You are the best reviewer I have ever seen in my life. The flow and detail you go in is just perfect. You answer pretty much 100% of the questions people may have or should have.
Another stellar review by you Alex!!! Indeed if automakers are serious about making their products better, I believe they should definitely watch your videos. You are largely unbiased and lay out the facts in a logical and easy to follow format. Thank you and keep up the good work.
We just bought ours yesterday...the Touring. The only SUV Crossover with rear Blue Ray entertainment we could find in that price range. With 2 kids it is literally the most important family feature.
As someone that is currently shopping for a Pilot, this was a great video. You answered all my questions that I had and explained things that I needed to know. Thank you
I've been driving this vehicle with the 9spd transmission for over a year now. I have absolutely no complaints with the transmission.. Shifts are smooth without gear hunting even with the dog clutch between certain gears. Don't let negative reviews of the transmission sway you from considering this vehicle ( I can only attest to the 2019 models with software upgrades. It's a great family hauler. We bought it when my wife was expecting our first child, who is now 9months old. It's got Honda reliability and ample power. I've loaded it up with 9 people once and hardly felt any lag. The only thing I wished it had was more leg room in the 3rd row, and the ability access the 3rd row with a child seat in place.
Jon D until yesterday I thought the Highlander offered CarPlay like three of their other 2019 models, though found out they don’t. For a company that makes such solid products they’ve screwed the infotainment up for years now. They won’t offer CarPlay on the Highlander until “sometime” next year.
According to Motor Trend, there are hardware changes for the ZF. "For 2019, the Pilot's nine-speed gearbox got hardware and software changes that address these issues. Honda replaced the clutch and hydraulics to help shift speed and consistency, and modified the valve structure to improve persistent shifts. Honda claims the response from the paddle shifters is faster, and that it's updated the shift selection strategy to maintain performance and combat shift frequency. Honda made other revisions to the start-stop system, which now starts the engine a little more swiftly. In normal driving conditions, the transmission will start in second gear for a smoother launch, but that changes when driving is more aggressive or when the Pilot is in Sport mode."
Concerning the 9 spd transmission, the 2019 got a BOTH a HARDWARE & SOFTWARE update! I held off on 16-18 because of the tranny but after driving the 2019 it’s significantly improved!
Let’s start with what’s important. The sorrento and Highlander are undersized if you ever plan on using the 3rd row. The explorer and Durango get horrible iihs scores. The atlas looks nice and actually drives well for its size. Between the weak engine that’s overworked and get meh fuel economy plus 7+ recalls it isn’t a factor for me. The pathfinder is so vanilla with its cvt and outdated design plus questionable resale. The gm twins aren’t anymore. Acadia got too small and the traverse is still cheap inside and tanks on resale. The cx9 is gorgeous nd drives well but for how big it is the 3rd row is tiny it’s bad packaging plus the infotainment is still Mazda’s clunky knob style. The pilot is the only answer for me. It’s middle sized. The 3rd row has easy access and can hold actual adults. Honda sensing standard and it has amazing visibility. Blind spot standard on ex and above. It does drive big but handles decently well and with the 6 speed its very smooth. The interior is comfy the ride is smooth and it all just works. The mushy brake pedal is my main complaint but I’d def buy it again
Have you noticed a wind noise when driving in the highway? I had a Honda Crosstour that was very quiet on the the highway, this Pilot that I got recently makes me feels like I’m driving with open windows!
Im always curious about handling on city streets at lower speeds and rough surfaces. Thats probably 80% of real driving to and from work and the grocery store.
You do great reviews, but like so many of your competitors you tend to review top trim levels that represent a tiny percentage of actual sales. Why not review an EX or EX-L so we get a realistic look at something we might be likely to buy?
Tom Long, I agree with you I wish we could see more reviews on realistically purchased models by the majority of consumers. However with that said, reviewers may be at the mercy of what the Manufacturer and/or the car dealerships send to them to try out. Sadly, the manufacturer/car dealer is going to send their flagship models.
I still have a 2007 EX and still drives solidly. After 12 years of ownership, I am satisfied with its reliability. Due to necessity I am adding(ordered) a new 2019 EX-L AWD. With Alex's review, I am hapoy to stick with this brand and this model.
Toyota is up there with its luxury brother Nexus. But needless to say they are not immune to models that are mediocre or unreliable. The HCR fails in every category in almost all reviewer's score sheet. Honda on the other hand will trail behind Toyota on reliabilty but will tramp it over styling and handling ( ex. Accord vs. Camry, Civic vs. Corolla). It boils down to which aspect is a priority when selecting their new car.
The Only one reason I am buying a highlander because the tailgate window open separately. It so handy when you buy something long just opening up the window and put it in.
