I have a Ridgeline AWD and the iVTM system is amazing. In inclimate weather the thing is unstoppable. I don't have any need to go off road, but I can absolutely vouch for the effectiveness of the AWD system in snow and in the wet. Even on dry roads, the torque vectoring improves handling. People love to poke fun at Honda's "trucks", but they have more capability than most owners will ever use.
Chad - What year Ridgeline do you have? I have the very first year (2006) Ridgeline and the thing is still a beast! And I agree, the Ridgeline has much more capability in what most people need 4-wheel traction for compared to most other trucks.
The ridge line still has the previous gen awd system , which is still more than enough for 98% of people who don’t do anything close to this type of off-roading . This new pilot since it just got re-designed first, has the newest awd system that’s the biggest advancement since the 2003 pilot . The next gen Honda passport and ridge line will get this new awd system
I had a 04 RWD ranger I totaled on a random wet spot that froze in otherwise good weather. I got myself a 2024 ridgeline for this reason. I need a truck for work and it’s the best AWD. No need to turn on and off my 4x4. It’s always going no matter the conditions. It makes me feel much better. I don’t off road. I just wanted to feel safe on road after that. 😊
Super impressive performance by the Pilot. Nice to see a company putting actual capability k to a vehicle instead of just slapping on stickers and a few color highlights. Well done Tommy, and Blaze!
I’ve got a white trailsport on order and I’m stoked after watching this. Will I be taking it off-roading? No probably not. But I’ve endured 30+ massive snowstorms this winter out here in Utah and I’m excited for what a beast this thing will be in the snow. It should be great for skiing and camping.
It really helps to know what the drive modes do, and I wish Honda would publish it. Through my research getting my ‘19 AWD RIDGELINE I learned that Sand Mode sends 70% to the rear and “locks” it. Snow mode is more of a 50/50 split and starts in second gear to limit slip. Mud and Sand have very aggressive throttle and traction while Snow is safe and reserved. Sand mode being the most aggressive with the most shut off features and trac. Hope that helps!
This has really convinced me on the pilot. Absolutely going to be the replacement for my wife’s car in the next year or 2. Nothing else even comes close for keeping my family safe of the road. Go Honda!
I've been looking forward to more videos on the pilot trailsport. I think the combination of off and onroad performance, with an almost minivan level of interior space, is a dynamite combo for a weekend camper build. When my subaru finally dies I'm pretty sure this is my next vehicle.
Looks like Honda has really done their homework. A very impressive SUV, setting the benchmark for other important manufacturers. Definitely showing that a takes more than an appearance package for it to be a off/softroader
I like it. Wish they would make a Trailsport Elite package. I currently have an Elite and I don't want to give up some of the Elite features but I like the 18" tires and wheels.
@@shipdog44One year or so later, the upcoming 2026 Passport Trailsport Elite is supposed to hit dealerships early 2025. It will retain Trailsport functionality while adding Elite's too.
That traction at only one front wheel quickly gets the vehicle moving forward is very impressive. It's a shame the CR-V and HR-V don't have this effective AWD system (to better-compete with Subaru). I'd like to see a CR-V TrailSport.
@@westwood3286 The sh-awd/iVTM4 can produce +20% driveline loss. It is the reason why you only see it with V-6 engines or 2.0T engines like the RDX. The CR-V/HR-V hp/tq numbers are too low for this tq vectoring system.
Just bought mine yesterday same color shown. Test drove several SUVs in this class and I kept going back to the Pilot. TFL is best out there giving us good information on vehicles.
@@be4unvme not one issue so far. 9k miles and gets used off road some when traveling to management areas launching a small boat. The Trailsport for me was the best value for my families lifestyle. Still very happy with the purchase.
Hope you guys get the upcoming Passport trailsport and put it through the same test. Can you test a Grand Cherokee on that course that is not the Trailhawk?
As always, Great video! I love the work you all do! 4 years and 125K miles and I’m still very happy with my 2019 Honda Passport. 3.5” lifted on 32” tires and I’m able to individually brake the front wheels. On that steep hill, did the 10 speed automatic transmission stall out? The ZF9 transmission always spins the tires, and on something overly steep the tires will just break traction and spin.
I think he was too easy on the pedal plus that soil seems as soft as light sand. You’d need momentum with any vehicle given the angle or you’d dig in and get stuck
Very impressive, I just wish Honda offered another interior color choice. It's a big dark interior in black with little contrast anywhere. Even the Elite's brown interior would break up all the black in the Trailsport. Also, I wish the Trailsport was an add-on package instead of a trim like Kia has smartly done with the Telluride. Then you could get the "Elite Trailsport" and have features like front cooled seats, head up display, Bose speakers, larger digital cluster. Or maybe offer a Trailsport trim as is and an Elite Trailsport for those who want the added features and another interior color choice.
