2019 Honda Pilot vs 2019 Subaru Ascent
Overview | |
MSRP$31,995 | MSRP$31,450 |
Listings647 | Listings931 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews8.0 out of 10 | Expert reviews8.3 out of 10 |
Pros
Cons
| |
2019 Subaru Ascent Reviews SummaryThere are certain vehicle types every major automaker needs to offer if they plan to be taken seriously. The largest automakers are able to offer a full spread of vehicles, from sports cars to full-size trucks. Not every automaker will be able to fulfill every vehicle segment, but if you are a growing automaker, offering a 3-row family-hauling SUV is a must. Because of this, the 3-row segment is getting pretty saturated. From cornerstone vehicles like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder, and Ford Explorer to alternatives like the Kia Sorento, Buick Enclave, Chevy Traverse, Dodge Durango, Mazda CX-9, Volkswagen Atlas, and Hyundai Santa Fe, the list of 3-row SUVs seems exhaustive… because it is! Enter the 2019 Subaru Ascent. Like all the vehicles listed here, it is a midsize SUV capable of seating 7 or 8 passengers, depending on the configuration. It's clearly designed for families, and it begs the question: How does this newcomer stand out in such a crowded space? | |
2019 Honda Pilot Reviews SummaryThe 3-row crossover is the king of family vehicles. Sure, minivans remain a popular choice for large families, but there has been a pendulum swing from the days of blocky old Dodge Caravans to now. Having one or two children does not immediately necessitate a minivan, and there are plenty of useful, capable, and more nimble SUVs from which to choose. The 2019 Honda Pilot stands as one of the cornerstones of this 3-row SUV market. It’s large, versatile, and designed specifically with families in mind. It may not have the sliding doors or built-in vacuum of the Honda Odyssey, but for active families, a vehicle like this truly rivals a minivan in actual usability. The Pilot joined the SUV market in the early 2000s, at the height of the SUV craze and in the waning days of the minivan’s rule. With plenty of cabin space, moderate ability to get off the beaten trail, and V6 power, the Pilot was perfectly positioned for rising fuel prices later in the decade. As many consumers ditched their traditional truck-based SUVs to save on fuel, the Pilot only grew in popularity. The Pilot is now in its third generation, having received a mild refresh for 2019 that includes slightly updated front and rear styling. It also receives an updated infotainment system and, more importantly, it brings the Honda Sensing suite of driver-assistance features as standard equipment. | |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine2.4L 260 hp H4 | Engine3.5L 280 hp V6 |
Drive TrainAWD | Drive TrainFWD |
Seating Capacity8 | Seating Capacity8 |
Horsepower260 hp @ 5600 rpm | Horsepower280 hp @ 6000 rpm |
MPG City21 | MPG City19 |
MPG Highway27 | MPG Highway27 |
Engine | |
Engine Name2.4L 260 hp H4 | Engine Name3.5L 280 hp V6 |
Torque277 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm | Torque262 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm |
Horsepower260 hp @ 5600 rpm | Horsepower280 hp @ 6000 rpm |
DrivetrainAWD | DrivetrainFWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City21 | MPG City19 |
MPG Highway27 | MPG Highway27 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity8 | Seating Capacity8 |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall5 | Front Crash Overall4 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space17.8 cu ft | Cargo Space16.5 cu ft |
Curb Weight4430 lbs | Curb Weight4036 lbs |
Height71.6 in | Height70.6 in |
Length196.8 in | Length196.5 in |
Width85.7 in | Width78.6 in |
Wheelbase113.8 in | Wheelbase111.0 in |
Maximum Payload1570 lbs | Maximum Payload1509 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity2000 lbs | Maximum Towing Capacity3500 lbs |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $31,995 | $31,450 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 8.0 out of 10Read full review | 8.3 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
Cons
| |
Summary | There are certain vehicle types every major automaker needs to offer if they plan to be taken seriously. The largest automakers are able to offer a full spread of vehicles, from sports cars to full-size trucks. Not every automaker will be able to fulfill every vehicle segment, but if you are a growing automaker, offering a 3-row family-hauling SUV is a must. Because of this, the 3-row segment is getting pretty saturated. From cornerstone vehicles like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder, and Ford Explorer to alternatives like the Kia Sorento, Buick Enclave, Chevy Traverse, Dodge Durango, Mazda CX-9, Volkswagen Atlas, and Hyundai Santa Fe, the list of 3-row SUVs seems exhaustive… because it is! Enter the 2019 Subaru Ascent. Like all the vehicles listed here, it is a midsize SUV capable of seating 7 or 8 passengers, depending on the configuration. It's clearly designed for families, and it begs the question: How does this newcomer stand out in such a crowded space? | The 3-row crossover is the king of family vehicles. Sure, minivans remain a popular choice for large families, but there has been a pendulum swing from the days of blocky old Dodge Caravans to now. Having one or two children does not immediately necessitate a minivan, and there are plenty of useful, capable, and more nimble SUVs from which to choose. The 2019 Honda Pilot stands as one of the cornerstones of this 3-row SUV market. It’s large, versatile, and designed specifically with families in mind. It may not have the sliding doors or built-in vacuum of the Honda Odyssey, but for active families, a vehicle like this truly rivals a minivan in actual usability. The Pilot joined the SUV market in the early 2000s, at the height of the SUV craze and in the waning days of the minivan’s rule. With plenty of cabin space, moderate ability to get off the beaten trail, and V6 power, the Pilot was perfectly positioned for rising fuel prices later in the decade. As many consumers ditched their traditional truck-based SUVs to save on fuel, the Pilot only grew in popularity. The Pilot is now in its third generation, having received a mild refresh for 2019 that includes slightly updated front and rear styling. It also receives an updated infotainment system and, more importantly, it brings the Honda Sensing suite of driver-assistance features as standard equipment. |
