Starting at $37,695
8.5/10
C/D RATING
Specs
Photos
Honda
8.5/10 C/D RATING
Specs
Photos
- Highs Refined powertrain, actually capable TrailSport model, just as family-friendly as the last version.
- Lows City fuel economy could be better, entry-level infotainment display is dinky, Honda's Odyssey minivan remains the more practical choice.
- Verdict Improvements and a styling refresh make the Pilot a more rugged and more desirable option at the top of Honda's lineup.
Overview
An all-new generation of Honda's three-row Pilot SUV has launched for the 2023 model year and it's been improved from grille to tailgate. The new Pilot's styling is boxier and more truck-like this time around, which gives it a more rugged overall appearance. A 285-hp 3.5-liter V-6 and a 10-speed automatic are standard and come with either front- or all-wheel drive. The interior can be set up with room for seven or eight passengers, with upscale Touring and Elite models coming standard with a panoramic sunroof and a 12-speaker Bose stereo system. An off-road-oriented TrailSport variant sits at the middle of the lineup and offers all-terrain tires on unique 18-inch wheels and tweaks to the all-wheel-drive system that allow for more torque transfer to the rear wheels. Its off-road capability and newfound on-road refinement and updated features make it easier for the Pilot to challenge segment leaders such as the Kia Telluride, the Hyundai Palisade, and the Jeep Grand Cherokee L.
What's New for 2023?
The Pilot has been entirely redesigned for 2023, complete with updated styling to match the newest models in the Honda lineup, such as the smaller CR-V SUV and the Civic compact sedan and hatchback.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The price of the 2023 Honda Pilot starts at $37,695 and goes up to $53,775 depending on the trim and options.
We recommend the Pilot EX-L due to its balance of price and features. The EX-L trim adds leather seats, the bigger 9.0-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless smartphone charging, and a power tailgate. Whether or not you need all-wheel drive is a matter of personal preference. For us, we think the increased towing capacity is worth the money.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Like the 2022 Pilot, the all-new 2023 model comes with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine. However, in the new generation SUV, it makes 285 horsepower, a 5-hp increase over last year. The 2023 Pilot has ditched the old nine-speed automatic transmission for a new 10-speed unit, although the SUV remains a front-wheel-drive-based model with all-wheel drive available as an option. While the updated V-6 engine doesn't make the Pilot feel much quicker than the last generation model, its throttle response is improved and the 10-speed automatic's shifts are nice and smooth. On-road refinement is improved over the 2022 model as well, with more confidence-inspiring steering and braking. The most rugged Trailsport model proved itself capable of the moderately-difficult terrain we encountered on real-world off-road trails near Breckenridge, Colorado, and again in Sedona, Arizona. But Honda hasn't created a rock-crawling super-machine that's intended to tackle Moab alongside Broncos, Wranglers, and 4Runners. The Pilot Trailsport has a special suspension with a 1.0-inch lift, steel skid plates, all-terrain tires, a hill-descent control system, and a specially tuned all-wheel drive system with a Trail driving mode.
Towing and Payload Capacity
For those about to tow, the Honda Pilot pulls off a maximum towing capacity of 5000 pounds for all-wheel-drive models. Front-wheel drive Pilots manage 3500 pounds of towing. This matches its closest competitors' strength, such as the Kia Telluride, and Toyota Grand Highlander, but can't hold a candle to the Dodge Durango's 8700-pound might.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The EPA estimates that the Pilot is good for up to 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. We've tested a 2023 Pilot Trailsport, with its beefier all-terrain tires and added off-road armor on our 75-mph highway fuel economy route, and it returned 22 mpg. That's just shy of other V-6-powered three-row SUVs such as the Kia Telluride and 2023 Volkswagen Atlas that returned 24 mpg. The Pilot Elite we tested, which rolls on less aggressive tires, delivered 27 mpg in the same test. For more information about the Pilot's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Being a family-friendly SUV, the 2023 Pilot's cabin is designed with that use case in mind. All models are capable of sitting up to eight in the three rows but the EX-L trim can be had with optional second-row captain's chairs that reduce passenger capacity to seven; captain's chairs are standard on the TrailSport. The Touring and Elite models come with a second-row seat design where the middle seat portion can be removed and stored under the floor in the cargo area when not needed. Honda boasts that eight of the Pilot's cupholders are capable of holding big 32-ounce water bottles and that its cargo area is more voluminous than ever before. When we get a chance, we'll see for ourselves how many suitcases can fit inside the Pilot's cargo area and update this story with test results.
View Photos
Infotainment and Connectivity
A 7.0-inch infotainment touchscreen and an accompanying 7.0-inch digital gauge cluster are standard on the 2023 Pilot. Honda's latest infotainment interface is easy to use and features both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. TrailSport, Touring, and Elite models get a larger 9.0-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability; the Elite also comes with a 10.2-inch gauge cluster. Honda hasn't said what the standard stereo will be in the Pilot, but the Touring and Elite models come with a 12-speaker setup from Bose.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Honda equips all Pilot models with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features it calls Honda Sensing. The bundle includes automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beam headlamps, and more. For more information about the Pilot's crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
- Standard adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Honda's warranty is entirely average for its class. Hyundai, for example, offers one that's significantly longer. All 2023 Pilot models come with a complimentary maintenance plan that covers regular oil changes and basic services for two years or 24,000 miles.
- Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- Complimentary scheduled maintenance is covered for two years or 24,000 miles
Specifications
Specifications
2023 Honda Pilot Elite
Vehicle Type: front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 8-passenger, 4-door wagon
PRICE
Base/As Tested: $53,755/$53,755
ENGINE
DOHC 24-valve V-6, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection
Displacement: 212 in3, 3471 cm3
Power: 285 hp @ 6100 rpm
Torque: 262 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
TRANSMISSION
10-speed automatic
CHASSIS
Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink
Brakes, F/R: 13.8-in vented disc/13.0-in disc
Tires: Bridgestone Alenza Sport A/S
255/50R-20 105H M+S
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 113.8 in
Length: 199.9 in
Width: 78.5 in
Height: 71.0 in
Passenger Volume, F/M/R: 57/57/40 ft3
Cargo Volume, behind F/M/R: 87/49/19 ft3
Curb Weight: 4670 lb
C/D TEST RESULTS
60 mph: 7.2 sec
1/4-Mile: 15.7 sec @ 90 mph
100 mph: 20.1 sec
Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec.
Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 7.6 sec
Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 4.1 sec
Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 5.4 sec
Top Speed (gov ltd): 112 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 189 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.84 g
C/D FUEL ECONOMY
Observed: 20 mpg
75-mph Highway Driving: 27 mpg
75-mph Highway Range: 490 mi
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/City/Highway: 21/19/25 mpg
C/D TESTING EXPLAINED
2023 Honda Pilot Trailsport
Vehicle Type: front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 7-passenger, 4-door wagon
PRICE
Base/As Tested: $49,695/$50,150
Options: Diffused Sky Pearl paint, $455
ENGINE
DOHC, 24-valve V-6, aluminum block and aluminum heads, direct fuel injection
Displacement: 212 in3, 3471 cm3
Power: 285 hp @ 6100 rpm
Torque: 262 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
TRANSMISSION
10-speed automatic
CHASSIS
Suspension, F/R: control arms/multilink
Brakes, F/R: 13.8-in vented disc/13.0-in disc
Tires: Continental TerrainContact A/T
265/60R-18 110T M+S
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 113.8 in
Length: 200.2 in
Width: 78.5 in
Height: 72.0 in
Passenger Volume, F/M/R: 57/57/40 ft3
Cargo Volume, behind F/M/R: 87/49/19 ft3
Curb Weight: 4709 lb
C/D TEST RESULTS
60 mph: 6.9 sec
100 mph: 20.3 sec
1/4-Mile: 15.4 sec @ 90 mph
Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.4 sec.
Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 6.9 sec
Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 4.0 sec
Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 5.2 sec
Top Speed (gov ltd): 111 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 189 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.85 g
C/D FUEL ECONOMY
Observed: 18 mpg
75-mph Highway Driving: 22 mpg
75-mph Highway Range: 400 mi
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/City/Highway: 20/18/23 mpg
More Features and Specs
Shopping Tools
What's My Car Worth?
Car and Driver values are calculated from the same Black Book® data dealers use to appraise vehicles.
Get Estimate
Insurance Marketplace
See what you can save on car insurance.
Learn More
Auto Loans & Financing
Our finance experts answer any questions you may have about financing a vehicle.
Learn More
Similar Vehicles
2024 Kia Telluride
10
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$37,585
EPA MPG
20–22 combined
C/D SAYS: The Telluride offers a generous set of standard features, and its top trim delivers a premium experience that's comparable to SUVs that cost far more. Learn More
Kia Telluride Model Years
- View 2024 Telluride DetailsStarting at $37,585 · 10/10
- View 2023 Telluride DetailsStarting at $37,255 · 10/10
2024 Toyota Grand Highlander
10
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$44,465
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: Toyota expands the Highlander SUV lineup—literally—with the introduction of the stretched 2024 Grand Highlander. Learn More
2025 Mazda CX-90
9.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$39,300
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: With the CX-90, Mazda takes its three-row SUV uptown with a stylish look, a plush interior, and solid performance—but top models have commensurately high pricing. Learn More
Mazda CX-90 Model Years
- View 2025 CX-90 DetailsStarting at $39,300 · 9.5/10
- View 2024 CX-90 DetailsStarting at $39,220 · 9.5/10
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser
9.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$57,400
EPA MPG
23 combined
C/D SAYS: The resurrected Land Cruiser benefits from its more manageable size while maintaining its legendary status as an off-road icon. Learn More
2024 Ford Bronco
9.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$41,525
EPA MPG
17–20 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2024 Ford Bronco continues to bring significant competition to Jeep and we're happy to watch them roll in the mud. Learn More
Ford Bronco Model Years
- View 2024 Bronco DetailsStarting at $41,525 · 9.5/10
- View 2023 Bronco DetailsStarting at $36,785 · 10/10
2024 Ford Bronco Raptor
