2020 Honda Pilot vs 2020 Subaru Outback

The 2020 Subaru Outback maintained its reputation for utility, safety, and performance, with a focus on incremental improvements. Built on Subaru’s Global Platform, it boasted a 70% increase in structural rigidity. The base 2.5-litre engine, though seemingly unchanged, featured 90% new parts, while higher trims offered a 2.4-litre turbocharged engine. Exterior changes were subtle, with more noticeable updates to the head- and taillights. Inside, the Outback introduced an 11.6-inch touchscreen on all but the base trim, and innovative tech like DriverFocus, which used facial recognition to enhance safety and convenience. The Outback was available in seven trims, starting at an MSRP of $30,695, with features like heated front seats, keyless entry, and a suite of safety technologies.

The 2020 Honda Pilot shared dynamic styling with the Honda lineup, featuring thin LED headlights and a multi-tiered grille. Its cabin was modern and spacious, with a semi-digital instrument panel and a mix of comfort and refinement, though hard plastics were present. The Pilot offered five trims, starting with the LX, which included standard all-wheel drive, tri-zone climate control, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims added features like leather upholstery, a power liftgate, and advanced tech. The Black Edition, new for 2020, featured unique styling elements. The Pilot's cabin was designed for family use, with ample space and practical features like a conversation mirror and CabinTalk for easier communication with rear passengers.

The 2020 Subaru Outback offered two engine options: a 2.5-litre engine with 182 horsepower and a 2.4-litre turbocharged engine producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which Subaru tuned to mimic a traditional automatic transmission, minimizing the typical CVT drawbacks. The Outback's symmetrical all-wheel drive system provided consistent power delivery and enhanced safety, while its 22.1 centimetres of ground clearance allowed for some off-road capability. The Outback's design, including its low centre of gravity, contributed to better handling and reduced wear on components.

The 2020 Honda Pilot was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. All trims featured standard all-wheel drive, with a 6-speed automatic transmission on the LX, EX, and EX-L trims, and a 9-speed automatic on the Touring and Black Edition. The 9-speed transmission offered smoother acceleration and improved fuel efficiency. The Pilot's ride was tuned for comfort, making it ideal for commutes and road trips, though it lacked athleticism. The Intelligent Traction Management System provided drive modes for various conditions, enhancing the Pilot's versatility.

The 2020 Subaru Outback offered the functional benefits of a station wagon, with 920 litres of cargo space, expandable to 2,144 litres with the rear seats folded. The increase in cargo space was partly due to a wider rear wheel area. The Outback's interior was spacious, with ample legroom and headroom, even for taller passengers. Its design prioritized visibility, though the rear quarters had a notable blind spot. The Outback's proportions contributed to better handling and a lower chance of rollover.

The 2020 Honda Pilot provided a spacious 8-passenger cabin, with optional second-row captain’s chairs on higher trims, reducing seating to seven. The third row was adult-friendly, with ample head and legroom. With the second and third rows folded, the Pilot offered 1,583 litres of cargo space, surpassing many rivals. The Pilot's interior was designed for family use, with practical features like a conversation mirror and CabinTalk for easier communication. Higher trims included a power liftgate and a hands-free power tailgate.

The 2020 Subaru Outback featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen, which was visually appealing and mostly easy to navigate. However, the system suffered from lag, affecting functions like navigation and volume control. The camera resolution was also lacking, detracting from the overall experience. Despite these issues, the touchscreen had potential, and Subaru aimed to address these shortcomings.

The 2020 Honda Pilot included an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system had a confusing layout, with limited physical controls, making interaction challenging. Higher trims added features like navigation, a rear entertainment system, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Touring and Black Edition received an upgraded audio system and wireless charging pad, enhancing the overall tech experience.

The 2020 Subaru Outback included a standard safety suite with features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. However, the EyeSight system, which relied on optical sensors, could be obstructed by weather conditions. The DriverFocus system, designed to alert distracted drivers, was overly sensitive and often triggered false alerts, detracting from its effectiveness.

The 2020 Honda Pilot came standard with the HondaSensing suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. It earned a five-star overall crash test rating from the NHTSA and a Good rating from the IIHS. Optional safety features included parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring, enhancing the Pilot's safety credentials.