This channel is consistently producing amazing content I did not think you could top the lighting to Alaska trip but this review felt like exactly what I wanted to do to the trail sport as a prerequisite to purchase one THANK YOU SOOOOO MUCH . Honda should offer your channel commissions on sale because you just sold one !
and makes me happy we just bought a Trailsport! His review is 100 times more impressive than what Honda is putting out, you're right, they should throw some love his way!!
I've had my Ridgeline for a few years, and the AWD system is really well tuned and fast reacting. I've had Subarus for many years with the old 5 speed and viscous diffs, the STI 6 speed and mechanical diffs, and the newer CVT awd setup that's ABS based and with ABS derived torque vectoring, have used older Honda CRVs with really basic open diffs, and Honda's newer systems from SH-AWD through any current variant are all solid. I do like they've made the newer gen handle thermals better. That was the only shortcoming. The Honda system by name of SH-AWD or iVTM-4, makes most other systems feel really outdated. While I do like the old school mechanical diff package, dynamic control of power delivery really maximizes tire utilization. The system is largely steering angle based, and it tries its best to get you to the line you aim for. It'll manage both front and rear tires both with ABS braking and rear diff clutches to create positive and negative vectoring. If I tire can do something towards your goal, it'll make every attempt to use it. It makes these vehicles far more capable than their size and weight. For these tests with Honda's system, generally the best option to pick is snow. While some of the other modes seem more aggressive, they have limitations in what they do, and you actually lose some of the dynamic adjustment the system does. Snow offers the most independent tire control and torque vectoring behavior, and it will also still let you spin tires after an initial phase of attempting not to. The sand, mud, rock, etc names used just makes for a more aggressive throttle, higher rpm hang, fixes the center diff, and loses some of the torque vectoring function and independent tire control. Basically there's a much bigger rubberbanding between what the sensors read and the system reacting to spin and slides. However, the lose of individual wheel control tends to make these modes less capable for actual traction work. They're only good for tossing the truck around. On the Trailsport, the trail mode is a different thing, but I don't know how that's configured. I've never yet found these modes to be better unless you want to slide the truck around. Frankly, that's about the only benefit of these other modes. Their stability control is set looser and lets the back end out. Normal and snow modes don't want you to do that, so both of these require you to slightly apply higher than neutral line steering angle to force the system into an oversteer state. Again, the Trail mode can be specialized to do certain things, but I don't know if it's better or worse than snow mode for actual individual wheel control and ABS and diff clutch work. For me and the Ridgeline, snow has been best and has consistently shown to be better for traction management.
Id like to see the TLX with SH-AWD do the roller test and maybe a snow drive review but spoiler alert its awesome in the snow. these tests are important i think people should know there are different AWD systems and that badge on the back of the car doesn't tell the whole story
Agreed. My wife’s CR-V is “awd” and is damn near worthless compared to my Subaru’s AWD in winter. These systems are all very different and some are good and some are bad
14:30 it’s not a lack of tire grip, it’s the center differential can’t handle it. The rear tires aren’t slipping so the center clutch is and that will quickly overheat. It needs a lockable center diff.
Great video Tommy! Not surprised as the Honda AWD system in the Pilot has always been awesome, but with the new modes, skid plates, lift, and trail cam this thing is a family hauling, mountain crawling beast!
For a family 3 row SUV I'm impressed!! That Honda Pilot can handle everything I would need it to for some light off-roading to campsites, trails, and tatget shooting spots!!
The wife and I are looking for something to replace our Odyssey and really wanted to go with a Highlander for longevity and quality. Our Odyssey has been great, but obviously no AWD. No we don’t need it besides traveling to work, but to see how capable this thing is is amazing. I used a Crosstrek as my commuter vehicle where I put all 99k miles on it since new over 3 years and I loved taking that thing off road. It also saved our lives down an extremely snowy road in the Pocono’s. I’m more inclined to look at one of these over the Highlander and Ascent just based off of this video and that says a lot! Plus if the seats are anything like the Odyssey, they’re WORLDS more comfortable than my Crosstrek ever was 😂.
I am genuinely impressed. Coming here from a Wrangler, Cherokee and Grand Ch. Owner. I don't like new body of the Grand Ch. and Jeep are overpricing their cars. So hey....hello Honda ;)
With a lift and better tires, this thing would be something else again on the trails. It's already amazing, especially for an unmodified suburban family bus.
