Subaru Ascent vs. Toyota Highlander: Which crossover SUV is best for 2019? We're here to help drivers in Bloomfield, Montclair, and Clifton, NJ, weigh their options with our latest vehicle faceoff from Lynnes Subaru. Read on to learn more about the capacities and safety features available in the new Ascent and Highlander.

Highlander vs Ascent: Equipped for Adventure

You'll get a similar range between fuel stops when you take either crossover SUV for a family adventure: Both the 2019 Ascent and Highlander get up to an EPA-estimated 21 MPG city/27 MPG highway. Plus, both vehicles can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, though the towing capacity on the base model of the Subaru is higher than that of the Toyota.

In general, the Subaru Ascent comes with more room for any adventure. When you're taking the team out for dinner, everyone can enjoy more head- and shoulder room in the Ascent-no matter which row they're sitting in.

You'll also find more utility in the 2019 Ascent when it comes time to pack for your next camping trip. The Subaru has a max of 86.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row of seats, compared to 83.7 cubic feet behind the first row in the Toyota Highlander.

Need more room? Standard roof rails on the Ascent allow you to easily secure items to the top of your vehicle. Meanwhile, roof rails are only available as an option on the Highlander.

All-Terrain Driving in Subaru Ascent vs Toyota Highlander

You can feel free to upgrade the 2019 Toyota Highlander to an all-wheel drive option, but Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive comes standard on the 2019 Subaru Ascent. This standard drivetrain also comes with X-MODE®, which optimizes traction on all four wheels when driving across slippery surfaces and helps maintain your speed when going downhill. Additionally, the Ascent has more ground clearance than the Highlander, giving you even more peace of mind over rough terrain.

The best adventures take you down unexpected roads, so you want a crossover SUV that's prepared for anything. For those times when you need to make a K-turn in a tight spot, you'll have an easier time in the Subaru Ascent with its turning diameter of 38 feet. That's compared to 38.7 feet in the Highlander.

While the 2019 Highlander comes equipped with ventilated front and solid disc rear brakes, the 2019 Ascent has ventilated front and rear brakes. Ventilated brakes tend to last longer than solid ones do, meaning fewer trips to your local service center in the Ascent. Plus, the brakes in the Ascent are larger, giving you more stopping power over a short distance.

2019 Safety Awards: Highlander vs Ascent

Both vehicles are highly acclaimed for their active and passive safety features, receiving a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. However, the Subaru outperformed its competitor on frontal crash tests by the NHTSA.

Additionally, while the Toyota Highlander received the 2019 TOP SAFETY PICK award, the Subaru Ascent earned the coveted title of 2019 TOP SAFETY PICK+. This is thanks in part to its available steering-responsive LED headlights with high beam assist. While the Highlander offers high beam assist, it doesn't have steering-responsive headlights.

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

Here at Lynnes Subaru, we prefer the 2019 Subaru Ascent for its ability to keep you safe in any adventure. If you're looking for new experiences near Bloomfield, Montclair, and Clifton, contact us today to test drive the Ascent. Or, come in to our showroom to see everything else the Subaru lineup offers.