2019 Subaru Ascent vs 2019 Toyota 4Runner
Overview | |
MSRP$31,995 | MSRP$35,310 |
Listings633 | Listings971 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews8.0 out of 10 | Expert reviews7.2 out of 10 |
Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
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2019 Subaru Ascent Reviews SummaryThere are certain vehicle types every major automaker needs to offer if they plan to be taken seriously. The largest automakers are able to offer a full spread of vehicles, from sports cars to full-size trucks. Not every automaker will be able to fulfill every vehicle segment, but if you are a growing automaker, offering a 3-row family-hauling SUV is a must. Because of this, the 3-row segment is getting pretty saturated. From cornerstone vehicles like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder, and Ford Explorer to alternatives like the Kia Sorento, Buick Enclave, Chevy Traverse, Dodge Durango, Mazda CX-9, Volkswagen Atlas, and Hyundai Santa Fe, the list of 3-row SUVs seems exhaustive… because it is! Enter the 2019 Subaru Ascent. Like all the vehicles listed here, it is a midsize SUV capable of seating 7 or 8 passengers, depending on the configuration. It's clearly designed for families, and it begs the question: How does this newcomer stand out in such a crowded space? | |
2019 Toyota 4Runner Reviews SummaryIf you’re in the market for a modern SUV capable of getting off the beaten path, you have only a handful of options. These include the 2- and 4-door Jeep Wranglers, the Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk, the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk, the Land Rover Range Rover, and the Toyota 4Runner. Of those, only the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited and the 4Runner are 4-door SUVs that put off-road grit above all else. While the Jeep Wrangler is only one year removed from a complete redesign that brought in many new technologies, the 2019 Toyota 4Runner is based on a design first introduced in 2009. For those keeping score at home, that means the DNA underpinning the 4Runner is a decade old. Yet picking which vehicle I’d choose as a daily drivable, off-road-capable SUV is a surprisingly difficult decision. So where does an old goat like the 2019 Toyota 4Runner fit in the modern SUV market? Interestingly, the 4Runner's advanced age actually helps it in some respects. | |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine2.4L 260 hp H4 | Engine4.0L 270 hp V6 |
Drive TrainAWD | Drive Train4X2 |
Seating Capacity8 | Seating Capacity7 |
Horsepower260 hp @ 5600 rpm | Horsepower270 hp @ 5600 rpm |
MPG City21 | MPG City17 |
MPG Highway27 | MPG Highway21 |
Engine | |
Engine Name2.4L 260 hp H4 | Engine Name4.0L 270 hp V6 |
Torque277 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm | Torque278 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm |
Horsepower260 hp @ 5600 rpm | Horsepower270 hp @ 5600 rpm |
DrivetrainAWD | Drivetrain4X2 |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City21 | MPG City17 |
MPG Highway27 | MPG Highway21 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity8 | Seating Capacity7 |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall5 | Front Crash Overall4 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space17.8 cu ft | Cargo Space47.2 cu ft |
Curb Weight4430 lbs | Curb Weight4400 lbs |
Height71.6 in | Height71.5 in |
Length196.8 in | Length190.2 in |
Width85.7 in | Width75.8 in |
Wheelbase113.8 in | Wheelbase109.8 in |
Maximum Payload1570 lbs | Maximum Payload1700 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity2000 lbs | Maximum Towing Capacity5000 lbs |
Standard Towing Capacity | Standard Towing Capacity5000 lbs |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $31,995 | $35,310 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 8.0 out of 10Read full review | 7.2 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
|
Summary | There are certain vehicle types every major automaker needs to offer if they plan to be taken seriously. The largest automakers are able to offer a full spread of vehicles, from sports cars to full-size trucks. Not every automaker will be able to fulfill every vehicle segment, but if you are a growing automaker, offering a 3-row family-hauling SUV is a must. Because of this, the 3-row segment is getting pretty saturated. From cornerstone vehicles like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder, and Ford Explorer to alternatives like the Kia Sorento, Buick Enclave, Chevy Traverse, Dodge Durango, Mazda CX-9, Volkswagen Atlas, and Hyundai Santa Fe, the list of 3-row SUVs seems exhaustive… because it is! Enter the 2019 Subaru Ascent. Like all the vehicles listed here, it is a midsize SUV capable of seating 7 or 8 passengers, depending on the configuration. It's clearly designed for families, and it begs the question: How does this newcomer stand out in such a crowded space? | If you’re in the market for a modern SUV capable of getting off the beaten path, you have only a handful of options. These include the 2- and 4-door Jeep Wranglers, the Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk, the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk, the Land Rover Range Rover, and the Toyota 4Runner. Of those, only the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited and the 4Runner are 4-door SUVs that put off-road grit above all else. While the Jeep Wrangler is only one year removed from a complete redesign that brought in many new technologies, the 2019 Toyota 4Runner is based on a design first introduced in 2009. For those keeping score at home, that means the DNA underpinning the 4Runner is a decade old. Yet picking which vehicle I’d choose as a daily drivable, off-road-capable SUV is a surprisingly difficult decision. So where does an old goat like the 2019 Toyota 4Runner fit in the modern SUV market? Interestingly, the 4Runner's advanced age actually helps it in some respects. |
Video | ||
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 2.4L 260 hp H4 | 4.0L 270 hp V6 |
Drive Train | AWD | 4X2 |
Seating Capacity | 8 | 7 |
Horsepower | 260 hp @ 5600 rpm | 270 hp @ 5600 rpm |
MPG City | 21 | 17 |
MPG Highway | 27 | 21 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 2.4L 260 hp H4 | 4.0L 270 hp V6 |
Torque | 277 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm | 278 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm |
Horsepower | 260 hp @ 5600 rpm | 270 hp @ 5600 rpm |
Drivetrain | AWD | 4X2 |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 21 | 17 |
MPG Highway | 27 | 21 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 8 | 7 |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 5 | 4 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 17.8 cu ft | 47.2 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 4430 lbs | 4400 lbs |
Height | 71.6 in | 71.5 in |
Length | 196.8 in | 190.2 in |
Width | 85.7 in | 75.8 in |
Wheelbase | 113.8 in | 109.8 in |
Maximum Payload | 1570 lbs | 1700 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 2000 lbs | 5000 lbs |
Standard Towing Capacity | 5000 lbs | |
The 2019 Subaru Ascent, rated 8 out of 10 by CarGurus experts, offers a spacious and stylish design with a commanding presence, ample cargo and passenger space, and the latest infotainment and driver-assistance technologies. It features a wheelbase of 113.8 inches, making it the largest Subaru passenger vehicle ever built, and provides a comfortable and well-equipped interior across its trim levels.
The 2019 Toyota 4Runner, rated 7 out of 10, boasts a rugged and capable appearance, with a design focused on off-road performance. It offers a more traditional SUV look and feel, with a focus on practicality and proven off-road capabilities.
















CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Subaru Ascent 7 out of 10 for performance, highlighting its turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder boxer engine, all-wheel drive, and impressive towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. The Ascent provides a smooth and responsive driving experience, making it suitable for both city and highway driving.
The 2019 Toyota 4Runner receives a performance rating of 9 out of 10, emphasizing its proven 4.0-liter V6 engine, off-road capabilities, and towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. The 4Runner delivers a rugged and reliable performance, ideal for off-road enthusiasts and those seeking a traditional SUV driving experience.
The 2019 Subaru Ascent, rated 8 out of 10, offers a spacious and versatile interior, with ample legroom and headroom in the first and second rows. It provides impressive cargo space, making it suitable for family trips and daily use.
The 2019 Toyota 4Runner, also rated 8 out of 10, provides a fully enclosed cabin with generous interior space, offering ample head- and legroom for both front and rear passengers. It also boasts substantial cargo space, making it a practical choice for various activities and adventures.
The 2019 Subaru Ascent, rated 8 out of 10 for technology, comes equipped with Subaru’s StarLink infotainment system, offering user-friendly interfaces, smartphone integration, and optional premium audio and navigation features.
The 2019 Toyota 4Runner, rated 6 out of 10, features a basic yet straightforward infotainment system, lacking modern connectivity options such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, it provides essential features for navigation and smartphone integration.
CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Subaru Ascent 9 out of 10 for safety, highlighting its comprehensive suite of standard and available safety features, including Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist technology, ensuring peace of mind for all occupants.
The 2019 Toyota 4Runner receives a safety rating of 6 out of 10, offering standard safety features but lacking advanced driver-assist technologies found in many modern vehicles.
CarGurus highlights

Based on the ratings and comparisons, the 2019 Subaru Ascent emerges as the more well-rounded and family-friendly choice, offering a spacious and comfortable interior, advanced safety features, and modern technology. It provides a compelling blend of practicality, versatility, and value, making it an ideal option for families and individuals seeking a capable and refined 3-row SUV.
Choose the 2019 Subaru Ascent if:
- You prioritize advanced safety features and driver-assist technologies.
- You seek a versatile and spacious interior with modern infotainment options.
- You value a well-rounded and family-friendly 3-row SUV with competitive pricing.
Choose the 2019 Toyota 4Runner if:
- You are an off-road enthusiast and prioritize proven off-road capabilities.
- You prefer a rugged and traditional SUV design with ample cargo space.
- You seek a reliable and adventure-ready vehicle with a focus on practicality and durability.
CarGurus highlights

Based on the ratings and comparisons, the 2019 Subaru Ascent emerges as the more well-rounded and family-friendly choice, offering a spacious and comfortable interior, advanced safety features, and modern technology. It provides a compelling blend of practicality, versatility, and value, making it an ideal option for families and individuals seeking a capable and refined 3-row SUV.
Choose the 2019 Subaru Ascent if:
Shop Now- You prioritize advanced safety features and driver-assist technologies.
- You seek a versatile and spacious interior with modern infotainment options.
- You value a well-rounded and family-friendly 3-row SUV with competitive pricing.
Choose the 2019 Toyota 4Runner if:
Shop Now- You are an off-road enthusiast and prioritize proven off-road capabilities.
- You prefer a rugged and traditional SUV design with ample cargo space.
- You seek a reliable and adventure-ready vehicle with a focus on practicality and durability.

By: CarGurus + AI
At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.






































