Hicks Family Subaru
Comparing the Subaru Outback vs. Toyota Highlander? See how these two SUVs stack up in price, performance, space, safety, and off-road capability to find the best fit for your lifestyle in Corpus Christi.
If you’re in the market for a new SUV, the Subaru Outback and Toyota Highlander are likely two of your top contenders. Whether you want a vehicle to handle your off-roading adventures, an SUV that’s ideal for commuting between Corpus Christi and Kingsville, or you need family-ready features, both crossovers offer solid performance, comfort, and versatility.
The Subaru Outback is around $10K cheaper, with a starting MSRP around $30K, versus the Toyota Highlander, which starts at around $40K. Price is certainly an important factor, but which one is right for your needs and lifestyle? Let’s explore the two vehicles and their features further.
An important consideration is the drivetrain, or drive system, meaning all-wheel drive (AWD) or front-wheel drive (FWD). While the Toyota Highlander comes with FWD by default, the Subaru Outback comes standard with an AWD system across its entire lineup. If you want AWD on a Highlander you’ll need to spend extra to upgrade.
FWD vehicles perform fine in dry or mildly wet conditions and along the mostly flat roads of Corpus Christi. AWD is great for driving on beaches like Padre Island or Mustang Island to avoid getting stuck in deep or loose sand. If you’re planning a trip to Hill Country or other hilly off-road areas, you’ll have an easier time navigating and increased peace of mind with AWD.
When it comes to overall space, the Highlander is larger – offering seating for up to 8 passengers and over 84 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row folded. The Outback maxes out at 5 passengers but it still impresses with nearly 76 cubic feet of cargo space and plenty of rear legroom.
The Highlander leans more upscale, especially in higher trims with available captain’s chairs and larger infotainment screens. The Outback keeps things functional but stylish, with rugged touches available in some trims like StarTex water-repellent upholstery — perfect for sandy beach trips or muddy hikes. Both SUVs offer optional Wi-Fi access, multiple USB ports, and car seat anchors to keep everyone connected, charged, and secure.
When it comes to safety, you’re in good hands with either vehicle. Both the Outback and Highlander earn top marks from the IIHS and come loaded with safety tech.
The Highlander features Toyota Safety Sense, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and pre-collision warning with pedestrian detection. The Outback comes standard with Subaru EyeSight, including advanced adaptive cruise control with lane centering, pre-collision braking, and lane departure and sway warning.
Both the Highlander and Outback offer AWD but the Outback takes it further with standard symmetrical AWD and X-MODE, which adjusts traction and throttle for snow, mud, and hills. The Wilderness trim adds dual-function X-MODE and up to 9.5 inches of ground clearance, making it especially capable for off-road trips or soft sand on beach adventures.
The Highlander’s optional AWD system includes Multi-Terrain Select, helpful for slick roads, uneven driveways, or rainy days. Its 8 inches of ground clearance is enough for light off-roading or beach access but not as aggressive as the Outback.
The Outback is the clear winner in this category. Its standard engine boasts a combined 28 mpg. If you opt for the turbocharged engine, you would get the same fuel efficiency as a Highlander with FWD: 25 mpg combined. A Highlander with the optional upgrade to AWD is considerably lower at 24 mpg combined.
| Vehicle Configuration | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
| Toyota Highlander FWD | 22 | 29 | 25 |
| Toyota Highlander AWD | 21 | 28 | 24 |
| Subaru Outback Standard | 26 | 32 | 28 |
| Subaru Outback Turbocharged | 22 | 29 | 25 |
Ultimately, it depends on your lifestyle and needs. If you’re the type to explore trails or drive in rough weather, the Outback is ready out of the box. AWD is standard on the Outback while it is an upgrade to the already more expensive Highlander.
With its third row and additional anchors, the Highlander offers more seating versatility, making it a better option for large or growing families.
If you’re looking for all-weather capability, off-road readiness, and fuel efficiency without needing extra upgrades, the Subaru Outback might be your perfect match.
Whether you’re leaning toward the Outback or Highlander, our friendly and knowledgeable team is here to help. A test drive will certainly help you decide. Explore our new and Certified Pre-Owned Outbacks at Hicks Family Subaru today and take one for a test drive!
You can also browse our pre-owned inventory for Toyota Highlanders and other makes and models. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Connect with our team today and we will check options for you with our network of car dealerships in the Hicks Automotive Group!
