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:

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  Excellent Family SUV Alternative - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By JCGray - June 20 - 5:50 am

  After owning 2 Ford Expeditions, Vans, etc., our family is truly impressed with our 2006 Honda Pilot w/Navi. Eight passenger capability is great for carrying our sons and daughters high school friends safely. We have had no problems to date. The car drives and rides extremely well. Very quiet inside with no problems described in other posts. Great safety ratings for front, side, and rear collisions really make this vehicle a comfort to own. I trust my wife and children are safe in this vehicle. We looked at the Acura MDX, Toyota 4 Runner, Highlander, Explorer, Subaru B9 Tribeca, the Durango, and the Trailblazer. Dollar for Dollar considering our needs, none of these cars compared.

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  Good SUV But LOts of Little Problems - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By DodoPodo - June 19 - 4:07 pm

  POSITIVES: Attractive vehicle, both inside and out. Excellent use of interior space for both occupants and cargo. Storage room galore. Very good quality parts and fit/finish. Neat built-in lights in rear grab handles. Great power and smooth transmission. Resale value. NEGATIVES: The 3.5L V6 sometimes doesnt crank up right away (dealer says Honda is aware of this problem with that particular engine, but no fix for it yet). Numerous trim pieces had to be replaced in first 12,000 miles (e.g. the molding containing the drivers seat power switches broke a rear door threshold molding broke the drivers inside door handle started to peel apart) -- not what one expects from a "Honda".

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  Honda Pilot EX-L RES - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By singh1 - June 19 - 10:00 am

  I bought at the end of June. Have close to 2000 miles on it. Dont pay more than MSRP + Taxes. Why? Because considering the alternatives and that this is a first year model, I dont think the Pilot is worth more than $36,000 OTD. I had a problem with a wind noise coming from the passenger side. Also have a problem with the drivers side windshield washer leaking out fluid onto the hood. I still need to take it in for that... Nice SUV overall. This is my first import purchase. I do miss the power of the Chevy V-8s and the low range. Im actually one of the few SUV owners that enjoy tackling rough terrain where you need low range to get up the hill...or down one.

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  New 2005 Honda Pilot - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Lewis Robeson - June 19 - 5:36 am

  Just purchased a 2005 Honda Pilot and have driven it on 2 trips around Maryland. It is drives much better than the 1995 Jeep Grand Cheroke that I traded in. Very good handling qualites and very quiet. Just like driving a big sedan. Nice for traveling.

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  No regrets - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By RED - June 17 - 8:16 am

  Had the vehicle 1 week when we got 12" of snow just as we were ready to leave for vacation. Our Pilot easily broke out of our 120 driveway and through the snowdrift left by the plow at the end of the driveway allowing us to get on with our vacation. Ride is extremely comfortable and the engine provides plenty of power when needed. This is my 4th Honda (2 Odysseys and an Accord) and is my favorite.

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  Glad I didnt pay attention to the 9 speed Reviews - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By jacks - June 17 - 12:43 am

  Okay, I get it. Some here hate the 9 speed transmission, and I almost settled for the EX-L as a result of those reviews, but I am happy to report that I ignored those folks, did my own investigation and I am glad I did. The 9 speed is different, and it takes some getting used to, but it is very, very smooth. The sport mode is fantastic for movement down steep mountain grades and combines nicely with the new suspension that allows for sharp cornering without feeling top heavy. It actually corners better than many of the cars I have owned. On the highway, the 9 speed transmission is as smooth as butter and really delivers an awesome ride. In town, the 9 speed transmission performs well too. When I drove the car home from the dealer, I did notice a difference during the stopping, slowing down process. What I concluded is that the sound of the transmission differs from the normal 6 speed in that it does an audible "rev" that in my opinion fools the driver into thinking the car is speeding up. After a few days of really paying attention, I tried to manufacture a "rev" or lurch but just couldnt. I am not saying the issue is in everyones head, but what I am saying is that the transmission behaves differently and that the behavior takes some getting used to--just like anything new. It may also require some adjustment of driving habits too. I am still feeling it out, and by no means want imply that others impressions are incorrect. But I will say, had I relied entirely on some of the negative views here, I would have gotten an EX L, and I would have missed out on the Touring, which in my opinion is a hands down winner. Not to mention the value gained by stepping up one model! Just my thoughts.

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  Awesome SUV - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By Newowner - June 13 - 10:00 am

  After just a few days this car seems perfect. Rides, handles and goes great. Surprisingly quick and extremely comfortable. I love mine!

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  EXL with DVD 2005 - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By exlpilotwithdvd - June 11 - 9:13 pm

  I got a great deal, base price of $28800 with running boards and tint included. It runs great, and I have no complaints. An awesome purchase. I love the DVD and leather. Fit and finish inside and out is perfect, and the engine is sublime. I test drove every SUV in its class, and the Pilot beats them all hands down. I am thrilled!

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  Awesome Family Car - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Tammy - June 11 - 1:46 am

  I love my honda Pilot. We shopped every SUV on the market and can be particular. The Pilot fit all our needs--good car for the $, reliable, good size, and stylish. Prior to the Pilot, I had a Nissan Pathfinder SUV, then a Toyota Camry, then a mini-van. I have now found my dream car! It is great for young children. The 3rd row is small, however, no smaller than the mini-vans 3rd row. Its awesome that the all rows fold flat--unlike the van. It is a very powerful car, hugs the road well,and great in the snow. I feel safe in this car and it feels good to know I am investing in a car that has a great safety rating, is realiable, and roomy enough for a young and growing family. Way to go Honda

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  The one to beat - 2016 Honda Pilot
  By Mark Yee - June 6 - 5:51 pm

  The control pad is like a mini iPad. Fuel efficiency is 28 mpg as stated. Comfort. Technology.