Honda Pilot vs Subaru Ascent: SUV Showdown
Choosing a family-friendly SUV involves comparing the Honda Pilot vs Subaru Ascent. Both are reliable, comfortable, and safe, making them great options for families.
In our showdown, we’ll cover engine performance, interior features, safety ratings, and value. The Honda Pilot has a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 285 horsepower.
The Subaru Ascent comes with a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine offering 260 horsepower. Both can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
We’ll dive into how these factors affect their performance. We’ll also look at interior comfort, focusing on passenger space and storage.
The Pilot leads in cargo space, with up to 87 cubic feet. However, the Ascent offers more headroom and cupholders, likely making it the top choice for some families.
Let’s compare their features closely. Keep reading as we highlight key details to help you decide between these two impressive SUVs.
Honda Pilot Overview
The Honda Pilot shines in the crowded SUV market because of its great performance, spacious interior, and top-notch safety scores.
It’s perfect for families and everyday driving. Let’s dive into its engine capabilities, interior perks, and safety tech that set it apart.
Engine and Performance
The Pilot packs a 3.5-liter V6 engine, giving a strong 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.
It works with a 10-speed automatic for smooth rides. Plus, it can tow up to 5,000 pounds, great for adventures.
Interior Features and Comfort
Inside, the Pilot has room for eight with comfy seats. It’s built with high-quality materials and cutting-edge tech.
You’ll find lots of space, 151.7 cubic feet, with seats down – perfect for big trips. The Touring models up have cool rear-seat entertainment, making long drives fun.
Safety Ratings and Technology
The Pilot is a leader in safety with outstanding features to keep everyone safe. It has Honda Sensing tech like collision braking, road departure help, and adaptive cruise control.
These give drivers and families more peace of mind while on the road.
Subaru Ascent Overview
The Subaru Ascent shines as a family-focused SUV, blending power, comfort, and safety.
This SUV stands out with its impressive mix of performance, comfy interiors, and top safety features. Let’s dive into the details of what the Subaru Ascent brings to the table.
Engine and Performance
The Subaru Ascent boasts a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine. It’s powerful, with 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.
The engine works with a CVT for better fuel efficiency. Thanks to all-wheel drive, it handles well on any road.
You’ll find it’s efficient too, with an EPA estimate of 20 MPG in cities, 26 MPG on highways, and 22 MPG combined.
Interior Features and Comfort
The interior of the Subaru Ascent is all about comfort. It can seat up to eight people, offering lots of space.
The first row alone has 41.2 inches of headroom and 42.2 inches of legroom. Tech-wise, the STARLINK system keeps you connected and entertained. Plus, with 19 cupholders, everyone’s drink is secure.
Safety Ratings and Technology
Safety is a key focus for the Subaru Ascent. It’s equipped with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, ensuring top safety levels.
This tech includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and pre-collision braking. You can feel secure knowing the Ascent is built to protect your family.
| Specification | Subaru Ascent | Honda Pilot |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.4L Turbocharged 4-cylinder | 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 260 hp | 285 hp |
| Torque | 277 lb-ft | 262 lb-ft |
| Fuel Economy (city/highway/combined) | 20/26/22 mpg | 19/27/22 mpg (FWD), 19/25/21 mpg (AWD) |
| Seating Capacity | 8 passengers | 8 passengers |
| Cargo Space (behind 3rd Row) | 17.8 cu ft | 18.6 cu ft |
| Safety Rating | IIHS Top Safety Pick+ | IIHS Top Safety Pick |
Honda Pilot vs Subaru Ascent: Key Differences
The Honda Pilot boasts a roomy inside and a strong engine. It’s perfect for families who want comfort on long trips. Its 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers 285 horsepower.
This outdoes the Subaru Ascent’s 2.4-liter turbo engine, which offers 260 horsepower. This engine performance makes the Pilot a top choice for everyday driving.
The Pilot offers more space in the second and third rows, giving it an edge in interior comfort. It provides 39.3 inches of third-row headroom while the Ascent has 36.2 inches.
The Pilot’s second-row legroom stands at 40.8 inches, more than the Ascent’s 38.6 inches. These measurements suggest the Pilot is better for passenger comfort on long travels.
