2024 Toyota Highlander vs 2024 Subaru Ascent
Reliability Side-by-Side
2024
Toyota Highlander
Grade A-
A supremely reliable family hauler, though the new turbo engine warrants diligent maintenance.
2024
Subaru Ascent
Grade B-
A practical family hauler that demands attentive maintenance to avoid potential high-cost repairs down the road.
Best For
Best for Reliability
2024 Toyota Highlander
Score 91/100 vs 79/100
Best for Lowest Risk
2024 Toyota Highlander
low risk
Best for Lowest Annual Upkeep
2024 Toyota Highlander
$400-600
Autojunket OSC · OSC Transfer
Sell your car for what it's worth.
Log every service. Sell with a signed PDF. Every receipt, mileage-verified, in the buyer's hands.
Cost of Ownership
| Line Item | 2024 Toyota Highlander★ | 2024 Subaru Ascent |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | $400-600 | $600-900 (for scheduled services) |
| Moderate Repairs | $500-1,500 occasionally | $500-1,800 occasionally (e.g., brake overhaul, electrical diagnosis, smaller leaks) |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 22 / 29 | 20 / 26 |
| MSRP (New) | $39,270 | $34,395 |
Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.
Biggest Risks on Each
2024 Toyota Highlander
2.4L Turbo Engine (Gas Models)
30,000-75,000 mi
Infotainment System
5,000-20,000 mi
HVAC System
15,000-40,000 mi
2024 Subaru Ascent
Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
60,000-120,000 mi
Electrical & Infotainment System
20,000-70,000 mi
Engine (FA24DIT) - Turbocharger & Related Components
80,000-150,000 mi
Get the Full Report on Each
7-system breakdown, mileage danger zones, repair costs, and expert verdict for each vehicle.
Free · Instant delivery · No account required
Autojunket
Free
per report
Carfax
$44.99
per report
OSC
$9.99/mo
unlimited
Not sure yet? See a real, unblurred sample report →
Editorial Take
The 2024 Toyota Highlander and 2024 Subaru Ascent are prime contenders in the competitive three-row mid-size SUV segment, attracting families and adventure-seekers alike. Both vehicles prioritize safety, practicality, and comfort, making them common cross-shop choices for those needing space for passengers and cargo. Buyers often consider the Highlander for its long-standing reputation for reliability, strong resale value, and available hybrid powertrain, while the Ascent appeals with its standard all-wheel drive, generous third-row space, and rugged capability. Key decision factors often boil down to specific fuel economy needs, all-weather driving confidence, interior refinement, and overall cost of ownership. HEAD-TO-
Reliability & Common Issues
Toyota Highlander: The 2024 Highlander, part of the current generation introduced in 2020, benefits from Toyota's legendary reputation for durability. Specific known widespread issues for this generation are remarkably few. 1. Minor Infotainment Glitches: Some owners of early 2020-2022 models occasionally reported minor software glitches or slow responses from the infotainment system, which largely have been addressed with software updates. 2. Early 2.4L Turbo Engine (Initial Reports): The 2.4-liter turbocharged engine introduced for the 2023 model year in the Highlander (and other Toyota/Lexus models) is relatively new. While initial reports are positive, some very early reports from other models with this engine have noted slight oil consumption in extreme conditions, though it is not a widespread issue and Toyota has a strong track record of refining new powertrains. Subaru Ascent: The Subaru Ascent has generally improved in reliability since its launch, but some specific issues have been reported by owners, particularly for earlier model years. 1. CVT Transmission Issues: Some 2019-2021 Ascent models faced reports of premature CVT failure, shuddering, or unusual noises, occasionally requiring replacement. Subaru has addressed some concerns with software updates and extended warranties on certain components for affected vehicles. 2. Battery Drain Problems: A recurring issue, particularly in 2019-2021 models, involves parasitic battery drain, often linked to the STARLINK telematics system or other electrical components, leading to dead batteries even after short periods of being parked. 3. Windshield Cracking: Numerous owners across various model years have reported what appears to be an unusual susceptibility to windshield cracking, sometimes from minor impacts or temperature changes, potentially due to the design or specific glass used.
Value & Cost of Ownership
When comparing value and cost of ownership, both vehicles present compelling arguments. The 2024 Toyota Highlander typically has a higher starting MSRP than the Ascent, but this is often offset by its superior long-term reliability and exceptional resale value, which is consistently among the best in the mid-size SUV class. Maintenance costs for the Highlander are generally low, benefiting from Toyota's vast parts network and straightforward servicing requirements. Insurance costs are generally competitive for its segment. The 2024 Subaru Ascent offers a lower entry price and standard all-wheel drive across all trims, providing excellent value for buyers prioritizing all-weather capability without a premium upcharge. Its resale value is very good, though historically not quite as strong as the Highlander. Maintenance costs for the Ascent are generally average for its class. Specific repairs for the Boxer engine or CVT, if needed, can sometimes be more involved or costly compared to a traditional inline-4 or V6 setup, though Subaru has improved its powertrain durability. Fuel economy for the Ascent is lower than the non-hybrid Highlander and significantly lower than the Highlander Hybrid.
Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles
Products for 2024 Toyota Highlander
Products for 2024 Subaru Ascent
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.