Toyota Highlander vs Subaru Outback

Toyota Highlander vs Subaru Outback

While 21st-century roadways have changed to make getting from point A to point B easier, the need for your vehicle to be tough and gritty has not wavered. Two vehicles that possess this ability are the Toyota Highlander and Subaru Outback. These crossovers combine performance with comfort to create a high-quality experience behind the wheel.

Want to learn more? Our team at Daytona Toyota has compared the Toyota Highlander vs. Subaru Outback to determine which is best for drivers near the Daytona Beach, Palm Coast, Ormond Beach, and New Smyrna Beach, FL, areas. Contact us directly with any questions you might have about these two models!

Highlander vs Outback: Performance

Toyota Highlander PerformanceThe Highlander and Outback feature similar engine setups under the hood. Both vehicles come with a 2.5L engine and a Continuously Variable Transmission. However, the Highlander engine is slightly more powerful with 186 horsepower, compared to 182 horsepower for the Outback.

While similarly powerful under the hood, the Highlander and Outback are also both highly efficient. No matter which option you choose, your crossover will be sure to work hard to keep you away from the gas pump. The Outback received an EPA-estimated 26 city/33 highway MPG. The Highlander received slightly higher efficiency ratings, at an EPA-estimated 35 city/35 highway MPG.1

Highlander vs Outback: Versatility

Inside the cabin of both the Highlander and Outback, you’ll find adequate space for seating and storage.

Vehicle

Passenger Volume

Cargo Volume

Toyota Highlander

141.3 cubic feet

16 cubic feet

Subaru Outback

109 cubic feet

32.5 cubic feet

The Highlander boasts a larger overall interior volume that can seat up to eight passengers with room for storage, while the Outback can only seat five. Additionally, the Highlander and Outback both come with 60/40 split-folding rear seats to create more storage when needed.

If you have equipment that just won’t fit inside the vehicle, you’ll be interested to know that both of these crossovers are able to tow. Both the Outback and the Highlander boasts a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.

Toyota Highlander Seating Toyota Highlander Cargo Space

Highlander vs Outback: Amenities

Toyota Highlander AmentiesThe insides of the Toyota Highlander and Subaru Outback are also designed with your comfort in mind. While your vehicle takes on the roadway, you’ll want to be comfortable in the cabin.

Both the Highlander and Outback come with impressive multimedia systems. The Outback’s STARLINK® 7-inch screen allows you to integrate your phone with BluetoothÒ, Apple CarPlay®, and Android Auto™. The Highlander has similar capabilities with Bluetooth®, Apple CarPlay®, and Android Auto™ integration, but it also comes with added Amazon Alexa compatibility. Additionally, the multimedia screen presented in the Toyota vehicle measures 8 inches, making it easier to interact with.

The Highlander and Outback will also optimize and personalize your interior experience with their climate control systems. The Outback features automatic climate control, while the Highlander is stocked with 3-zone automatic climate control to provide better airflow throughout the vehicle. This system enables custom temperature settings for the driver, front passenger, and rear-seat passengers.

Highlander vs Outback: Safety

Toyota Highlander SafetyNow that you know you’ll be provided with a comfortable and versatile experience behind the wheel of either of these vehicles, you’ll also want peace of mind that you are safe traveling in them. Toyota and Subaru produce some of the safest cars on the road with topflight active, passive, and driver-assistive technologies.

The Highlander comes with both Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5 and a Star Safety System™, which comes with features such as:

  • Road Sign Assist
  • Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
  • Lane Departure Alert
  • Smart Stop Technology®

Similarly, the Outback comes with EyeSight® Driver Assistive Technology. While this system is impressive with Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure and Sway Warning, and Lane Keep Assist, it does not feature some of the added tech that the Highlander has.

In addition to these assistive systems, the Highlander and Outback both feature more traditional tech, such as extensive airbag systems and a LATCH system, so you can rest assured knowing all of your safety bases are covered.

Toyota Highlander vs Subaru Outback: Conclusion

After reviewing the Toyota Highlander vs. Subaru Outback, our team feels that the Highlander is the better option for drivers near the areas of Daytona Beach, Palm Coast, Ormond Beach, and New Smyrna Beach, Florida. While both vehicles will perform well, the Highlander’s versatility, comfort, safety, and more give it an edge over the Subaru vehicle.

If you’d like to learn more or get behind the wheel of the Toyota Highlander, contact us at Daytona Toyota, where we’ll be happy to answer any questions!

 

1EPA-estimated 21 city/29 hwy/24 combined mpg for 2021 Highlander; 20 city/27 hwy/23 combined for 2021 Highlander AWD; 36 city/35 hwy/36 combined mpg for 2021 Highlander Hybrid. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle’s condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.

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