I have a 2017 Honda Pilot Elite which replaced a 2007 Honda Pilot. I have 15,000 miles on it so now can give a long term review. Would I buy it again? No. Cons 1. 9 speed transmission is just awful for driving around in suburbia. The shifts are very intrusive and frequent. You notice it less on the open road but still is not smooth. 2. Electronics sort of work. The Elite is loaded but stuff doesn't function right all the time. automatic wipers don't work well. Carplay freezes at times. Auto high beams are too slow to shift to low beam etc. If you are paying for all of this you expect it to work well. it feels like thye didn't have it all worked out yet. 3. Not as big inside as it appears. if you are serious about hauling kids around and their stuff think about something with more room inside. Not being able to get to back row with carseat in place bummer too at times. 4. My 2007 handled better than this thing. I think alot of this is due to the crappy transmission but I find it easier to park our yukon xl denali than this thing despite it being larger. Very numb steering. Pros 1. It has been reliable (as was my 07 Pilot). 2. Interior well thought out and comfortable but not as roomy as it may appear at the dealership. Or maybe my kids just got bigger in the last year. Either way look closely and consider the roomier options 3. Safety features seem to work well although my wife hates the very active lane keep assist 4. It drives well in snow. Overall I would call the pilot average in the midsize cuv market. It is not particualy better than many other or much worse. Buying the EXL would be my rec if you want a Pilot. skip the touring and Elite trims with the flawed 9 speed.
Sounds like you just confirmed the Elite is not worth it compared to the Touring. I read the pilot forums and a lot of people seem fine with the 9 speed. The only real nice things on the elite worth having is the vented seats and pano roof. you confirmed the auto high beams and wipers suck. the "led" light is not even full array and not worth it. 2019 has full array now for both touring and elite. Your comment on more room.. this is one of the most roomy in this class. Anything bigger is a minivan.
I think the touring has the 9 speed as well. You make a good point in comparing a mini van to the Pilot. Frankly, the Pilot looks more like a mini van than any other mid size cuv. So if you can live with out awd you would be better off with a mini van. There is no aesthetic benefit to the Pilot over a mini van. As far as mid size cuvs the VW Atlas was very tempting. I was afraid of a VW in general and a new model in particular. It is larger inside than the Pilot. I am thinking about upgrading to the new Ford Expedition.
I also currently own a 2007 model Pilot EXL and was not impressed with the cargo carrying capacity of the new model. The rear cargo floor seems to be a few inches higher than my old one and there is no way I would be able to carry the same type of cargo I've hauled in the past...TVs, mattresses, full size fridge etc.
Yeah...we have that transmission in our ‘16 MDX. After a recent update it’s a lot better than it was, but still not a great transmission. I wouldn’t buy it again. The ZF 8-speed in my BMW, though...that’s the best automatic transmission I’ve ever used.
Love your review. I always watch your review every time you posted one. Would it be too hard to add a decibel meter to your review to measure the noise, let say, at 60mph? That way, instead of giving it an "A", you would say something like "at 60mph, it is xx decibel for the Pilot" or "at 60mph, it is xx decibel for the Highlander".
Very good review, Alex. I am currently in the market for a new mid-size SUV. Now what we need is a detailed comparison of the 2019 models of the Pilot, Highlander, Ascent, Sorento (and maybe the Atlas). Thanks.
I've own a 2013, 2018 and now a 2019 One item I wish they would put back on the 2018 & 2019 is the clothing hooks behind the second row seat, so If you're traveling with 4 people there still room for a clothes rod, otherwise I love the Pilots. I was under the impression that only the Elite has the blind spot indicator on both side. Great car.
I agree. It's one thing I don't like about new Pilot and CRV. Used to have to ferry around Civics with digital speedo and hated them. They took them out of Civics and stuck them in Pilot and CRV. Unfortunate.
For anyone out there, I had a 2016 honda pilot elite which i just upgraded to the 2019 and I was getting between 23 and 24 mpg. Im not sure about the 2019 yet, but I figured I would just throw that out there
When you do the leg room test in your videos, can you install a car seat or booster seat in the second rows to give us an idea what it looks like for leg room and third row access. Thanks.
If I wanted to play music out of the USB drive while connecting my iPhone for carplay how would I do that ? it's bad that even top level trim does not support wireless carplay
I replaced the incandescent rear turn signal bulbs in my 2018 Accord with an LED one. It was super easy and pretty inexpensive. I imagine the same thing could be done here. I am going to replace the back up lights next.
We have a Lexus LS, and a 2017 Pilot. Not comparing the two, but there's no way I'd rate the Pilot with A- for ride and A for cabin noise. It's uncomfortable over rough surfaces. And road noise is definitely not an A.
The comparisons are with other mass-market SUVs, not the luxury/near-luxury SUVs. Likewise, when he makes comparisons in the luxury/near-lux segment, he compares those only within the segment and not to the mass-market.
I’m shopping in this segment and bewildered. Have ruled out: 1. Anything with CVT. Having problems comparing the new models to the 2016-2017 years where I’m actually shopping. Do any of the updates make it worth it to take that depreciation hit by buying new on a Pilot, or Highlander, or any of the others? I’m also starting to realize the top trims give a bunch of stuff that I actually don’t want to get only 1-2 features I do want (usually a safer feature). Would be nice to do a comparison of the safety features on each main line and what you gain/lose from each trim drop and whether it’s worth it. I hate being forced into 18-19-20 inch rims to get a parking sensor, or 360 degree camera. I’d rather have normal quieter tires and the safety stuff...drives me nuts!