Tommy: THANK YOU! I was holding my breath for the most important question: Will he do the test with only one FRONT wheel with traction? And you did! I don't believe you did with the earlier Honda models. I think I remember you had a Ridgeline on the Razor Rocks, and it had 1 front wheel in the air. And even though it or a similar model had done great on the rollers, you were going nowhere. And I think this because the previous I-VTM-4 systems, as great as they were, had no break vectoring. Is that right? So, if most of the power was going to the rear wheels, but the only front wheel that also had traction was getting zero power, you could not get up the razor rocks. But, it would seem that, if it was a lack of perfection before, it is not now! Not even in plain vanilla normal mode. Yay! Thanks for checking the 2 rear tires and 1 front tire with zero traction situation on the rollers! And pretty dang impressive off road as well! Wow! PS: try that hill again, using a bit more momentum AND staying in trail mode. Sand mode allows the most wheel spin and routes most torque to the rear wheels. I think the main problem on that hill was lack of a low enough gear. Hence the need for a bit of momentum. But, with a little momentum, no problem! WhoooooHooo!
From what I can see with this roller test, this Trailsport(and other 23 IVTM-4? has better left right FRONT traction shifting capability compared to the previous models. I could be wrong, but I think as great as the Honda systems have been for shifting powerto the rear and then either lt or rt as needed, they have been lacking in the ability to shift power rt or lt on the front wheels. I'm not sure if the older models would have driven off of the 2 rear rollers plus one front roller. They WOULD drive off of 2 front rollers and one rear roller.
@@BillyBobTupFirst generation had the opposite problem - it could pass the test with two rollers at the back and one at front but it couldn't pass the test with two rollers at front and one at the back.
The 2001 4x4 Honda Passport is still one of the best SUVs for grip.. I think it was the lightweight combined with the great transfer case and electronics.. I literally couldn't lose grip in 2 feet of snow on hills. I tried.
So glad you did this test! That awd system works great. I have a 12 Honda Ridgeline with the similar awd. I just need some skid plates and I'll need to do similar testing with mine. Another great video!
The 2014 and earlier Ridgies do not share the same i-VTM4 system. That has the VTM4-Lock system that "locks" the rear diff via the lock button at low speeds. This is not a true locking diff. It is just clutch packs that are engaging to send equal torque to each rear wheel. The iVTM-4 system automatically sends power where it needs to go (up to 70% to the rear and can split 100% left or right on that rear axle). This too is a clutch based diff, but is computer controlled. The torque-vectoring rear diff also comes into play on road where it can help rotate the rear end around corners which is quite a lot of fun powering through tight corners.
15:08 Clearly grip wasn’t the issue, as all four tires weren’t turning (specifically the left rear). Interesting that the transmission appeared to suffer from the same protection system as a CVT, in that your foot was to the floor, but no spin.
I just recently bought a 2025 Ridgeline Black Edition in sonic gray pearl (the color of the pilot here) and I love it. The ride quality is super comfortable, the torque vectoring can be felt when accelerating into a curve. Fun to drive overall, just wish it had more hp and torque. 😊
I just bought the grey pearl 2025 Honda trailsport pilot, yesterday. Alot of cool technology on it. Very comfortable! Was sad trading in my 2022 ridgeline rtl-e with 26k miles, not a scratch on it. I loved it. But have an old dog, and a camp up north so wanted more interior room. Trade off, but I'm digging the Pilot.
@ congrats on your new Pilot. Your dash, and a few other things, are a nice update. The new Ridgeline is getting long in the tooth. Maybe the 2026 models will get the update Pilot dash, electronic parking brake and a 360 camera.
My family's had three pilots, one ridge line and one MDX and we love the VTM four system. The only thing I don't like about the new system is you don't have the buttons to engage it yourself anymore as I understand it
Now do the same tests with the current gen Ridgeline, before they intro a Trailsport in the next year, as the IVTM4 torque vectoring AWD has been on that since the gen 2 rolled out in 2017. It may lack the skid-plates and mild lift of the Pilot Trailsport, but the AWD system is the same (and if you have the 21 or later refresh, the 9 speed ZF9HP transmission has a 20:1 crawl ratio in 1st gear which is not too shabby, and for haters is also used in the Jeep Cherokee and Land Rover Discovery Sport, both well proven as mild off-road vehicles), so if you put comparable tires on it you should get comparable results. The Ridgeline may not be a "hardcore" off-road vehicle, but it has always been way more capable than most reviewers, including this channel, have ever given it credit for. The many tests done were on its stock Firestone Destination LE tires, which frankly suck on any vehicle in any conditions, and the simple addition of an AT tire (I can personally vouch for Falken Wildpeak AT3W's) make it surprisingly formidable off-road due to its AWD system.
the outgoing pilot had an earlier version of the same iVTM4, the first two generations had a completely different system. The MDX would have always had a similar AWD system so long as it’s labeled SH-AWD
Thanks for the roller test, the Pilot impressed me. So much so I went with an EX-L which also has the same i-VTM4. I like the Trailsport, I couldn’t justify its use case at this time; the trims above I am just too cheap to spend the dough. Guess I haven’t adjusted to post COVID prices 😂.
r you guys noticing any vibration issue ? I have EXL AWD and it has vibration issue between 1800 to 2000 rpm. slight vibe on accelerator Padel and even on steering wheel. I googled and see lot of people having problem with 2023 pilot. sometimes we can feel the road on driver seat. its very strange. Please do let me know if you have noticed any mild vibration on any of your test Pilot 2023
I have a 2015 4Runner with the optional 3rd row and I love it to death but I would definitely consider getting one of these in like 5 years when you can scoop up a used one
I’m not them but yes the Highlander will have a more simple “grip and slip” AWD system more similar to that found on a CR-V for example. If they haven’t tested a highlander see if they tested a RAV4, they should share the same system.
