Which SUV Will You Choose?

2025 Subaru Ascent vs. 2025 Toyota Highlander: Which SUV Leads the Pack?

Midsize SUVs continue to dominate the family vehicle segment, and two of the top contenders are the 2025 Subaru Ascent and the 2025 Toyota Highlander. Both models bring power, practicality, and advanced features to the road, but only one delivers a truly balanced blend of rugged performance and refined comfort. At Peltier Subaru in Tyler, TX, the 2025 Ascent is ready to prove why it stands out in every category that matters.

Adventure-Ready Design with Premium Comfort

Right from the first glance, the 2025 Subaru Ascent shows off its rugged charm with bold lines, standard 18-inch alloy wheels, and LED steering responsive headlights. Functional roof rails and body-color trim contribute to a clean yet versatile exterior. Select trims at our Subaru store in Tyler, TX add 20-inch wheels, LED fog lights, and a power panoramic moonroof, enhancing both style and utility.

What’s also impressive is that the 2025 Subaru Ascent interior comfortably seats up to eight passengers. Durable cloth seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, and an 8-way power driver’s seat are standard. Available upgrades include ventilated front seats, second-row heated captain’s chairs, and premium Nappa leather upholstery for those who want first-class comfort.

The 2025 Toyota Highlander also features LED headlights and 18-inch wheels, with available 20-inch options and a panoramic glass roof. While the 2025 Highlander brings an elegant exterior to the table, its interior does not quite match the flexible seating or clever storage solutions within the 2025 Subaru Ascent interior. The 2025 Ascent includes up to 19 cupholders and a wider range of interior configurations to meet the needs of growing families and weekend adventurers.

Consistent Power and Confident Handling

The 2025 Subaru Ascent is powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder engine that delivers 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a smooth Lineartronic® CVT and standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, the Ascent delivers capable traction and a confident drive. X-MODE® with Hill Descent Control boosts performance on rough terrain, while fuel economy reaches up to 26 MPG on the highway.

Meanwhile, the 2025 Toyota Highlander uses a similar 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces slightly more torque but the same horsepower. Though the 2025 Highlander offers optional all-wheel drive, it starts with front-wheel drive as the default, limiting its capability in unpredictable conditions. The traditional 8-speed automatic transmission provides decent performance, but it lacks the terrain-adapting technology and all-terrain focus found standard in every 2025 Subaru Ascent trim at our Subaru store near Whitehouse, TX.

Safety Systems That Inspire Confidence

When it comes to driver assistance, the 2025 Subaru Ascent is loaded with proactive safety features. Subaru EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology suite includes adaptive cruise control with lane centering, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning, and sway assist. All 2025 Subaru Ascent configurations at our Subaru store near Lindale, TX also include blind spot detection, rear cross-traffic alerts, and automatic emergency steering. Select trims offer the DriverFocus™ Distraction Mitigation System and reverse automatic braking for extra layers of protection.

The 2025 Toyota Highlander features the Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+ system, offering adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, and a pre-collision system. While these features are useful, the 2025 Highlander lacks the standard reverse automatic braking and personalized driver attention system that comes with the 2025 Subaru Ascent for sale at Peltier Subaru in Tyler, TX. For families focused on safety in every environment, the 2025 Ascent provides more reassurance out of the gate.

Tech That Elevates Every Drive

Technology inside the 2025 Subaru Ascent is designed for modern life. A large 11.6-inch STARLINK^® touchscreen* anchors the cabin, providing access to wireless Apple CarPlay^® and Android^™ Auto, plus navigation and voice-activated controls. Optional tech includes a Harman Kardon^® premium sound system, 4G LTE Wi-Fi connectivity, and a wireless charging pad.

The 2025 Toyota Highlander interior starts with an 8-inch touchscreen and wireless smartphone connectivity. Premium trims offer a 12.3-inch display and a JBL® audio system, but these upgrades are reserved for top-tier models. In contrast, the 2025 Subaru Ascent at our Subaru store in Tyler, TX provides more advanced tech features across a wider range of trims, making it easier to enjoy premium amenities without paying a premium price.

The Clear Choice for Texas Drivers: The 2025 Subaru Ascent

When evaluating the 2025 Subaru Ascent against the 2025 Toyota Highlander, it becomes clear that the Subaru three-row SUV has the edge. With standard all-wheel drive, advanced safety features, spacious accommodations, and intuitive tech, the 2025 Subaru Ascent is a perfect fit for families, commuters, and outdoor enthusiasts across Texas.

Visit Peltier Subaru in Tyler, TX to test drive the 2025 Subaru Ascent and experience the difference firsthand. Our team is here to guide you through trim options, share current promotions, and ensure you find the right SUV for your lifestyle. Let the 2025 Ascent show you what true capability feels like.