Ascent vs. Grand Highlander vs. Telluride
2027 Subaru Ascent vs. Toyota Grand Highlander vs. Kia Telluride
3-Row SUV ComparisonNeed room for seven or eight? The Subaru Ascent, Toyota Grand Highlander and redesigned Kia Telluride are three of the top three-row family SUVs. Compare them side by side before your next family trip from Memphis, Germantown and Collierville.
Side-by-Side Specs
| Spec | Subaru Ascent | Toyota Grand Highlander | Kia Telluride |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP (excl. destination) | $40,795 | $41,360 (LE FWD) | $39,190 (LX FWD) |
| Engine | 2.4L turbo Boxer 4-cyl | 2.4L turbo 4-cyl (hybrids available) | 2.5L turbo 4-cyl (hybrid available) |
| Horsepower | 260 hp | 265 hp | 274 hp |
| EPA MPG (city/hwy/comb) | 19/25/21 | 21/27/23 (AWD) | 20 combined (AWD) |
| All-wheel drive | Standard | Optional | Optional |
| Seating | 7 or 8 | 7 or 8 | 7 or 8 |
Starting MSRP (excl. destination) shown for base trims. Specs and pricing were current as of November 2026 and may change; see Jim Keras Subaru Hacks Cross for current pricing and availability.
Why drivers choose the Subaru Ascent
- All-wheel drive is standard on every Ascent; the Grand Highlander and Telluride charge extra for it.
- 260 hp turbocharged Boxer engine with 277 lb-ft of torque and up to 5,000 lb towing.
- Available in 7- or 8-passenger configurations, including the Limited Bronze and Onyx editions.
- EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is standard.
When a competitor might fit better
- Choose the Grand Highlander if you want a hybrid three-row SUV from a long-established nameplate.
- Choose the Telluride if you want the newest design and an available 329 hp hybrid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Subaru Ascent have all-wheel drive?
Yes. Every 2027 Ascent comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. The Grand Highlander and Telluride start with front-wheel drive.
How much can the Ascent tow?
Properly equipped, the Subaru Ascent can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Drive the Subaru Ascent yourself
See it in person at Jim Keras Subaru Hacks Cross on Hacks Cross Road, serving Memphis, Germantown and Collierville.
Sources: Subaru of America 2027 Ascent pricing; Toyota 2026 Grand Highlander pricing; Kia America 2027 Telluride pricing; EPA ratings via KBB and Cars.com. MSRP excludes tax, title, license, options and dealer fees unless noted. EPA estimates for comparison only; actual mileage and range will vary.