Would the regular 'non Sport Trail" model be able to pass these tests too? Beside the 1 inch height difference, all Honda Polit models have the same engine and 4WD system, right?
Maybe I missed it, but you didn’t list the Pathfinder Rock Creek as a comparison. Very similar, but with better tires and I think you took it on your course as well.
on that uphill test, it looked like if it had a Sand+ setting it would've made it (or got really close). As soon as it realized it had any sort of grip, then it had no problem
Roller test is demonstrative of what the drive train is capable of on slippery pavement. Always look forward to the roller test.
Fully agree ;)
This is the best test!
I have a 09 pilot and 2019 Durango.
The pilot hands down beats the Durango
I know on Acura’s with their SH-AWD some will display where they are sending power, etc in real time.
100%
You do. Dodge doesn't.
Great video. This Pilot is really impressive. Glad to see Honda upping their game. Beautiful doggie.
I have a Ridgeline AWD and the iVTM system is amazing. In inclimate weather the thing is unstoppable. I don't have any need to go off road, but I can absolutely vouch for the effectiveness of the AWD system in snow and in the wet. Even on dry roads, the torque vectoring improves handling. People love to poke fun at Honda's "trucks", but they have more capability than most owners will ever use.
the rear diff in this model and your ridgelines IVTM are completely different. IVTM are very limited compared to this new rear diff.
Its a TVD, torque vectoring differential. completely different then a IVTM.
Chad - What year Ridgeline do you have? I have the very first year (2006) Ridgeline and the thing is still a beast! And I agree, the Ridgeline has much more capability in what most people need 4-wheel traction for compared to most other trucks.
The ridge line still has the previous gen awd system , which is still more than enough for 98% of people who don’t do anything close to this type of off-roading .
This new pilot since it just got re-designed first, has the newest awd system that’s the biggest advancement since the 2003 pilot . The next gen Honda passport and ridge line will get this new awd system
I had a 04 RWD ranger I totaled on a random wet spot that froze in otherwise good weather. I got myself a 2024 ridgeline for this reason. I need a truck for work and it’s the best AWD. No need to turn on and off my 4x4. It’s always going no matter the conditions. It makes me feel much better. I don’t off road. I just wanted to feel safe on road after that. 😊
Super impressive performance by the Pilot. Nice to see a company putting actual capability k to a vehicle instead of just slapping on stickers and a few color highlights. Well done Tommy, and Blaze!
I’ve got a white trailsport on order and I’m stoked after watching this. Will I be taking it off-roading? No probably not. But I’ve endured 30+ massive snowstorms this winter out here in Utah and I’m excited for what a beast this thing will be in the snow. It should be great for skiing and camping.
Utah is all off road haha. Congrats on the car!
Just wish it had satellite navigation. That’s the only thing that’s really missing…. I might be picking one up tomorrow regardless.
This thing is also good for less than smooth “paved” roads with the increased sidewall height and different suspension tuning.
Im just here for Blaze. What a good boy
It really helps to know what the drive modes do, and I wish Honda would publish it. Through my research getting my ‘19 AWD RIDGELINE I learned that Sand Mode sends 70% to the rear and “locks” it. Snow mode is more of a 50/50 split and starts in second gear to limit slip. Mud and Sand have very aggressive throttle and traction while Snow is safe and reserved. Sand mode being the most aggressive with the most shut off features and trac. Hope that helps!
This has really convinced me on the pilot. Absolutely going to be the replacement for my wife’s car in the next year or 2. Nothing else even comes close for keeping my family safe of the road. Go Honda!
Honda has always been my favourite. My 1st purchase was the new generation of the Prelude; 2L@200bhp
Can't wait for the new 2-row Passport.
I've been looking forward to more videos on the pilot trailsport. I think the combination of off and onroad performance, with an almost minivan level of interior space, is a dynamite combo for a weekend camper build. When my subaru finally dies I'm pretty sure this is my next vehicle.
Looks like Honda has really done their homework. A very impressive SUV, setting the benchmark for other important manufacturers.
Definitely showing that a takes more than an appearance package for it to be a off/softroader
I like it. Wish they would make a Trailsport Elite package. I currently have an Elite and I don't want to give up some of the Elite features but I like the 18" tires and wheels.
