2026 Subaru Ascent parked with mountains in the background

2026 Subaru Ascent vs 2026 Honda Pilot near Denver, CO

Two three-row family SUVs with seating for up to eight. Here's what sets them apart.

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Side-by-Side Comparison

2026 Subaru Ascent2026 Honda Pilot
Engine2.4L turbo 4-cylinder, 260 hp3.5L V6, 285 hp
All-wheel driveStandard on every trimAvailable; standard on upper trims
Maximum seating88
Maximum towing5,000 lbs5,000 lbs with AWD (3,500 lbs FWD)

Specifications are based on manufacturer-published information for the 2026 model year and may vary by trim and equipment. Confirm details with our sales team before purchase.

All-Wheel Drive on Every Ascent

Every 2026 Ascent comes with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds. The Pilot also reaches 5,000 pounds, but only with all-wheel drive. Front-wheel-drive versions are rated at 3,500 pounds. With the Ascent, you get full AWD capability and full towing capacity no matter which trim you choose.

Turbo Four vs V6

The Pilot's 3.5-liter V6 makes more peak horsepower, 285 to the Ascent's 260. The Ascent's turbocharged engine has its own advantage in Colorado: turbos lose less power at altitude than naturally aspirated engines, which helps on the climb from Denver toward the mountains.

Designed for Families

Both SUVs seat up to eight. The Ascent lets you choose captain's chairs or a bench in the second row on its Premium and Limited trims, and the entry Premium includes water-resistant StarTex upholstery that handles muddy boots and spilled snacks well.

Test Drive the Ascent near Denver

Schomp Subaru is at 580 S Havana St in Aurora, a short drive from Denver. Bring the family and try every row. Learn more on our 2026 Ascent page.

Getting to Schomp Subaru from Denver

Schomp Subaru is at 580 S Havana St, Aurora, CO 80012, on the east side of the metro between Alameda and Mississippi Avenues. Most Denver drivers can reach us in about 20 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic, which makes it easy to come see the Ascent in person.

From downtown Denver: Head east on Alameda Avenue for about nine miles. Turn right (south) onto Havana Street, and Schomp Subaru will be on your left shortly after Alameda.

From I-25: Take I-225 north toward Aurora, exit at Mississippi Avenue, and head west to Havana Street. Turn right (north), and we're on your right before you reach Alameda.

From Denver International Airport: Take Peña Boulevard to I-70 west, then I-225 south. Exit at Alameda Avenue, head west to Havana Street, and turn left (south).

Frequently Asked Questions

Does every 2026 Honda Pilot have all-wheel drive?

No. All-wheel drive is available on the Pilot and standard on upper trims. Every 2026 Ascent has all-wheel drive standard.

Which tows more, the Ascent or the Pilot?

Both are rated up to 5,000 pounds, but the Pilot needs all-wheel drive to reach that number. Every Ascent is rated at 5,000 pounds.

Which is more powerful?

The Pilot's V6 makes 285 horsepower, compared with 260 for the Ascent's turbocharged engine.

Questions About the Ascent vs Pilot?

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