Acceleration

2WD LX	AWD Touring	Class Average
6	6	5.5

Any Pilot has ample power and fine throttle response in both city and highway driving. The transmission is smooth and responsive, but occasionally hunts for the ideal gear.

Fuel Economy

2WD LX	AWD Touring	Class Average
4	4	4.1

No opportunity to measure. Pilot uses regular-grade gas.

Ride Quality

2WD LX	AWD Touring	Class Average
6	6	5.4

Pavement cracks and patches pass with little impact, though potholes register soundly. Pilot floats a bit and takes a moment to settle after big dips at highway speeds. It never loses its composure, however.

Steering/Handling/Braking

2WD LX	AWD Touring	Class Average
4	5	4.8

Generally carlike driving feel, with fine low-speed maneuverability and city-friendly turning radius. The tires' tall sidewalls contribute to slightly lazy steering response in quick changes of direction. Pilot's high center of gravity means fair body lean in sharp turns, but no undue noseplow. The 2WD models too easily spin their front tires in rapid acceleration from a stop and are prone to modest torque steer. AWD models are better mannered in this regard and also cope easily with mild off-road trails. Braking is strong and stable, though simulated panic stops generate noticeable nosedive.

Quietness

2WD LX	AWD Touring	Class Average
6	6	5.5

Overall, Pilot is a quiet and solid crossover. Wind noise is generally muffled, though road roar from tires intrudes at highway speeds. The V6 never rises above a muted growl. Pilot's body is prone to drumming over rough surfaces.

Controls

2WD LX	AWD Touring	Class Average
7	7	6.5

Gauges are well laid-out and easy to read. The dash-mounted shift lever is unconventional, but doesn't block access to controls and is simple to operate. Dash contains copious buttons and switches, but they are mostly easy to use. The navigation system is easier to learn than most, but the driver must stretch to reach the main toggle control. Comprehensive 2nd-row climate controls with separate LCD screen are a nice touch.

Details

2WD LX	AWD Touring	Class Average
6	6	5.4

Fit and finish are up to class standards, despite an abundance of hard plastic trim. LX and EX's cloth upholstery looks nice and feels sturdy. EX-L and Touring's leather interior feels more upscale.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

2WD LX	AWD Touring	Class Average
7	7	7.1

Supportive seats and generous room all-around. Thick rear roof pillars block the driver's view to the rear corners, but large windows and typically tall SUV driving stance mean good visibility otherwise. Pilot's truck-like ride height means a high step-in.

Room/Comfort (rear)

2WD LX	AWD Touring	Class Average
7	7	6.4

Better than average 2nd-row space, with good room and comfort for adults. Tall step-in is a demerit for 2nd-row entry and exit. Third-row access is tricky for adults, though is helped by 2nd-row seats that slide far forward. Three-abreast seating in the 3rd row is for kids only, though two average-sized adults will be comfortable on short trips.

Cargo Room

2WD LX	AWD Touring	Class Average
9	9	8.7

A Pilot strong point. Load volume becomes ample once you begin to fold down the seatbacks. Both rear rows drop easily to form a flat deck; 3rd-row latches are positioned rearward and are easily reached from the back of the vehicle. Opening liftgate glass adds versatility. There is space for a couple golf bags or a folded stroller behind the 3rd row. The built-in rear cargo net can be affixed to the side panels to form a second loading "hammock" for smaller, lightweight items. Ample small-items storage includes a versatile front console, two-tier front-seatback pouches, and plenty of compartments and cubbies.

Value within Class

2WD LX	AWD Touring	Class Average
8	8	6.1

Honda's new Pilot retains a distinct SUV flavor without sacrificing car-like road manners and overall refinement. Power, economy, and passenger/cargo accommodations are all enhanced over the outgoing model, making Pilot a midsize SUV must-see.

Total Score

2WD LX	AWD Touring	Class Average
70	71	65.5

Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		56
Average Score		65
High Score		76