@@shipdog44One year or so later, the upcoming 2026 Passport Trailsport Elite is supposed to hit dealerships early 2025. It will retain Trailsport functionality while adding Elite's too.
That traction at only one front wheel quickly gets the vehicle moving forward is very impressive. It's a shame the CR-V and HR-V don't have this effective AWD system (to better-compete with Subaru). I'd like to see a CR-V TrailSport.
After these sell I'm sure Honda will get on it!
Dude,if the Crv or Hrv had this Awd system they would be game changers.
Honda does flagship models and shit for everything else. It's a Honda thing!
@@westwood3286 The sh-awd/iVTM4 can produce +20% driveline loss. It is the reason why you only see it with V-6 engines or 2.0T engines like the RDX. The CR-V/HR-V hp/tq numbers are too low for this tq vectoring system.
They have the Passport Trailsport.
This roller test is better than 4Runner roller test. Well done Honda..!!🔥🔥🔥
Great test🙂👌🏼…I drove my 2022 MDX through Mammoth lakes during severe snow storm and it was a breeze…..some of the best AWD systems
And great on dry pavement too.
Love Tommy's slip tests. Blaze was helping add traction
Nice to see Honda applying engineering in this area.
Just bought mine yesterday same color shown. Test drove several SUVs in this class and I kept going back to the Pilot. TFL is best out there giving us good information on vehicles.
How's it doing 7 months later?
@@be4unvme not one issue so far. 9k miles and gets used off road some when traveling to management areas launching a small boat. The Trailsport for me was the best value for my families lifestyle. Still very happy with the purchase.
Hope you guys get the upcoming Passport trailsport and put it through the same test. Can you test a Grand Cherokee on that course that is not the Trailhawk?
I’d like to see that too. Trail hawk is majorly capable already but would love to see a gcl limited or lower trim
Even a cherokee (for its last year) would be great
Should be identical as the ivtm4 systems are the exact same if they update it
Grand cherokee L limited maybe the explorer timberline all have just drive modes no true low range
@Jonathan B I think the approach, departure and brake over angle would be different and maybe the ground clearance?
Amazing test! Well done Tommy! Kudos to Honda!
As always, Great video! I love the work you all do! 4 years and 125K miles and I’m still very happy with my 2019 Honda Passport. 3.5” lifted on 32” tires and I’m able to individually brake the front wheels. On that steep hill, did the 10 speed automatic transmission stall out? The ZF9 transmission always spins the tires, and on something overly steep the tires will just break traction and spin.
I think he was too easy on the pedal plus that soil seems as soft as light sand. You’d need momentum with any vehicle given the angle or you’d dig in and get stuck
Hey Jon. I was also surprised to see the (power cut?) on the last hill. I've never seen a Passport/Pilot/Ridgeline demonstrate that behavior before.
@@steelmule1 you can hear revving, but no wheels spinning.
@@0HOON0 yeah, I’m curious if this is a feature of the Honda 10 speed. Perhaps it wasn’t in 1st gear?
You already done timing belt water pump & valve adjustment on yours?
That is pretty cool to a Honda Pilot with more off road capabilities. They are stepping up their Trailblazing game. 👍
Very impressive, I just wish Honda offered another interior color choice. It's a big dark interior in black with little contrast anywhere. Even the Elite's brown interior would break up all the black in the Trailsport.
Also, I wish the Trailsport was an add-on package instead of a trim like Kia has smartly done with the Telluride. Then you could get the "Elite Trailsport" and have features like front cooled seats, head up display, Bose speakers, larger digital cluster. Or maybe offer a Trailsport trim as is and an Elite Trailsport for those who want the added features and another interior color choice.
Shout this louder for those of us in the back! So tired of dark, depressing, black interiors!
Blaze is being a great boy all the time! anytime my dogs want to help me move rocks, open packages, or clean they are more than welcome to.
One of the best AWD in the business
Yeah I remember Blaze as a super small pup when you got the bronco or the red Willy’s jeep. I love dogs 🐾
This channel is consistently producing amazing content I did not think you could top the lighting to Alaska trip but this review felt like exactly what I wanted to do to the trail sport as a prerequisite to purchase one THANK YOU SOOOOO MUCH . Honda should offer your channel commissions on sale because you just sold one !
Amen! I couldn’t agree more!
and makes me happy we just bought a Trailsport! His review is 100 times more impressive than what Honda is putting out, you're right, they should throw some love his way!!
Way to go Blaze. Can’t wait to see a new 2 row Passport trailsport.