Video | ||
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 2.4L 260 hp H4 | 3.5L 280 hp V6 |
Drive Train | AWD | FWD |
Seating Capacity | 8 | 8 |
Horsepower | 260 hp @ 5600 rpm | 280 hp @ 6000 rpm |
MPG City | 21 | 19 |
MPG Highway | 27 | 27 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 2.4L 260 hp H4 | 3.5L 280 hp V6 |
Torque | 277 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm | 262 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm |
Horsepower | 260 hp @ 5600 rpm | 280 hp @ 6000 rpm |
Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 21 | 19 |
MPG Highway | 27 | 27 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 8 | 8 |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 5 | 4 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 17.8 cu ft | 16.5 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 4430 lbs | 4036 lbs |
Height | 71.6 in | 70.6 in |
Length | 196.8 in | 196.5 in |
Width | 85.7 in | 78.6 in |
Wheelbase | 113.8 in | 111.0 in |
Maximum Payload | 1570 lbs | 1509 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 2000 lbs | 3500 lbs |
The 2019 Subaru Ascent, rated 8 out of 10 by CarGurus experts, presents a bold and spacious design, offering ample cargo and passenger space, and the latest infotainment and driver-assistance technologies. With a wheelbase of 113.8 inches, it is the largest Subaru passenger vehicle ever built, providing a commanding presence and a choice of 7 or 8-passenger layouts.
The 2019 Honda Pilot, rated 9 out of 10, features subtle visual updates, a cleaner grille design, and updated interior elements. It offers a range of trims, each with its own set of features, including a variety of seating configurations and ample storage spaces.
CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Subaru Ascent 7 out of 10 and the 2019 Honda Pilot 8 out of 10 in terms of performance.
The Ascent is equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder boxer engine producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, delivering impressive pickup and precise steering. It offers up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity and 8.7 inches of ground clearance, making it a versatile choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
The 2019 Honda Pilot, powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine generating 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, provides solid acceleration and a smooth driving experience. It offers a range of drive modes and available all-wheel-drive configurations, catering to various driving conditions.
The 2019 Subaru Ascent, rated 8 out of 10, offers generous legroom and headroom in the first and second rows, with a third row suitable for children and occasional adult passengers. It boasts an impressive 19 cupholders and provides up to 86 cubic feet of cargo space, making it a practical choice for family adventures.
The 2019 Honda Pilot, rated 9 out of 10, provides adult-friendly third-row seating, ample storage spaces, and up to 83.9 cubic feet of cargo space. It offers a versatile interior layout, catering to the needs of families and providing ample room for passengers and their gear.
The 2019 Subaru Ascent, rated 8 out of 10, comes equipped with Subaru’s StarLink infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a range of connectivity features. The optional Technology Package adds a premium stereo, panoramic moonroof, and navigation, enhancing the overall driving experience.
The 2019 Honda Pilot features a new infotainment system with a Volume knob, providing crisp graphics and effortless menu navigation. It offers a range of entertainment and connectivity features, including a rear entertainment system, USB ports, and a mobile hotspot, catering to the needs of modern families.
CarGurus highlights
Based on the ratings and detailed comparison, the 2019 Honda Pilot emerges as the slightly more favorable choice, offering a well-rounded package with adult-friendly third-row seating, ample cargo space, and a range of advanced technology and safety features.
Choose the 2019 Honda Pilot if:
- You need adult-friendly third-row seating and ample cargo space for family trips.
- You value advanced technology features, including a rear entertainment system and mobile hotspot.
- You prioritize safety and driver-assistance technologies in a well-rounded 3-row SUV.
Choose the 2019 Subaru Ascent if:
- You prioritize towing capacity and ground clearance for outdoor adventures.
- You seek a practical and spacious interior with a high number of cupholders.
- You are looking for a versatile 3-row SUV with a range of trims and competitive pricing.
CarGurus highlights
Based on the ratings and detailed comparison, the 2019 Honda Pilot emerges as the slightly more favorable choice, offering a well-rounded package with adult-friendly third-row seating, ample cargo space, and a range of advanced technology and safety features.
Choose the 2019 Honda Pilot if:
Shop Now- You need adult-friendly third-row seating and ample cargo space for family trips.
- You value advanced technology features, including a rear entertainment system and mobile hotspot.
- You prioritize safety and driver-assistance technologies in a well-rounded 3-row SUV.
Choose the 2019 Subaru Ascent if:
Shop Now- You prioritize towing capacity and ground clearance for outdoor adventures.
- You seek a practical and spacious interior with a high number of cupholders.
- You are looking for a versatile 3-row SUV with a range of trims and competitive pricing.
By: CarGurus + AI
At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.