If you’re actively shopping, you can also run a Car IQ Report to see which years and models are most reliable using U.S. government-backed data insights.
Choosing a reliable 3-row SUV often leads to a tough decision: the Subaru Ascent vs Honda Pilot. Both are known for safety, space, and holding their value, but which one is truly the better long-term partner for your family?
We’re diving deep into the data to compare their long-term reliability, common problems, and what real owners are saying.
The answer might not be what you expect.
Subaru Ascent vs Honda Pilot: All-Weather Confidence or Proven Practicality?
Your choice between the Ascent and Pilot might boil down to a simple question: Do you need confident all-weather capability or maximum practicality?
The Subaru Ascent comes standard with its legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive on every single trim. This system provides continuous power to all four wheels, giving you fantastic grip in rain, snow, or on gravel roads right out of the box.
The Honda Pilot, a long-time champion of family hauling, has built its reputation on rock-solid practicality. It traditionally offers slightly more cargo space, with up to 87 cubic feet of room in the 2025 model compared to the Ascent’s 86.5 cubic feet. While front-wheel drive is standard, Honda’s available i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system is highly capable and can send 70% of the engine’s power to the rear wheels for extra traction when you need it.
It’s also worth noting both SUVs received significant updates for the 2023 model year. The Ascent got a facelift with a huge 11.6-inch standard touchscreen, while the Pilot was completely redesigned with a more rugged, truck-like appearance and a new V6 engine.
Ascent vs Pilot Reliability Ratings Through the Years
Historically, the Honda Pilot has been a reliability powerhouse. Looking back at J.D. Power data, older models like the 2014 Pilot scored an impressive 81 out of 100, earning a “Great” rating that boosted resale value and owner confidence.
However, the Ascent’s debut in 2019 coincided with a dip in the Pilot’s otherwise stellar record. Consumer Reports gave the 2019 Pilot a predicted reliability score of just 3 out of 5. Fast forward to the 2024 model year, and the gap has closed significantly. Consumer Reports gives the newest Pilot a predicted reliability of 45 out of 100, while the Ascent scores a slightly better 51 out of 100, with both falling in the “Average” range.
The Ascent’s early years were plagued by well-documented transmission and electrical problems. These issues led Subaru to issue several technical service bulletins and recalls, like recall WRK-21, to address the transmission control unit on 2019-2020 models.
When you look at sales versus complaints, the data tells an interesting story. In 2019, Honda sold 135,008 Pilots, far more than the 81,958 Ascents Subaru sold in its first full year. While the Pilot had more total complaints, Car IQ Report data shows that when adjusted per 1,000 vehicles sold, the complaint rates were nearly identical.
It’s not just about the number of complaints, but their severity.
The Pilot’s main issues in the 2019-2020 era were frustrating infotainment glitches and electrical system bugs. The Honda Pilot Car IQ Report confirms this was a widespread annoyance that left owners dealing with blank screens and system reboots.
The Subaru Ascent faced similar electrical issues in its 2019 and 2020 models, primarily related to rapid battery drain. This problem was so common that it resulted in a class action lawsuit, prompting Subaru to offer extended battery warranties to affected owners.
Some Ascent owners also reported problems with windshields that cracked easily or caused distracting glare.
While Subaru has worked to resolve these early issues in newer models, the Pilot’s longer track record gives it a slight edge for buyers prioritizing proven, consistent reliability.
Ascent vs Pilot Cost of Ownership Comparison
When you look at the total cost over five years, these two SUVs are incredibly close. Recent 2024 data from Kelley Blue Book (KBB) shows the real picture.
KBB estimates the 5-Year Cost to Own for a Subaru Ascent is about $47,698. The Honda Pilot comes in just slightly higher at $48,349. That’s a difference you might not even notice year to year.
| Cost Factor | Subaru Ascent (5-Yr Avg.) | Honda Pilot (5-Yr Avg.) |
| Insurance | ~$5,500 | ~$5,700 |
| Maintenance & Repairs | ~$4,800 | ~$4,500 |
| Fuel | ~$11,000 | ~$11,500 |
| Total Cost to Own (KBB) | ~$47,698 | ~$48,349 |
For the Ascent, common out-of-pocket repairs on early 2019-2020 models include battery replacements (around $250) and finicky power liftgates ($500-$700).
A key tip for Ascent owners: due to the Symmetrical AWD system, you almost always have to replace all four tires at once to prevent drivetrain damage from uneven tread. This can make tire replacement more expensive than on a front-wheel-drive Pilot.
Honda Pilot owners of third-generation models (2016-2022) occasionally report transmission servicing needs (about $400) or climate control fixes (roughly $600). However, these issues are less common on the newer models.
Both Honda and Subaru offer identical new vehicle warranties: a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Historically, Honda has processed fewer warranty claims, reinforcing its reputation for building things right the first time.
Depreciation Rates Over Time
How well your SUV holds its value is a huge part of its long-term cost. While both the Ascent and Pilot perform well, recent data shows a slight shift in which one keeps more of its value.
According to automotive research site CarEdge, the Honda Pilot is now projected to retain about 56% of its original value after five years. The Subaru Ascent is right behind it, retaining around 54% of its value over the same period.
