On this page, we discuss the Subaru Ascent vs. Honda Pilot. Both iterations provide drivers with three rows of seating, strong fuel economy ratings, and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity with the proper equipment. As we shall see, however, the Ascent edges out the Pilot in terms of off-road capability, safety awards, and standard features – all at a more competitive starting value.
The Capital Subaru of Greenville team is here to answer your questions about the Ascent and its competition. Reach out to us today to learn more about this bold three-row SUV and schedule a test drive.
The first stop on our Subaru Ascent vs. Honda Pilot comparison is their powertrain and performance specs, including fuel economy ratings. We'll start with the Subaru Ascent, which is powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. The automobile comes with a continuously variable automatic transmission and Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD), allowing it to conquer difficult terrain. When properly equipped, it can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
The Honda Pilot has similar specs, though it does not come standard with AWD. The vehicle's 3.5-liter V-6 makes 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. With more horsepower and less torque, the cars provide comparable performance. Plus, while the Pilot can also tow 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, you have to spring for the more expensive AWD setup to achieve this.
When it comes to fuel economy, the Ascent has an edge on the Pilot. The vehicles have the same rating in their base forms – an EPA-estimated 22 MPG (Combined)1,2 – but if you equip the Pilot with AWD, its mileage rating drops to an EPA-estimated 21 MPG.2
Want better road visibility and the confidence to traverse rougher terrain with a lower chance of scraping the undercarriage of your SUV? The new Subaru Ascent also dominates in these areas, coming in with 8.7 inches of standard ground clearance vs. the 7.3 inches on the base Pilot.
| 2026 Subaru Ascent | 2026 Honda Pilot | |
|---|---|---|
| 2.4L 4-cyl | Engine | 3.5L V-6 |
| Symmetrical AWD | Standard Drivetrain | FWD |
| 8.7 in | Standard Ground Clearance | 7.3 in |
| 19 / 26 / 221 | Max EPA-est MPG (cty / hwy / comb) | 19 / 27 / 222 |
| 196.8 in | Length | 200.1-200.4 in |
| 76 in | Width (w/out mirrors) | 78.5 in |
| 71.6 in | Height | 70.9-72 in |
| 42.2 in | Front Legroom | 41 in |
| 41.2 in | Front Headroom | 40.5 in |
| 38.6 in | Second-Row Legroom | 40.8 in |
| 40 in | Second-Row Headroom | 40.2 in |
| 31.7 in | Third-Row Legroom | 32.5 in |
| 36.2 in | Third-Row Headroom | 39.3 in |
As you compare Subaru Ascent vs. Honda Pilot interior features across their respective trims, you'll find that the entry-level options both have heated front seats and a touchscreen for controlling your media, but the Ascent also comes with a heated steering wheel.
While the Subaru Ascent vs. Honda Pilot infotainment differences reveal that the Honda has a slightly larger touchscreen, these SUVs still share similar baseline technology, including wireless smartphone integration and Wi-Fi hotspot capability. However, when it comes to finding practical features you can rely on in our digital world, the Ascent is the better choice. Where the Pilot has a digital driver's display, the Ascent sticks with an analog display that has a timeless aesthetic, can be potentially easier to read, and doesn't suffer from any software lags or glitches.
| 2026 Subaru Ascent | 2026 Honda Pilot |
|---|---|
| Premium 8-Passenger | Sport |
| Premium 7-Passenger | EX-L |
| Limited 8-Passenger | TrailSport |
| Limited 7-Passenger | Touring |
| Limited Bronze Edition 7-Passenger | Touring Blackout |
| Touring 7-Passenger | Elite |
| Onyx Edition Touring 7-Passenger | Black Edition |
The new Subaru Ascent comes out victorious over the Pilot when we consider its standard Symmetrical AWD, better lineup of practical features, and adventure-ready specs. It also has a better safety rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.3
When you're ready to start driving one of these bold three-row SUVs, please contact Capital Subaru of Greenville to schedule a test drive.
We also offer competitive Subaru Ascent specials that can ease your path to the front seat. Our team can help you prepare a financing application or sign up for one of our lease specials. Either way, this confidence-inspiring model is ready to serve you and your loved ones faithfully.
The Ascent and Pilot have similar fuel economy ratings, although the Ascent outpaces the other with standard Symmetrical AWD. The Subaru scores an EPA-estimated 19/26/22 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).1 The Pilot gets up to an EPA-estimated 19/27/22 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)2 with front-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive variants earn an EPA-estimated 19/25/21 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).2
The Ascent and Pilot have similar safety ratings, but the Ascent does better when it comes to its Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awards: It won a 2026 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award,3 while the Pilot only scored an IIHS Top Safety Pick rating that rolled over from the 2025 model year.3
The Subaru Ascent is the vehicle better suited for off-road driving. First, it comes standard with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD), whereas this type of setup is standard only on higher-tier trims. Second, the Honda Pilot has a standard ground clearance of 7.3 inches, which is lower than the 8.7 inches enjoyed by every Ascent model.
1EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage will vary with driving conditions and your vehicle’s condition.
2Based on 2026 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, and other factors.
3Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org
