Built on a 71 mm (2.8 inch) longer wheelbase, the new Pilot, 86 mm (3.4 inches) longer overall than previously and 61 mm (2.4 inches) wider, is quite a bit larger than before. Unlike many makers that have moved to (often gritty sounding) turbo fours for vehicles in this segment, Honda retains the V6 format and 3.5L size for the new Pilot, but says it is an all-new twin-cam design that replaces the previous single-cam V6 engine. Power for the new V6 increases from 280 horsepower to 285. The i-VTM4 all-wheel drive system, said now to be in its second-generation on the new Pilot, features torque-vectoring all-wheel drive system, which is further enhanced on the Trailsport variant. Hill descent control is standard on all models. The all-wheel drive system has seven drive modes including Sport, Tow and Trail, which have been added for 2023. Towing capacity is stated to be 2268 kilograms (5000 lbs.).

Like its showroom mate, the Accord, the new Pilot, except for small, superfluous gills at the lower extremities of the front fascia and the very odd shape of the windows adjacent to the cargo area, is a very clean design. The grille and slim headlight shape echo the shapes of the new Accord and the flanks of the new Pilot are dynamic yet devoid of unnecessary surface activity. Inside, the driver faces crisply-marked TFT gauges. A large infotainment screen sits atop the top centre of the dashboard. It has an-off-tuning knob and some physical buttons. The climate can be manipulated by a combination of knobs and push buttons. Honda employs conventional dash vents on the Pilot rather than hiding them behind decorative grilles as they do on the Civic and Accord. Honda notes that the longer wheelbase and greater overall size has increased legroom in the second and third rows and increased cargo bay length; with cargo volume up from 3092 to 3227 litres. The second-row seats can be removed or folded into the floor. The new Pilot can welcome seven or eight occupants. A new airbag design is said to reduce the possibility of injury to occupants in the event they are deployed in a crash.

The base trim, the Sport, with an active safety suite, alloy wheels, heated front seats and a power driver’s seat, is nicely equipped. Moving up to the EX-L adds heated second-row seats, rear door sun shades, leather clad front seats, an enhanced audio system, an auto-dim rearview mirror and a number of other comfort and convenience items, at a reasonable price. The Trailsport serves up a dual-panel sunroof, a tow package, second-row captain seats, but is overpriced. The range-topping Touring model includes ventilated front seats, leather upholstery for the second-row seat, navigation, a head-up display system, a 360 degree camera system and a number of other comfort and convenience items, at a price that covers the value of the equipment. Delivery times of about three to four months are better than many competitors. Toyota’s inability to get new Highlanders to customers may enhance sales of the Pilot this year.

Above average reliability predicted. New vehicle, not rated. Some transmission issues have developed on large Honda vehicles. Some reports of front suspension clunks and premature brake wear.