2026 Honda Pilot Elite vs 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT
This is not a spec comparison. It is a decision about whether you need a midsize SUV or a midsize sedan. Key numbers: 285 vs 260 hp, 21 vs 24 MPG.
The Pilot Elite leads on 25 more hp, 8.4″ longer. The Outback Touring XT leads on $5,500 less, 3 MPG better. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2026 Honda Pilot Elite | 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $53,495 | $47,995 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 2.4L flat 4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 285 hp | 260 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 19 | 21 |
| Highway MPG | 25 | 29 |
| Combined MPG | 21 | 24 |
| Fuel Tank | 18.5 gal | 18.0 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,678 lbs | 3,982 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 113.8" | 108.1" |
| Length | 200.1" | 191.7" |
| Width | 78.5" | 74.0" |
| Height | 71.0" | 67.5" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | TSP | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Honda Pilot Elite and 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT?
The 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT starts at $47,995, $5,500 less than the 2026 Honda Pilot Elite at $53,495. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $97/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Honda Pilot Elite?
The 2026 Honda Pilot Elite is the stronger pick when your priority is passenger space and cargo flexibility.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT?
The 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT is the stronger pick when you want to keep $5,500 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $250/year less on fuel; your priority is a comfortable daily commute.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Honda Pilot Elite or 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT?
The 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT rates 24 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Honda Pilot Elite or 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT?
The 2026 Honda Pilot Elite produces 285 hp, 25 more than the 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT at 260 hp. The 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT also leads in torque at 277 lb-ft vs 262 lb-ft. The 2026 Honda Pilot Elite runs a 3.5L V6; the 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT uses a 2.4L flat 4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Honda Pilot Elite bigger than the 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT?
The 2026 Honda Pilot Elite is 8.4″ longer at 200.1″ vs 191.7″. The 2026 Honda Pilot Elite has a 5.7″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom. Keep in mind these are different vehicle types (midsize SUV vs midsize sedan), so interior layout and cargo access are fundamentally different.
Can I cross-shop a midsize SUV against a midsize sedan?
Yes, and many buyers do. A midsize SUV and a midsize sedan solve different problems, so the comparison is less about specs and more about lifestyle. Think about what you need most: cargo room and passenger space. The spec table above helps you compare the numbers, but a test drive is where you will feel the difference in daily use.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Honda trims, Honda Pilot trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Outback trims
- 2026 Honda Pilot Elite Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Pilot–Outback Decision
Comparing a midsize SUV to a midsize sedan means asking what you actually need from your next vehicle. The 2026 Honda Pilot Elite ($53,495) and 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT ($47,995) answer that question differently. The $-5,500 gap adds up to $97/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Honda Pilot Elite runs a 3.5L V6; the 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT uses a 2.4L flat 4 Turbo. The 2026 Honda Pilot Elite has 25 more hp (285 vs 260), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT saves roughly $250/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,250.
Living With the Pilot vs the Outback
The 2026 Honda Pilot Elite is designed around passenger space, cargo flexibility, and a higher seating position. The 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT is optimized for a comfortable daily commute and a low center of gravity. These are fundamentally different vehicles, so the comparison comes down to what job you need done, not which one is objectively better. The 2026 Honda Pilot Elite has a 5.7″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2026 Honda Pilot Elite weighs 696 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Honda Pilot Elite when your priority is passenger space and cargo flexibility. Choose the 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT when you want to keep $5,500 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Honda or Subaru or any dealership.