Compare the 2025 Subaru Ascent to the 2025 Toyota Highlander in Salem, OR
When shopping for a three-row SUV that offers the perfect blend of capability, comfort, and safety, two popular contenders often rise to the top: the 2025 Subaru Ascent and the 2025 Toyota Highlander. While both SUVs bring strong reputations and modern features to the table, the 2025 Subaru Ascent stands out as the superior choice for families and adventurers alike. Offering standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, advanced safety technology, and impressive interior versatility, the Ascent is designed to meet the real-world needs of Salem drivers more completely than the Highlander. Beyond practical considerations, the Ascent also excels in areas that matter most—affordability, long-term reliability, and peace of mind. Subaru's proven commitment to safety, highlighted by another strong performance from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), reinforces why the Ascent is a smart investment. Plus, with Subaru's reputation for long-lasting vehicles and strong resale value, you’ll be making a decision that holds up for years to come. If you’re comparing these SUVs side-by-side, it becomes clear that the 2025 Subaru Ascent delivers more standard features, greater all-weather confidence, and better everyday livability—all at a more accessible starting price. Let’s dive into how the Ascent continues to outpace the Highlander in every important category.
2025 Subaru Ascent vs 2025 Toyota Highlander: Design & Exterior Features
The 2025 Subaru Ascent embraces a bold yet approachable design that reflects the Subaru adventurous spirit. With standard LED headlights, muscular lines, rugged 18-inch alloy wheels, and available roof rails, the Ascent is built for those ready to take on anything Salem’s roads and beyond can offer. In contrast, while the 2025 Toyota Highlander brings a sleek, city-friendly design, it leans more toward upscale rather than utilitarian. Front-wheel drive comes standard on the Highlander, a clear signal that off-pavement prowess isn’t its priority. Meanwhile, the Ascent’s design reinforces readiness for all kinds of Oregon adventures right from the start.
2025 Subaru Ascent vs 2025 Toyota Highlander: Comfort & Technology
Inside the Ascent, you’ll find comfort and connectivity front and center. Every 2025 Subaru Ascent comes standard with seating for eight passengers, tri-zone climate control, and a large 11.6-inch STARLINK® Multimedia touchscreen on most trims. USB ports in all three rows, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, and intuitive controls make it easy for every passenger to stay connected and comfortable. The 2025 Toyota Highlander offers similar tech options, but many desirable features are reserved for higher-priced trims. While the Highlander’s available 12.3-inch screen is impressive, it’s not as seamlessly integrated as Subaru's straightforward system. Plus, third-row passengers in the Highlander may find space and amenities slightly lacking compared to the Ascent.
2025 Subaru Ascent vs 2025 Toyota Highlander: Performance
Powering every 2025 Subaru Ascent is a turbocharged 2.4-liter BOXER® engine producing 260 horsepower, paired to a smooth Lineartronic® CVT for optimal efficiency and responsiveness. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive comes standard on every trim, providing unmatched stability and traction whether you're navigating rainy Salem streets or snowy mountain roads. While the 2025 Toyota Highlander also uses a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with a slight horsepower advantage (265 hp), front-wheel drive is standard, and AWD is an additional cost. For drivers who prioritize confidence behind the wheel in all conditions, the Ascent’s standard AWD gives it a clear edge without forcing you into expensive upgrades.
2025 Subaru Ascent vs 2025 Toyota Highlander: Safety
Subaru's longstanding commitment to safety shines brightly in the 2025 Ascent. It earned top marks from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), securing a Top Safety Pick designation thanks to excellent crashworthiness ratings and its advanced EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology. Features like adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane centering assist come standard across all trims. The 2025 Toyota Highlander also scored well with the IIHS and offers Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+ as standard equipment. However, some advanced safety features in the Highlander are restricted to more expensive trims.
2025 Subaru Ascent vs 2025 Toyota Highlander: Overall Value
When it comes to value, the 2025 Subaru Ascent delivers more for your investment. With a lower starting MSRP compared to the Highlander and standard all-wheel drive, you get rugged versatility and premium safety features without stretching your budget. Subaru's legendary durability, lower cost of ownership, and strong resale value only strengthen the case for choosing the Ascent. While the Toyota Highlander remains a strong competitor, it simply can’t match the Ascent’s winning combination of everyday practicality, adventure-ready capability, and built-in peace of mind. At Capitol Subaru in Salem, OR, we’re proud to offer the SUV that goes further in every way—the 2025 Subaru Ascent.
 | 2025 Subaru Ascent | 2025 Toyota Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Engine | 2.4L Turbocharged BOXER® | 2.4L Turbocharged 4-cylinder |
| Standard Horsepower | 260 | 265 |
| Standard Torque | 277 | 310 |
| Standard Ground Clearance | 8.7 Inches | 8 Inches |
| Standard Fuel Economy | 20 City/26 Highway | 22 City/29 Highway |
| Standard Tires | All-Season | All-Season |
| Max Cargo Volume (Cubic Feet) | 75.6 | 84.3 |
| Standard Climate Control | Tri-Zone | Tri-Zone |
| Roof Rails | Standard | Available |
| Standard Multimedia Touchscreen Size | 11.6-inch | 8-inch |
