What is the Toyota equivalent of the Subaru Ascent?
The Toyota Highlander is the closest Toyota counterpart to the Subaru Ascent, with the Grand Highlander offering an even larger option for families seeking extra space and comfort.
Closest Toyota model to the Subaru Ascent
Shoppers evaluating the Subaru Ascent against Toyota’s lineup typically focus on the Highlander as the direct competitor in the three-row SUV segment. Toyota broadened the family-size equation with the Grand Highlander, which occupies a larger space niche and adds premium options. Below is a side-by-side look at how these models stack up and what to consider when choosing between them.
Here are the core similarities and differences to help shoppers compare the two models.
- Seating and versatility: Both the Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander offer three rows of seating to accommodate up to eight passengers in many configurations; the Grand Highlander extends interior space to improve comfort for rear-seat passengers.
- Powertrains: The Ascent relies on a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine, delivering strong mid-range output. The Highlander lineup uses a 2.4-liter turbo (with similar performance) and, in hybrids, a 2.5-liter system that emphasizes efficiency. The Grand Highlander adds modern powertrain options while preserving three-row practicality.
- All-wheel drive: Both brands offer AWD across most trim levels to enhance traction in adverse weather and on rough roads.
- Safety and driver aids: Subaru’s EyeSight and Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.5/2.5+ are standard or available across these models, with each suite providing essential features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.
- Interior and features: Both brands emphasize family-friendly interiors, with modern infotainment, multiple USB ports, and flexible cargo configurations. The Grand Highlander, in particular, adds more high-end options and space for long trips.
In short, the Highlander is the direct match in Toyota’s lineup for the Ascent, while the Grand Highlander broadens the field for buyers who prioritize larger interiors and extra cargo capacity.
Grand Highlander: a larger option within Toyota's SUV family
Introduced to broaden Toyota’s three-row footprint, the Grand Highlander sits above the standard Highlander in size and capability. It targets families who want more passenger comfort and cargo space without stepping up to a full-size SUV. This model shares many underpinnings with the regular Highlander but prioritizes space, options, and refinement for longer trips and more passengers.
Key distinctions for buyers
Here are the standout considerations when evaluating the Grand Highlander against the standard Highlander and the Ascent.
- Interior space: The Grand Highlander offers noticeably more interior room, especially for second- and third-row passengers, along with greater cargo capacity when needed.
- Powertrain lineup: A 2.4-liter turbo engine is available, with hybrid variants delivering higher efficiency for families who log a lot of miles.
- Seating configurations: While both the standard Highlander and Grand Highlander can seat up to eight, the Grand Highlander often provides more comfortable options for those extra passengers, such as captain’s chairs in the second row on certain trims.
- Technology and trims: The Grand Highlander typically adds more premium features and larger display options in higher trims, aligning with a more upscale cabin experience.
- Pricing and value: As a larger and more feature-rich model, the Grand Highlander sits at a higher starting price than the standard Highlander and the Ascent, reflecting its extra space and capabilities.
For families prioritizing space, comfort, and a premium feel on longer journeys, the Grand Highlander represents a logical upgrade from the standard Highlander. For those who value a smaller footprint or lower entry price, the standard Highlander remains a strong choice, while the Ascent continues to be Subaru’s mainstream three-row option.
Summary
In the Toyota lineup, the Highlander is the closest match to the Subaru Ascent, offering similar three-row versatility, all-wheel-drive availability, and a family-friendly feature set. The Grand Highlander expands on that formula with more interior space, greater cargo capacity, and additional premium choices, making it the go-to option for buyers who need maximum space in a Toyota three-row SUV. The best pick depends on how much space you require, your preferred powertrain (gas versus hybrid), and how much you’re willing to spend for additional comfort and features.
