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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  Happy So Far - 2010 Honda Pilot
  By sutton - August 23 - 4:20 am

  We bought our Pilot last weekend and have really enjoyed it so far. We wanted the RES, but our dealership had the color we wanted in stock without it and could add the DVD player with wireless headphones after factory for a better deal, so we went that route. We had a Hybrid Highlander and this SUV is so much roomier! We really needed a solid, sturdy third row seat and the Pilot is perfect. The drivers seat is very comfortable (love the lumbar support) and it rides very well. I am a small female and was worried about having to look over the large hood of the front of the car (especially compared to the highlander), but I have quickly gotten used it. Very comfortable, roomy, sturdy.

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  Its a Honda - 2017 Honda Pilot
  By Piloteer1 - August 20 - 5:41 pm

  Great value when selecting trim levels. Almost all or nothing. I can only imagine what you get with Touring and Elite trims. Wife wanted more bells and whistles from what we had in a 2012 Pilot LX. EX interior was rough like denim and looked like it would be too hard to remove stains. EX-L adds luxury with leather, sunroof, power front row seating, and a host of other little overlooked conveniences. I read complaints on the infotainment limits, but we love it and havent seen what all the fuss is about. We have to master the steering wheel buttons to keep our eyes on driving. The Android Auto app integration is amazing. Im sketchy on the privacy tradeoff though. But beats 1-2k for built in his. The touchscreen is responsive to our liking. Went with 2wd because I didnt like the 12 and due to sluggish acceleration and roughness. The ride quality is great. Nix the nitrogen option if you can, mixed opinion if it does anything. Eco mode is noticeable because it throttles ac, acceleration and such. Very nimble from takeoff without eco mode. Id use on highway more. Shifting is almost unnoticeable with 6 speed transmission. Still contemplating extended warranty since there is a lot of electronics involved. Lane assist is useful, again maybe more in a highway scenario. Looked at Toyota Highlander and 4runner, both couldnt beat the Pilots 3rd row capacity without pushing 2nd all the way foward. Didnt see the need for Honda-sensing, Id like a to retain some decision making while driving. Ive had 5 Hondas before this, and the 2017 exl is a winner in my mind. Only reason for some 4 stars is I just bought and dont know.

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  Hard to beat the Pilot - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By TomH - August 20 - 3:50 am

  My fifth Honda: one Civic, two Accords and an MDX. Our Pilot is one week old today. Looked at the Pilot for my wife because I love my 01 MDX. The build of this vehicle is amazing. It feels, sounds and rides like my MDX. I don’t know how people get mileage down in the low teens I get 16-17 around the city and 21-23 on the highway in my MDX and the first tank in my Pilot was 16.5/ city driving. Those drivers must have a “lead foot”. FYI: Your TMV is too high. Pilots can be had at invoice at a number of Baltimore/Washington area dealers. I am sure the dealers hate hearing me say that.

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  Love the Pilot, but - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By dustydog - August 18 - 11:50 am

  I drive considerable miles (10,000 in 3 months) and love to drive it and the family loves it. Fun ride. I did expect more "quality build" from Honda (and any car I pay almost $30K for) based on reputation. This replaced a 2000 Expedition which was fine just too bulky. I have faced wind noise from improper closing of windows (fixed by dealer with smiles on face) and sunroof doesnt seal properly from vent to close (still need to see dealer again!). Rattles from stereo. Front seatbelts mar the plastic when released. Doesnt happen with passenger ones. Excellent power and fun to drive vehicle! Once ticky-tack rattles are fixed, it is a 10!

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  Great SUV - 2006 Honda Pilot
  By STL, MO - August 16 - 4:43 am

  My search for a new vehicle took 10 months. I test drove many others. I could not be happier with the Pilot. It offered the most features standard. The residual value made the lease payments very affordable. It is extremely comfortable and quiet, and it rides as like a car. The power wont snap your head back, but it is certainly adequate. Transmission is very smooth. Gas mileage: realistically, I get about 16/20 on average. Highway mileage and combined highway/city mileage is good for an SUV, but if one does only city driving, the gas mileage is not nearly as good. Overall, a great vehicle!

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  Classy SUV - 2017 Honda Pilot
  By Dan Powers - August 14 - 10:49 pm

  Upgraded from the EX-L to the Touring AWD and love it. Purchased during Black Friday and got a great deal. Insurance premiums dropped considerably due to all the safety features. My wife loves the heated seats and remote start features. I like the roomy interior for taking my golf buddies and equipment on golf outings. The newer model has a classier body style compared to the older box style.

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  I love it! - 2005 Honda Pilot
  By Kelly - August 13 - 11:30 am

  What a great vehicle!! We have had our pilot for 3 years now. I dont have anything bad thing to say about it. It is very roomy and it drives nice! Nice family car, especially if you dont want to break down and get a minivan just yet.

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  Honda 1 - 2003 Honda Pilot
  By mels - August 11 - 2:00 am

  This is the second Honda I have purchased. My first Honda has 90000 mile and I have not had one single problem. I expect the Pilot to perform as my first Honda has and still is. The Pilot is a very comfotable vehicle. I have also towed several cars and the Pilot was able to maintain 75/80 uphill and down. It handles very well and the gas mileage has averaged 22mpg at 13894 miles. For your dollar this vehicle is the best.

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  Better Than I Expected - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By TerreDawg - August 11 - 2:00 am

  I initially had a problem with the fuel injection relay, but was treated with great customer service and follow- up. Since that first problem, I have experienced nothing but pleasure in owning the Pilot. I looked at the Rainer, Murano, 4Runner, XC90, Pathfinder and X5 but would not trade for any of them. It is deceptively large and roomy with sliding second row seats. The ride is extremely quiet and smooth. And, most surprisingly, it takes regular unleaded saving a ton at the pump. I purchased the vehicle because we are expecting a child and I wasnt ready for a mini-van. This was the perfect choice for me and my wife.

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  Happy w/Honda - 2004 Honda Pilot
  By SalemOregon - August 11 - 2:00 am

  After many comparisons between the Pilot, Forerunner & Highlander-- the Pilot won. Ultimately it seemed to be the most functional for my needs, in all kinds of weather. It feels stable and solid. The automatic all wheel drive was a decisive factor, along with the safety rating, and the Honda reputation of reliability.