Honda Pilot:Review the specs, features and pros & cons

Honda Pilot Safety

The 2018 and 2019 Honda Pilots offer significant safety features. However, some perks—such as the 2018's adaptive cruise control—are highly sensitive, and therefore may feel a little intrusive. If you're a sucker for active safety features, test-drive the latest models, as they come standard with the following specs:

• Brake Assist—a system that applies more pressure to help you stop faster in case of an impending collision
• Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS®) to warn you of a potential collision
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW) to warn you when you're veering out of your lane
• Hill Start Assist to stop you from rolling backwards when you're stopped on a hill
• Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®) with Traction Control to keep the car stable while turning

Older models from 2009 come standard with antilock disc brakes—to keep the car from skidding—and stability assist with traction control, which together limit out-of-control wheel spins and make it easier for you to manoeuvre your Pilot overall. The 2009 model year also got a perfect score in government crash tests in frontal and side-impact testing, thanks to its front-seat and full-length side airbags.

Honda Pilot Interior

If interior looks are high on your list of priorities, we recommend looking at Honda Pilots from 2016 onward, as the cabin on models before the redesign is known to be lacking in refinement. Since the 2016 model refresh, the interior is upscale and roomy, with features such as heated front seats, power windows and airbags. Leather seating is available starting from the EX-L Navi package, the Honda Pilot's third trim level. 

Honda Pilot Technology

Despite the wealth of bells and whistles on the Honda Pilot, you might find that the infotainment system difficult to use while driving, as it lacks intuitive design (for instance, an exterior volume knob only reappeared on the 2019 model). Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available on models from 2017 onwards. AM/FM/Satellite radio is available across all models. Since the 2009 release, drivers can connect their iPhones or MP3 players via auxiliary jack. And in all 2016+ models, the dashboard offers similar tech options, such as:

• Display audio system
• Back up camera
• Wireless cell-phone connection
• Bluetooth
• USB ports

Honda Pilot Space

As a full-size SUV, adults will find plenty of legroom in the third row of seats—however, they may struggle sliding in. The interior cabin is roomy and spacious for the second and first-row passengers. Cargo space is ample in the Honda Pilot, giving you plenty of room in the trunk even with the third-row bench upright.

Honda Pilot Comfort

The Honda Pilot is a cushy and quiet ride. The Honda Pilot is available in all-wheel drive and front-wheel drive, but 4x4 is unavailable. The 280-horsepower V6 engine is equipped with either a six-speed or nine-speed transmission, depending on the trim level.