This three-row Pilot is the largest, most powerful SUV in Honda’s history, with an all-new dual-overhead-cam (DOHC) 285-hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It’s available in seven- or eight-passenger seating configurations and, at least at the SUV’s launch, there isn’t a hybrid version. With these updates, it appears to be better poised to compete against the segment-leading Kia Telluride, an impressive SUV that has likewise expanded its offerings to include more trims, is trying to move upscale, and has a token off-road-oriented version.
Honda has streamlined the Pilot line, which is now available in five trim levels (down from seven): Sport, EX-L, TrailSport, Touring, and Elite along with an available Honda Performance Development (HPD) package. We purchased a Touring for our test program, which Honda predicts will be the trim with the highest sales volume.
What we bought: 2023 Honda Pilot AWD Touring
Powertrain: 285-hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine; 10-speed automatic transmission; all-wheel drive.
MSRP: $48,550
Options: Radiant Red paint ($395)
Destination fee: $1,295
Total cost: $50,240
If you’re a Consumer Reports member, our initial expert assessment of the Honda Pilot is available to you below. Once we complete 2,000 break-in miles, we’ll put the Pilot through more than 50 tests at the CR Auto Test Center, including empirical measurements of acceleration, braking, handling, car-seat fit, and usability. CR members will have access to the full road-test results as soon as they’re available.
If you haven’t signed up to be a member yet, click below and become a member to access this full article and all our exclusive ratings and reviews for each vehicle we buy and test. Joining also gives you full access to exclusive ratings on other products our experts evaluate in several categories, including electronics and home appliances.
Sign up for CR’s Cars email newsletter to be notified when we post our latest road-test results.
