Apr 4, 2025

Subaru Ascent vs. Honda Pilot: A Comprehensive Comparison for Memphis Drivers

Finding the perfect SUV for your family can be a daunting task, especially when considering popular models like the Subaru Ascent and the Honda Pilot. Both vehicles offer a range of features that appeal to families in Memphis, TN, and surrounding areas such as Germantown, TN, and Southaven, MS. This article delves into the specifications, features, and overall performance of the Subaru Ascent, comparing it to the Honda Pilot to help you make an informed decision.


Introduction to Subaru Ascent and Honda Pilot

The Subaru Ascent and Honda Pilot are two formidable contenders in the midsize SUV market. Designed with families in mind, these vehicles provide ample space, advanced safety features, and modern technology, appealing to drivers in Memphis, TN, and nearby areas. The Subaru Ascent, with its standard all-wheel drive and robust turbocharged engine, is particularly popular among those who value performance and safety.

As you weigh your options, consider the unique features and benefits each SUV offers, and how they align with your lifestyle and driving needs.

Performance and Engine Specifications

When it comes to performance, the Subaru Ascent stands out with its 260-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This engine delivers ample power for daily driving, providing a smooth and responsive experience on the roads of Memphis, TN. The Ascent’s engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which enhances fuel efficiency and ensures a seamless driving experience.

The Honda Pilot, on the other hand, features a 280-horsepower V6 engine, offering a slightly more robust power output. However, the Ascent’s turbocharged engine provides a more efficient and economical option, particularly for those who frequently drive in urban areas like Germantown, TN, and Horn Lake, MS. The Ascent’s all-wheel drive system also provides superior traction and stability, making it an excellent choice for navigating the varied terrains of the Southaven, MS, region.

Interior and Comfort

Both the Subaru Ascent and Honda Pilot offer spacious interiors designed to accommodate families and their gear. The Ascent’s cabin is known for its quietness and comfort, featuring roomy second-row captain’s chairs and a usable third row, ideal for shorter trips around Olive Branch, MS. The straightforward controls and premium materials in the Ascent enhance the overall driving experience, ensuring comfort for both the driver and passengers.

The Honda Pilot also offers a spacious interior with comfortable seating for up to eight passengers, making it a practical choice for larger families in Moscow, TN, and Holly Springs, MS. However, the Ascent’s interior is often praised for its durability and high-quality finishes, particularly in the upper trims, providing a more luxurious feel for drivers in Byhalia, MS.

Safety and Reliability

Safety is a top priority for both Subaru and Honda, and the Ascent and Pilot are equipped with a range of advanced safety features. The Subaru Ascent boasts standard features such as adaptive cruise controlblind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking, making it a reliable choice for families in Memphis, TN, and beyond. The Ascent’s strong safety ratings and Subaru’s reputation for reliability provide peace of mind to drivers in Germantown, TN, and Collierville, TN.

The Honda Pilot also offers a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. However, the Ascent’s standard all-wheel drive and superior safety ratings give it an edge for those prioritizing safety and reliability in Southaven, MS, and Olive Branch, MS.

Technology and Infotainment

In terms of technology, the Subaru Ascent is equipped with an array of advanced features designed to enhance the driving experience. It includes a user-friendly infotainment system with an 11.6-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, providing seamless connectivity for drivers in Oakland, TN, and Rossville, TN. The Ascent also offers a Wi-Fi hotspot and multiple USB ports, ensuring passengers remain connected and entertained on long trips.

The Honda Pilot features a comparable infotainment system with a slightly larger touchscreen, but it lacks some of the intuitive features found in the Ascent. For tech-savvy drivers in Tupelo, MS, and Oxford, MS, the Ascent’s modern technology and ease of use make it a more appealing option.

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for many drivers, and the Subaru Ascent delivers competitive fuel economy with its turbocharged engine. It achieves an estimated 22 mpg overall, making it an efficient choice for daily commutes and long road trips in Memphis, TN, and surrounding areas. The Ascent’s eco-friendly design and Subaru’s commitment to sustainability also appeal to environmentally conscious drivers in Germantown, TN, and Horn Lake, MS.

The Honda Pilot offers similar fuel efficiency, but the Ascent’s turbocharged engine provides a slight advantage in terms of overall efficiency. This makes the Ascent a more economical choice for families in Southaven, MS, and Olive Branch, MS, who prioritize fuel savings and environmental impact.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right SUV for You

When choosing between the Subaru Ascent and Honda Pilot, consider your specific needs and preferences. The Ascent’s combination of performancesafety, and technology makes it an excellent choice for families in Memphis, TN, and beyond. Its superior all-wheel drive capabilities and advanced safety features provide peace of mind, while its spacious and comfortable interior ensures a pleasant driving experience.

For those interested in exploring the Subaru Ascent further, visit Jim Keras Subaru to view our New Subaru Inventory or Used Vehicle Inventory. If you’re considering trading in your current vehicle, use our Get your trade value tool to find out its worth. For those in need of maintenance or repairs, our Schedule Service and Diagnostics page offers convenient scheduling options.

For more information, visit us at 2110 Covington Pike Memphis, TN 38128 or call us at (901) 313-6120