I've had my Ridgeline for a few years, and the AWD system is really well tuned and fast reacting. I've had Subarus for many years with the old 5 speed and viscous diffs, the STI 6 speed and mechanical diffs, and the newer CVT awd setup that's ABS based and with ABS derived torque vectoring, have used older Honda CRVs with really basic open diffs, and Honda's newer systems from SH-AWD through any current variant are all solid. I do like they've made the newer gen handle thermals better. That was the only shortcoming. The Honda system by name of SH-AWD or iVTM-4, makes most other systems feel really outdated. While I do like the old school mechanical diff package, dynamic control of power delivery really maximizes tire utilization. The system is largely steering angle based, and it tries its best to get you to the line you aim for. It'll manage both front and rear tires both with ABS braking and rear diff clutches to create positive and negative vectoring. If I tire can do something towards your goal, it'll make every attempt to use it. It makes these vehicles far more capable than their size and weight.
For these tests with Honda's system, generally the best option to pick is snow. While some of the other modes seem more aggressive, they have limitations in what they do, and you actually lose some of the dynamic adjustment the system does. Snow offers the most independent tire control and torque vectoring behavior, and it will also still let you spin tires after an initial phase of attempting not to. The sand, mud, rock, etc names used just makes for a more aggressive throttle, higher rpm hang, fixes the center diff, and loses some of the torque vectoring function and independent tire control. Basically there's a much bigger rubberbanding between what the sensors read and the system reacting to spin and slides. However, the lose of individual wheel control tends to make these modes less capable for actual traction work. They're only good for tossing the truck around. On the Trailsport, the trail mode is a different thing, but I don't know how that's configured. I've never yet found these modes to be better unless you want to slide the truck around. Frankly, that's about the only benefit of these other modes. Their stability control is set looser and lets the back end out. Normal and snow modes don't want you to do that, so both of these require you to slightly apply higher than neutral line steering angle to force the system into an oversteer state. Again, the Trail mode can be specialized to do certain things, but I don't know if it's better or worse than snow mode for actual individual wheel control and ABS and diff clutch work. For me and the Ridgeline, snow has been best and has consistently shown to be better for traction management.
Id like to see the TLX with SH-AWD do the roller test and maybe a snow drive review but spoiler alert its awesome in the snow. these tests are important i think people should know there are different AWD systems and that badge on the back of the car doesn't tell the whole story
Agreed. My wife’s CR-V is “awd” and is damn near worthless compared to my Subaru’s AWD in winter. These systems are all very different and some are good and some are bad
14:30 it’s not a lack of tire grip, it’s the center differential can’t handle it. The rear tires aren’t slipping so the center clutch is and that will quickly overheat. It needs a lockable center diff.
The Trailsport sure sprayed bee spray on the Hornet you tested. The Trailsport just nailed the roller test. Great video.
That was amazing what it was able to get through considering what it is. Awesome job Tommy
Great video Tommy! Not surprised as the Honda AWD system in the Pilot has always been awesome, but with the new modes, skid plates, lift, and trail cam this thing is a family hauling, mountain crawling beast!
One of these with a 2” lift is pretty much the only crossover I’d ever consider owning at this point. Super nice vehicle.
i wouldn’t do it unless you o/r often
For a family 3 row SUV I'm impressed!! That Honda Pilot can handle everything I would need it to for some light off-roading to campsites, trails, and tatget shooting spots!!
The wife and I are looking for something to replace our Odyssey and really wanted to go with a Highlander for longevity and quality. Our Odyssey has been great, but obviously no AWD. No we don’t need it besides traveling to work, but to see how capable this thing is is amazing. I used a Crosstrek as my commuter vehicle where I put all 99k miles on it since new over 3 years and I loved taking that thing off road. It also saved our lives down an extremely snowy road in the Pocono’s.
I’m more inclined to look at one of these over the Highlander and Ascent just based off of this video and that says a lot! Plus if the seats are anything like the Odyssey, they’re WORLDS more comfortable than my Crosstrek ever was 😂.
I am genuinely impressed. Coming here from a Wrangler, Cherokee and Grand Ch. Owner. I don't like new body of the Grand Ch. and Jeep are overpricing their cars. So hey....hello Honda ;)
Looking for the best vehicle for off road and dry camping. Do the rear seats fold flat for sleeping?
With a lift and better tires, this thing would be something else again on the trails. It's already amazing, especially for an unmodified suburban family bus.
Tommy: THANK YOU! I was holding my breath for the most important question: Will he do the test with only one FRONT wheel with traction? And you did! I don't believe you did with the earlier Honda models. I think I remember you had a Ridgeline on the Razor Rocks, and it had 1 front wheel in the air. And even though it or a similar model had done great on the rollers, you were going nowhere. And I think this because the previous I-VTM-4 systems, as great as they were, had no break vectoring. Is that right? So, if most of the power was going to the rear wheels, but the only front wheel that also had traction was getting zero power, you could not get up the razor rocks. But, it would seem that, if it was a lack of perfection before, it is not now! Not even in plain vanilla normal mode. Yay! Thanks for checking the 2 rear tires and 1 front tire with zero traction situation on the rollers! And pretty dang impressive off road as well! Wow! PS: try that hill again, using a bit more momentum AND staying in trail mode. Sand mode allows the most wheel spin and routes most torque to the rear wheels. I think the main problem on that hill was lack of a low enough gear. Hence the need for a bit of momentum. But, with a little momentum, no problem! WhoooooHooo!
