Family-Friendly SUVs: Subaru Forester vs. Honda Pilot

Picking the right family SUV can feel like finding a needle in a haystack. The Subaru Forester and Honda Pilot have earned their spots on many families' shortlists. However, they each offer their own mix of features, space, and capability to match different lifestyles — from soccer practice shuttling to weekend camping getaways. In this car review comparison, we'll explore each SUV's features to help you decide between them.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency

Inside the Forester, you'll find a 2.5L BOXER four-cylinder engine outputting up to 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. This engine also delivers impressive fuel efficiency, getting around 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The Pilot flexes more muscle with its beefy 3.5L V-6 engine churning out 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. However, this extra power comes with a tradeoff at the gas station — expect only 19 mpg in city driving and 27 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive.

Every Subaru Forester comes standard with all-wheel drive (AWD), so you don't have to pay extra for this feature, unlike with the Pilot. The Forester's smaller size also makes it a dream to park downtown and zip through crowded streets. If you've got a camper or boat, the Pilot might be your better bet with its 5,000-pound max towing capacity. On the other hand, if you and your family like to wander off the beaten path, you'll appreciate the Forester's X-MODE for tackling Pennsylvania's dirt roads and light trails. Plus, it still tows a respectable 1,500-3,000 pounds.

Interior and Comfort

The Honda Pilot fits more people than the Forester, seating up to eight passengers compared to the Subaru's five. The Pilot also offers more cargo space: 87 cubic feet with all seats folded, 48.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 18.6 cubic feet in the back. The Forester still gives you plenty of room with up to 74.4 cubic feet with rear seats down and 29.6 cubic feet with the seats up.

Both SUVs offer optional heated front and second-row seats, plus ventilated front seats for Stroudsburg's hot summer days. You also get 10-way power-adjustable driver's seats for enhanced comfort. Tech-wise, the Forester has a bigger 11.6-inch infotainment screen compared to the Pilot's 9-inch display. Plus, you'll appreciate the Forester's optional 12-speaker Harman Kardon setup while listening to your favorite songs, though the Pilot counters with quality Bose speakers. Both SUVs offer multiple charging ports to ensure your devices never run out of battery at inconvenient times.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Technology

These SUVs are loaded with protection features families need. The Forester's EyeSight Driver Assist suite includes precollision braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Depending on the trim, a DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation system and reverse automatic braking also come standard. The Pilot's Honda Sensing suite offers similar features. Both models boast impressive safety credentials, including receiving Top Safety Pick awards from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Pricing, Warranties, and Long-Term Ownership Costs

The Forester is much cheaper than the Pilot, starting at $29,995 compared to the Pilot's $40,200. That's a price gap of over $10,000. Both SUVs come with a standard new car warranty that covers three years or 36,000 miles. If you're sticking to a budget, the Forester is a better value for money.

For long-term reliability, both SUVs score well in independent testing. According to J.D. Power, the Forester has a small lead at 83/100 compared to the Pilot's 80/100 rating. While it's not a huge difference, it could mean fewer repair shop visits as the miles add up. The Forester's better gas mileage may save you hundreds each year if your daily commute is on the longer side. Since insurance costs and routine maintenance vary based on where you live and how you drive, it's worth getting quotes for both models before making your final call.

Making the Best Choice for Your Family's Needs

Since both SUVs offer solid safety features, comfortable interiors, and dependable performance, you should consider your family's specific situation before choosing the best option. Factor in your typical driving habits and whether you'll actually use that third row of seats in the coming years.

If you've got a smaller family and want to save on gas, the Forester probably makes more sense. Standard AWD, a lower sticker price, and city-friendly dimensions make it an even more attractive purchase. On the other hand, if you need to haul half the soccer team plus all their gear, the Pilot's extra seating and cargo room might justify that bigger price tag. Its V-6 engine is also more powerful, especially useful if you're towing a camper or boat on weekend trips.

Test Drive the Subaru Forester Today

There's no substitute for sitting behind the wheel yourself. Want to check out the Subaru Forester in person? Swing by Ertle Subaru in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, for a test drive. Our team can answer your questions and help you find what works for your family. We also have a great selection of used vehicles if you're looking for more budget-friendly options that still meet your family's needs.