Billy Covington When it comes to choosing an SUV, safety is a top priority for most buyers. Two popular models in the market are the Subaru Forester and the Toyota Highlander. Both SUVs have a reputation for being safe and reliable on the road. But which one is safer? In this article, we will compare the safety features of the Subaru Forester and Toyota Highlander, using data-driven insights from crash-test results, available safety features, and consumer reviews.
Key Takeaways
- The Subaru Forester and Toyota Highlander have both received high safety ratings from reputable organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- Both SUVs come with a suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking.
- The Subaru Forester is equipped with standard all-wheel drive, which provides better traction and stability on slippery roads.
- The Toyota Highlander has a larger and more spacious cabin compared to the Subaru Forester, making it a better option for families with more passengers and cargo.
Crash Test Results
The NHTSA and IIHS are two of the most reputable organizations that conduct crash tests to evaluate the safety of vehicles. Both the Subaru Forester and Toyota Highlander have received high safety ratings from these organizations.
The 2021 Subaru Forester received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. The SUV scored five stars in frontal crash tests, side crash tests, and rollover tests. The IIHS also gave the Forester a "Top Safety Pick+" rating, the highest possible rating for safety. The Forester received the highest rating of "Good" in all crash tests conducted by the IIHS.
The 2021 Toyota Highlander also received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. The Highlander scored five stars in frontal crash tests, side crash tests, and rollover tests. The IIHS gave the Highlander a "Top Safety Pick" rating, which is slightly lower than the Forester’s rating. The Highlander received the highest rating of "Good" in most crash tests conducted by the IIHS, except for the passenger-side small overlap front test, in which it received an "Acceptable" rating.
Overall, both the Subaru Forester and Toyota Highlander have very high safety ratings and are considered to be among the safest SUVs in their class.
Available Safety Features
Both the Subaru Forester and Toyota Highlander come with a suite of advanced safety features that are designed to prevent accidents and protect passengers in the event of a crash. Some of the key safety features available in both SUVs are:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane departure warning
- Pre-collision braking
- Blind spot detection
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Automatic high beams
In addition to these features, the Subaru Forester comes with standard all-wheel drive, which provides better traction and stability on slippery roads. The Toyota Highlander comes with front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available as an optional upgrade. The all-wheel drive system in the Highlander is designed to improve traction and handling in all weather conditions.
Consumer Reviews
Consumer reviews are an important source of information for buyers who are considering purchasing a vehicle. According to consumer reviews on websites such as Edmunds and Consumer Reports, both the Subaru Forester and Toyota Highlander are well-liked by owners for their safety features and overall reliability.
The Subaru Forester is praised for its excellent visibility, spacious cabin, and standard all-wheel drive. Some owners also appreciate the Forester’s fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs. However, some reviewers have criticized the Forester for its lackluster acceleration and unrefined engine noise.
The Toyota Highlander is praised for its comfortable ride, spacious cabin, and smooth handling. Owners appreciate the Highlander’s advanced safety features and strong resale value. However, some reviewers have criticized the Highlander for its fuel economy and lack of storage space.
Conclusion
Overall, both the Subaru Forester and Toyota Highlander are safe and reliable SUVs that offer advanced safety features and high crash-test ratings. The Forester has standard all-wheel drive, which gives it an advantage in traction and stability on slippery roads. The Highlander, on the other hand, has a more spacious cabin and is a better option for larger families with more passengers and cargo.
Ultimately, the choice between the two SUVs will depend on personal preferences and needs. Buyers who prioritize safety, fuel efficiency, and affordability may prefer the Subaru Forester, while those who prioritize space, comfort, and luxury may prefer the Toyota Highlander.
FAQ
Is the Subaru Forester or Toyota Highlander safer?
Both the Subaru Forester and Toyota Highlander are considered to be among the safest SUVs in their class. Both SUVs have received high safety ratings from reputable organizations such as the NHTSA and IIHS.
What are some of the key safety features available in the Subaru Forester and Toyota Highlander?
Both the Subaru Forester and Toyota Highlander come with a suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, pre-collision braking, blind spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high beams.
Does the Subaru Forester have all-wheel drive?
Yes, the Subaru Forester comes with standard all-wheel drive, which provides better traction and stability on slippery roads.
Is the Toyota Highlander good for families?
Yes, the Toyota Highlander is a good option for families with more passengers and cargo. The SUV has a larger and more spacious cabin compared to the Subaru Forester.
