2022 Subaru Ascent vs 2023 Honda Pilot

The 2022 Subaru Ascent introduced a new Onyx Edition trim level, which featured a blacked-out exterior that gave the SUV a sporty appearance. This trim level was positioned in the middle of the Ascent lineup, offering a unique grille design, black 20-inch aluminum wheels, and special interior trim. The Onyx Edition's interior was wrapped in water-repellant StarTex synthetic leather, available only in a grey two-tone scheme with light grey stitching. While the blacked-out treatment added a sporty flair, the StarTex material had a tendency to trap sweat, making ventilated seats a desirable feature, though they were only available on the Ascent Premier.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda Pilot was fully redesigned with a more rugged and substantial appearance. The fourth-generation model was larger, with an upright grille and boxier styling that emphasized its all-terrain capabilities, especially in the TrailSport model. The interior took a more conventional styling route, remaining attractive and functional. Materials quality met class expectations, and the Pilot emphasized function over form without sacrificing attraction. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard in Canada, contributing to the Pilot's overall appeal.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive as standard. The Ascent's fuel consumption was rated at 10.5 litres per 100 kilometres combined, and it offered a towing capacity of up to 2,270 kilograms. The CVT provided eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, contributing to brisk acceleration and commendable passing power. The Ascent's X-Mode off-road traction control system, hill descent control, and 22 centimetres of ground clearance enhanced its off-roading capabilities.

The 2023 Honda Pilot, on the other hand, was powered by an all-new 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission and Honda’s i-VTM4 all-wheel drive system. The Pilot's initial acceleration response was quick, and the engine emitted a pleasant hum. The SUV was tuned for comfort rather than performance, with noticeable body roll when cornering. The TrailSport model offered increased ground clearance and all-terrain tires, enhancing its off-road capabilities. The Pilot's towing capacity was up to 2,268 kg.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent could carry up to eight people, though the third row was best suited for children. The Ascent offered a comfortable driving position and was equipped for winter weather with features like heated front seats and a wiper de-icer. The second-row seats were easy to access, and the available panoramic sunroof extended over them. The Ascent provided 458 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,061 litres with both rows folded down.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's interior was more conventional, with a handy dash shelf for the front passenger. The entry-level Sport trim featured a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, while higher trims upgraded to a nine-inch display. The Pilot's standout feature was the stowable second-row centre seat, allowing for a centre pass-through to the third row. The second row offered ample space for adults, while the third row was less inviting. The Pilot provided 635 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 3,219 litres with the seats folded down.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent came with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity. The Touring trim added an 8-inch display with Starlink connected services. The system's voice recognition technology needed improvement, and the Onyx Edition's standard stereo speakers lacked sonic quality. Additional technology features were reserved for the Premier trim.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's EX-L trim level offered a larger touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The Touring trim included a multi-view camera system, head-up display, and fully digital instrument panel. The infotainment system was functional, with quick responses and a logical layout. The Touring trim also featured a navigation system, Bose premium audio, and Honda's CabinTalk interior PA system.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS and five-star crash-test ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rating in rollover resistance. The Ascent came standard with EyeSight driver-assist technology, though it had limitations in direct sunlight and lacked refinement in adaptive cruise control and lane-centring technology. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and blind-spot monitoring on higher trims.

The 2023 Honda Pilot also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. Standard Honda Sensing safety features included forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The EX-L and higher trims added front and rear parking sensors, while the Touring trim included surround-view and multi-view camera systems. The Pilot's advanced safety features functioned as expected, with no false alarms during testing.