Considering cargo room, the Honda Pilot leads with 87 cubic feet of space. The Subaru Ascent follows closely with 86.5 cubic feet.
Though the difference is slight, the Pilot’s extra space might be crucial for families carrying lots of luggage.
The Subaru Ascent has its strengths with standard all-wheel drive. It’s great for families who like off-road adventures and need a car that can handle bad weather.
With an 8.7-inch ground clearance, the Ascent is ready for outdoor fun, making it a solid pick for adventurous families. Pricing differs significantly between these two family SUVs.
The Honda Pilot’s starting price is $39,900. In contrast, the Subaru Ascent starts more affordably at $34,395.
Its lower beginning price and included safety features make the Ascent appealing for those watching their budget but still wanting a trustworthy vehicle.
| Feature | Honda Pilot | Subaru Ascent |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5-liter V6 | 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 285 hp | 260 hp |
| Third Row Headroom | 39.3 inches | 36.2 inches |
| Second Row Legroom | 40.8 inches | 38.6 inches |
| Maximum Cargo Space | 87.0 ft³ | 86.5 ft³ |
| Standard AWD | No (optional) | Yes |
| Starting Price | $39,900 | $34,395 |
Passenger Space Comparison
Families love SUVs for their roominess, and when comparing the Honda Pilot with the Subaru Ascent, space matters.
They both aim to keep families comfy, but they differ in the back seat space. It’s key to look at the space for heads and legs before buying one.
Third Row Comfort
The Honda Pilot stands out for room in the back row. It has 39.3 inches of space above and 32.5 inches for legs, making it great for grown-ups.
Getting in and out is easier too, which is nice for long trips. On the other hand, the Subaru Ascent has 36.2 inches of headspace.
It also has 31.7 inches for legs, which may feel tight for tall people during long journeys.
Legroom and Headroom
Overall, the Honda Pilot nails it with a good mix of leg and head space. It offers 40.5 inches of space above in the front and 41 inches for front legs.
This means the driver and front passenger can sit comfortably. The Ascent has more head space in the back but not as much leg space.
So, for family trips, the Pilot might be the better choice for keeping everyone happy.
| Measurement | Honda Pilot | Subaru Ascent |
|---|---|---|
| Third Row Headroom | 39.3 inches | 36.2 inches |
| Third Row Legroom | 32.5 inches | 31.7 inches |
| Front Headroom | 40.5 inches | 41.2 inches |
| Front Legroom | 41 inches | 42.2 inches |
| Passenger Volume | Total volume unknown | 153.2 cubic feet |
Cargo Capacity and Utility
Choosing the right SUV for your family is important. Cargo capacity and utility are key factors.
The Honda Pilot and Subaru Ascent offer great storage. But, they meet different family needs. This insight is crucial for making the right choice.
Storage Space Comparison
The Honda Pilot has a big cargo area of 87 cubic feet with the back seats down. This space is perfect for big items like sports gear and luggage.
On the other hand, the Subaru Ascent has a slightly smaller space of 75.6 cubic feet. While still good, it’s less than the Pilot. This might be an issue for families with more to carry.
Family-Friendly Features
Both SUVs are designed with families in mind. However, the Honda Pilot stands out with special storage places.
It has underfloor spots, pockets behind seats, and bins in the front. These features make everyday use better. It also has wide rear doors for easy access for kids.
The Subaru Ascent has storage pockets and cup holders too. But, it doesn’t have the unique features found in the Pilot.
| Model | Cargo Capacity (cubic feet) | Family Utility Features |
|---|---|---|
| Honda Pilot | 87 | Underfloor storage, seatback pockets, ample cup holders |
| Subaru Ascent | 75.6 | Standard storage pockets, cup holders |
Fuel Economy: Finding Efficiency
Choosing between the Honda Pilot and Subaru Ascent? Fuel economy is key for savings. Look at MPG ratings to decide wisely, especially for regular SUV use.
City and Highway MPG Ratings
| Vehicle | City MPG | Highway MPG |
|---|---|---|
| Honda Pilot | 19 | 25-27 (varies by trim) |
| Subaru Ascent | 19-20 (varies by trim) | 25-26 (varies by trim) |
The Honda Pilot gets 19 MPG in the city and up to 27 on the highway, depending on the model.
