The 2026 Subaru Ascent vs. the Toyota Highlander: Which Is Better for Families?

The 2026 Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander are two of the top players in the three-row family SUV class. The Subaru Ascent is the brand’s largest model, offering all the qualities that Subaru is known for—spaciousness, ruggedness, and quality—in a package that’s perfect for active households. Kirby Subaru of Ventura compares it in detail to its Toyota counterpart.

Quality

Few if any competing SUVs can match the sterling record for quality boasted by the 2026 Subaru Ascent. Within the last few years alone, it’s been recognized for excellence in virtually every important category. The Subaru Ascent model line has earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award seven years in a row, and it was also named winner of the Kelley Blue Book 5-Year Cost to Own Award in the midsize three-row segment three years straight. You’d be hard-pressed to find any SUV with a similarly sized trophy case.

Capability

When it comes to capability, the Toyota Highlander takes more of “check the box” approach. For example, its lineup doesn’t include an off-road-focused trim. Also, this is the first year that the Toyota Highlander has offered standard all-wheel drive.

On the other hand, the 2026 Subaru Ascent wears its ruggedness on its sleeve. Every trim is ready for exploration courtesy of long-time, well-proven standard features such as Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive®, Hill-Descent Control, and the performance-enhancing X-MODE® system. Plus, this new Subaru SUV has an 8.7-inch ground clearance—over a half foot more than the eight inches offered by the Toyota Highlander. 

Interior

Join a Ventura, CA, Subaru dealer in a walkthrough of the cabin of the 2026 Subaru Ascent, and you’ll see it was made for families. Its 153.2 cubic feet of passenger space far exceeds the 139.5 cubic feet offered by the Toyota Highlander. Another big discrepancy is found in the third row, where the Subaru Ascent offers 31.7 inches to the Toyota model’s 28.0 inches. Unlike its Toyota competitor, our Subaru model offers a true, adult-friendly third row.

Find Your 2026 Subaru Ascent in Ventura, CA

In key metrics such as cabin space, capability, and quality, the 2026 Subaru Ascent surpasses rivals such as the Toyota Highlander. Kirby Subaru of Ventura welcomes you in for a test drive and the perfect financing or Subaru lease for your preferred trim. Visit us to get started today!