2019 Honda Pilot vs 2019 Subaru Forester

The 2019 Subaru Forester was slightly larger and wider than its predecessor, adopting a design reminiscent of the Subaru Ascent. This design choice was evident both externally and internally, where the Forester prioritized functionality over aesthetics. The cabin, while modern, focused on utility, offering features like standard LED headlights, symmetrical all-wheel drive, and the EyeSight driver-assistance system across all trims. The Forester's trims ranged from Base to Touring, each adding layers of comfort and technology, such as larger touchscreens, leather upholstery, and advanced safety features. The Sport trim, despite its name, shared the same engine as other trims, emphasizing style with unique accents and additional tech features.

The 2019 Honda Pilot, meanwhile, featured subtle visual updates, including futuristic headlights and a refined grille design. The interior saw minor changes, such as an updated steering wheel and a new infotainment system. The Pilot offered a range of trims from LX to Elite, each adding more features like leather upholstery, a power tailgate, and advanced entertainment systems. The Elite trim, in particular, boasted a panoramic moonroof, heated and ventilated seats, and a wireless charging pad. The Pilot's design was practical, with adult-friendly third-row seating and ample storage options, making it a versatile choice for families.

The 2019 Subaru Forester was powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder boxer engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. This engine, while smooth and offering a low center of gravity, lacked the torque needed for robust acceleration. The Forester's symmetrical AWD and CVT prioritized efficiency, resulting in underwhelming acceleration. However, the SI-Drive system allowed drivers to switch between Intelligent and Sport modes for better throttle response. The Forester's ride was smooth, with excellent handling and suspension, making it comfortable for both city and highway driving. Fuel economy was impressive, with ratings of 26 mpg city, 33 highway, and 29 combined.

In contrast, the 2019 Honda Pilot came standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided strong acceleration, with cylinder deactivation and auto stop/start features for improved fuel efficiency. The Pilot's 6-speed automatic transmission was standard on most trims, while the Touring and Elite trims featured a 9-speed automatic with paddle shifters. Despite its power, the Pilot's driving experience felt somewhat disconnected, with vague pedal feedback and noticeable body roll. Fuel economy varied by trim, with the most efficient setup offering 20 mpg city, 27 highway, and 23 combined.

The 2019 Subaru Forester offered a spacious interior, with a class-leading 76.1 cubic feet of cargo space in the base trim and 70.9 cubic feet in other trims. The larger wheelbase provided ample backseat space, and the 8.7 inches of ground clearance was beneficial for both off-road conditions and ease of entry. The cabin was designed with functionality in mind, featuring numerous storage compartments and excellent visibility due to the tall greenhouse and commanding driving position.

The 2019 Honda Pilot excelled in providing adult-friendly third-row seating, a rarity among midsize SUVs. It offered 16.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 83.9 cubic feet with all seats folded. The Pilot's interior was family-friendly, with 15 cupholders and ample storage for gear. The cargo capacity varied slightly by trim, but overall, the Pilot provided competitive space compared to rivals like the Toyota Highlander and Subaru Ascent.

The 2019 Subaru Forester featured the Starlink infotainment system, available with either a 6.5-inch or 8-inch touchscreen. The system was praised for its responsiveness, high resolution, and seamless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Subaru's EyeSight suite included a unique Lead Vehicle Alert, enhancing safety by notifying drivers when the vehicle ahead moved at a stoplight.

The 2019 Honda Pilot introduced a new infotainment system with a much-appreciated Volume knob, improving user interaction. The system, standard on trims above the base LX, offered crisp graphics and easy menu navigation. The Touring and Elite trims included a rear entertainment system with a flip-down screen and headphones, while the CabinTalk PA system allowed drivers to communicate with rear passengers through the entertainment system.

The 2019 Subaru Forester came standard with the EyeSight driver-assistance suite, which included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and adaptive headlights. Additional safety features included lane-keeping assist, a full array of airbags, and a reversing camera, contributing to the Forester's reputation as a safe vehicle.

The 2019 Honda Pilot also offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including the Honda Sensing suite with forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. Standard safety equipment included airbags, vehicle stability control, a reversing camera, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on trims above the base LX.