Subaru Ascent vs Toyota Highlander: Which is Right For You?

Choosing a three-row SUV is an important decision for many families. Whether you're commuting around Winston-Salem, heading out on a weekend road trip, or navigating changing weather conditions, the right SUV should offer comfortable seating, versatile cargo space, advanced safety features, and confident capability.

When comparing the 2026 Subaru Ascent vs. Toyota Highlander, you'll find that both midsize SUVs are designed with families in mind. Each offers standard all-wheel drive, seating for up to eight passengers, a turbocharged engine, advanced driver-assistance technology, and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity.

While they share many similarities, there are also meaningful differences in passenger space, interior design, standard features, pricing, and overall driving experience. The 2026 Subaru Ascent provides generous passenger room, a spacious third row, and a competitive starting price, while the Toyota Highlander offers its own blend of comfort, technology, and refinement. Comparing these key areas can help you determine which SUV best fits your family's lifestyle and driving needs in Winston-Salem.

2026 Subaru Ascent vs Toyota Highlander Specs Comparison

                                                                                                                                                                                                                   
  Subaru Ascent Toyota Highlander
 Starting MSRP
  • $40,795*
  •  $46,270
 Engine
  •  2.4L turbocharged BOXER® 4-cylinder
  • 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder 
 Seating Capacity
  • Up to 8 passengers 
  • Up to 8 passengers 
 Maximum Cargo Space
  •  Up to 75.6 cu. ft.
  • Up to 84.3 cu. ft.
 Maximum Towing Capacity
  •  Up to 5,000 lbs
  •  Up to 5,000 lbs.
 Standard Drivetrain
  •  Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
  • All-Wheel Drive 
 Best For
  •  Families who prioritize all-weather confidence, a spacious cabin, and value
  •  Families looking for a refined ride, available hybrid powertrain, and flexible cargo space
 *Prices exclude destination, taxes, registration, options, and applicable fees. Specifications vary by trim and configuration.

Subaru Ascent vs Toyota Highlander Interior and Passenger Space

The 2026 Subaru Ascent vs. Toyota Highlander interior comparison comes down to how each SUV accommodates the people and priorities that matter most to your family.

Both three-row SUVs offer seating for up to seven or eight passengers, with flexible configurations designed to fit different lifestyles. The Subaru Ascent can be equipped with either a second-row bench seat or available captain's chairs, giving families the option to prioritize maximum seating capacity or easier access to the third row.

In terms of interior space, the Ascent provides up to 153.2 cubic feet of passenger volume, compared with approximately 139.5 cubic feet in the Highlander. The difference is especially noticeable in the third row, where the Ascent offers 31.7 inches of legroom, compared with about 28 inches in the Highlander.

Those extra inches can make a difference during longer drives, especially for growing children, teenagers, or occasional adult passengers. Features like wide rear doors, available second-row captain's chairs, tri-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated seating, and convenient storage options help both SUVs create a comfortable experience for daily driving and family adventures.
2025 Subaru Ascent parked in front of a barn with people in the background 
Rear view of a new Subaru Ascent driving down a road towards a city at night 

Performance, AWD and Towing Capability

The 2026 Subaru Ascent vs. Toyota Highlander performance comparison highlights two capable three-row SUVs with turbocharged engines, standard all-wheel drive, and the ability to handle everyday driving as well as weekend adventures.

The 2026 Subaru Ascent is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Power is managed through a Lineartronic® continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru's standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.

The 2026 Toyota Highlander uses a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine that produces approximately 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. For 2026, Toyota also makes all-wheel drive standard throughout the Highlander lineup, creating a more direct comparison between the two SUVs.

Where the Ascent stands out is its focus on all-weather capability, with 8.7 inches of ground clearance, standard X-MODE®, Hill Descent Control, and Trailer Stability Assist. The Highlander delivers confident performance and capability, while the Ascent provides additional features designed for drivers who regularly encounter changing road conditions.

Toyota Highlander vs Subaru Ascent Fuel Economy

The 2026 Subaru Ascent vs. Toyota Highlander fuel economy comparison shows a difference in priorities between these two three-row SUVs. The Highlander offers stronger fuel efficiency numbers, while the Ascent focuses on passenger space, capability, and standard all-weather performance.

The gas-powered 2026 Toyota Highlander achieves up to an EPA-estimated 21 city/28 highway MPG, while the 2026 Subaru Ascent returns up to approximately 19 city/26 highway MPG.

For shoppers considering a hybrid SUV, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid offers an additional efficiency advantage, with up to an EPA-estimated 35 MPG combined. The Subaru Ascent is not currently available with a hybrid powertrain, but it offers benefits such as a lower starting price, more passenger volume, additional third-row legroom, and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity across the lineup.

Fuel economy is an important factor, but it is only one part of the overall ownership experience. Drivers should consider their typical mileage, budget, driving needs, and how long they plan to own their SUV when comparing the long-term value of each model.
2026 Subaru Ascent parked with people and a dog in the background 

Subaru Ascent vs Toyota Highlander Price Comparison

Price is often one of the biggest factors when comparing the 2026 Subaru Ascent vs. Toyota Highlander. While both three-row SUVs come standard with all-wheel drive for 2026, the Subaru Ascent has a lower starting MSRP.

