveling long distances or navigating urban environments. While slightly more efficient, the Toyota Highlander LE offers an EPA-estimated 22 MPG city and 29 MPG highway. However, these ratings are based on the Front-Wheel Drive model; opting for more capable AWD typically reduces fuel efficiency.

Interior and Comfort

The Subaru Ascent excels in interior spaciousness, offering 153.2 cubic feet of passenger volume and up to 75.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. The Premium trim includes tri-zone automatic climate control, an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and premium cloth upholstery, ensuring comfort for all passengers. Subaru’s STARLINK® 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus system comes standard, providing intuitive connectivity through Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. The Toyota Highlander LE provides a comfortable cabin for up to eight occupants, though specific interior volume figures are not listed on the official website. Standard features include an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay®, and Android Auto™. While functional, the Highlander’s technology and cabin design fall short of the Ascent’s spaciousness and premium feel.

Safety Features

Subaru prioritizes safety with its EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, which includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking, and Lane Keep Assist. Blind-Spot Detection with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert is also standard on the Premium trim, adding another layer of security for families. The Toyota Highlander LE has Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+, which features a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. While comprehensive, the Highlander’s safety systems do not include features like Subaru’s standard Automatic Emergency Steering, giving the Ascent an edge in advanced driver-assist technology.

Pricing

• Subaru Ascent Premium 8-Passenger: The starting price is $38,910. Key features include a symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, 5,000 lb towing capacity, 11.6-inch STARLINK® Multimedia Plus, Blind-Spot Detection, and tri-zone climate control.
• Toyota Highlander LE: Starting price: $39,520. Key features: 8-inch touchscreen, LED headlights, and Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+.

Reliability and Warranty

Subaru highlights its reliability with a claim that 96% of Subaru vehicles sold in the last 10 years are still on the road today. The Ascent is backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Toyota also has a strong reputation for reliability, and a comparable warranty package covers the Highlander LE. However, Subaru’s proven longevity provides additional peace of mind for long-term ownership.

Buy or Lease a New 2025 Subaru Ascent at Thelen Subaru in Bay City

The 2025 Subaru Ascent is the superior choice for families seeking a reliable, spacious, and feature-packed SUV. Its standard AWD, advanced safety technologies, and generous interior dimensions make it ideal for daily commutes and family adventures. Shop for the 2025 Subaru Ascent at Thelen Subaru today and discover your next adventure. Our team at Thelen Subaru, serving Mid-Michigan, is ready to assist you with all your vehicle needs. Stop by our Bay City dealership to learn more about the fantastic 2025 Ascent, and let us help you drive away in style.

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