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:

• 

  So far so good - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By So far so good - October 10 - 1:58 pm

  Good mid size SUV. Honda reliability with nice interior features. The ride is adequate and better than most SUVs I have driven. This is expected from an elevated ride with this much weight. Excellent horse power and turning radius. The gas mileage is a bit lower than I would like but I compromised as I wanted an SUV.

• 

  Could be better! - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Jim Collis - October 9 - 7:57 pm

  I purchased the Honda because of the fine reviews that I read on the internet but I was disappointed after I was able to put a few hundred miles on it. First of all, the gas mileage is HORRIBLE and not better than my Expedition. I only average 13 m.p.g. with mostly highway driving. Honda acknowledged the problem and hopefully they will address it. Next, the road noise is VERY high while on the highway. I keep thinking that a window is open somewhere. Also, after 70 m.p.h., the front wheel starts to shake. I took it to the dealer and they could not find the problem yet. The Pilot also seems unstable at highway speeds and drivers should be careful not to make sudden lane changes.

• 

  Pilot - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Honda - October 9 - 11:58 am

  At this time, the paint seems to be well crafted. Workmanship seems to be of very good quality. Price is competitive with the Highlander and other SUVs in the near price range. The Pilot is smooth handling for a SUV. Storage for the front passenger and driver is properly arranged.

• 

  Great Choice - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Karthic - October 8 - 10:00 am

  Its really worth of the money that was spent buying this SUV. EPA fuel-economy estimates are 17 mpg city and 22 mpg highway as per the book. I am getting 17 in Highway and 15 in City driving. Otherwise, I am happy with this SUV.

• 

  Best for the price - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By FLinFL - October 7 - 5:33 pm

  2wd with Variable Cylinder Management gave us 24 mpg avg on 2500 mile trip.Plenty of power and quiet at the same time. Had dealer install better tires(Bridgestone Dueler Alenzas). What a differance in ride,handling and quiet.Great driver.Great build quality.Check out the headliner!

• 

  Pilot 04 - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By pilot0508 - October 7 - 1:42 pm

  The Pilot drives like the Accord. It is easy to handle, and has a smooth ride (not bouncy like other SUVs). Weve purchased other SUVs in the past that were difficult to drive over 60 on the interstate. The Pilot manages easy and is enjoyable to drive.

• 

  Ross Pilot - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By Ross Bryan - October 4 - 2:52 am

  Great vehicle -- very versatile, fun to drive, very good mileage. Interior fit/finish could be a bit better, but this SUV is an excellent buy.

• 

  Awesome SUV! - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By cici247 - October 2 - 10:00 am

  It is a pleasure to drive this SUV! The DVD entertainment unit is awesome.

• 

  Honda Pilot Experience - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By A.G. Anderson - September 26 - 10:00 am

  This car is close to perfect in every way; including instrumentation, interior and exterior lighting, ride and performance.

• 

  Handling Woes - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Barbara Kollar - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I bought this vehicle as a replacement for a much beloved mini-van but found that I do not like what I call the wobblies (basically not great handling on back twisty roads which my area is loaded with).I have been told by the dealership that this is normal with such a large heavy vehicle, I still dont like it.