The 2026 Subaru Ascent starts at $40,795 MSRP (excluding destination and fees), while the 2026 Toyota Highlander starts at $46,270 MSRP - a difference of about $5,475. With Toyota now offering all-wheel drive as standard on every Highlander, the comparison is more direct than in previous years, though the entry price is higher than before.

Despite its lower starting price, the Ascent includes standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, seating for up to eight, an 11.6-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, Subaru EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, tri-zone automatic climate control, and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity.

For shoppers focused on value, the Ascent's lower MSRP may provide more flexibility for higher trims or additional features, while the Highlander offers its own range of available equipment and amenities to consider.

Cost-to-Own Comparison

When comparing the 2026 Subaru Ascent vs. Toyota Highlander, it's important to look beyond the purchase price. Long-term ownership costs-including fuel, maintenance, insurance, depreciation, financing, and repairs-can have a significant impact on your budget.

According to Kelley Blue Book, the 2026 Subaru Ascent has an estimated five-year cost to own of approximately $51,032, which is lower than many vehicles in its class. By comparison, the 2026 Toyota Highlander is estimated at about $58,453 for gas models, while the Highlander Hybrid is estimated at approximately $58,664.

Actual ownership costs will vary based on factors like trim level, location, mileage, insurance rates, financing terms, and maintenance. While the Highlander offers strong fuel efficiency, Kelley Blue Book's estimates suggest the Ascent's lower purchase price may help reduce overall ownership costs over five years.

Which SUV Fits Your Lifestyle Best?

Choosing between the 2026 Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander depends on your family's priorities, driving habits, and the features that matter most. Both three-row SUVs offer spacious interiors, advanced safety technology, available premium amenities, and the capability needed for daily commutes, road trips, and weekend activities.

2026 Subaru Ascent Is Best For:

  • A lower starting MSRP
  • Families needing more passenger space
  • Additional third-row legroom
  • Competitive five-year ownership costs

2026 Toyota Highlander Is Best For:

  • Available hybrid powertrain and improved fuel efficiency
  • Maximum cargo capacity
  • A refined driving experience with available premium features
When comparing the Subaru Ascent vs. Toyota Highlander, both SUVs provide a strong combination of comfort, capability, and technology. The best choice depends on your family's needs, whether that means prioritizing fuel efficiency, interior flexibility, all-weather confidence, available features, or long-term value.

Test Drive the 2026 Subaru Ascent in Winston-Salem, NC

Comparing specs and features is a great way to narrow down your SUV options, but experiencing a vehicle firsthand can help you determine if it's the right fit for your lifestyle. Visit Flow Subaru in Winston-Salem to test drive the 2026 Subaru Ascent and explore its spacious three-row interior, comfortable seating, advanced technology, turbocharged performance, and standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.

Our Subaru experts can help you compare Ascent trims, explore available inventory, estimate your trade-in value, and find a model that matches your family's needs, driving habits, and budget. Visit ustoday to take a test drive! 
Browse Subaru Ascent Inventory

2026 Subaru Ascent vs. Toyota Highlander FAQs

Is the 2026 Subaru Ascent bigger than the Toyota Highlander?
Yes, the 2026 Subaru Ascent offers more overall passenger volume than the Toyota Highlander, with up to 153.2 cubic feet of passenger space compared to approximately 139.5 cubic feet in the Highlander. The Ascent also provides more third-row legroom, making it a comfortable option for families who regularly carry children, teenagers, or adult passengers.

Does the 2026 Subaru Ascent or Toyota Highlander have better fuel economy?
The 2026 Toyota Highlander offers better fuel economy, especially with the available Highlander Hybrid powertrain. The gas-powered Highlander achieves up to an EPA-estimated 21 city/28 highway MPG, while the Subaru Ascent achieves up to approximately 19 city/26 highway MPG. Drivers should also consider factors like purchase price, towing needs, and overall ownership costs when comparing efficiency.

Does the 2026 Subaru Ascent have standard AWD?
Yes, every 2026 Subaru Ascent comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, which helps provide confident traction in changing road conditions. The 2026 Toyota Highlander also includes standard all-wheel drive across the lineup, creating a more direct comparison between the two three-row SUVs.

Is the Subaru Ascent or Toyota Highlander better for towing?
Both the 2026 Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. This makes either SUV a capable choice for hauling small campers, boats, trailers, and recreational equipment. Buyers should compare additional towing features and configurations to find the model that best fits their needs.

Which is more affordable: the 2026 Subaru Ascent or Toyota Highlander?
The 2026 Subaru Ascent has a lower starting MSRP than the Toyota Highlander. The Ascent starts at approximately $40,795, while the Highlander starts at approximately $46,270. Actual pricing will vary based on trim level, options, incentives, and location.