Honda Pilot

The Pilot’s redesign for 2023 marked a dramatic update both inside and out. Exterior styling returned to a boxier, more traditional SUV look, and the adventure-oriented TrailSport trim was enhanced with a specially tuned suspension, underbody protection and other functional touches to go with its outdoorsy appearance features. Inside, the Pilot gained more second- and third-row legroom, additional cargo space and an updated infotainment system with larger screens, physical controls and wireless smartphone integration. Safety features were enhanced across the lineup. The previous-generation Pilot’s 3.5-liter V-6 engine was retained, now producing 285 horsepower and paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission.

Honda made major styling changes for the Pilot’s third generation, replacing sharp creases with gentle curves that made it look like a pumped-up CR-V. Wheelbase and overall length increased, and two captain’s chairs became available in place of a middle-row bench seat. The dashboard gained an available 8-inch touchscreen multimedia system. New features included a V-6 engine with direct injection, six- and nine-speed automatic transmissions, stop-start engine technology and safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. The 2019 model year brought a mild styling refresh and an available in-cabin intercom system. An off-road-oriented TrailSport variant with a raised ride height, all-terrain tires, blackout trim and other unique touches arrived for 2022.

Though its styling was new, the upright, boxy shape of the 2009 model was reminiscent of the first-generation Pilot. Under the hood was a new V-6 engine that could shut down two or three cylinders when cruising, to save gas. Seating for eight was again standard, but the interior was roomier and the shift lever moved from the steering column to the center dashboard control panel.  New features included a flip-up rear window and an available power liftgate. Honda made few changes over the next six years; a standard backup camera for 2013 was among the more significant.

Honda described the new 2003 Pilot as the “ultimate family adventure vehicle” and equipped it with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine, standard four-wheel drive and seating for eight (two front bucket seats and three-person middle and rear bench seats). The Pilot had classic, squared-off SUV styling with 8 inches of ground clearance. Folding the middle and rear seats opened up 90 cubic feet of cargo space, and the Pilot could tow up to 4,500 pounds when properly equipped. Among the changes Honda made to the first-generation Pilot were standard three-row side curtain airbags and newly available front-wheel-drive versions for 2006, and standard stability control for 2007.