Are you considering buying either the 2022 Toyota Highlander or the 2022 Subaru Ascent, but can’t figure out which SUV to get? See how the two SUVs measure up in this 2022 Toyota Highlander vs. 2022 Subaru Ascent comparison.

2022 Toyota Highlander vs. 2022 Subaru Ascent

In this 2022 Toyota Highlander vs. 2022 Subaru Ascent comparison, we evaluated several areas. This includes performance, fuel economy, towing, off-road capabilities, safety, passenger and cargo space, interior features and technologies, warranty coverage, reliability, and price.

Highlander vs. Ascent: Performance and fuel economy

On the performance front, the 2022 Toyota Highlander offers two powertrains: a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 hp and 263 lb-ft of torque and a hybrid powertrain, with a total system output of 243 hp. In comparison, all 2022 Subaru Ascent models feature a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which generates 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque.

For efficiency, the Highlander has the advantage. The gas-powered Highlander has an estimated fuel economy of up to 22 city/29 highway mpg, and the Highlander Hybrid has a gas mileage of up to 36 city/35 highway mpg. In comparison, the Ascent has an estimated fuel efficiency of up to 21 city/27 highway mpg.

Highlander vs. Ascent: Towing

On the towing front, both the Highlander and Ascent can tow up to 5,000 pounds. However, the Highlander Hybrid has a maximum towing capacity of only 3,500 pounds.

Highlander vs. Ascent: Off-road capabilities

The Ascent is better for off-road use. For one, while all Ascent models have a standard traction-enhancing all-wheel drive system, all-wheel drive is an optional feature for the Highlander. Also, the Ascent has higher ground clearance than the Highlander (up to 8.7 vs. 8.0 inches).

Highlander vs. Ascent: Safety

Both the Highlander and Ascent are safe vehicles. Both SUVs earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award.

Highlander vs. Ascent: Passenger and cargo space

The Ascent is slightly bigger than the Highlander, resulting in more interior space. It has a total passenger volume of 153.5 cu-ft and a maximum cargo capacity of 86.5 cu-ft. In comparison, the Highlander has a total passenger volume of 141.3 cu-ft and a maximum cargo capacity of 84.3 cu-ft.

Highlander vs. Ascent: Interior features and technologies

The Highlander and Ascent offer a similar roster of interior features and technologies. This includes heated and cooled seats, a dual-zone climate control system, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. However, unlike the Ascent, the Highlander offers a head-up display.

Highlander vs. Ascent: Warranty coverage and reliability

For warranty coverage, both the Highlander and Ascent have the backing of a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. However, the Highlander is slightly more reliable than the Ascent. It earned a J.D. Power reliability rating of 82/100, compared to 80/100 for the Ascent.

Highlander vs. Ascent: Price

Which SUV costs more: the 2022 Highlander or the 2022 Ascent? The starting price of the 2022 Highlander ranges from $35,405 MSRP for the L trim up to $47,560 MSRP for the Platinum trim. In comparison, the starting price of the 2022 Ascent ranges from $32,295 MSRP for the Base trim up to $45,445 MSRP for the Touring trim.

Please note: These prices are subject to change, as many automakers are increasing the price of cars with the rising inflation costs. 

2022 Toyota Highlander vs. 2022 Subaru Ascent: Which SUV is better?

In this 2022 Toyota Highlander vs. 2022 Subaru Ascent comparison, each SUV has various advantages. For the 2022 Highlander, advantages include maximum horsepower, fuel economy, a head-up display, and reliability. Conversely, advantages for the 2022 Ascent include maximum torque, off-road capabilities, passenger and cargo space, and a lower price.