2023 Subaru Forester vs 2023 Honda Pilot

The 2023 Subaru Forester had a distinctive, albeit familiar, look. Over the past two decades, it had maintained a consistent design that many recognized instantly, especially when coated in the iconic Cascade Green Silica paint. Our Forester test vehicle was the Touring trim, which carried a price tag of $37,720, including destination charges.

With flared fenders and pincer-shaped lighting, the Forester resembled a compact version of the Subaru Ascent. The Touring trim stood out with 18-inch alloy wheels and satin chrome exterior trimmings, adding a touch of sophistication. Robust roof rails capable of supporting up to 700 pounds (800 pounds for the Wilderness trim) underscored its utility.

Inside, the Forester Touring boasted Saddle Brown leather and metallic accents, conveying a traditional Subaru aesthetic. Analog gauges, an 8-inch touchscreen, and a user-friendly control layout emphasized functionality. However, the mix of buttons and levers gave the interior a busy look. The cabin was lined with hard plastic, but this practical choice made it easy to clean.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda Pilot had been redesigned to project a more rugged and substantial appearance. The new design extended the vehicle by 3.4 inches in length, up to 1.5 inches in width, and 0.8 inches in height. The TrailSport model amplified this robust look with off-road parts, 18-inch wheels, and all-terrain tires, enhancing its adventurous profile.

Compared to its predecessor, the Pilot’s interior took a straightforward, functional route. Materials quality met elevated class standards and the redesign made the cabin more versatile. The focus on function without compromising style resulted in an interior that many found pleasing and practical.

Overall, the Honda Pilot appeared more utilitarian and modern, while the Subaru Forester seemed more nostalgic and practical in design.

The 2023 Subaru Forester featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which mimicked the feel of a traditional automatic through its eight programmed ratios. SI-Drive and X-Mode systems provided various driving modes for enhanced traction, including specialized settings for off-road conditions in higher trims like the Wilderness.

During our tests, the Forester managed Southern California’s “atmospheric rivers” with ease. Despite some heart-racing moments on slippery terrain, the SUV’s driving dynamics were impressive, combining comfort and responsive handling. However, the engine was merely adequate, and some might find it noisy. The vehicle only achieved 25.9 mpg in real-world conditions, below its EPA rating of 29 mpg.

On the flip side, the 2023 Honda Pilot came with a new 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, matched with a 10-speed automatic transmission. With FWD standard and AWD optional on most trims, the vehicle offered quick acceleration and a soft brake pedal ideal for a family SUV. Although it lacked in sporty driving encouragement, it handled turns and offered a comfortable ride with minimal body roll.

The TrailSport trim further catered to off-road enthusiasts with its elevated ride height and all-terrain tires, while the Pilot maintained impressive on-road composure. This blend of daily comfort and off-road capability made the Pilot versatile and reliable.

Functionality was at the forefront of the 2023 Subaru Forester’s design. With features like a panoramic glass sunroof, heated front seats, and a windshield wiper de-icer system, the Forester provided practical comfort. However, the lack of ventilated front seats and less supportive rear seats detracted from long-trip comfort.

The Forester excelled in providing ample cargo space, offering 26.9 cubic feet behind the back seat (28.9 cubic feet in the Base model) and expanding to 69.1 cubic feet when seats were folded down (74.2 cubic feet in the Base model). Its well-sealed doors and abundant storage pockets emphasized utility.

In comparison, the 2023 Honda Pilot offered a more contemporary interior with user-friendly controls and clever storage solutions. The second-row center seat was a highlight, as it could be stowed to allow easy third-row access or removed for more cargo space. Cargo capacities were commendable: 22.4 cubic feet behind the third-row, 60.1 cubic feet with the second-row down, and an impressive 114.3 cubic feet with all rear seats folded, outclassing many competitors.

At first glance, the Subaru Forester’s technology seemed dated. However, the 2023 model offered practical tech features like a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The higher trims added satellite radio, HD Radio, and Starlink connected services. The 8-inch display with navigation and Harman Kardon audio system provided modern amenities, although a wireless charger was missing. The user interface was straightforward, but the voice-recognition system left much to be desired.

The 2023 Honda Pilot, particularly the EX-L and higher trims, provided a more robust tech package. The larger infotainment touchscreen featured wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, and USB ports for all rows. The top trims included a multi-view camera system, navigation, Bose audio, and additional remote functionalities. Honda’s CabinTalk feature allowed drivers to communicate effortlessly with rear occupants, a thoughtful touch for family trips.

The 2023 Subaru Forester showcased Subaru’s EyeSight technology, with updated software and wider view cameras for improved performance. Key safety features included forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The new Automatic Emergency Steering enhanced safety under 50 mph by assisting with obstacle avoidance. However, the overly cautious Rear Automatic Braking system could be jarring.

Despite the advancements, the Forester’s crash-test ratings showed some room for improvement, earning an IIHS Top Safety Pick instead of the higher rating it previously held. NHTSA awarded the Forester five-star crash-test ratings but gave it a four-star rollover resistance rating.

Honda had high safety expectations for the 2023 Pilot, aiming for top scores from NHTSA. Already awarded an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, the Pilot came equipped with comprehensive Honda Sensing safety features, including forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and more. Higher trims added low-speed automatic braking and multiple camera systems. The safety features worked seamlessly during our tests, contributing to a secure driving experience.