If you're in the market for a capable, adventurous SUV, you've likely come across the 2020 Subaru Outback and 2020 Toyota Highlander. Grand Subaru is here to help you learn more about both vehicles in this 2020 Outback vs. 2020 Highlander head-to-head comparison.
In the following page, we're focusing on the 2020 Subaru Outback Limited, starting at $33,445 MSRP, and the 2020 Toyota Highlander L, starting at $34,600 MSRP. Continue reading about this Subaru SUV on our Outback review page. To get in touch with the team at our Subaru dealership in Bensenville, IL, call (888) 840-3934 or send us a message online.
2020 Subaru Outback vs. 2020 Toyota Highlander Performance Specs & Towing Capacity
The differences between these reliable SUVs begin under the hood. While the V6 engine of the 2020 Highlander delivers better power, the BOXER® four-cylinder engine found in the Outback provides more favorable fuel economy. The 2020 Outback is also standardly equipped with a symmetrical all-wheel drive system, while the Highlander features standard front-wheel drive.
2020 Subaru Outback | Model | 2020 Toyota Highlander |
Symmetrical AWD | Standard Drivetrain | FWD |
2.5L BOXER® 4-cylinder | Engine | 3.5L V6 |
182 HP | Horsepower | 295 HP |
176 lb.-ft. | Torque | 263 lb.-ft. |
26 city / 33 hwy MPG | Fuel Economy | 21 city / 29 hwy MPG |
2,700 lbs. | Max. Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs. |
2020 Subaru Outback vs. 2020 Toyota Highlander Interior & Exterior Design
You won't know which SUV better matches your personal style until you check them out for yourself, but there are several key differences you should be aware of. While both the Outback and Highlander are equipped with a push-button start and sideview mirror-integrated turn signals, the 2020 Outback takes it to the next level with the following interior and exterior features:
- LED steering responsive headlights, daytime running lights fog lights
- Hands-free power rear gate
- Leather-trimmed upholstery
- Heated front and rear outboard seats
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters
2020 Subaru Outback vs. 2020 Toyota Highlander Safety & Technology Features
Today's vehicles offer a wide range of active and passive safety features, and the 2020 Outback and 2020 Pilot are no exception. The Subaru Outback features EyeSight® driver assist technology, DriverFocus® distraction mitigation system, and LED steering responsive headlights. When it comes to interior connectivity and infotainment, the Outback offers STARLINK® safety and security connected services, STARLINK® Multimedia Navigation, Bluetooth®, SiriusXM®, Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and a Harman Kardon® premium audio system.
- STARLINK® 11.6-in. Multimedia Plus touchscreen
- 12-speaker Harman Kardon® premium audio system
- HD Radioâ„¢
- Blind spot detection with lane change assist and rear cross-traffic alert
- Reverse automatic braking
2020 Subaru Outback vs. 2020 Toyota Highlander Size & Cargo Space
The 2020 Highlander seats eight passengers, while the more compact Outback seats five. The larger Highlander provides more cargo capacity, measuring in at 84.3 cubic feet behind the first row and 48.4 cubic feet behind the second. However, the Outback offers similar space in a smaller package, boasting 75.7 cubic feet of cargo room behind the first row and 32.5 cubic feet behind the second row. The Outback is also equipped with cargo-area underfloor storage and a removable cargo-area tray, not found in the Highlander.
2020 Subaru Outback vs. 2020 Toyota Highlander Subaru Outback Deals in Bensenville, IL
If you're in search of 2020 Subaru Outback models in Bensenville, IL, Grand Subaru has what you need! Browse our Outback inventory to see what's available, and be sure to take a look at our Outback lease deals. To learn more or schedule a test drive, call (888) 840-3934 or use our convenient online form.
New Subaru Outback vs. New Toyota Highlander near Chicago, IL
Do you need a reliable and well-equipped SUV to tackle your daily adventures? Chances are you have considered the Subaru Outback and the Toyota Highlander. With excellent features offered by both models, it can be difficult to determine which is the better choice. The experts at Grand Subaru in Chicago, IL have taken a close look at the key aspects of the Subaru Outback and the Toyota Highlander to help make your decision easier.