Something no reviewer mentions, with the start/stop feature is that you lose your air conditioning when the engine stops. Not a good feature in many climates when it’s hot outside. I would disable it every time.
I think I’ll take a Pilot over the MDX. Firstly the pilot has a handsfree tailgate. Secondly it has a much easier-folding third row. I still give the MDX the styling and powertrain advantage but the Pilot is just a better value right now
I would stay from the 9 speed transmission. Otherwise the pilot should be reliable. Lower ground height. More minivan like without the minivan benefits. But that's what public wants.
I have a 2010 MDX. Good to know they basically have the same awd system now. MDX is nice but not really with spending all that extra money on it now. IMO
Even as a Honda guy, in this class I'd probably go with the Subaru Ascent or Toyota Highlander. But really if I was looking for a family hauler, I'd get an Odyssey. But that's just my personal opinion of course.
Please talk about driver seat comfort. The main problem I have in most vehicles is that the driver seat gets uncomfortable after an hour and a half or more. That is why we are considering the Murano because of the zero gravity seats. Oh I see that you did cover it as I got further into the video.
The side profile of this vehicle is more like that of a minivan - a tall minivan without sliding doors. The VW Atlas or Durango look more attractive to me.
Honda Lane Watch was superior since it allowed you to be predictive by showing your blindside and farther back... like a quickly approaching motorcycle or something. BSM only alerts you once something is already in your blind spot.
YES! but apparently people like BSM. lane watch was way better for more engaged drivers. the problem was the driver side didnt have anything. it would be unsafe to put lanewatch on the driver side and it would mess up driver habits looking at the screen when changing left lol.
Alex - What is the effective difference between this AWD system and the twin clutch electronically locking rear differential and rear axle disconnect system in the Chevy Traverse High Country?
The biggest issues with the pilot is that on the higher end trims, which I want, I'm stuck with the ZF 9 speed transmission, which is NOT a Honda product and also not a very reliable product. Honda is known for building reliable products it's a real shame that they had to Outsource this product for something less reliable. I also wish they had more hard buttons infotainment system. Those two issues alone or what is keeping it below my top three picks.
Thanks going with the highlander SE it’s sharp in side . And seems to be more comfortable than the Honda ... I do wish they had Honda’s head unit .. thanks
+1 I'm considering the Atlas because the Pilot's front seats aren't adjustable enough (particularly on the passenger side), but I'm familiar with the Pilot and want to see how it measures up. Would enjoy seeing these vehicles included in the comparison
I watched this , although I have no desire to buy an SUV. Just kinda educational thing, imagining myself having and drive it every day to work. . 20mpg is downright scary for those who drive fuel eco oriented cars and hitting nearly 40mpg. I also don't do off roading and don't have a large family. Although neither of those people who I see driving these kind of cars every day.
eb1888 Bank set residuals are a moot point today as there are only really a few percentage points separating them. The cash discount during negotiation happens the day you buy it, not some psuedo residuals down the road many years.
Toyota Highlander is the King for a lifetime. Honda leaned their Pilot Design from Toyota Highlander sales growth. They do make good vehicles. But they are not king.
Out of curiosity, why did choose to compare the Pacifica (minivan) to the Pilot? Wouldn't buyers also be looking at the class leader Odyssey as well? Especially since they are both Hondas...
It's 2018, honda still sticks you with the rear entertainment system, makes no sense. I guess I'm like the only person with no kids looking at 3 row SUVs.
nah, I have no kids, which is why EVERYONE in my family uses me as a impromptu carpooling taxi driver. They're like, "Hey you have no kids, which means you have no plans! that are more important than what I need from you for MY kids" -I need a big car because I have an extended family that utilizes me to my core
Low 20's mpg? Just got back from the Sacramento auto show and it listed it as 27 mpg? Although I'll admit I looked at LOT of numbers and may be confused now from all the walking.
Alex, Honda's website lists "premium audio" as a feature for the 2019 Touring and Elite models, where they didn't for 2017/18. Is there a noticeable difference in audio? I find the audio quality on my 2017 Elite is awful.
yea, but after looking at the prices, the premium price you pay for the highlander doesnt seem worth it as the gas mileage isn't that much better for those who do a lot of HIGHWAY driving. i believe highlander HYBRID was 30mpg highway and 28 city. if you drive a lot of city stop and go sure, but for many who reserve these type of vehicles for roadtrips usually do majority highway, and this pilot getting 27MPG is impressive
I definitely agree with you there. The price tag in most cases for such a small increase on highway mileage isn't good enough for most unless you drive in the city or live in an area with a lot of traffic where the increase in City mileage definitely helps! Living in LA, the traffic is where I lose the most gas and feel that for a larger SUV that kind of mileage is helpful especially if you're someone that sits in 3+ hours of traffic everyday.
