Subaru Outback vs Toyota Highlander

Obstacles? What obstacles? The Subaru Outback only sees an opportunity to prove what it’s made of. Speaking of which, this SUV comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive to optimize grip and banish wheel slip on slippery surfaces or rugged terrain.

This drivetrain is paired to X-MODE®, a performance enhancer that optimizes engine output and the drivetrain to deliver ultimate traction when you need it most. Whether you go over, around, or through any obstacles in your path, we’re confident the Outback has your back.

On the other hand, the Toyota comes standard with front-wheel drive and makes all-wheel drive available.

You’ve always wanted to become an off-roading master. In fact, you’ve put in hours on the trails, learning and mastering new techniques to help you confidently navigate fallen logs, rocks, and other tricky situations. After all, practice makes perfect.

With practice comes a need for time and longevity, which both SUVs can offer you thanks to their generous fuel economies:

• Subaru Outback achieves an EPA-estimated 26 city/32 highway MPG^*
• Toyota Highlander achieves an EPA-estimated 22 city/29 highway MPG

The Outback grants you more time to practice by not needing to fill up at the gas pump as often. Plus, once you get a handle on off-roading, you can go from sunup to sundown. Isn’t that the life?

Let’s size up your next SUV together:

After taking out the measuring tape, we found the Subaru to be smaller than the Toyota! The Outback’s smaller stature is beneficial to off-roaders like you. For instance, its shorter wheelbase gives you a tighter turning circle and enhanced agility. After all, you want a model that articulates well anywhere.

The larger Highlander is beneficial if you want more space inside. In terms of hitting the trails, we recommend leaving it to the Subaru.

The Highlander may be larger; however, the Outback offers higher ground clearance. Its standard configuration offers 8.7 inches of ground clearance. The Toyota offers an 8-inch ground clearance on all models. When you opt for the Outback Wilderness trim, the ground clearance measures 9.5 inches.

Why is ground clearance important? If there are sharp rocks, fallen trees, or steep inclines on the trails, the Outback’s greater ground clearance will make it easier to protect your SUV’s underbelly.

Let’s talk cargo space. Because the Toyota is the larger model, you’d think it has more trunk room for your sleeping bags, hammocks, coolers, and more. However, the Subaru offers more room behind its rear row:

• Subaru Outback Trunk Capacity: 32.6 cubic feet
• Toyota Highlander Trunk Capacity: 16 cubic feet

You’ll need that extra space in the trunk because adventure draws a crowd, and you’ll most likely have all seats filled! You gain the convenience of standard roof rails in the Subaru! Just attach a cargo box or your desired accessory to bring additional gear with you. Roof rails are available on the Highlander.

Have you ever gotten caught in the rain during a bike ride? Has your dog shaken off in the cabin after a dip in the lake? Is your child prone to spilling snacks and drinks? The Outback has a solution: available StarTex® upholstery. This fabric is waterproof and stain resistant, meaning you can adventure until your heart’s content without leaving a trace on the way home.

The Toyota goes without a similar upholstery, meaning you may need to purchase alternative pet- and spill-friendly accessories to protect the cabin.