2024

Introduced for 2023, the current Pilot is quite a bit bigger than its predecessor.  Unlike many makers that have moved to (often gritty sounding) turbo fours for vehicles in this segment, Honda retains a V6 format for its big crossover. Power for the V6 is rated at 285 horsepower. 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. Room is vast in the first and second row seats and about the same as competitors in the third row. The front and second row seats are large and very comfortable and the third-row is substantial and is much less of a perch than some vehicles in this segment. While the front seats are comfortable, the headrests, which lean forward quite aggressively, prevent those up front from getting truly comfortable. Cargo space is fairly limited with the third-row seating in place but increases to massive with the second and third-row seats folded. The driver faces a very crisply marked digital gauge package. A large touch screen dominates the top centre of the dashboard and works fairly well but having no tuning knob for the audio system is always a mistake. The complex, multi-row climate system is controlled by straightforward knobs and buttons. Gears are selected by Honda’s slightly odd, but eventually logical push button slide mechanism. Minor controls are logically arranged and there are copious storage bins scattered about the cabin. The audio system delivers pleasing sounds. Cabin materials do not have a luxury look but look to be a good quality.

Driven briefly, the Trailsport variant of the Pilot delivers brisk acceleration with great refinement. The transmissions is well matched to the V6 and is a paragon of seamless operation. Steering is light and lifeless and is oddly geared at the end of its travel in both directions. The Pilot rides with a firm resilience and handling is steady, if not engaging. The Pilot is generally quiet but road noise is higher than expected for such an expensive vehicle. If the Pilot has a fault, it is that it has grown so large that it is perhaps too large for life in urban environments.

The base trim, the Sport, with an active safety suite, alloy wheels, heated front seats, a power driver’s seat and a comprehensive active safety suite, is nicely equipped. Moving up to the EX-L adds an acoustic windshield, heated second-row seats, rear door sun shades, leather clad front seats, an enhanced audio system, an auto-dim rearview mirror, wireless cellphone charging,  a garage door opener 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 the front seats are upholstered in vinyl, and is priced to reflect the value of the additional equipment. The range-topping Touring model includes ventilated front seats, leather upholstery for the first two rows of seats, 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. The Black Edition trim of the Pilot contains no content of note for the $1509 asked for it. Delivery times are about one to three months but fancier trims will arrive first and low-end trims may take a very long time to show up. Toyotas inability to deliver the Highlander may bring some buyers to Honda dealers 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.