Hey there, car enthusiasts! Choosing the right SUV can feel like navigating a maze, right? With a sea of options, it's easy to get lost. Today, we're diving deep into a face-off: the 2023 Subaru Ascent versus the Honda Pilot. These two titans of the mid-size SUV segment have earned their stripes, offering families ample space, impressive features, and a reputation for reliability. But which one comes out on top? Buckle up, because we're about to explore the ins and outs of both vehicles, helping you make an informed decision for your next family adventure. We'll explore everything from performance and practicality to safety features and tech, leaving no stone unturned. So, whether you're a long-time Subaru fan or a Honda loyalist, or if you are simply looking for the best SUV to haul your family around, this comparison is for you. Let's get started!

Performance and Driving Experience: Power on the Road

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty: how do these SUVs perform when the rubber meets the road? For the 2023 Subaru Ascent, you'll find a 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engine under the hood. This engine delivers a peppy 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive comes standard across all trims, providing excellent handling and stability, especially in challenging weather conditions. The Ascent's continuously variable transmission (CVT) is designed to maximize fuel efficiency while offering a smooth driving experience. The Ascent is a capable SUV. It's designed to handle a variety of driving conditions, from city streets to snowy mountain passes. It also offers a decent towing capacity, making it suitable for pulling small trailers or boats.

On the other side of the ring, the 2023 Honda Pilot boasts a more traditional engine configuration. A robust 3.5-liter V6 engine powers the Pilot, producing a healthy 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. While front-wheel drive is standard, Honda's available all-wheel-drive system is known for its effectiveness. A 10-speed automatic transmission is standard on most trims, offering responsive gear changes and a more engaging driving feel compared to a CVT. The Honda Pilot has a reputation for offering a more traditional driving experience. With its V6 engine and automatic transmission, it provides a powerful and responsive ride. The Pilot is well-suited for both city driving and highway cruising, offering comfortable acceleration and a smooth ride.

So, who wins in the performance category? It depends on your priorities. If you value the all-weather confidence of standard all-wheel drive and a slightly more fuel-efficient engine, the Subaru Ascent is a compelling choice. If you prefer a more powerful engine with a more conventional transmission and are comfortable with potentially paying extra for all-wheel drive, the Honda Pilot delivers a strong performance. Both SUVs offer ample power for everyday driving tasks, but their driving dynamics cater to slightly different preferences. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and what kind of driving experience you prefer.

Interior Space, Comfort, and Practicality: Room for the Whole Crew

When it comes to SUVs, space and comfort are paramount, especially for families. Let's explore how the Subaru Ascent and Honda Pilot measure up in this crucial area. The Subaru Ascent excels in providing generous space for passengers and cargo. With three rows of seating, it comfortably accommodates up to eight passengers (or seven with second-row captain's chairs). The Ascent offers a surprisingly spacious third row, making it suitable for adults on shorter trips. The Ascent's interior design is functional and user-friendly, with plenty of storage compartments and cupholders throughout the cabin. The Ascent has a cargo area that offers a decent amount of space, with plenty of room for luggage, groceries, or other gear. The Ascent's seats are generally comfortable. The Ascent's overall design is focused on practicality and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for families and those who need a spacious and versatile SUV.

The Honda Pilot also offers three rows of seating, providing seating for up to eight passengers (or seven with optional captain's chairs). The Pilot's interior is known for its spaciousness and versatility. The Pilot's third row is a bit more accommodating than some competitors, making it suitable for adults. The Pilot's interior design is modern and well-appointed, with high-quality materials and a focus on comfort. The Pilot's cargo area is also quite generous. The Pilot's seats are comfortable, providing ample support for long journeys. The Pilot's overall design is sophisticated and refined, making it a great choice for those who want a premium feel and a versatile interior.

So, which SUV offers the best interior experience? It's a close call. Both SUVs provide plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The Ascent edges out the Pilot slightly in terms of overall third-row space, making it a better option for those who regularly need to transport adults in the back. The Pilot, on the other hand, boasts a more upscale interior design and a slightly more refined overall feel. Both the Subaru Ascent and the Honda Pilot are strong contenders in the interior space and comfort categories. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize maximum space and functionality, the Ascent might be the better choice. If you value a more premium feel and a slightly more refined interior, the Pilot could be a better fit.