I'm going from a 2016 Odyssey to this. I cannot wait for it to get in. Good doggie!
Honda always delivers.....🤙
What’s the differenc between the iVTM4 of this generation compare to the previous generation of Pilots? They’re the same, right?
From what I can see with this roller test, this Trailsport(and other 23 IVTM-4? has better left right FRONT traction shifting capability compared to the previous models. I could be wrong, but I think as great as the Honda systems have been for shifting powerto the rear and then either lt or rt as needed, they have been lacking in the ability to shift power rt or lt on the front wheels. I'm not sure if the older models would have driven off of the 2 rear rollers plus one front roller. They WOULD drive off of 2 front rollers and one rear roller.
@@BillyBobTupFirst generation had the opposite problem - it could pass the test with two rollers at the back and one at front but it couldn't pass the test with two rollers at front and one at the back.
Both Ivtm and sh awd are very under rated. Great video 🙌
I appreciate Tommy praising blaze when he has been a good boy.
Looking forward to the next gen Passport and Ridgeline following the Pilot's lead.
Awesome vehicle. If they offered it with a second row bench seat, it would be perfect for me. Bucket seats for the second row are a dealbreaker..
Cant wait to see how this compares on the off-road test vs the Explorer Timberline.
explorer timberline third row feels too cramped...
The 2001 4x4 Honda Passport is still one of the best SUVs for grip.. I think it was the lightweight combined with the great transfer case and electronics.. I literally couldn't lose grip in 2 feet of snow on hills. I tried.
So glad you did this test! That awd system works great. I have a 12 Honda Ridgeline with the similar awd. I just need some skid plates and I'll need to do similar testing with mine. Another great video!
The 2014 and earlier Ridgies do not share the same i-VTM4 system. That has the VTM4-Lock system that "locks" the rear diff via the lock button at low speeds. This is not a true locking diff. It is just clutch packs that are engaging to send equal torque to each rear wheel. The iVTM-4 system automatically sends power where it needs to go (up to 70% to the rear and can split 100% left or right on that rear axle). This too is a clutch based diff, but is computer controlled. The torque-vectoring rear diff also comes into play on road where it can help rotate the rear end around corners which is quite a lot of fun powering through tight corners.
Thanks for excellent review!
15:08 Clearly grip wasn’t the issue, as all four tires weren’t turning (specifically the left rear).
Interesting that the transmission appeared to suffer from the same protection system as a CVT, in that your foot was to the floor, but no spin.
No locking diff is the issue, not the transmission
@@21Piloteer 14:27 No tires are spinning, zero. How does locking diff help?
Excellent AWD system. One of the best, but I would still take a 4WD with a rear locker any day.
I just recently bought a 2025 Ridgeline Black Edition in sonic gray pearl (the color of the pilot here) and I love it. The ride quality is super comfortable, the torque vectoring can be felt when accelerating into a curve. Fun to drive overall, just wish it had more hp and torque. 😊
I just bought the grey pearl 2025 Honda trailsport pilot, yesterday. Alot of cool technology on it. Very comfortable! Was sad trading in my 2022 ridgeline rtl-e with 26k miles, not a scratch on it. I loved it. But have an old dog, and a camp up north so wanted more interior room. Trade off, but I'm digging the Pilot.
@ congrats on your new Pilot. Your dash, and a few other things, are a nice update. The new Ridgeline is getting long in the tooth. Maybe the 2026 models will get the update Pilot dash, electronic parking brake and a 360 camera.
@Combat556 I'm impressed with the amount of technological advances in just 3 years. Good luck with your ridgeline. I was heart broken to let it go.
My family's had three pilots, one ridge line and one MDX and we love the VTM four system. The only thing I don't like about the new system is you don't have the buttons to engage it yourself anymore as I understand it
Now do the same tests with the current gen Ridgeline, before they intro a Trailsport in the next year, as the IVTM4 torque vectoring AWD has been on that since the gen 2 rolled out in 2017. It may lack the skid-plates and mild lift of the Pilot Trailsport, but the AWD system is the same (and if you have the 21 or later refresh, the 9 speed ZF9HP transmission has a 20:1 crawl ratio in 1st gear which is not too shabby, and for haters is also used in the Jeep Cherokee and Land Rover Discovery Sport, both well proven as mild off-road vehicles), so if you put comparable tires on it you should get comparable results. The Ridgeline may not be a "hardcore" off-road vehicle, but it has always been way more capable than most reviewers, including this channel, have ever given it credit for. The many tests done were on its stock Firestone Destination LE tires, which frankly suck on any vehicle in any conditions, and the simple addition of an AT tire (I can personally vouch for Falken Wildpeak AT3W's) make it surprisingly formidable off-road due to its AWD system.
