2025 Honda Pilot Revealed : For families who like adventure and light off-roading

With three rows, adequate power, and six model levels, some of which provide both front- and all-wheel drive, the Pilot is a flexible challenger in a market where consumers value options. Many purchasers choose the low- and mid-level trims since the highest tier of the selection becomes expensive with more luxury options. We appreciate the TrailSport's looks and somewhat increased usefulness, but the Black Edition - the only modification for 2025 - is a $1,500 cosmetic package with no additional functions. As far as family SUVs go, the Pilot is a terrific people mover with a driving style that is as functional-yet-forgettable as the majority of its competitors. Unlike the Ridgeline, with which it shares a platform, it is not competing with truck-based body-on-frame vehicles, therefore it does not automatically win in terms of ride comfort and driving dynamics. Rather, its competitors comprise the core of the American car market: three-row SUVs. There are a lot of them, and many of them are extremely good, so the Pilot is average in terms of dynamics and comfort. Nonetheless, we like its highly practical interior, diverse trims and driving combinations, and general usability. The Honda Pilot's front and middle rows are both comfortable and capacious. However, it falls behind class leaders in third-row capacity and cargo space, and its technology is a half-step behind the competition. In terms of general attractiveness, some rivals provide more bang for the money. Driving the Pilot is a mixed bag. When you stomp on the throttle, the V6 sounds snarly, but the acceleration is barely mediocre. Our Pilot TrailSport test car ran from 0 to 60 mph in 7.8 seconds on the Edmunds test track. The transmission is too congested, particularly in town. This can also cause the Pilot to become too eager and sensitive to gas pedal inputs when accelerating from a standstill. The brakes are smooth, but the pedal is mushy and numb, and we discovered that the Pilot's emergency stopping distances are larger than typical. Because of its higher ground clearance, the Pilot TrailSport is one of the most competent three-row crossovers for modest off-road use. The all-wheel-drive system is another advantage.