The Subaru Ascent does a bit better in the city, with up to 20 MPG. Its highway MPG is between 25 and 26.
Long-Term Cost Considerations
Good fuel economy matters for saving money. Choosing an SUV with better MPG can mean big savings, especially as fuel prices go up.
If you travel a lot, like for family trips, the cost difference adds up. The Subaru Ascent, better in the city, could save you more money for daily drives.
Performance and Powertrain Analysis
The Honda Pilot and Subaru Ascent have different engines, which changes how they drive and their uses. The Pilot’s 3.5-liter V6 engine makes 280 horsepower.
It’s great for daily use and can tow heavy loads, perfect for family needs. The Ascent, though, has a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine.
It offers 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Its all-wheel drive helps it handle better in bad weather, blending power with fuel efficiency.
The larger engine in the Honda Pilot might use more fuel. However, the Subaru Ascent is more fuel-efficient over long distances.
The Pilot’s big, welcoming interior fits up to eight people, ideal for big families. Both the Pilot and Ascent have solid safety features.
But, the Ascent includes things like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control as standard.
In the Pilot, you need higher trims to get many safety features. This makes the Ascent’s safety features stand out for families.
Driving Experience: Handling and Comfort
The Honda Pilot and Subaru Ascent offer different driving experiences due to their designs.
Both aim to give drivers comfort and performance to match their style. Whether you like a lively drive or a soothing journey, each SUV has its strengths.
Road Performance and Ride Quality
The Honda Pilot is praised for its calm and serene ride, perfect for long trips. It’s cushy but expect more sway in turns due to its size.
This might change its handling compared to the Subaru, known for its prowess on curvy roads. The Subaru Ascent shines with its lively and agile handling.
It’s great at taking corners, appealing to those who love a spirited drive. Its sharp road handling makes it a top pick for dynamic driving lovers.
Off-Road Capabilities
The Subaru Ascent leads in off-roading with its robust features for tough terrains. With its reliable all-wheel drive, it boosts confidence on trails and in snow.
It’s perfect for adventure-seekers and families who love the outdoors. The Honda Pilot, though not built for extreme off-road, manages well on milder terrains.
It assures a smooth ride on roads, making it ideal for daily use and family outings.
| Feature | Honda Pilot | Subaru Ascent |
|---|---|---|
| Ride Quality | Smooth, quiet | Responsive, agile |
| Handling | More body roll | Superior on winding roads |
| Off-Road Capabilities | Light off-road capable | Designed for rugged terrain |
| Ground Clearance | Not specified | Excellent traction with AWD |
| Comfort | Large SUV feel | Compact agile feel |
Pricing and Value For Money
When talking about the Honda Pilot and Subaru Ascent, it’s important to look at the prices and what each model offers.
This includes looking at different versions, called trims, and how much they cost to own. Let’s dive into these details now.
Price Comparisons Across Trims
The Honda Pilot starts at around $40,200, which is more expensive than the Subaru Ascent’s starting price of about $34,395.
This shows the Subaru Ascent is more affordable from the start. Let’s explore the prices for their recent model years:
| Model | 2021 Pricing Range | 2025 Pricing Range |
|---|---|---|
| Honda Pilot | $26,452 – $37,200 | $41,454 – $54,880 |
| Subaru Ascent | $25,878 – $35,994 | $37,997 – $50,715 |
Cost of Ownership
It’s also key to think about each SUV’s cost of ownership. The Honda Pilot usually has a higher resale value, making it a good choice for long-term ownership.
It keeps about 0.5% more of its value than the Subaru Ascent. This shows the Honda Pilot is seen as very reliable.
The depreciation rates of these two are close, with the Honda Pilot at 43.6% and the Subaru Ascent at 44.1% over five years.
Considering cost, features, reliability, and safety is important:
| Model | 5-Year Deprecation Rate | Reliability Score | Safety Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honda Pilot | 43.6% | 9.17/10 | 9.0/10 |
| Subaru Ascent | 44.1% | 7.75/10 | 10.0/10 |
Understanding these details about pricing and value will help you choose the best option for your budget and lifestyle.
Safety Features: Family-Focused
The Honda Pilot and Subaru Ascent are great for keeping families safe. The Pilot has the Honda Sensing suite. This includes collision braking and road departure assistance.