Nice job Alex! Love Hondas but they are extremely boring looking.. That could be a 2013 Pilot and most people wouldn't notice the difference. Have a new Ridgeline, very similar to this Piltor, and the torque vectoring AWD is fantastic.. Great improvement in bulky vehicles
are you blind bruh? www.google.com/search?q=2013+pilot&rlz=1C1LFSP_enUS771US771&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjN4Jryt5ndAhUrIjQIHbXAA0gQ_AUICigB&biw=1366&bih=592
evilmountainlion612 i'm aware of those similarities/differences. as AoA mentioned that the AWD on the pilot is programmed differently from the MDX SH-AWD and i like to know what other differences are between the two vehicles.
Great review , and the best part which is Cabin noise test , about Honda , Honda is trying to keep cabin size bigger, if Honda add AWD + ground clearance up to 7.5 inch on Odyssey , no will buy pilot .
I thought all Pilots were 6 cylinders, just last I checked. But at 6:36 he says that there's a standard v6 engine. Can someone tell me which model comes with a 4 or 8 cylinder?
You are the best reviewer I have ever seen in my life. The flow and detail you go in is just perfect. You answer pretty much 100% of the questions people may have or should have.
Another stellar review by you Alex!!! Indeed if automakers are serious about making their products better, I believe they should definitely watch your videos. You are largely unbiased and lay out the facts in a logical and easy to follow format. Thank you and keep up the good work.
We just bought ours yesterday...the Touring. The only SUV Crossover with rear Blue Ray entertainment we could find in that price range. With 2 kids it is literally the most important family feature.
Gotta say one of the best detailed and well explained suv reviews I've seen around TH-cam.
One of the few channels that I don't skip the ads on. No one (except maybe Saabkyle) else produces car videos with this much technical information.
As someone that is currently shopping for a Pilot, this was a great video. You answered all my questions that I had and explained things that I needed to know. Thank you
Fighters jet F-18
Love the car. Design does not look bad, and I've driven a 2018 Pilot before and it drove so nicely. Would consider one of these if I had a family.
I've been driving this vehicle with the 9spd transmission for over a year now. I have absolutely no complaints with the transmission.. Shifts are smooth without gear hunting even with the dog clutch between certain gears. Don't let negative reviews of the transmission sway you from considering this vehicle ( I can only attest to the 2019 models with software upgrades. It's a great family hauler. We bought it when my wife was expecting our first child, who is now 9months old. It's got Honda reliability and ample power. I've loaded it up with 9 people once and hardly felt any lag. The only thing I wished it had was more leg room in the 3rd row, and the ability access the 3rd row with a child seat in place.
Extraordinary review, Sir. You have taken reviews of cars to a different level
Honda needs to offer surround view. Toyota, KIA, Hyundai, and other brands offer it among other tech features missing in the Pilot.
Steve Wise Subaru Ascent does not offer 360 camera view too.
+1
At least Ascent has a 180 front camera, plus a 2nd rear camera on the interior mirror, on Touring models.
Our previous gen RAV4 has it, it's ridiculous that Honda has yet to implement such.
Jon D until yesterday I thought the Highlander offered CarPlay like three of their other 2019 models, though found out they don’t. For a company that makes such solid products they’ve screwed the infotainment up for years now. They won’t offer CarPlay on the Highlander until “sometime” next year.
According to Motor Trend, there are hardware changes for the ZF. "For 2019, the Pilot's nine-speed gearbox got hardware and software changes that address these issues. Honda replaced the clutch and hydraulics to help shift speed and consistency, and modified the valve structure to improve persistent shifts. Honda claims the response from the paddle shifters is faster, and that it's updated the shift selection strategy to maintain performance and combat shift frequency. Honda made other revisions to the start-stop system, which now starts the engine a little more swiftly. In normal driving conditions, the transmission will start in second gear for a smoother launch, but that changes when driving is more aggressive or when the Pilot is in Sport mode."
Steven Chhan The 9 speed ZF has a clutch?
He got a few details wrong, not just the transmission, but all minor.
Concerning the 9 spd transmission, the 2019 got a BOTH a HARDWARE & SOFTWARE update! I held off on 16-18 because of the tranny but after driving the 2019 it’s significantly improved!
This is my favorite SUV!! Great video Alex.
Let’s start with what’s important. The sorrento and Highlander are undersized if you ever plan on using the 3rd row. The explorer and Durango get horrible iihs scores. The atlas looks nice and actually drives well for its size. Between the weak engine that’s overworked and get meh fuel economy plus 7+ recalls it isn’t a factor for me. The pathfinder is so vanilla with its cvt and outdated design plus questionable resale. The gm twins aren’t anymore. Acadia got too small and the traverse is still cheap inside and tanks on resale. The cx9 is gorgeous nd drives well but for how big it is the 3rd row is tiny it’s bad packaging plus the infotainment is still Mazda’s clunky knob style. The pilot is the only answer for me. It’s middle sized. The 3rd row has easy access and can hold actual adults. Honda sensing standard and it has amazing visibility. Blind spot standard on ex and above. It does drive big but handles decently well and with the 6 speed its very smooth. The interior is comfy the ride is smooth and it all just works. The mushy brake pedal is my main complaint but I’d def buy it again
Have you noticed a wind noise when driving in the highway? I had a Honda Crosstour that was very quiet on the the highway, this Pilot that I got recently makes me feels like I’m driving with open windows!
