SUMMARY
- Families comparing the Subaru Ascent vs Honda Pilot will find both three-row SUVs practical, yet the 2025 Subaru Ascent proves stronger overall.
- The Ascent offers standard AWD, superior torque, better city efficiency, advanced technology, and excellent comfort, making it the best mid-size SUV choice.
- For drivers wanting reliability, value, and expert support, visiting Findlay Subaru of Las Vegas ensures the best guidance and latest Ascent models.
Also Read: Comparing the 2025 Subaru Ascent vs Toyota Highlander
When choosing the best mid-size SUV for family life, adventure, and everyday driving, the 2025 Subaru Ascent and Honda Pilot are often top contenders. Both feature three rows of seating, impressive towing capabilities, and a variety of family-friendly amenities. This article offers a detailed 2025 Subaru Ascent vs Honda Pilot comparison, highlighting key aspects like performance, interior features, safety, technology, and overall value. Potential buyers will find this guide useful in making an informed decision, whether shopping locally at Findlay Subaru of Las Vegas or elsewhere.
Performance and Capability
In a 2025 Subaru Ascent vs Honda Pilot comparison, engine and drivetrain differences shape the driving experience.
● 2025 Subaru Ascent offers a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four engine generating around 260-266 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with a CVT transmission and comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD).
● The Honda Pilot provides a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Its transmission is a 10-speed automatic, and it comes standard with front-wheel drive (FWD), with AWD optional.
Although the Pilot makes slightly more horsepower, the Ascent pulls ahead with more torque and the advantage of standard AWD across all trims. This makes the Ascent more capable in adverse road conditions and off-road scenarios.
Both SUVs can tow up to 5,000 pounds, but the Pilot only achieves this towing capacity with AWD; otherwise, towing capacity drops to 3,500 pounds.
Fuel efficiency slightly favors the Ascent with 20 MPG city and 26 MPG highway compared to the Pilot’s 19 MPG city and 27 MPG highway. The Ascent also provides 8.7 inches of ground clearance versus the Pilot’s 7.3 inches, making it more trail-ready.
Summary
● 2025 Subaru Ascent: Turbocharged engine, 260-266 hp, 277 lb-ft torque, standard AWD, 5,000 lbs towing.
● Honda Pilot: V6 engine, 285 hp, 262 lb-ft torque, standard FWD, AWD optional, towing up to 5,000 lbs with AWD.
● Better towing and off-road readiness with Subaru Ascent.
● Slight fuel economy edge for Ascent in city driving.
Interior Comfort and Cargo Space
Both SUVs offer three-row seating for up to eight passengers. The 2025 Subaru Ascent emphasizes passenger comfort with superior front headroom, front legroom, and increased hip room in the third row compared to the Honda Pilot. Families will find long trips more comfortable in the Ascent.
Cargo Capacity
● 2025 Subaru Ascent: 17.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to about 76 cubic feet with seats folded.
● Honda Pilot: 18.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding up to 112 cubic feet with seats folded, though maximizing cargo reduces passenger space.
The Ascent also provides 19 cup holders compared to the Pilot’s 14 — a small but useful feature for families on the go.
Technology and Infotainment
Technology plays a big role in the comparison, especially for modern families looking for connectivity and convenience on the road.
● 2025 Subaru Ascent: Comes standard with an 11.6-inch touchscreen featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims add a Harman Kardon audio system, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, and tri-zone automatic climate control.
● Honda Pilot: Base models include a smaller 7-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Wireless connectivity requires upgrading to higher trims, and infotainment features are generally less advanced than the Ascent’s.
Overall, the Ascent delivers more value through standard technology, creating a better connected driving experience without extra costs.
Safety Features
Safety is a top priority for families, and both models perform well.
● 2025 Subaru Ascent: Comes standard with EyeSight Driver Assistance, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, pre-collision braking, and blind-spot detection.
● Honda Pilot: Offers Honda Sensing, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, traffic jam assist, and collision mitigation braking.
Both earn strong crash test ratings, but the Ascent’s standard AWD adds another layer of safety in rain, snow, or rough terrain.
Reliability and Warranty
Reliability plays a big role in long-term ownership. The 2025 Subaru Ascent holds a higher J.D. Power quality and reliability rating compared to the Honda Pilot. Both vehicles can last 200,000 miles or more with proper care, but Subaru includes a wear item limited warranty that Honda does not.
Both SUVs offer similar coverage with a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Subaru’s extra warranty coverage provides an advantage.
Pricing and Ownership Benefits
The 2025 Subaru Ascent delivers strong value not only through its features but also with ownership benefits such as Subaru’s reputation for durability and low maintenance costs. Its lower starting price compared to the Honda Pilot makes it accessible to a wider range of families without sacrificing quality or capability.
Additionally, Subaru’s standard all-wheel-drive system and comprehensive safety package provide added peace of mind, which translates into long-term savings on repairs and insurance. For families prioritizing both upfront affordability and ongoing value, the Ascent offers a smart investment.
Final Thought
Between Subaru Ascent vs Honda Pilot, the 2025 Subaru Ascent emerges as the clear choice for the best mid-size SUV thanks to its standard AWD, excellent towing confidence, advanced technology, and superior passenger comfort. Combined with competitive pricing and higher reliability, it is a compelling pick for families and outdoor
enthusiasts alike.
For buyers near Ohio or looking for a trusted dealership, Findlay Subaru of Las Vegas offers expert guidance and access to the newest Subaru Ascent models. The Honda Pilot remains a capable SUV with its strong V6 engine and traditional design, but it often requires additional cost to match what the Ascent provides at the start.
Ultimately, the 2025 Subaru Ascent delivers more versatility, better connectivity, and enhanced capability — making it the smarter option for family life, daily driving, and weekend adventures. To experience it firsthand, visit Findlay Subaru and explore the latest models today.
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