2026 Honda Pilot Vs. Subaru Ascent: Features, Specs, Size & More
Honda Pilot vs. Subaru Ascent at a Glance
- The Honda Pilot makes more horsepower than the Ascent, but the inverse is true regarding torque.
- Both SUVs are three-row models that seat seven to eight passengers.
- The Honda Pilot offers more cargo space and shoulder room across all rows, as well as greater legroom in the second and third rows.
- The Honda Pilot offers more standard technologies, but the two are comparable in terms of comfort.
How Do the Honda Pilot vs. Subaru Ascent Compare?
In this guide, we're pitting two sensible SUVs against each other to see who takes the crown: Honda Pilot vs. Subaru Ascent. Although both have merits, particularly in the cargo area and powertrain, the Honda Pilot offers more roominess and horsepower. Read on to learn more, and when you're ready to feel that V-6 engine purr, our Planet Honda NH team in Tilton, NH, can make it happen.
Performance Specs
A Subaru Ascent vs. Honda Pilot matchup showcases impressive specs and engineering, but the Honda SUV outpaces its three-row competitor. Although the Ascent puts up a good fight with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and 260 horsepower, the Honda SUV overtakes it by 25 horsepower – and does so with power from a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that doesn't have to rely on turbocharging.
To be fair to the Subaru Ascent, it does provide 15 additional pound-feet of torque over the Pilot. But the Honda model has the advantage of a pick-your-power-level structure with FWD and AWD available (the Ascent is AWD only), a 10-speed automatic transmission (the Ascent uses a CVT), and slightly better fuel economy.
It's also worth noting that both SUVs can tow up to 5,000 pounds,1,2 so you won't have any issues hauling your camper on summer trips.
Comparison Chart
| 2026 Honda Pilot | 2026 Subaru Ascent | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V-6 | Turbocharged 2.4L 4-cyl |
| Horsepower | 285 | 260 |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed auto | CVT |
| Drivetrain |
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AWD |
| Max Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs1 | 5,000 lbs2 |
| Max EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 19 / 27 / 223 | 19 / 26 / 224 |
| Seating Capacity | 7 or 8 | 7 or 8 |
| Passenger Volume | 154.9 - 158.4 cu ft | 150.2 - 153.2 cu ft |
| Cargo Space Behind 1st Row | 86.5 - 87 cu ft | 72.8 - 75.6 cu ft |
| Cargo Space Behind 2nd Row | 48.5 cu ft | 42.1 - 43.5 cu ft |
| Cargo Space Behind 3rd Row | 18.6 cu ft | 17.8 cu ft |
| Length | 200.1 in | 196.8 in |
| Width | 78.5 in | 76 in |
| Height | 70.9 - 72 in | 71.6 in |
| Quality & Reliability by J.D. Power | Great5 | Great6 |
| IIHS Safety Score | Top Safety Pick7 | Top Safety Pick+8 |
| NHTSA Rating | 5 out of 5 stars9 | 5 out of 5 stars9 |
| Headroom (1st / 2nd / 3rd) | 39.1 - 40.5 / 39.2 - 40.2 / 39.3 in | 40.4 - 41.2 / 38.7 - 40 / 36.2 in |
| Legroom (1st / 2nd / 3rd) | 41 / 40.8 / 32.5 in | 42.2 / 38.6 / 31.7 in |
| Shoulder Room (1st / 2nd / 3rd) | 61.9 / 61.7 / 59.5 in | 61.1 / 60.3 / 57 in |
| Standard Comfort Features |
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| Standard Safety Features |
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| Standard Tech |
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Interior Features & Tech
Inside the cabins, our Pilot vs. Ascent comparison is a close match. Three climate zones are standard in both. While the Subaru comes standard with a heated steering wheel, the Honda pushes back with standard heated front seats and more options for driver's seat maneuverability, making you more comfortable on your daily drive.
The tech roster is where the Pilot really shines – Google built-in, a nine-speaker audio system, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and Speed-Sensitive Volume Compensation are just a few of the standard options inside the entry-level Pilot Sport trim. The Ascent is appealing but lags behind a bit with an 11.6-inch display and a six-speaker audio system.
Dimensions & Cargo
Our Ascent vs. Pilot comparison wouldn't be complete without a look at dimensions. These three-row models bring plenty to the table, but the new Honda Pilot for sale delivers significantly more cargo volume in every area, more second- and third-row legroom, and more shoulder room in every row.
Our chart shows details, but it's helpful to visit the Honda Pilot yourself at Planet Honda to see how these translate to daily life.
Safety & Reliability
The Subaru Ascent and the Honda Pilot are nearly equally matched in safety and reliability. Both earned "Great" rankings by J.D. Power in Quality & Reliability6,5 and five-star Overall Safety Ratings by the NHTSA.9
And if that weren't compelling enough, the two were named Consumer Reports Recommended models this year.10,11 You can compare standard safety features for the Pilot and Ascent in the easy-to-read chart above. Our staff at Planet Honda in Tilton, NH, will be ready for any questions that you have.
Which One Is Right for You?
If you're more interested in a practical, spacious ride with a penchant for tech, the new Honda Pilot is probably the SUV for you. It outpaces the Ascent in several critical categories, including roominess, standard features, and horsepower. We can sweeten the deal with our Honda Pilot specials, too.
FAQ
Does the Honda Pilot have more horsepower than the Subaru Ascent?
Yes, the Honda Pilot has more horsepower than the Subaru Ascent. The Honda Pilot makes 285 horsepower while the Subaru Ascent makes up to 260 horsepower.
Which has more interior space: the Honda Pilot or the Subaru Ascent?
In every area, the Honda Pilot offers more cargo volume than the Subaru Ascent. And the Pilot also has more appealing legroom in the second and third rows, as well as shoulder room in every row.
Does the Honda Pilot have better towing capacity than the Subaru Ascent?
Both the Honda Pilot and Subaru Ascent have the same maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The only difference is that the Subaru Ascent offers this maximum value standard, while the Honda Pilot starts with a capable 3,500-pound 1 towing capacity and an available maximum 5,000-pound1 capacity when equipped with AWD.
What Our Happy Customers Say About The Honda Pilot
Michael Masotta
10/08/2025
I bought a 25 Pilot Elite with just over 8k miles on it. Mark, Kevin, and Jim were great guys who worked with me and went out of their way to try and make me happy. I’m very happy and I know my wife will be too when she drives this beautiful car. Thank guys, Mike.
About the Author
Planet Honda is dedicated to providing consumer-first service to the residents of New Hampshire and the surrounding areas. Not only are we staffed with Honda experts, technicians, and parts specialists who can maintain and repair your vehicle, but we're also an award-winning location. With recognition by awards, we're just as dedicated to making change as we are to pairing you with a Honda vehicle that checks all your boxes.