The Honda Pilot has earned a strong reputation in the midsize SUV market for its dependable performance, roomy interior, and practical features that cater to families. The 2025 Honda Pilot builds on this legacy with enhanced design, improved tech features, and robust performance capabilities. Whether you’re planning road trips, managing daily commutes, or navigating rough terrain, the Honda Pilot proves to be a versatile all-rounder.
What Makes the Honda Pilot Stand Out?
The Honda Pilot is a midsize SUV with three rows of seating, offering comfortable space for up to eight passengers. For 2025, Honda has refreshed the Pilot with a more rugged design, an upgraded suspension system, and advanced driver-assistance technologies. Competing with SUVs like the Toyota Highlander, Kia Telluride, and Ford Explorer, the Honda Pilot continues to be a top pick for families.
Key Highlights:
- Powerful 3.5L V6 engine
- Optional all-wheel drive (AWD)
- Up to 5,000 lbs towing capacity
- Available TrailSport off-road trim
- Improved infotainment system with seamless wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
Honda Pilot Performance & Handling
Under the hood, the 2025 Honda Pilot is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that offers smooth shifting and responsive handling.
Key Performance Features:
- Fuel Economy: Around 19 MPG city / 27 MPG highway
- Towing Capacity: Offers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
- Drive Modes: Normal, Snow, Mud, and Tow modes for different terrains
For drivers who enjoy a bit of adventure, the Pilot TrailSport trim includes off-road-tuned suspension, skid plates, and standard AWD, making it ideal for light off-roading or snowy roads.
Interior Comfort & Cabin Features
The 2025 Honda Pilot offers a spacious, upscale cabin designed with families in mind. Depending on the trim level, the Pilot can seat 7 or 8 passengers comfortably with options for second-row captain’s chairs.
Interior Highlights:
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
- Panoramic sunroof (available)
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- One-touch 2nd-row seat access
- Up to 113.7 cu. ft. of storage space with the rear seats folded flat
Storage compartments, cupholders, and USB ports are thoughtfully placed throughout the cabin, making long drives easier for families and road-trippers alike.
Infotainment & Connectivity
Honda has finally addressed previous critiques by upgrading the Pilot’s infotainment system. All trims now come with a larger touchscreen and enhanced responsiveness.
Infotainment Features:
- 7” or 9” touchscreen display (trim dependent)
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Wi-Fi hotspot (available on upper trims)
- 12-speaker Bose premium sound system (Elite trim)
- Digital instrument cluster (Elite and TrailSport trims)
With seamless smartphone integration and easy-to-navigate menus, the Honda Pilot’s tech upgrades bring it in line with segment leaders.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Safety is a key focus for family SUVs, and the Honda Pilot stands out with its exceptional safety features. The SUV comes standard with the Honda Sensing® suite, a package of advanced safety and driver-assistance technologies.
Standard Safety Features:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™)
- Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM)
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
- Blind Spot Information System (BSI)
The Pilot has received high safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, making it one of the safest choices in its category.
Honda Pilot Trims & Pricing
The 2025 Honda Pilot is available in five trim levels, each catering to different needs and budgets:
| Trim Level | Starting MSRP | Key Features |
| Sport | ~$39,000 | 7” touchscreen, Honda Sensing |
| EX-L | ~$42,000 | Leather seats, power tailgate |
| TrailSport | ~$46,500 | AWD, off-road suspension |
| Touring | ~$49,000 | Navigation, Bose audio |
| Elite | ~$53,500 | AWD, ventilated seats, HUD |
All trims offer excellent value, but the TrailSport and Elite trims stand out for those who want either rugged performance or top-tier luxury.
Honda Pilot vs. the Competition
| Feature | Honda Pilot | Toyota Highlander | Kia Telluride |
| Max Horsepower | 285 hp | 265 hp | 291 hp |
| Seating Capacity | Up to 8 | Up to 8 | Up to 8 |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 5,500 lbs |
| Standard Safety Suite | Honda Sensing® | Toyota Safety Sense | Kia Drive Wise |
| Off-road Trim | TrailSport | None | X-Pro (new) |
The Honda Pilot strikes an excellent balance between performance, comfort, and value, especially with its off-road TrailSport trim.
Conclusion:
If you’re looking for a midsize SUV that offers space, safety, performance, and family-friendly features, the 2025 Honda Pilot is hard to beat. It’s well-suited for both daily driving and weekend getaways, and with its solid resale value and Honda reliability, it’s a smart long-term investment.
