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2026 Subaru Outback vs. 2026 Toyota Highlander
If you are comparing family-friendly midsize SUVs, the 2026 Subaru Outback and the 2026 Toyota Highlander offer two different approaches to versatility. This page brings together pricing, power, seating, fuel economy, cargo room, towing, and other key details so you can review them side by side before choosing which SUV fits your lifestyle.
At McCarthy Subaru of Lawrence, we know some shoppers are choosing between a flexible two-row SUV and a larger three-row family hauler. The 2026 Subaru Outback stands out for its lower starting price, standard all-wheel drive, efficiency, and adventure-ready capability, while the Toyota Highlander appeals to shoppers who need more seating and stronger towing capacity.
View our new Subaru Outback inventory, explore our finance department, schedule service, or contact our team when you are ready for the next step.
Quick Comparison
| Category | 2026 Subaru Outback | 2026 Toyota Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $36,445 | $47,840 |
| Car and Driver Expert Rating | 8.5/10 | 8/10 |
| Rank In Segment | #9 in Best Mid-Size 2-Row SUVs | #13 in Best Mid-Size 3-Row SUVs |
| Fuel Economy (EPA Est. MPG) | 27 combined / 25 city / 31 highway | 24 combined (est.) / 21 city (est.) / 28 highway (est.) |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 7 |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 2,700 lbs base / up to 3,500 lbs on Wilderness | 5,000 lbs |
| Basic Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
| Blind Spot Monitor | Yes | Yes |
Key Differences
These SUVs serve different types of buyers. The 2026 Subaru Outback is a two-row midsize SUV with seating for five, a lower starting price, and stronger efficiency in the comparison data you supplied. It is also the more adventure-oriented option thanks to standard all-wheel drive and available Wilderness capability with up to 9.5 inches of ground clearance.
The 2026 Toyota Highlander is the better fit if you need a larger family-focused vehicle. It offers three rows of seating, room for seven passengers in the trim shown, and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity. Buyers choosing between these two will usually decide based on whether they prioritize two-row flexibility and lower cost with the Outback or three-row space and greater towing strength with the Highlander.
What You Need to Know
2026 Subaru Outback
The redesigned 2026 Subaru Outback trades its traditional wagon-like silhouette for a more squared-off two-row SUV shape while keeping the qualities many Subaru shoppers expect: standard all-wheel drive, useful cargo flexibility, and light off-road capability. The Outback earned an 8.5 rating in the comparison details you shared.
In Wilderness trim, the Outback adds a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with 260 horsepower, up to 9.5 inches of ground clearance, and more trail-friendly hardware. The comparison information also notes that cargo capacity increased, with room for 11 carry-on suitcases behind the rear seats and 29 with them folded. For buyers who want adventure-ready utility without moving into a three-row SUV, the Outback remains very appealing.
2026 Toyota Highlander
The 2026 Toyota Highlander is designed more squarely around family hauling, with seating for seven in the comparison trim shown and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity. It uses a 265-horsepower turbocharged 2.4-liter engine and reached 60 mph in 7.2 seconds in the testing notes you provided.
The Highlander can also carry more people and more cargo when configured as a two-row-plus-third-row family hauler. According to the comparison information, it held five carry-on suitcases behind the third row, 13 with the third row folded, and 26 with both rows down. If your top priorities are extra seats and stronger towing, the Highlander may make more sense than the Outback.
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | Outback | Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 gallons | 17.9 gallons |
| Fuel Economy (EPA Est. MPG) | 27 / 25 / 31 | 24 (est.) / 21 (est.) / 28 (est.) |
| 75-mph Highway Test | 27 mpg on Outback Wilderness | 30 mpg |
Warranty
| Coverage | Outback | Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Roadside Assistance | 3 years / 36,000 miles | 2 years / unlimited miles |
| Basic Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
| Drivetrain | 5 years / 60,000 miles | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
| Corrosion | 5 years / unlimited miles | 5 years / unlimited miles |
Interior & Storage Space
| Measurement | Outback | Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 7 |
| Front Leg Room | 43.0 in | 42.0 in |
| Second Leg Room | 39.5 in | 38.7 in |
| Third Leg Room | Not applicable | 28.0 in |
| Passenger Volume | 112.3 cu ft | 139.5 cu ft |
| Cargo Volume Behind Second Row | 34.6 cu ft | 48.4 cu ft |
| Cargo Volume Behind First Row | 80.5 cu ft | 84.3 cu ft |
Specifications
| Specification | Outback | Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 180 @ 5800 | 265 @ 6000 |
| Torque | 178 @ 4400 | 310 @ 1700 |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
| Transmission | CVT | 8-speed automatic |
| Turning Diameter | 36.5 ft | 37.4 ft |
| Minimum Ground Clearance | 8.7 in standard / 9.5 in Wilderness | Not specified in the comparison details provided |
Why McCarthy Subaru of Lawrence?
McCarthy Subaru of Lawrence offers a straightforward place to research, compare, and shop for the 2026 Subaru Outback. From new Subaru inventory and online finance tools to service support and trade-in resources, our dealership is built to help local and regional shoppers move from research to ownership with confidence.
Our Why McCarthy message emphasizes customer satisfaction and values such as teamwork, opportunity, integrity, adaptability, and community. If the Outback's lower entry price, standard all-wheel drive, and flexible two-row design match what you want, our team can help you compare trims, review availability, value your trade, and explore financing options.
Learn more on our Why McCarthy page, shop new Outback inventory, or get started with our finance department.
Helpful Links
Continue your research with these helpful pages: Outback inventory | Finance | Service | Contact | Subaru showroom
External Sources
This comparison page was informed by the following sources: Car and Driver comparison tool | Subaru | Toyota
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the 2026 Subaru Outback and 2026 Toyota Highlander?
The biggest difference is size and seating. The 2026 Subaru Outback is a two-row midsize SUV with seating for five, while the 2026 Toyota Highlander is a three-row midsize SUV that seats seven in the comparison trim shown here.
Which SUV has better towing capacity?
The 2026 Toyota Highlander has the towing advantage in the comparison data you provided, with up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity. The Subaru Outback offers up to 2,700 pounds in the base comparison trim and up to 3,500 pounds on Wilderness models.
Which SUV is more efficient?
In the EPA estimates you supplied, the 2026 Subaru Outback has the advantage with 27 combined mpg compared with an estimated 24 combined mpg for the 2026 Toyota Highlander.
Does the 2026 Subaru Outback have all-wheel drive?
Yes. In this comparison, the 2026 Subaru Outback comes with all-wheel drive, and the 2026 Toyota Highlander comparison trim also includes all-wheel drive.
Which SUV is better for off-road-minded drivers?
The Subaru Outback is the more adventure-oriented option in this matchup, especially in Wilderness trim. With up to 9.5 inches of ground clearance and Subaru's strong AWD reputation, it is better suited for shoppers who want a more trail-capable SUV.
Can I shop 2026 Subaru Outback inventory online?
Yes. You can explore new 2026 Subaru Outback inventory online at McCarthy Subaru of Lawrence, then contact our team for trim availability, financing questions, and next-step help.
Where is McCarthy Subaru of Lawrence located?
McCarthy Subaru of Lawrence is located at 2101 W 29th Terrace, Lawrence, KS 66047. You can reach the dealership at (785) 503-3297 for sales, service, finance, and inventory support.