Honda Pilot

The Pilot is a midsize crossover SUV with three rows of seating, accommodating up to eight passengers. It’s the largest sport-ute in Honda's lineup, slotting above the more sport-oriented Passport. The Pilot shares its platform with the Acura MDX, a luxury midsize SUV from Honda's upscale brand.

The Pilot’s most recent (third) generation debuted in 2016, offering a more refined and modern design, along with improved fuel efficiency, a more comfortable ride, and a host of new technology and safety features. It was updated in 2019 with a mid-cycle refresh that included more aggressive exterior styling, an updated infotainment system, and the addition of the Honda Sensing suite of driver-assist technologies as standard equipment. The fourth-generation Pilot is expected to arrive in 2023.

The Pilot is available in several trims, including LX, EX, EX-L, Touring, and Elite. The base LX trim is well-equipped, while the EX and EX-L trims add more convenience and luxury features. The Touring and Elite trims offer the most advanced features, with the Elite trim being the most luxurious.

Under the hood, the Pilot utilizes a 3.5-liter V6 engine. In the second generation (2009-2015), it produces 250 horsepower and is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. The third generation, introduced in 2016, introduced a more powerful version generating 280 hp. The updated engine was initially paired with a six-speed automatic for the LX, EX, and EX-L trims, while the Touring and Elite trims got a nine-speed unit. All trims come with standard front-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive, except for the Elite trim, where all-wheel drive is standard. The Pilot does not offer an electric or hybrid version.

The 2016 Pilot introduced an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with available Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which became standard on the EX trim and above in 2018. The 2019 refresh brought the Honda Sensing suite of advanced safety features as standard across all trims, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist, among others.

Considering the Pilot’s updates and advancements in recent years, used car buyers should seek out models from 2016 onward, with a preference for 2019 and later models due to the added standard safety features and updated design. The EX or EX-L trims offer a good balance of features and value, while the Touring and Elite trims may be more suitable for those seeking additional luxury and convenience.