AWD on Every Ascent
Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard across the entire Ascent lineup. Grand Highlander offers both front-wheel-drive and AWD configurations.
3-Row SUVs in Atlanta
Subaru Ascent vs Toyota Grand Highlander in Atlanta, GA
Compare two three-row family SUVs for Atlanta commuting and Georgia road trips, with a focus on standard AWD, towing, cargo room, seating, ground clearance and powertrain choices.
Standard Symmetrical AWD Every Ascent
5,000 Lbs. Towing capacity on every Ascent
8.7 Inches Standard ground clearance
Which Fits Atlanta Family Life Better?
Both give families three rows and serious road-trip space, but they take different approaches. Ascent makes AWD, clearance and towing capability standard, while Grand Highlander gives shoppers more powertrain choices and more maximum cargo room.
- Atlanta rain and everyday driving Ascent includes Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive on every trim. Grand Highlander offers front-wheel drive or AWD depending on the powertrain and configuration.
- Boats, campers and weekend gear Every Ascent can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Grand Highlander gas and Hybrid MAX models can also tow up to 5,000 pounds.
- Family road trips Grand Highlander has more published maximum cargo volume, while Ascent gives every trim 8.7 inches of ground clearance and standard AWD.
Why Atlanta Families Consider the Ascent
Ascent keeps its capability consistent across the lineup, so the AWD, clearance and towing setup does not depend on choosing a specific drivetrain.
8.7 Inches From the Start
Every Ascent provides 8.7 inches of ground clearance, compared with 8.0 inches on the current Grand Highlander.
5,000 Pounds on Every Trim
Every Ascent is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Grand Highlander towing varies by powertrain.
Seating for Seven or Eight
Ascent offers three rows with available captain's chairs or an eight-passenger bench configuration, plus up to 153.2 cubic feet of passenger space.
Subaru Ascent vs Toyota Grand Highlander: Side-by-Side
These figures compare current manufacturer-published specifications for the 2027 Subaru Ascent and 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander. Exact figures vary by trim, drivetrain and powertrain.
| Feature | Subaru Ascent | Toyota Grand Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Drivetrain | Standard Symmetrical AWD | FWD or AWD, depending on powertrain and trim |
| Ground clearance | 8.7 in. | 8.0 in. |
| Gas horsepower | 260 hp | 265 hp |
| Gas torque | 277 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Hybrid choices | Not currently offered | Hybrid and Hybrid MAX available |
| Highest available horsepower | 260 hp | 362 hp Hybrid MAX |
| Maximum towing | 5,000 lbs. on every trim | 5,000 lbs. gas and Hybrid MAX, 3,500 lbs. Hybrid |
| Seating capacity | 7 or 8 | 7 or 8 |
| Maximum cargo volume | Up to 75.6 cu. ft. | Up to 97.5 cu. ft. |
| Cargo behind third row | Up to 17.8 cu. ft., depending on configuration | 20.6 cu. ft. |
| Fuel economy highlight | Up to 19 city / 26 highway MPG | Hybrid models up to an estimated 36 MPG combined |
Comparison information checked October 2026. Subaru and Toyota may use different cargo measurement methods, so cargo figures should be treated as a guide rather than a perfect apples-to-apples measurement. Towing requires proper equipment. Verify specifications for the exact vehicle before purchase.
Where the Toyota Grand Highlander Has an Advantage
Grand Highlander offers more powertrain variety and more published maximum cargo space. Its lineup includes a 245-horsepower Hybrid and a 362-horsepower Hybrid MAX, while Toyota publishes up to 97.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo room. If hybrid efficiency, maximum cargo volume or stronger available performance are top priorities, the Grand Highlander deserves a close look.
Which One Fits Your Family?
Both give families three rows and serious road-trip ability. The difference is whether you prioritize standard capability or greater powertrain and cargo choices.
The Ascent may fit you if...
Choose Ascent if standard AWD, more standard ground clearance and 5,000-pound towing across every trim are higher priorities.
The Grand Highlander may fit you if...
Choose Grand Highlander if maximum cargo space, hybrid fuel economy or the performance of the Hybrid MAX powertrain matter more.
Subaru Ascent vs Toyota Grand Highlander FAQs
Quick answers for Atlanta families comparing these two three-row SUVs.
Which has standard all-wheel drive, Ascent or Grand Highlander?
Every Subaru Ascent includes Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Toyota Grand Highlander drivetrain availability depends on trim and powertrain, with both front-wheel drive and AWD configurations available.
Which has more ground clearance?
Subaru Ascent has 8.7 inches of ground clearance on every trim. The current Toyota Grand Highlander publishes 8.0 inches of ground clearance.
Which can tow more?
Every Subaru Ascent is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Grand Highlander gas and Hybrid MAX models can also tow up to 5,000 pounds, while the conventional Grand Highlander Hybrid is rated up to 3,500 pounds.
Which has more cargo space?
Toyota publishes up to 97.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume for the Grand Highlander, compared with up to 75.6 cubic feet for the Subaru Ascent. Manufacturer measurement methods can differ.
Does the Ascent or Grand Highlander offer a hybrid?
Toyota offers both Grand Highlander Hybrid and Hybrid MAX powertrains. Subaru does not currently offer a hybrid version of the Ascent.
Which has more horsepower?
The Subaru Ascent produces 260 horsepower. The gas Grand Highlander produces 265 horsepower, its Hybrid produces 245 combined horsepower, and Hybrid MAX produces 362 combined horsepower.
How many people can the Ascent and Grand Highlander seat?
Both offer three rows and configurations for seven or eight passengers, depending on trim and second-row seating.
Which is better for Atlanta and Georgia family driving?
It depends on your priorities. Ascent makes AWD, 8.7 inches of clearance and 5,000-pound towing standard across its lineup. Grand Highlander offers more cargo volume and a wider range of gas and hybrid powertrains.
Can I test drive a Subaru Ascent in Atlanta?
Yes. Classic Subaru of Atlanta is located at 7700 Roswell Rd in Atlanta, GA. Shop current Ascent inventory online, then visit to compare second-row access, third-row space, visibility and cargo room in person.
See the Ascent With Your Family
Three-row SUVs are easier to compare in person. Bring the family, try the second and third rows, check the cargo area and see how the Ascent fits your everyday Atlanta routine.