However, it could do better in some tests. It got an Acceptable in the small front test and a Marginal in the side test.
On the other hand, the Subaru Ascent is an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. It did well in most tests, thanks to its safety features. It has EyeSight technology.
This includes adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist, protecting everyone inside. Both SUVs aim to protect families on the road.
The Ascent does better in making child seats easy to install. And while both have great safety aids, the Ascent gives families more confidence for their journeys.
Looking at space, the Ascent fits up to eight people. It also has more cup holders – 19 compared to the Pilot’s 14. Both offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
But the Ascent includes these without any extra cost, unlike the Pilot. In conclusion, the Honda Pilot and Subaru Ascent both focus on keeping families safe.
The Pilot has helpful Honda Sensing tech. But the Ascent, with its EyeSight system and top IIHS scores, offers more peace of mind on the road.
Consumer Reviews and Feedback
Reading what real users say gives us a clear picture of the Honda Pilot and Subaru Ascent. Their reviews point out the strong and weak points of these SUVs for families.
Knowing what people experience can help decide which car is best for safety and reliability.
Real-World Experiences
The Honda Pilot gets a lot of praise for being reliable and having plenty of room for families.
Its AWD system is also liked for making the car perform well, even in bad weather. People enjoy driving it on long trips because it’s so comfortable.
However, the Subaru Ascent has some criticisms. These mostly concern how hard it is to use and the space in the third row.
But, if you don’t use the third row often, 9 out of 10 reviewers think it’s good enough.
Brand Loyalty and Reliability
People often stick with the Honda Pilot because it has a history of being reliable. But, some people are thinking twice about Subaru because of problems with models from 2020 and 2021.
Subaru fans stick around for its toughness, even though there are worries about the CVT’s reliability.
Some Subarus have had stalling problems, but there were no recalls, just repair notices.
Picking a Honda Pilot from 2019 or later could mean better technology and performance. This makes people trust the Honda brand more.
Conclusion
When looking at the Honda Pilot vs Subaru Ascent, think about what your family needs most.
The Pilot is great for those who want a lot of room. It has 151.7 cubic feet for passengers and 83.8 cubic feet for stuff. This makes it perfect for comfy long trips.
The Ascent, with a bit more room at 153.5 cubic feet, is better for those who love outdoor adventures.
The fuel usage of both SUVs is about the same. Though the Pilot costs more to buy, it holds its value well. This is good news for when you might sell it later.
On the other hand, the Ascent is priced lower, at $44,711, but it’s still a strong and reliable choice. This makes it great for people watching their budget.
This comparison shows what’s important when picking a family SUV. Maybe you prefer the Pilot for its space and comfort.
Or the Ascent might be more your style, with its readiness for off-roading and its safety features.
Now you know what each offers. Both the Honda Pilot and Subaru Ascent can make family road trips better.
FAQs
What is the engine specification for the Honda Pilot?
The Honda Pilot has a 3.5-liter V6 engine. It creates 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This is coupled with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
How does the Subaru Ascent’s fuel economy compare to the Honda Pilot?
The Subaru Ascent gets 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The Honda Pilot has 19 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway.
Which SUV has better cargo capacity?
The Honda Pilot provides 87 cubic feet of space with seats down. It beats the Subaru Ascent’s 75.6 cubic feet.
What safety features does the Honda Pilot include?
The Honda Pilot includes the Honda Sensing suite. It features collision mitigation, road departure mitigation, and adaptive cruise control. These enhance driver safety.
Is all-wheel drive standard on the Subaru Ascent?
Yes, all-wheel drive comes standard on the Subaru Ascent. This improves its performance in various driving conditions.
How does passenger comfort in the third row compare between the Honda Pilot and Subaru Ascent?
The Honda Pilot offers 39.3 inches of headroom and 32.5 inches of legroom in the third row. This is more spacious for adults than the Subaru Ascent, with 36.2 inches of headroom and 31.7 inches of legroom.
What is the starting price for these SUVs?
The Honda Pilot’s starting price is about ,200. The Subaru Ascent starts at a lower price of roughly ,395.
Which SUV is better for off-road capabilities?
The Subaru Ascent is superior for off-roading thanks to its all-wheel drive. This gives it better control and agility on tough terrains than the Honda Pilot.
