Compare before you choose · Delray Beach
2027 Subaru Ascent vs. 2026 Toyota Highlander in Delray Beach
This current-availability comparison puts Ascent's lower matched MSRP, clearance, large standard screen and seating flexibility against Highlander's stronger gas output, better published MPG and available hybrid. The model years differ because they are the current U.S. versions reviewed on this page.
Which one belongs on your shortlist?
Choose the 2027 Subaru Ascent if…
- A substantially lower matched AWD MSRP.
- 8.7 inches of clearance and standard X-MODE.
- An 11.6-inch standard screen on Premium.
- Seven or eight seats at the same Premium MSRP.
Keep the 2026 Toyota Highlander on your list if…
- More gas-engine horsepower and torque.
- Better published gas AWD fuel economy.
- A conventional eight-speed automatic.
- An available hybrid rated 35 MPG city/highway/combined.
A like-for-like starting point
Both named gas configurations include AWD and can carry eight when Highlander is ordered with its bench. The exact model years are repeated because this is not a same-year matchup.
| Decision point | 2027 Ascent Premium 8-Passenger AWD | 2026 Highlander XLE AWD with optional 8-seat bench |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP before destination | $40,795 | $46,270 |
| Engine output | 260 hp / 277 lb-ft | 265 hp / 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | Lineartronic CVT | 8-speed automatic |
| EPA-estimated MPG | 19 city / 26 highway / 22 combined | 21 city / 28 highway / 24 combined |
| Ground clearance | 8.7 inches | 8.0 inches |
| Maximum towing | Up to 5,000 lb when properly equipped | Up to 5,000 lb when properly equipped |
| Center display | 11.6 inches | 8 inches standard on XLE |
Manufacturer MSRPs exclude destination, taxes, title, license, options, dealer-installed equipment and dealer charges unless specifically stated. Dealer selling prices vary. EPA estimates are for comparison and actual mileage varies. Schumacher Subaru of Delray can provide current inventory and itemized pricing only for the Subaru vehicles it sells; it cannot quote or verify another dealer's price, fees, incentives or payments.
Where the competitor has an advantage—and what Subaru offers instead
Highlander has stronger gas output and better MPG
Ascent's matched MSRP is $5,475 lower and it supplies more clearance, a larger standard screen and X-MODE. Do not claim Ascent matches Toyota's fuel-economy advantage.
Highlander uses a conventional eight-speed
That is a valid preference. Ascent answers with standard AWD/X-MODE, lower matched price and seven- or eight-seat flexibility at the same Premium MSRP.
Highlander offers a 35-MPG hybrid
Ascent has no current hybrid and does not overcome this advantage for an efficiency-first shopper. Keep Subaru's case focused on gas-AWD value, clearance and equipment.
Highlander Hybrid changes the powertrain decision
Toyota publishes 35 city/35 highway/35 combined MPG for Highlander Hybrid XLE AWD. There is no announced 2027 Ascent Hybrid, so shoppers who require a hybrid now have a clear Toyota advantage.
Do not use the Hybrid MPG in the gas table or suggest a future Ascent Hybrid based on Subaru's broader electrification plans.
Build a useful Delray Beach comparison drive
Shoppers from Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Boynton Beach and Lake Worth can make the visit more useful by asking to include Atlantic Avenue low-speed traffic, an I-95 merge, downtown parking and the passenger or cargo routine you use most. Use the same checklist for any competing vehicle you test elsewhere:
- Adjust the seat and mirrors, then check sight lines at intersections, during lane changes and while parking.
- Bring the passengers, child seats, mobility equipment or cargo you carry regularly.
- Connect your phone and locate the climate, multimedia and driver-assistance controls you will use every day.
- Compare the exact year, trim, drivetrain, installed equipment and itemized Subaru price rather than relying on a lineup's headline starting price.
Visit Schumacher Subaru of Delray: 2102 South Federal Highway, Suite C, Delray Beach, FL 33483. Contact Sales before traveling so the Subaru trim and test-drive time you want can be confirmed.
Questions shoppers ask about this comparison
Why are the model years different?
The page compares the current U.S. 2027 Ascent with the current U.S. 2026 Highlander available as of the review date.
Does Highlander also have AWD?
Yes. Toyota made AWD standard for the 2026 Highlander lineup, so this page does not claim an AWD availability advantage for Ascent.
Which has better fuel economy?
Highlander leads in the published gas AWD figures and its Hybrid leads by a much wider margin. Ascent's case is matched price, clearance, screen and seating flexibility.
Can Schumacher quote a Highlander?
No. We can provide itemized pricing for an Ascent and use Toyota's official facts for comparison.
Compare the Subaru before you decide
Tell our team which competing model and priorities are on your shortlist. We can show an available Ascent, explain its equipment and provide itemized Subaru pricing. You do not need to own the competing brand or have a trade.
