Choosing the right SUV for your family can be a daunting task, especially with so many excellent options on the market. Two popular contenders in the midsize SUV segment are the Honda Pilot and the Subaru Ascent. Both vehicles offer three-row seating, robust performance, and a suite of features designed for family comfort and safety. But when it comes to Honda Pilot Vs Subaru Ascent, which SUV truly comes out on top? Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Aesthetics: Pilot’s Appeal vs. Ascent’s Functionality
When it comes to initial impressions, the Honda Pilot often edges out the Ascent in terms of pure aesthetics. Many find the Pilot’s styling more conventionally appealing. However, the Subaru Ascent compensates with a design that prioritizes functionality.
Alt text: Subaru Ascent front quarter view showcasing its functional SUV design.
The Ascent’s design emphasizes practicality, particularly in terms of visibility.
Visibility: Ascent Offers a Clearer View
Visibility is a critical aspect for any SUV, especially when navigating crowded streets or maneuvering in tight parking spaces. Here, the Subaru Ascent takes a clear lead. The Ascent’s lower sloped hood, larger windows, and strategically placed mirrors contribute to superior visibility compared to the Honda Pilot. This design choice enhances driver confidence and safety, making the Ascent a more user-friendly vehicle in various driving conditions.
Alt text: Honda Pilot side profile highlighting its styling and general SUV proportions.
Reliability: A Close Call
Reliability is paramount for SUV buyers. Historically, both Honda and Subaru have enjoyed strong reputations for building dependable vehicles. The Subaru Ascent, while having faced some initial issues in its early years, has seemingly ironed out most kinks according to owner reports and reliability surveys.
The 2023 Honda Pilot, however, represents a more significant unknown in terms of long-term reliability. It features a complete redesign and a brand-new engine and likely drivetrain. While Honda’s engineering prowess is generally trustworthy, any new powertrain introduces a degree of uncertainty. For now, the Ascent holds a slight edge in proven reliability, but the long-term dependability of the redesigned Pilot remains to be seen.
Technology and Features: Pilot’s Modern Edge
In the technology department, the Honda Pilot appears to have a more contemporary approach. Subaru has been criticized for its move towards eliminating physical buttons in favor of touchscreen-centric interfaces, a trend that has proven unpopular with many drivers. Honda, with the latest Pilot, strikes a better balance by offering a large touchscreen display while retaining physical controls for essential functions. Furthermore, the Pilot boasts a full digital instrument display in its higher trims, a feature previously absent in the Ascent and desired by many modern SUV buyers.
Off-Road Prowess: Pilot Trailsport vs. Ascent’s Standard AWD
For those seeking adventure beyond paved roads, both SUVs offer capable all-wheel-drive systems. Subaru’s symmetrical AWD system is renowned for its effectiveness and comes standard on all Ascent models. The Honda Pilot, while offering AWD, features a more advanced system with active torque vectoring in its higher trims, capable of sending more power to the rear wheels for enhanced traction.
Alt text: Honda Pilot Trailsport model demonstrating off-road capabilities on a dirt trail.
The Pilot further distinguishes itself with the Trailsport trim, a genuinely off-road-oriented version. The Trailsport includes features like double weight-rated recovery points, heavy-duty skid plates, all-terrain tires, and a full-size spare tire, making it significantly more capable off-road than the standard Pilot or any current Subaru Ascent trim. While a Subaru Ascent Wilderness version is anticipated, its absence currently gives the Pilot Trailsport a distinct advantage for off-road enthusiasts.
Cargo and Space: Pilot’s Potential Advantage
Assessing cargo space precisely can be tricky as manufacturers’ published figures can sometimes be misleading. However, based on exterior dimensions, the Honda Pilot is demonstrably larger than the Subaru Ascent. This suggests that the Pilot likely offers more cargo capacity, potentially at the cost of slightly reduced ground clearance. For families prioritizing maximum cargo volume for luggage, gear, and groceries, the Pilot may offer a more spacious interior.
Value Proposition: Ascent’s Strong Suit
Value is a crucial factor for many SUV buyers, and here the Subaru Ascent traditionally excels. While official pricing for the latest Honda Pilot is still emerging, early indications suggest it will be priced at a premium. The Subaru Ascent has consistently been recognized for offering excellent value in the midsize SUV segment. Considering potential discounts and Subaru’s VIP pricing program, an equivalently equipped Ascent is likely to be significantly more affordable than a comparable Honda Pilot. This price difference makes the Ascent a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking maximum value for their money.
Verdict: Pilot for Features, Ascent for Value
In the Honda Pilot vs Subaru Ascent debate, there isn’t a single definitive winner. The ideal choice depends heavily on individual priorities. The Honda Pilot emerges as the winner if price is disregarded. It offers a more modern tech suite, potentially greater cargo space, and a genuinely capable off-road trim in the Trailsport.
However, if value is a primary concern, the Subaru Ascent presents a very strong case. It offers comparable practicality, proven reliability, superior visibility, and standard AWD at a likely lower price point. For many families, the Subaru Ascent’s value proposition will be the deciding factor, making it a highly appealing and sensible choice in the competitive midsize SUV market. For buyers prioritizing features and brand-new design, and willing to pay potentially more, the Pilot might be more attractive. Ultimately, test driving both vehicles is recommended to determine which SUV best fits your specific needs and preferences.
