Introduction
The 2023 SUV market is getting more and more crowded, with more options available than ever before. Two of the most anticipated models of the year are the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander. Both models are packed with features, offer room for up to eight passengers, and include great fuel economy. The question is: which one is the better option? In this article, we’ll take a look at the features and specs of the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander and see which one comes out on top.
Design and Exterior
The 2023 Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander have distinct designs that set them apart from each other. The Ascent is a three-row crossover SUV with a sleek, modern look. It features sharp lines and a bold grille. The Highlander, on the other hand, is a traditional SUV with a boxy design and a more rugged look. It has a spacious cabin and a tall ride height.
When it comes to exterior features, the Ascent and the Highlander are fairly evenly matched. Both come standard with LED headlights and taillights, roof racks, and all-weather floor mats. The Ascent has a few extra features, such as power folding mirrors and a hands-free power liftgate, that the Highlander does not. The Highlander does have a few unique features, such as an available panoramic moonroof, that the Ascent does not.
Interior Features
When it comes to interior features, the 2023 Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander offer plenty of comfort and convenience. Both models come standard with cloth upholstery, power adjustable front seats, and a six-speaker audio system. The Ascent also comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, while the Highlander comes with a larger 8-inch touchscreen. The Ascent also has a few extra features, such as a power liftgate, that the Highlander does not.
The Ascent and the Highlander both offer plenty of storage space. The Ascent has a maximum cargo capacity of 86.5 cubic feet, while the Highlander has a maximum cargo capacity of 83.7 cubic feet. The Ascent also has a few extra storage features, such as an adjustable cargo shelf and a center console with a storage bin, that the Highlander does not.
Performance
The 2023 Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander both offer great performance. The Ascent is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. The Highlander is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. The Ascent is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, while the Highlander is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
The Ascent is slightly more fuel-efficient than the Highlander. The Ascent has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg city/27 mpg highway with front-wheel drive and 19 mpg city/25 mpg highway with all-wheel drive. The Highlander has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 20 mpg city/26 mpg highway with front-wheel drive and 19 mpg city/24 mpg highway with all-wheel drive.
Safety
The 2023 Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander both offer plenty of safety features. Both models come standard with a rearview camera, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. The Ascent also has a few extra features, such as blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert, that the Highlander does not. The Highlander does have a few unique features, such as an available driver alert monitor and adaptive cruise control, that the Ascent does not.
Price
The 2023 Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander both have similar starting prices. The Ascent has a starting price of $32,795, while the Highlander has a starting price of $33,500. The Ascent is slightly more affordable than the Highlander, but the Highlander does have a few extra features that the Ascent does not, such as an available panoramic moonroof.
Conclusion
The 2023 Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander are both great options for those looking for a spacious, comfortable, and feature-packed SUV. The Ascent is slightly more affordable and fuel-efficient than the Highlander, but the Highlander does have a few extra features that the Ascent does not. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference.