Full review: The 2025 Honda Pilot enters its fourth generation with a boxier, more rugged design. It offers an available TrailSport trim with all-terrain tires and increased ground clearance — a direct answer to the Ascent’s outdoor focus. The cabin is quieter than before, with actual usable third-row space for adults (32.5 inches of legroom). Cargo volume behind third row is 18.6 cubic feet, enough for several suitcases. Honda’s i-VTM4 torque-vectoring AWD system is optional and enhances cornering. Towing matches Ascent at 5,000 lbs. The Pilot’s V6 is smoother and more refined than Ascent’s turbo-four, though fuel economy lags by about 1 mpg. Standard Honda Sensing includes traffic jam assist and low-speed braking. Compared to Ascent, the Pilot feels more substantial and offers a more premium cabin on Elite trims, but pricing starts slightly higher.

Full review: Toyota’s Highlander receives a mid-cycle refresh for 2025 with updated infotainment and a more powerful hybrid system. The Highlander Hybrid LE achieves an astounding 36 mpg combined — the best in the midsize SUV class, easily beating Ascent by 10 mpg. The cabin is quieter on highway than previous years, though third row is tighter than Ascent (adults will struggle on longer trips). The hybrid’s seamless e-CVT and electric motor assist provide smooth acceleration. Towing is rated at 5,000 lbs for both gas and hybrid when equipped. Standard Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 includes pedestrian detection and lane tracing. While the interior materials are slightly less upscale than Ascent’s latest updates, the Highlander offers unbeatable fuel savings and resale value. For eco-conscious families, it’s the top alternative.

Full review: The Telluride continues to dominate the three-row segment with its bold styling, upscale interior, and exceptional value. For 2025, Kia adds more standard safety features and a new X-Pro trim with all-terrain tires and increased towing capacity (now 5,500 lbs, 500 more than Ascent). The cabin is genuinely luxurious, with available Nappa leather and quilted stitching that rivals German SUVs. Second-row captain’s chairs offer limousine-like space, and the third row is usable for adults up to 6 feet tall. Cargo space behind third row is 21 cubic feet — significantly larger than Ascent. The 3.8L V6 provides ample power (291 hp), though fuel economy lags at 18/24 mpg. The Telluride’s 10-year/100,000-mile warranty adds peace of mind. Downsides: higher demand means fewer discounts, and the infotainment, while good, isn’t as intuitive as Subaru’s latest. Overall, if luxury feel and space are priorities, Telluride is a top pick.

The Palisade shares its bones with Telluride but offers a more composed, quieter ride and a distinct design. Calligraphy trim rivals Genesis levels of quietness and material quality. Standard features include blind-spot view monitor and safe exit assist. Cargo capacity matches Ascent. The 3.8L V8 (291 hp) is smooth, and the 8-speed automatic is well-mannered. Towing is 5,000 lbs. The Palisade often undercuts Ascent on price when similarly equipped.