It’s 9 speed…
@@saltlife1231 husband said the same thing when he’s in my pilot!
It was a 6 speed in the EX model and lower that year. Higher trim levels got the 9-speed
When did mothers-in-law get an upgrade from the trunk space to the third row seats??
LOL
Im always curious about handling on city streets at lower speeds and rough surfaces. Thats probably 80% of real driving to and from work and the grocery store.
You a fool for this one. (LOL)
no trunk in these SUVs. gotta adapt. There's always the roof rack...
@@waterman308 need trunk space asap!
You do great reviews, but like so many of your competitors you tend to review top trim levels that represent a tiny percentage of actual sales. Why not review an EX or EX-L so we get a realistic look at something we might be likely to buy?
Tom Long,
I agree with you I wish we could see more reviews on realistically purchased models by the majority of consumers. However with that said, reviewers may be at the mercy of what the Manufacturer and/or the car dealerships send to them to try out. Sadly, the manufacturer/car dealer is going to send their flagship models.
Agreed!
Agreed!
I still have a 2007 EX and still drives solidly. After 12 years of ownership, I am satisfied with its reliability. Due to necessity I am adding(ordered) a new 2019 EX-L AWD. With Alex's review, I am hapoy to stick with this brand and this model.
WHATEVER it TAKES sales of the newly redesigned Ridgeline are drastically down.
Froilan Duclayan Motor Trend Longterm test had them replacing that transmission early on in the review. Hope they improved it
Toyota is up there with its luxury brother Nexus. But needless to say they are not immune to models that are mediocre or unreliable. The HCR fails in every category in almost all reviewer's score sheet. Honda on the other hand will trail behind Toyota on reliabilty but will tramp it over styling and handling ( ex. Accord vs. Camry, Civic vs. Corolla). It boils down to which aspect is a priority when selecting their new car.
I had a 2007 Pilot for 11 years and it was a great car. I now have the 2018 Pilot and wish I had it back.
Froilan Duclayan was
The Only one reason I am buying a highlander because the tailgate window open separately. It so handy when you buy something long just opening up the window and put it in.
I have a 2017 Honda Pilot Elite which replaced a 2007 Honda Pilot. I have 15,000 miles on it so now can give a long term review. Would I buy it again? No.
Cons
1. 9 speed transmission is just awful for driving around in suburbia. The shifts are very intrusive and frequent. You notice it less on the open road but still is not smooth.
2. Electronics sort of work. The Elite is loaded but stuff doesn't function right all the time. automatic wipers don't work well. Carplay freezes at times. Auto high beams are too slow to shift to low beam etc. If you are paying for all of this you expect it to work well. it feels like thye didn't have it all worked out yet.
3. Not as big inside as it appears. if you are serious about hauling kids around and their stuff think about something with more room inside. Not being able to get to back row with carseat in place bummer too at times.
4. My 2007 handled better than this thing. I think alot of this is due to the crappy transmission but I find it easier to park our yukon xl denali than this thing despite it being larger. Very numb steering.
Pros
1. It has been reliable (as was my 07 Pilot).
2. Interior well thought out and comfortable but not as roomy as it may appear at the dealership. Or maybe my kids just got bigger in the last year. Either way look closely and consider the roomier options
3. Safety features seem to work well although my wife hates the very active lane keep assist
4. It drives well in snow.
Overall I would call the pilot average in the midsize cuv market. It is not particualy better than many other or much worse. Buying the EXL would be my rec if you want a Pilot. skip the touring and Elite trims with the flawed 9 speed.
Mark Kochenderfer they fixed the transmission and shifting issue, so if I were you i would test drive it.
Sounds like you just confirmed the Elite is not worth it compared to the Touring. I read the pilot forums and a lot of people seem fine with the 9 speed. The only real nice things on the elite worth having is the vented seats and pano roof. you confirmed the auto high beams and wipers suck. the "led" light is not even full array and not worth it. 2019 has full array now for both touring and elite. Your comment on more room.. this is one of the most roomy in this class. Anything bigger is a minivan.
I think the touring has the 9 speed as well. You make a good point in comparing a mini van to the Pilot. Frankly, the Pilot looks more like a mini van than any other mid size cuv. So if you can live with out awd you would be better off with a mini van. There is no aesthetic benefit to the Pilot over a mini van. As far as mid size cuvs the VW Atlas was very tempting. I was afraid of a VW in general and a new model in particular. It is larger inside than the Pilot. I am thinking about upgrading to the new Ford Expedition.
They said the same thing last year...
