The Honda Pilot is offered in five different trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, Touring and Elite. The key difference between these models is the range of convenience features and luxury appointments offered. Across the entire lineup, powertrain offerings are essentially the same, with front-wheel-drive or 4-wheel-drive variants of each model.
All Pilots are powered by a 280-horsepower 3.5L V6 i-VTEC engine that utilizes variable cylinder management. To save fuel, the engine runs on fewer cylinders when cruising or coasting. This V6 is the workhorse of Honda's lineup and allows smooth, strong acceleration, even with a heavy load. A 6-speed automatic transmission is standard while the Touring and Elite models get a 9-speed.
Honda's 4-wheel drive system is called VTM-4 (variable torque management). It automatically sends more power to the rear wheels when needed. For snowy driveways or muddy trails where a slow, steady grip -- and perhaps even a little slip -- would help, the system provides a Lock mode that works in first or second gear, up to 18 mph.
The Pilot is laid out more like a car than a truck, and that comes through with better handling, as well as a better on-road ride than might be expected from a big SUV. The rear multi-link, front-strut layout is close to what's offered in Honda's car lineup, while 4-wheel disc brakes, a variable-displacement steering pump and low rolling-resistance tires provide relatively lean performance on the road, with just a bit of added ruggedness. The rear suspension is mounted on a subframe, which helps isolate noise and vibration and acoustic glass helps keep out wind and road noise.
Inside, the Pilot's three rows of seating are laid out well enough to accommodate adults in all three rows, although the tallest passengers are best in the front two rows. The second and third rows have folding seatbacks and feature a 60/40 split, with cargo volume expanding to 87 cubic feet behind the front seats if everything's folded down.
Standard equipment on base Pilot LX models includes LED headlights and daytime running lights, a 215-watt 7-speaker audio system with a subwoofer, two USB ports, adaptive cruise control and remote keyless entry.
EX models add LED front fog lamps, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control with separate rear controls, proximity entry and an upgraded audio system that features Bluetooth, an 8-inch touchscreen interface and Apple CarPlay\Android Auto connectivity.
EX-L models build on the standard features including leather front seats with driver seat memory, a power-adjustable passenger seat, leather steering wheel, a HomeLink garage door transmitter, 10.20-inch rear monitor and a power rear hatch.
Touring models get an upgrade to 20-inch alloy wheels, a power sunroof, heated rear seats, HondaLink internet access and emergency SOS and an integrated navigation system.
The top-of-the-line Elite adds rain-sensing wipers, heated and ventilated seats, second-row captain's chairs and a heated steering wheel. Black Edition adds blacked out exterior trim pieces and red interior accents to the Elite trim level.
The Honda Sensing systems package, which is standard across all trims, has a suite of safety-oriented systems that includes a blind spot sensor, lane keeping assist, back-up camera and collision detection sensors.
Spacious Interior
Three Rows Of Seating
Reconfigurable Seating Layout
Ride And Handling
Responsive Powertrain
The Honda Pilot returns for 2020 with one solid update for the new year. Much like the Ridgeline Black Edition before it the Honda Pilot Black Edition features standard all-wheel drive, blacked out exterior trim pieces, and red interior accents.
The redesigned Honda Pilot crossover utility vehicle is focused on interior comfort and versatility. It features three rows of seating worthy of a minivan, yet it also incorporates the ruggedness of traditional SUVs. The Pilot features a powerful engine and reasonable fuel economy thanks to an available 9-speed transmission. A host of safety features are available as well.
