When it comes to purchasing a family-friendly SUV, two models that often come to mind are the Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander. Both offer spacious interiors, advanced safety features, and impressive performance capabilities. While both vehicles have their own unique features, let's explore the positive benefits of comparing the Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander.

1. Safety Features
One of the most important aspects of any vehicle is its safety features. Both the Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander offer a wide range of advanced safety features to keep you and your passengers safe on the road. However, the Subaru Ascent stands out with its standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure and sway warning, and pre-collision braking. The EyeSight system has been found to reduce rear-end crashes with injuries by up to 85%.

2. Roomy Interior
Both the Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander offer spacious interiors with three rows of seating, making them ideal for families. However, the Subaru Ascent takes the cake with up to 153.5 cubic feet of passenger volume, compared to the Highlander's 144.9 cubic feet. The Ascent also offers more head and legroom in all three rows, providing a comfortable and roomy ride for everyone.

3. Impressive Towing Capacity
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, having a vehicle with a high towing capacity is essential. The Subaru Ascent has a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, making it ideal for hauling small trailers, boats, or other recreational vehicles. The Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, has a maximum towing capacity of only 3,500 pounds. This difference in towing capacity could make all the difference for someone in need of a vehicle that can handle their towing needs.

4. Off-Roading Capability
For those who enjoy exploring off the beaten path, the Subaru Ascent offers more off-roading capability than the Toyota Highlander. The Ascent comes standard with the brand's renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, providing superior traction and control in challenging terrain. The Highlander offers all-wheel drive as an option, but it does not come standard on its base model.

5. Fuel Efficiency
In today's world, fuel efficiency is a significant factor for many car buyers. The Subaru Ascent boasts an impressive EPA-estimated 27 miles per gallon on the highway, while the Toyota Highlander only gets 24 miles per gallon on the highway. This difference in fuel efficiency could result in significant savings at the gas pump over time.

In conclusion, both the Subaru Ascent and the Toyota Highlander are excellent choices for families looking for a safe, spacious, and capable SUV. However, the Subaru Ascent offers some distinct advantages that make it stand out from the Highlander. From its advanced safety features to its impressive towing capacity and fuel efficiency, the Ascent is a well-rounded option that can meet the needs of many families.

Ultimately, the best way to decide between the two models is to test drive them both and see which one fits your specific needs and preferences. But one thing is clear - whether you choose the Subaru Ascent or the Toyota Highlander, you can't go wrong with either of these reputable and reliable SUVs.