I also currently own a 2007 model Pilot EXL and was not impressed with the cargo carrying capacity of the new model. The rear cargo floor seems to be a few inches higher than my old one and there is no way I would be able to carry the same type of cargo I've hauled in the past...TVs, mattresses, full size fridge etc.
The LX model should be reviewed. It is what most of us can really afford.
Using the 9 speed ZF transmission? No thanks. When will Jeep and Honda learn.
Yeah...we have that transmission in our ‘16 MDX. After a recent update it’s a lot better than it was, but still not a great transmission. I wouldn’t buy it again. The ZF 8-speed in my BMW, though...that’s the best automatic transmission I’ve ever used.
Another top notch review! You’re the best in car reviews anywhere I have seen! Thank you!!
Love your review. I always watch your review every time you posted one. Would it be too hard to add a decibel meter to your review to measure the noise, let say, at 60mph? That way, instead of giving it an "A", you would say something like "at 60mph, it is xx decibel for the Pilot" or "at 60mph, it is xx decibel for the Highlander".
Very good review, Alex. I am currently in the market for a new mid-size SUV. Now what we need is a detailed comparison of the 2019 models of the Pilot, Highlander, Ascent, Sorento (and maybe the Atlas). Thanks.
Keith K did you ever decide on a car? I’m in same position today you were in 4 months ago.
We are considering: highlander, Infinity Qx60 and Pilot Elite. Which one is the best choice?
who has better transmission highlander or this pilot? lets use the 2018 model of both cars.
I've own a 2013, 2018 and now a 2019 One item I wish they would put back on the 2018 & 2019 is the clothing hooks behind the second row seat, so If you're traveling with 4 people there still room for a clothes rod, otherwise I love the Pilots. I was under the impression that only the Elite has the blind spot indicator on both side. Great car.
God Bless you Alex. Thank you for your passion to make in depth reviews of these vehicles.
I have a 2016 Pilot. I get tired of the digital speedometer. I would like to be able to switch to a standard dial readout.
I agree. It's one thing I don't like about new Pilot and CRV. Used to have to ferry around Civics with digital speedo and hated them. They took them out of Civics and stuck them in Pilot and CRV. Unfortunate.
For anyone out there, I had a 2016 honda pilot elite which i just upgraded to the 2019 and I was getting between 23 and 24 mpg. Im not sure about the 2019 yet, but I figured I would just throw that out there
When you do the leg room test in your videos, can you install a car seat or booster seat in the second rows to give us an idea what it looks like for leg room and third row access. Thanks.
Did they fix the problems with the 9 speed automatic transmission they have at the 2018??
Yes, 2019’s on the 9-speed reviews are excellent
If I wanted to play music out of the USB drive while connecting my iPhone for carplay how would I do that ? it's bad that even top level trim does not support wireless carplay
I replaced the incandescent rear turn signal bulbs in my 2018 Accord with an LED one. It was super easy and pretty inexpensive. I imagine the same thing could be done here. I am going to replace the back up lights next.
We have a Lexus LS, and a 2017 Pilot. Not comparing the two, but there's no way I'd rate the Pilot with A- for ride and A for cabin noise. It's uncomfortable over rough surfaces. And road noise is definitely not an A.
V Phan it’s compared to others in its class not every car ever made.
what kind of tires...wheel size that all Makes the ride...sound that enters the cabin
The comparisons are with other mass-market SUVs, not the luxury/near-luxury SUVs. Likewise, when he makes comparisons in the luxury/near-lux segment, he compares those only within the segment and not to the mass-market.
I’m shopping in this segment and bewildered. Have ruled out:
1. Anything with CVT.
Having problems comparing the new models to the 2016-2017 years where I’m actually shopping. Do any of the updates make it worth it to take that depreciation hit by buying new on a Pilot, or Highlander, or any of the others?
I’m also starting to realize the top trims give a bunch of stuff that I actually don’t want to get only 1-2 features I do want (usually a safer feature). Would be nice to do a comparison of the safety features on each main line and what you gain/lose from each trim drop and whether it’s worth it. I hate being forced into 18-19-20 inch rims to get a parking sensor, or 360 degree camera. I’d rather have normal quieter tires and the safety stuff...drives me nuts!
Something no reviewer mentions, with the start/stop feature is that you lose your air conditioning when the engine stops. Not a good feature in many climates when it’s hot outside. I would disable it every time.
i think because you can control it, its no reason to mention it. if you couldnt disable or easily control the feature than its a problem
I think I’ll take a Pilot over the MDX. Firstly the pilot has a handsfree tailgate. Secondly it has a much easier-folding third row. I still give the MDX the styling and powertrain advantage but the Pilot is just a better value right now
I would stay from the 9 speed transmission. Otherwise the pilot should be reliable. Lower ground height. More minivan like without the minivan benefits. But that's what public wants.
I did't here the commentator mention if the Pilot still have the lane assist camera system. Does anybody know?
I'm 27 single and I find myself wanting to buy a Honda Pilot. I guess it's because of the new macho look.