If you have any initial questions regarding the Subaru Outback, call a product specialist at Grand Subaru in Chicago, IL at (888) 840-3934.
Subaru Outback vs. Toyota Highlander: Interior and Exterior Design
 If style and comfort top your wish list, you'll find a harmonious blend of both in the Subaru Outback. Soft touch materials and available leather-trimmed seating make the cabin relaxing, while silver metallic accent trim adds an attractive flair. Additional available interior features on the Outback include:- 10-way power adjustable driver's seat with memory
- Heated front and rear seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Woodgrain-patterned accent trim
- Dual zone automatic climate control
- 60/40 split folding rear seatback
Be prepared for your next adventure with exterior features such as standard roof rails on the Subaru Outback, a feature that is not available on the Highlander. The Outback has an impressive 8.7-in. of ground clearance that allows you to tackle any terrain. The Highlander simply is not equipped to handle rougher terrain. Additional available exterior features with the Subaru Outback includes:
- LED steering responsive headlights
- Body color folding side mirrors with integrated turn signal
- Power tilt/sliding glass moonroof
- Fog lights
- Power liftgate
Subaru Outback vs. Toyota Highlander: Safety and Technology
 Do you need to stay connected and entertained while behind the wheel? You'll find that STARLINK™, Subaru's infotainment system, is superior to Entune™, the infotainment system found on the Toyota Highlander. With an 8-in. touchscreen and four total USB ports, every ride is more enjoyable in the Subaru Outback. Additional available tech features with the Outback include:- 12-speaker Harmon/Kardon® premium audio system
- Smartphone integration
- Navigation
While the Toyota Highlander has a host of notable safety features, the Subaru Outback was named an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ when equipped with EyeSight® and HID headlights. The Outback also earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Available safety features for the Subaru Outback include:
- Blind spot detection and rear cross traffic alert
- Rear vision camera and reverse automatic braking
- Active torque vectoring
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane keep assist
- Pre-collision braking
- Automatic high beams
Subaru Outback vs. Toyota Highlander: Engine and Performance
Did you know 98-percent of Subaru vehicles sold in the last 10 years are still on the road today? Both the Subaru Outback and the Toyota Highlander have two available engines. While the Toyota engines have merit, drivers won't care much for the sluggish acceleration and stiff ride. The Subaru Outback, on the other hand, is capable of handling any terrain with composure. The available six-cylinder engine also provides ample muscle for accelerating on the highway. Learn more about the two engines available with the Outback in the table below.
Engine | 2.5L I4 | 3.6L V6 |
Horsepower | 175 HP | 256 HP |
Torque | 174 lb. ft. | 247 lb. ft. |
MPG city/highway | 25/32 | 20/27 |
Subaru Outback vs. Toyota Highlander: Seating and Cargo Capacity
 The Subaru Outback seats five passengers comfortably. While the Toyota Highlander offers a third row for seating up to eight passengers, you'll find the extra row to be cramped. However, the Subaru Outback offers an impressive 108.1 cu. ft. of passenger room, enough for all passengers to sit comfortably. With the rear seat lowered, you'll have 73.3 cu. ft. of cargo space in the Subaru Outback.Subaru Outback Price and Incentives
Are you looking for a great deal to get excited about the new Subaru Outback? Grand Subaru in Chicago, IL has exactly what you've been looking for. While the Outback has a starting MSRP of $25,895, our dealership offers factory direct incentives and lease specials to help you save on your Subaru Outback. If you see a deal that interests you, act quickly because our specials update frequently.
Schedule a Test Drive at Grand Subaru in Chicago, IL
Do you want to take the new Subaru Outback for a spin? Come in to Grand Subaru in Chicago, IL and allow one of our experts to show you everything you need to know about the new Outback. To schedule your test drive appointment, call us at (888) 840-3934 or fill out our online form today!
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