Overview & Reviews

Since its launch for the 2003 model year, the Honda Pilot has helped shape the market for crossover SUVs with three rows of seating. Offering V6 power, respectable fuel economy, a comfortable ride, plenty of interior space and seven-to-eight-passenger seating, the Pilot is exactly the kind of vehicle that appeals to growing families who are leery of traditional minivans. Other crossover SUVs might be sportier to drive or more stylish on the inside, but Honda's three-row crossover appeals to your practical side and packs in a lot of functionality.

Choosing a Pilot is straightforward, as Honda packages equipment in a few basic trim levels rather than offering countless options. Regardless of the year, all Honda Pilots give you three useful rows of seating and lots of storage slots, though early models are smaller and aren't quite as accommodating for teenagers in the third row. Cargo capacity has also increased over the years.

User Reviews:

• 

  Why get anything but a Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Liz K - November 24 - 2:00 am

  Ive purchased my Pilot in Dec. 2002. I ordered it back in July 2002 and it finally arrived. Its a great vehicle! I used to drive an Accord and the transition is very well received. Its a solid car. It accelerates well and drives smooth. The space is great. I can fit my dogs large crate in the back with room to spare. For the price it handles just like the MDX for less. If you can live without the luxury of an MDX go for the Pilot. Its a practical alternative. If your a woman and would like a SUV that drives like a car consider the Pilot. I recommend it! :)

• 

  2005 Honda Pilot - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By CWells - November 21 - 5:00 am

  This is the best car I have ever driven. It drives like a dream, handles wonderfully, and Im proud to own it.

• 

  Why Pay Extra For A "Luxury" Brand - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By Dubs - November 20 - 6:39 pm

  This may be early for a full review of my 2016 Honda Pilot Elite... it has less than 100 miles on it. I traded a 2013 Infiniti JX 35 on the Pilot and the Honda is very much the equal of the Infiniti in almost all matters. The Infiniti has a higher quality leather on the seats, in my opinion, and a little more chrome on the exterior, but the Honda is equal or better in everything else. The seats are comfortable, the drivers position good, the acceleration and ride very good, and the fit and finish excellent. There is so much storage and so many cup holders that I dont know if anyone will ever use all of them. I like the touch screen and dont know why some people complain that the radio doesnt have tactile controls/knobs. There are radio controls on the steering wheel! The Bluetooth connectivity is easily done and performs very well. The safety tech is great except for the peculiar decision by Honda to have the adaptive cruise control disengage when speeds drop to 20 mph or less. Some things I dont like. The brakes are a bit soft, the steering wheel telescopic adjustments are done only manually, the second row windows are not one touch up and down, and, as mentioned above, the adaptive cruise control disengages at around 20 mph. It seems to me that this could be dangerous if the driver isnt paying attention. In the limited driving that we have done, we are impressed with the Honda Pilot. It "feels" solid. We have not experienced the lurching that others have stated they feel from the 9 speed transmission as the car is slowing to a stop. In fact, the transmission is very smooth during acceleration and deceleration. The ingress and egress of the vehicle are both accomplished easily. All in all, we have been pleased with the initial quality of our 2016 Honda Pilot Elite and hope that it continues to perform well and the MPG improves as the car "breaks in".

• 

  Love this car!!! - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Crystal Berry - November 19 - 9:06 pm

  I have always wanted a Pilot. The fun in driving and being a passenger is great. It rides smoothly and is comfortable. The navigation system has been fantastic. What I do not like is the noise when a window is open and the opposite window is not. I would not trade the car in for this. It is very roomy for passengers.

• 

  Do all Pilot - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Bob & Barbara - November 16 - 11:50 am

  The car is well made and drives easily with a lot of comfort. It is a remarkable bargain considering it costs some $10,000 less than the Acura MDX with which it shares more than chassis. Have had no problems though its width can be deceiving, particularly in a parallel parking situation.

• 

  Outstanding SUV - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Bob Mills - November 15 - 7:03 am

  Excellent handling, great performance, large interior, very functional, exceptional in snow.

• 

  Fun and safe to drive - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By szurow - November 14 - 11:07 pm

  It is very nice to drive and handles well. I feel safe and secure and my children enjoy the DVD feature.

• 

  Love My Pilot - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Susan - November 13 - 2:54 am

  Bought an end of year 2005 Pilot with leather/moon roof. Love the car. Rides so very smooth. Great large tinted windows perfect. gas mileage good, not great, but as expected. If I wanted economy I would have bought a Civic. I needed roomy, clean lines, great back seat, lots of storage areas. wonderful family vehicle, super comfort on long rides. Thank you Honda !!!

• 

  Solid Performance for the money - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Don Tucci - November 12 - 1:17 pm

  I purchased my Honda Pilot after quite a bit of research. I looked at the others. For my money, this vehicle was the best choice. The reliability, comfort of ride, and standard equipment put it far ahead of the other competitive vehicles in its class. Further, the resale value of this vehicle is hard to beat, and the reliability allows you to keep the vehicle well after it is paid for or until you are ready for a change. The only changes I would have liked in regard to my model was a folding flat second seat and a sun roof, which I believe are both now currently available. This is a solid, spacious and reliable vehicle that will last.

• 

  2006 Honda Pilot EX 2WD - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By Bobi - November 12 - 4:06 am

  Love this car! Smooth ride.Excellent transmission. Plenty of power on highway. Have had no issues with car so far.Averaged 24 on first highway trip.This is the seventh Honda I have owned.Never had a problem with any of them.