I have a 2010 MDX. Good to know they basically have the same awd system now. MDX is nice but not really with spending all that extra money on it now. IMO
@21:02 fully disableable haha
Love your reviews Alex, you really put in the effort and know your stuff 👍🏼
Even as a Honda guy, in this class I'd probably go with the Subaru Ascent or Toyota Highlander. But really if I was looking for a family hauler, I'd get an Odyssey. But that's just my personal opinion of course.
8:16 Alex spits. It flys away.
Please talk about driver seat comfort. The main problem I have in most vehicles is that the driver seat gets uncomfortable after an hour and a half or more. That is why we are considering the Murano because of the zero gravity seats. Oh I see that you did cover it as I got further into the video.
Looks like an old Traverse. And the new Traverse is the King of crossovers.
The side profile of this vehicle is more like that of a minivan - a tall minivan without sliding doors. The VW Atlas or Durango look more attractive to me.
At this point, anyone that's buying this thinking it's better looking, or "cooler" than a minivan is delusional.
No lie my kids mistook a minivan for my 2018 Pilot in a parking lot.
Mark Kochenderfer LOL! My son did the same thing when we first got the Pilot.
Honda Lane Watch was superior since it allowed you to be predictive by showing your blindside and farther back... like a quickly approaching motorcycle or something.
BSM only alerts you once something is already in your blind spot.
YES! but apparently people like BSM. lane watch was way better for more engaged drivers. the problem was the driver side didnt have anything. it would be unsafe to put lanewatch on the driver side and it would mess up driver habits looking at the screen when changing left lol.
Good work, Alex. Love your car reviews.
honda pilot 2019 vs VW atlas 2019 which is better in your opinion?
Alex - What is the effective difference between this AWD system and the twin clutch electronically locking rear differential and rear axle disconnect system in the Chevy Traverse High Country?
Where is the VW Atlas on the size list?
Why is the Pacifica in a video about SUV’s? Is that the old original Pacifica? 🤔
The biggest issues with the pilot is that on the higher end trims, which I want, I'm stuck with the ZF 9 speed transmission, which is NOT a Honda product and also not a very reliable product. Honda is known for building reliable products it's a real shame that they had to Outsource this product for something less reliable.
I also wish they had more hard buttons infotainment system.
Those two issues alone or what is keeping it below my top three picks.
I have the 2019 EX modle an there's no blind spot mirrors just regular heated mirror, what am I missing.
Thanks going with the highlander SE it’s sharp in side . And seems to be more comfortable than the Honda ... I do wish they had Honda’s head unit .. thanks
Correction, not every trim level comes with those led headlights!
Alex, how come you didn't compare this to your favorite and personal Durango and Atlas ??
+1 I'm considering the Atlas because the Pilot's front seats aren't adjustable enough (particularly on the passenger side), but I'm familiar with the Pilot and want to see how it measures up. Would enjoy seeing these vehicles included in the comparison
Evan Forte I have driven the pilot, it drives like a large boat. If you like that feel then go for it.
I have been waiting for this review. :)
Looking to purchase this car.. thank you so much for the awesome review. Best I have found.
Alex, isn't your thumbnail a 2018 pilot?
Robert McEwen I thought it was 2016..
No one takes was a 2019
How do you like the pilot compared to the Ascent? I think my choice has come down to one of these two
I watched this , although I have no desire to buy an SUV. Just kinda educational thing, imagining myself having and drive it every day to work. . 20mpg is downright scary for those who drive fuel eco oriented cars and hitting nearly 40mpg. I also don't do off roading and don't have a large family. Although neither of those people who I see driving these kind of cars every day.
Another great detail Alex video and we learnt he really does like his mother in law in he said in other videos
Alex, could you briefly compare the 2019 Pilot to the Atlas in terms of "value"? And I didn't hear you bring up the Durango (your car) either.
Back end reminds me of a Subaru Outback... Still prefer the boxy look of the previous gen (2009-15)
Yay... Ascent made the size comparison strip! 😁
Alex- I'd find it helpful if you could begin to include a segment on how well a vehicle retains its value.
eb1888 Bank set residuals are a moot point today as there are only really a few percentage points separating them. The cash discount during negotiation happens the day you buy it, not some psuedo residuals down the road many years.
5 year value comparison for those who do not lease. An EX AWD 6sp 2018 is 16,257. A comparable Durango is 17,943.
and the reliability factor!
Is the adaptive cruise with low speed follow. Or it suddenly gives up at 20 mph
I have a Honda CRV 2017 and LOVE the low speed follow, on congested row. Lack of that itself is enough deterrent for me. Ascent wins there
The Chevy Ascent still uses a Ket for crying out loud.
I recently got 2019 honda pilot elite
Sachin Sharma how was it
Toyota Highlander is the King for a lifetime.
Honda leaned their Pilot Design from Toyota Highlander sales growth. They do make good vehicles. But they are not king.
