With over 2 million units sold over the last twenty years, the Honda Pilot needs no introduction. This large SUV is an essential vehicle in the automaker's lineup, leading to the introduction of the fourth generation to take on rivals such as the Toyota Highlander, Nissan Pathfinder, and Mazda CX-90. Our test version of the new Honda Pilot TrailSport had an MSRP of $59,850 and was manufactured at the Lincoln, AL plant.
The Honda Pilot has become a household name in the past twenty years. For this fourth generation, the Tokyo-based automaker decided to freshen up the design and introduce a new trim called TrailSport. This rugged version slots in the middle of the lineup. It sports exclusive Shark Grey (dark grey) 18-inch aluminum wheels, a bold black grille with the TrailSport logo, a revised lower bumper, blacked-out mirrors, door handles, and roof rails. The changes aren't as pronounced as on Subaru's Wilderness trim but are especially noticeable in this Diffused Sky Pearl (light blue) ensemble. The design team gave the Pilot a more athletic look, reducing previously visible chrome trims. In the back, a new design for the trunk, with the model's name spelled out across a black trim, looks more athletic and aggressive. The new Honda Pilot TrailSport is a departure from the previous model but still has that classic look that long-time buyers appreciate.
The older Honda Pilot needed to catch up in interior presentation; the new generation is fresh air, especially with so many other automakers upping their game. The driver's area has a new steering wheel and gauge cluster. It's a 7-inch digital display for basics. Interestingly, the speedometer is analog, but the tachometer is digital and is part of that screen. The steering wheel has orange stitching that matches the seats, which features those stitchings and the trim's name on the front headrests. Moving towards the middle, you will find the newest generation 9-inch central infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Even though it's smaller than most of the competition, the touchscreen is responsive and easy to use. The large climate control dials are located underneath the air vents and are within reach of the driver and passenger.
As one can expect from a midsize SUV, it is roomy and can easily seat up to seven passengers, although the third row is better suited for children. Interestingly, the TrailSport is the only trim with captain chairs in the second row; every other trim has a bench seat, thus adding an eighth seat belt. Regarding amenities, you will find a temperature panel on the second row with two air vents, USB ports, a 110v power outlet, heated seat controls and sun shades integrated into both rear doors. You can quickly get in or out of the third row thanks to buttons located respectively on the side and near the headrest on the back of the second row. Occupants have air vents and cup holders in the back, too. A large vehicle like this can transport a significant amount of cargo. The numbers indicate 618L of space behind the third row and 1685L behind the second row, providing impressive capacity for daily tasks. You can fold down the third row quickly, thanks to the straps. As for car seat installation, you can find ISOFIX ports that are easily accessible and rear anchors within reach, too.
Driving-wise, the only powertrain offered in the Honda Pilot is the reliable 3.5L V6 engine, now coupled to a 10-speed automatic transmission, producing 285 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. The Pilot's performances are on par with the segment, with 0-100kph times hovering around 7.0 seconds. The acceleration is predictable and smooth; the 6-cylinder quickly moves this large vehicle. Braking distances are decent for the category, while steering and handling are on the comfy side of the equation. The Honda Pilot has been designed with family and road trips in mind, making this SUV suited for highway driving and daily tasks. You can feel the weight balance shifting in tight curves due to comfort-tuned suspensions. Of course, few people will bring this 2,130 kg (4,695 lbs) vehicle to an off-road trail, but the TrailSport trim has some upgrades such as steel skid plates, an off-road suspension and unique wheels paired with off-road tires that will make trips to the cabin easier. No hybrid powertrain is disappointing, as some competitors offer mild hybrid, hybrid and even plug-in hybrid versions; we observed an average of 13.8L/100km (17 mpg) during our testing, which is slightly higher than the official figure (11.8L/100km). Finally, the Honda Pilot can tow up to 5,000 lbs, one of the highest in the segment.
The Honda Pilot TrailSport is among the best choices in its category. Its large cargo capacity, redesigned exterior styling, and versatile interior make a compelling case. The Pilot will continue to meet the needs of many North American families, as it has been doing for the past 20 years. We only wish its driving dynamics were more engaging; otherwise, the Pilot is a solid choice.
Honda has lent us this vehicle for one week as a press vehicle. We have no affiliation with Honda Canada. The above reflects our personal opinion of the car referred to above.
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