This gives the Pilot a narrow victory in resale value, meaning you’re likely to get a little more money back when it’s time to sell or trade it in. This is a reversal from a few years ago and shows how much the Pilot’s recent redesign has resonated with buyers.
Safety Ratings
You can’t go wrong with either SUV when it comes to safety. Both the Honda Pilot and Subaru Ascent earn top marks in crash tests, including a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
However, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gives the 2025 Honda Pilot a slight edge by awarding it the prestigious Top Safety Pick+ designation. The 2025 Subaru Ascent earns the still-excellent Top Safety Pick award. The “Plus” for the Pilot comes from its top “Good” rating in the IIHS’s updated and tougher side-impact crash test.
Both models received a 4-star rollover rating from the NHTSA, which is common for SUVs due to their higher center of gravity.
Both vehicles also come standard with excellent safety technology suites. Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology and Honda Sensing include features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking on every trim level.
Despite the strong crash test ratings, it’s important to look at real-world safety reports. Our Car IQ Report safety data shows that early electrical and mechanical issues on both models did lead to some owner-reported safety concerns and on-road failures.
Reports show the Honda Pilot has seen these types of issues decrease with its latest generation, while some owners of newer Ascents still report occasional problems.
Fuel Economy and Towing Comparison
When it comes to fuel efficiency, these two are neck-and-neck. According to official 2025 EPA ratings, the Subaru Ascent, with its standard AWD, gets an estimated 20 MPG city and 26 MPG highway.
The 2025 Honda Pilot offers a choice. The front-wheel-drive models get 19 MPG city and 27 MPG highway, giving it a slight edge on long road trips. If you opt for all-wheel-drive, the Pilot’s numbers shift to 19 MPG city and 25 MPG highway, making it nearly identical to the Ascent.
Both SUVs are designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline, which helps keep your fuel budget in check.
What About Towing?
If you have a boat or a small camper, you’ll be happy to know both SUVs are ready for the job. The Subaru Ascent offers a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds on most trims. Likewise, the Honda Pilot, when equipped with AWD, also tows up to 5,000 pounds. (Note: FWD Pilot models are limited to 3,500 pounds).
Real-World Performance
Your actual mileage will always depend on your driving style. An important tip for Ascent drivers: its turbocharged four-cylinder engine can be thirsty if you have a heavy foot. Many owners on forums report that aggressive driving can cause fuel economy to drop more noticeably than in the Pilot’s smoother V6 engine.
Ultimately, according to the EPA’s fuel economy data, most families will see less than a $100 difference in annual fuel costs between these two vehicles. Neither currently offers a hybrid option, so what you see is what you get.
Common Problems Reported by Owners on Reddit for Subaru Ascent
Electronic Glitches
The Ascent’s large Starlink infotainment screen is a highlight for many, but it’s also a source of frustration. Reddit users frequently report screens that freeze or go black, and issues with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto randomly disconnecting.
Many owners suggest a simple fix that often works: press and hold the radio’s power knob for about 10 seconds to force a system reboot. This can resolve temporary glitches without a trip to the dealer.
Battery and Engine Concerns
The premature battery drain on 2019-2021 models is the Ascent’s most infamous issue. Beyond that, some owners mention the auto start-stop system can be clunky, sometimes hesitating to restart the engine quickly at a green light.
How Subaru Handles Problems
Most owners agree that Subaru has been proactive in addressing these issues. The company issued multiple software updates for the infotainment system and settled a class-action lawsuit over the battery drain by extending warranties. Dealers are generally reported to be helpful with warranty repairs.
Common Problems Reported by Owners on Reddit for Honda Pilot
Transmission Concerns (Older Models)
If you’re looking at a used Pilot, this is the biggest issue to watch for. Owners of 2016-2022 models on Reddit often discuss the 9-speed automatic transmission, noting it can feel jerky at low speeds or hesitate when accelerating. This was a widely known issue that Honda has since addressed.
The completely redesigned 2023+ Pilot uses a new 10-speed automatic transmission that has received much more positive feedback for its smooth shifting.
Technology Problems
Similar to the Ascent, the Pilot’s infotainment system isn’t without its quirks. Reddit users mention a few common annoyances:
- The screen can be slow to respond to touch inputs.
- Wireless phone chargers that overheat phones or charge intermittently.
- Bluetooth connectivity that can be unreliable.
Interior Rattles
A number of Pilot owners report minor but annoying rattles and squeaks from the dashboard or trim pieces, especially in colder weather. While not a mechanical problem, it’s a quality control issue that can detract from an otherwise quiet ride.
Making Your Final Decision: Subaru Ascent vs Honda Pilot
So, after digging through all the data, which SUV should you choose?
The Subaru Ascent is a fantastic choice if standard, always-on all-wheel drive and the latest cabin technology are your top priorities. It has overcome many of its early growing pains and offers incredible value, especially considering its impressive list of standard safety features.
However, if your decision comes down to long-term reliability and proven durability, the Honda Pilot still holds a slight advantage. Its strong resale value, lower maintenance costs over time, and the refinements of its latest generation make it a smart and dependable choice for a family hauler.
Ultimately, the better vehicle is the one that best fits your family’s needs and budget. The gap in reliability has narrowed, making this matchup of the Subaru Ascent vs Honda Pilot closer than ever.
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