The Honda Pilot and the Subaru Ascent compete in the highly competitive three-row midsize SUV segment. Both vehicles have good points, but the 2023 Honda Pilot has one massive advantage over the 2023 Subaru Ascent: an excellent redesign.
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Unlike The 2023 Subaru Ascent, The 2023 Honda Pilot Has Been Redesigned
Over time, the Honda Pilot started looking outdated and lagging behind the midsize SUV competition. However, this all changed for the 2023 model year after Honda gave it a major facelift. The next-generation 2023 Honda Pilot made a big leap forward with its pleasing design and multiple improvements.
On the other hand, while the 2023 Subaru Ascent has some small styling features, such as the grille, the changes for the new model year are minor compared to the Pilot. The Subaru Ascent still uses its exterior looks from the first generation that started four years ago.
The redesigned Pilot has a new rugged look— truck-like styling and a boxier shape. Exterior design highlights include a large upright grille, a long hood, a strong horizontal beltline, and flared fenders. And at the rear section of the midsize SUV, there’s a body-coloured roof spoiler and LED taillights.
2023 Pilot Has A New Off-road Model, But The 2023 Ascent Doesn’t Offer Off-Roading Features
The 2023 Honda Pilot comes with another trim— the TrailSport trim-an off-road model made for outdoor adventures. However, the 2023 Subaru Ascent doesn’t have an off-road model. Other Subaru SUVs offer off-road versions with the Wilderness trim — but the Ascent does not.
Along with increasing the exterior ruggedness of the Pilot, the Pilot TrailSport has many off-road features. This includes a TrailWatch camera system, a trail torque logic off-road system, stabilizer bars, and 18-inch wheels with inset spokes.
Furthermore, the TrailSport has an off-road-tuned suspension, providing extra ground clearance for driving over challenging terrain. Also, for enhanced traction, it has an upgraded i-VTM4 torque-vectoring all-wheel drive system.
Other Advantages Of The Honda Pilot Over The Subaru Ascent
The 2023 Pilot has some other interesting advantages over the 2023 Ascent. The 2023 Honda Pilot has a roomier interior. Both SUVs can seat up to eight people, but the Pilot has a total passenger volume of 158.4 cu-ft, compared to 153.5 cu-ft for the Ascent. There’s also considerably more storage space in the Pilot. It has a maximum cargo capacity of 113.7 cu-ft, while the Ascent only offers up to 75.6 cu-ft. Plus, the cabin of the Pilot is more upscale, especially for the higher trims.
The Pilot’s 3.5-litre V-6 engine produces 285 horsepower on the performance front. The turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine in the Ascent only manages to produce 260 horsepower. The Pilot produces 25 horsepower more.
Furthermore, the Pilot has a new complimentary maintenance plan. Good for two years or 24,000 miles, it provides free coverage for multi-point inspections, oil changes, topping off the fluids, and tire rotations. However, Ascent doesn’t offer a free maintenance program.
With its thorough redesign, the 2023 Honda Pilot has a massive strength over the 2023 Subaru Ascent. If you’re choosing between the two midsize SUVs, then the redesign is an element to remember.
Conclusion
Although both vehicles are in the same rival group, the Subaru Ascent 2023 cannot compare greatly with the 2023 Honda Pilot. Maybe it can in the future when it gets a redesign. But currently, it cannot.