Safety Features and Technology: Staying Protected on the Road

Safety is a top priority for most SUV buyers, and both the Subaru Ascent and Honda Pilot are well-equipped in this regard. The 2023 Subaru Ascent comes standard with Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, a suite of advanced safety features. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and pre-collision braking. The Ascent consistently receives high safety ratings from organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Ascent also offers available features like blind-spot detection with lane change assist and rear cross-traffic alert, further enhancing safety. The Ascent's safety features are designed to help drivers avoid accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision.

The 2023 Honda Pilot also offers an impressive array of safety features. Honda Sensing, a suite of driver-assistive technologies, comes standard. This suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and a collision mitigation braking system. The Pilot also typically receives high safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. The Pilot offers available safety features like blind-spot information system, rear cross-traffic monitor, and front and rear parking sensors, adding to its already robust safety suite. The Pilot's safety features are designed to provide a safe and confident driving experience. The Pilot's focus on safety is another important consideration for families looking for a reliable and secure SUV.

In terms of technology, both SUVs offer modern infotainment systems with touchscreens, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and various connectivity features. The Subaru Ascent's infotainment system is easy to use, while the Honda Pilot offers a slightly more sophisticated interface. The Subaru Ascent has a range of tech features, including a touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and available features like a premium audio system and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Honda Pilot offers a range of technology features, including a touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and available features like a premium audio system, a wireless phone charger, and a head-up display. Overall, both SUVs offer comprehensive safety features and modern technology to enhance the driving experience. The best choice in this category may depend on your preference for specific safety features and infotainment systems. But you can be sure you and your family will be safe driving in these SUVs.

Trim Levels and Pricing: Finding the Right Fit for Your Budget

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty: how do these SUVs stack up when it comes to trim levels and pricing? The 2023 Subaru Ascent is available in several trims, including Base, Premium, Onyx Edition, Limited, and Touring. Pricing typically starts in a competitive range, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The Base model offers a solid set of standard features, while higher trims add more luxury and technology. The Ascent's trim levels offer a range of options to fit different budgets and needs. Whether you are looking for a basic, affordable SUV or a fully-loaded luxury model, the Ascent has an option for you. The Onyx Edition is a popular choice for its rugged styling and enhanced features. The Limited and Touring trims offer premium features, such as leather upholstery, upgraded audio systems, and advanced driver-assistance technologies.

The 2023 Honda Pilot is also available in a variety of trim levels, including Sport, EX-L, TrailSport, Touring, and Elite. Pricing generally starts in a similar range to the Ascent, but can increase significantly as you move up to higher trims. Honda's trims offer a range of features and options to suit various needs and preferences. The Sport trim offers a good value, while the EX-L adds additional comfort and convenience features. The TrailSport is a popular option for those who enjoy off-road adventures, with its rugged design and enhanced capabilities. The Touring and Elite trims offer premium features, such as leather upholstery, a premium audio system, and advanced technology. The top-tier Elite trim provides the ultimate luxury experience.

So, which SUV offers the best value? It depends on your priorities. The Subaru Ascent generally offers a more affordable starting price, making it a good choice for those on a budget. The Ascent's lower trims also provide excellent value for the money. The Honda Pilot's higher trims can be quite expensive, but they offer a more premium experience. Ultimately, the best choice in this category depends on your budget and the features that are most important to you. If you are looking for an affordable and feature-packed SUV, the Ascent is a great option. If you are willing to spend a bit more for a more luxurious experience, the Pilot may be the better choice. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices and features to find the best fit for your needs.

Fuel Economy: Saving Money at the Pump

Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for many SUV buyers, especially with rising gas prices. Let's see how the 2023 Subaru Ascent and Honda Pilot stack up in this regard. The Subaru Ascent, with its turbocharged 2.4-liter engine and CVT transmission, offers respectable fuel economy for its class. You can expect to get around 20-21 mpg in the city and 26-27 mpg on the highway. Of course, these numbers can vary depending on driving habits and conditions. The Ascent's fuel economy is competitive. The Ascent's fuel economy is aided by its fuel-efficient engine and CVT transmission. The Ascent's fuel economy makes it a practical choice for those who are looking for an SUV that won't break the bank at the pump.

