2025 Subaru Ascent vs. 2025 Honda Pilot
Families searching for a spacious, capable, and feature-rich SUV often find themselves choosing between two top contenders—the 2025 Subaru Ascent and the 2025 Honda Pilot. Both models offer three-row versatility, strong safety reputations, and the kind of comfort that makes everyday driving feel effortless. But while they may appear similar on paper, these SUVs take different approaches in design, performance, and overall driving experience.
To help you decide which model better fits your lifestyle, we’ve broken down how the Ascent and Pilot compare across key areas, from style and technology to capability and convenience.
Design & Style
Both the 2025 Subaru Ascent and the 2025 Honda Pilot present refreshed designs that blend rugged presence with refined aesthetics. The Ascent features a bold front grille, aggressive wheel arches, and available 20-inch alloy wheels, all underscored by standard roof rails that enhance its adventure-ready profile. Inside, it seats up to eight passengers with standard second-row bench seating and available captain’s chairs for added comfort. High-quality materials, soft-touch surfaces, and a driver-focused layout give the cabin a polished, practical appeal.
On the other hand, the 2025 Honda Pilot adopts a more squared-off exterior design that leans into its SUV heritage. Its TrailSport trim emphasizes off-road readiness with all-terrain tires and unique styling, while the Elite trim adds upscale details like leather seating and panoramic roof options. The interior offers competitive passenger space and a streamlined dashboard, though some may find the materials and finishes more utilitarian compared to its rival.
Technology & Safety
In terms of technology and safety, both SUVs offer advanced driver-assist features and family-oriented tech. The 2025 Ascent comes standard with the latest EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, including adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and pre-collision braking. It also features a standard 11.6-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, along with available features like a 360-degree Surround View Monitor and DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation System for added peace of mind.
The Honda Pilot also offers a strong suite of standard safety technologies through Honda Sensing®, which includes forward collision warning, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. A 9-inch infotainment screen with wireless smartphone integration comes standard, while higher trims upgrade to a 10.2-inch digital instrument display and a head-up display. However, the Pilot’s tech layout can feel more conventional and less intuitive in comparison, particularly in lower trims.
Performance
Performance is where the two SUVs start to differ more notably. The 2025 Subaru Ascent is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER® engine delivering 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a Lineartronic® CVT and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, which comes standard across all trims. With 8.7 inches of ground clearance and standard X-MODE®, the Ascent is built to handle all weather conditions and moderate off-road terrain while maintaining smooth on-road driving.
In contrast, the 2025 Honda Pilot uses a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. While the Pilot does offer an all-wheel-drive system and a dedicated Trail mode on certain trims, AWD is not standard across the lineup. Its higher horsepower may appeal to some drivers, but the Ascent’s torque distribution and AWD balance give it more dependable traction and control in diverse environments.
The Bottom Line
Both the 2025 Subaru Ascent and the 2025 Honda Pilot offer spacious cabins, modern features, and robust safety technologies, making them excellent choices for families. The Ascent excels in all-weather capability, advanced safety systems, and a refined interior experience that puts driver and passenger comfort at the forefront. The Pilot brings slightly more horsepower and a familiar V6 setup, along with strong off-road features in specific trims.
Ultimately, if year-round traction, premium safety tech, and intuitive design are your priorities, one of these SUVs stands out. Drivers who value confidence in every drive—on paved roads or beyond—may find the performance and design advantages of the Ascent better aligned with their lifestyle.
Schedule a Test Drive Today
Ready to experience the 2025 Subaru Ascent firsthand? Visit us at Competition Subaru and let our team show you everything this SUV has to offer. Whether you’re curious about different trims, looking to trade in your current vehicle, or want to take a test drive, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Reach out today to schedule your visit and discover how our expertise and customer-focused service make all the difference.