Out of curiosity, why did choose to compare the Pacifica (minivan) to the Pilot? Wouldn't buyers also be looking at the class leader Odyssey as well? Especially since they are both Hondas...
Thank you so much for your in depth and unbiased reviews. I’m in the market for a new car so this helps me a ton!
Alex por favor cuanto puede costar la Honda pilot 2017 18 Gracias
Talk more about Torque vectoring and transmission. 9 speeds reliability compared to 6 speed.
It's 2018, honda still sticks you with the rear entertainment system, makes no sense. I guess I'm like the only person with no kids looking at 3 row SUVs.
umm, yea, honda is targeting family with kids
I'm not sure cats fit in the 3rd row seats.
nah, I have no kids, which is why EVERYONE in my family uses me as a impromptu carpooling taxi driver. They're like, "Hey you have no kids, which means you have no plans! that are more important than what I need from you for MY kids" -I need a big car because I have an extended family that utilizes me to my core
Do the headlights turn?
No
Thanks.
Nope, subaru does
They're using incandescent bulbs on their brand new RDX.. no way a Pilot is getting auto turning headlights
Low 20's mpg? Just got back from the Sacramento auto show and it listed it as 27 mpg?
Although I'll admit I looked at LOT of numbers and may be confused now from all the walking.
21:02 "disableable" bold to use that word
Start/Stop cannot be turned off if AC is on.
That off-road test track looks like tons of fun! Where is it?
Alex, Honda's website lists "premium audio" as a feature for the 2019 Touring and Elite models, where they didn't for 2017/18. Is there a noticeable difference in audio? I find the audio quality on my 2017 Elite is awful.
Should I wait for 2020?
This was the mid-platform redesign. Next new model of Pilot would be 2021 at the earliest.
Honda cars Philippines, bring it on!
It's too bad they don't have a Hybrid Pilot like the Hybrid MDX. I would totally go for it over the Highlander since I like the Pilot more.
yea, but after looking at the prices, the premium price you pay for the highlander doesnt seem worth it as the gas mileage isn't that much better for those who do a lot of HIGHWAY driving. i believe highlander HYBRID was 30mpg highway and 28 city. if you drive a lot of city stop and go sure, but for many who reserve these type of vehicles for roadtrips usually do majority highway, and this pilot getting 27MPG is impressive
I definitely agree with you there. The price tag in most cases for such a small increase on highway mileage isn't good enough for most unless you drive in the city or live in an area with a lot of traffic where the increase in City mileage definitely helps! Living in LA, the traffic is where I lose the most gas and feel that for a larger SUV that kind of mileage is helpful especially if you're someone that sits in 3+ hours of traffic everyday.
Hold on for a bit. A hybrid/plug in pilot is coming! I've seen it. Keep a secret between us
Get a mdx hybrid
@@mituljariwala9821 Any idea when that is coming? it's 2023 and I'm still waiting.
Nice job Alex! Love Hondas but they are extremely boring looking.. That could be a 2013 Pilot and most people wouldn't notice the difference.
Have a new Ridgeline, very similar to this Piltor, and the torque vectoring AWD is fantastic.. Great improvement in bulky vehicles
Joe Pah Honda has always been vanilla.
are you blind bruh?
www.google.com/search?q=2013+pilot&rlz=1C1LFSP_enUS771US771&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjN4Jryt5ndAhUrIjQIHbXAA0gQ_AUICigB&biw=1366&bih=592
As Moi shows, there's a HUGE difference in looks between the 2nd and 3rd generation Pilots.
Just wondering why VW Atlas is not on the comparison list?
Alex you forgot to mention in other 3 row crorssover section is The VW Atlas.
Shampao Chung he mentioned it
Honda pilot or VW Atlas ?
Alex, where is the 2019 pilot 9 speed transmission made? Same as odyssey 10 speed was made in Georgia?
The week before, the review was
- 2018 / 2019 Toyota Highlander - Still King Of The Hill?
interesting..... i like more info on how it compares to the Acura MDX
evilmountainlion612
i'm aware of those similarities/differences. as AoA mentioned that the AWD on the pilot is programmed differently from the MDX SH-AWD and i like to know what other differences are between the two vehicles.
@evilmountainlion612
now that's useful info, thank you
Where does this “size” chart come from. The Mazda is not larger then a pilot. I know this not only from experience but from selling Mazdas.
Hey Alex, how do you like your Durango. I'm thinking about getting the SRT version.
The front grill area looks like last generation crv.
Great review , and the best part which is Cabin noise test , about Honda , Honda is trying to keep cabin size bigger, if Honda add AWD + ground clearance up to 7.5 inch on Odyssey , no will buy pilot .
How is the transmission?
I thought all Pilots were 6 cylinders, just last I checked. But at 6:36 he says that there's a standard v6 engine. Can someone tell me which model comes with a 4 or 8 cylinder?
All models have 6 cylinder engines
No 4 way lumbar support adjustment?!! Shame on you Honda.
I love Honda, but no panoramic sunroof nor premium sound system? Ugh!
Can you do a behind the scenes of how you review your cars pls!