The Honda Pilot, with its 3.5-liter V6 engine and 10-speed automatic transmission, delivers similar fuel economy figures. You can typically expect around 19-20 mpg in the city and 25-27 mpg on the highway. The Pilot's fuel economy is good for an SUV of its size. The Pilot's fuel economy is competitive. The Pilot's fuel economy is a factor that will matter for many buyers. The Pilot's fuel economy is a factor that can save you money on fuel costs over time.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Ascent and Pilot are quite similar. Both SUVs offer respectable fuel economy for their class. The slight advantage may vary depending on driving conditions and driving habits. The best choice in this category depends on your driving habits and preferences. If fuel economy is a top priority, both SUVs are good choices. However, factors like driving style and the types of roads you typically drive on can influence your actual fuel consumption. So, you might want to consider taking both vehicles for a test drive to get a better sense of their fuel efficiency in your specific driving environment.

Reliability and Ownership Costs: Long-Term Value

Reliability and ownership costs are crucial factors to consider when choosing an SUV. Let's delve into these aspects for the Subaru Ascent and Honda Pilot. Subaru has built a reputation for providing reliable vehicles. While not always at the top of every reliability ranking, the Ascent generally scores well. Ascent owners can typically expect a reasonable cost of ownership, with routine maintenance and repairs being relatively affordable. Subaru offers a standard warranty, providing peace of mind for buyers. The Ascent's reliability and ownership costs make it a practical choice for those seeking a dependable SUV. Regular maintenance and preventative care will contribute to the long-term value of your Ascent.

Honda is renowned for its outstanding reliability and has consistently earned top marks in reliability surveys. The Pilot is typically considered a very reliable SUV, with a history of long-term durability. Honda's reputation for reliability can translate into lower ownership costs over time. The Pilot's resale value is also generally strong. Honda offers a standard warranty, providing buyers with coverage and peace of mind. The Pilot's reliability and reputation make it a popular choice. The Pilot's reliability and ownership costs make it a sensible choice for those prioritizing long-term value. Regular maintenance and responsible driving habits will help maximize the life and value of your Pilot.

So, which SUV offers the best long-term value? While both SUVs are generally reliable, the Honda Pilot often gets the edge in terms of reliability ratings. The Pilot's reputation for dependability can translate into lower maintenance costs and a higher resale value over time. However, the Subaru Ascent is also a reliable vehicle, and the overall ownership costs are reasonable. The best choice depends on your priorities and the factors that you value most in an SUV. Both the Ascent and the Pilot are great options. The Pilot's reliability is a major selling point. The Ascent offers good value and a strong ownership experience. The best decision depends on your unique needs and preferences.

The Verdict: Which SUV Should You Choose?

So, the million-dollar question: which SUV should you choose, the 2023 Subaru Ascent or the Honda Pilot? Both are excellent choices, but the best option depends on your specific needs and priorities. The Subaru Ascent stands out with its standard all-wheel drive, spacious interior, and user-friendly technology. It's an excellent choice for families who need a versatile and capable SUV. The Ascent is a great choice. The Ascent's standard all-wheel drive is a plus. The Ascent's design makes it ideal for everyday use. The Ascent is a top choice for families. The Ascent offers great value for the price.

The Honda Pilot impresses with its powerful engine, refined interior, and strong reputation for reliability. It's a great option for those who prioritize a premium driving experience and long-term dependability. The Pilot is also a great choice. The Pilot's powerful engine gives it a responsive feel. The Pilot has a strong reputation for reliability. The Pilot's design makes it ideal for those who value comfort and refinement.

Ultimately, the best way to make your decision is to consider your priorities. If you value space, standard all-wheel drive, and affordability, the Subaru Ascent is a great choice. If you prioritize performance, a refined interior, and reliability, the Honda Pilot is an excellent option. I strongly recommend taking both vehicles for a test drive to see which one feels best to you. By comparing the features, performance, and overall value of both SUVs, you can make an informed decision that meets your needs and preferences. Good luck, and happy driving!