Some better tires and a small lift and this thing is a great weekend trail rider.
Have you done the telluride ex pro?
I am planning on a Budget Build on a 1st/2nd/3d Gen Pilot or MDX with SH-AWD. Has the iVTM4 changed over the course of these model years?
the outgoing pilot had an earlier version of the same iVTM4, the first two generations had a completely different system.
The MDX would have always had a similar AWD system so long as it’s labeled SH-AWD
I was already on the path to buying a new Pilot Trailsport, but this definitely solidified my decision. Also, please include Blaze in more videos.
Thanks for the roller test, the Pilot impressed me. So much so I went with an EX-L which also has the same i-VTM4. I like the Trailsport, I couldn’t justify its use case at this time; the trims above I am just too cheap to spend the dough. Guess I haven’t adjusted to post COVID prices 😂.
Did you change the tire pressure when doing any of the off road testing?
I know you’d probably not wanna bother the dog, but a Blaze cam would be cool. Just saying 👌🏻
r you guys noticing any vibration issue ? I have EXL AWD and it has vibration issue between 1800 to 2000 rpm. slight vibe on accelerator Padel and even on steering wheel. I googled and see lot of people having problem with 2023 pilot. sometimes we can feel the road on driver seat. its very strange. Please do let me know if you have noticed any mild vibration on any of your test Pilot 2023
A high clearance front bumper would have made all the difference for getting through the OnX course.
Can you do the same slip test with the regular non trailsport models?
Does this still have the cylinder deactivation bs?
To bad you cant get it with the upgraded sound system ..
Can anyone comment on how this Pilot does vs 4Runner? I assume a 4Runner is much more capable but is that still true vs. Trailsport?
They should test every car (not just AWD cars) in the rollers to show how well the traction control systems work.
Put all four on rollers does is it stop sending power to the tires? On the hill you are going to torch the transmission or axle clutches
Another great Video Tommy really enjoy any vehicle you test on keep it going bro
Tommy, shouldn't Honda have this engine, transmission and drive system on the Ridgeline?
The next generation Ridgeline will have all of it.
Hey Tommy. I’ve got 2 Leonbergers. How well does Blaze fit in the back?
The dog was best part 🙂 🐕
If I was on the market, that video would have sold a Pilot... I can't wait for the refreshed Ridgeline now!
I have a 2015 4Runner with the optional 3rd row and I love it to death but I would definitely consider getting one of these in like 5 years when you can scoop up a used one
Came for car, stayed for that absolute banger of an intro song 🔥
Wow. I was leaning toward the Grand Highlander, but you have convinced me to take hard look at a Pilot Trailsport.
Great video; thanks! And is it right that Toyota (specifically Highlander) does not have AWD as sophisticated as Passport & Pilot?
I’m not them but yes the Highlander will have a more simple “grip and slip” AWD system more similar to that found on a CR-V for example. If they haven’t tested a highlander see if they tested a RAV4, they should share the same system.
@@davewilson7602There are versions of Rav4 which have basically the same system as Honda's VTM-4.
Would the regular 'non Sport Trail" model be able to pass these tests too? Beside the 1 inch height difference, all Honda Polit models have the same engine and 4WD system, right?
Maybe I missed it, but you didn’t list the Pathfinder Rock Creek as a comparison. Very similar, but with better tires and I think you took it on your course as well.
Was waiting for this 👍🏻
How does the non Trailsport AWD Pilot do on the slip test?
Really appreciate all of these tests! Owning a 3rd gen passport considering switching to a new gen - but will have to transfer all my mods :D
How would you go about raising the car ?
You can shut off the proximity sensor system from the safety system menu in the cluster.
I'd love to see this test on the non Trail Sport models!
Would a 2.5 inch lift fix the clearance issue?
Is it loud on the road?
But will they give the Ridgeline the same upgrades?
Dude is crushing these videos
would it be fair to expect the same results from the passport trailsport
Would be nice to see the off road tests with normal mode vs the trail just to see how much (if any) the trail mode impacts its capabilities.
Thing is a beast Tommy 😮💨
What's hanging down on its bottom? Fuel tank?
The addition of the pupper adds to the video. So it's pupper approved!
on that uphill test, it looked like if it had a Sand+ setting it would've made it (or got really close). As soon as it realized it had any sort of grip, then it had no problem
Great video Tommy very impressive for a 3-row crossover.
How does this compare to the LandRover Defender V8? For longevity and durability?