9.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$91,930
EPA MPG
15 combined
C/D SAYS: If you're lusting for an SUV with extreme levels of performance, the 2024 Ford Bronco Raptor is an off-road predator with surprising versatility. Learn More
Ford Bronco Raptor Model Years
- View 2024 Bronco Raptor DetailsStarting at $91,930 · 9.5/10
- View 2023 Bronco Raptor DetailsStarting at $82,475 · 10/10
2024 Hyundai Palisade
9.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$38,045
EPA MPG
21–22 combined
C/D SAYS: With a high-class cabin, a smooth ride, and space for the whole family, the three-row Hyundai Palisade is one of the best in the mid-size SUV segment. Learn More
Hyundai Palisade Model Years
- View 2024 Palisade DetailsStarting at $38,045 · 9.5/10
- View 2023 Palisade DetailsStarting at $37,235 · 9.5/10
2024 Hyundai Santa Fe
9
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$35,365
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: More space and a funky new look make the redesigned 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe look radically different from before, but it retains its comfort-oriented road manners. Learn More
Hyundai Santa Fe Model Years
- View 2024 Santa Fe DetailsStarting at $35,365 · 9/10
- View 2023 Santa Fe DetailsStarting at $30,085 · 8.5/10
2025 Mazda CX-70
9
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$41,900
EPA MPG
25 combined
C/D SAYS: While its name suggests a new mid-size SUV that’s smaller than the three-row CX-90, the 2025 CX-70 is in fact just a CX-90 with the third row removed. Learn More
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
9
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$41,830
EPA MPG
21 combined
C/D SAYS: Whether it's stripped down or dressed to the nines, the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is a handsome family support vehicle that's built to go to basically anywhere. Learn More
Jeep Grand Cherokee L Model Years
- View 2024 Grand Cherokee L DetailsStarting at $41,830 · 9/10
- View 2023 Grand Cherokee L DetailsStarting at $43,830 · 9/10
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee
9
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$39,830
EPA MPG
22 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2024 Grand Cherokee is a multifaceted SUV situated at the intersection of machismo and elegance, with some trims remaining simple and others going upscale. Learn More
Jeep Grand Cherokee Model Years
- View 2024 Grand Cherokee DetailsStarting at $39,830 · 9/10
- View 2023 Grand Cherokee DetailsStarting at $41,830 · 9/10
2025 Toyota Crown Signia
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$45,040
EPA MPG
38 combined
C/D SAYS: As a new mid-size SUV with a hybrid powertrain, the 2025 Crown Signia offers two rows of seats, an upscale interior, and standard all-wheel drive. Learn More
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
More From Honda
2026 Honda Prelude
Starting at
$31,000 est
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: Honda plans to reintroduce the storied Prelude name, this time applied to a sporty new hybrid two-door coupe that appears to be related to the Civic and Accord. Learn More
2027 Honda Saloon
Starting at
$50,000 est
EPA Est. Range
N/A
C/D SAYS: The Honda Saloon concept previews a future production model that will be the first of the brand’s next-generation EVs. Learn More
2024 Honda Civic Type R
10
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$45,890
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: The 2024 Honda Civic Type R is 315-horsepower of absolute fury, but its compact size and outsized comfort make it especially easy to live with. Learn More
Honda Civic Type R Model Years
- View 2024 Civic Type R DetailsStarting at $45,890 · 10/10
- View 2023 Civic Type R DetailsStarting at $44,890 · 10/10
- View 2021 Civic Type R DetailsStarting at $38,910 · 9.5/10
- View 2020 Civic Type R DetailsStarting at $37,950 · 9.5/10
- View 2019 Civic Type R DetailsStarting at $37,255 · 10/10
- View 2018 Civic Type R DetailsStarting at $35,595 · 10/10
- View 2017 Civic Type R DetailsStarting at N/A · 10/10
2024 Honda Ridgeline
9
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$41,145
EPA MPG
20–21 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2024 Honda Ridgeline offers what most mid-size pickup-truck buyers actually want: an adequate bed, decent towing capacity, and a carlike driving experience. Learn More
Honda Ridgeline Model Years
- View 2024 Ridgeline DetailsStarting at $41,145 · 9/10
- View 2023 Ridgeline DetailsStarting at $40,195 · 9/10
- View 2022 Ridgeline DetailsStarting at $39,435 · 9/10
- View 2021 Ridgeline DetailsStarting at $37,715 · 9/10
- View 2020 Ridgeline DetailsStarting at $35,075 · 9/10
- View 2019 Ridgeline DetailsStarting at $31,110 · 9/10
- View 2018 Ridgeline DetailsStarting at N/A · 9/10
- View 2017 Ridgeline DetailsStarting at N/A · 10/10
2025 Honda HR-V
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$26,450
EPA MPG
27–28 combined
C/D SAYS: The Honda HR-V subcompact crossover has a roomy cabin, good storage, and engaging road manners, but it's undermined by its engine's lack of oomph. Learn More
Honda HR-V Model Years
- View 2025 HR-V DetailsStarting at $26,450 · 8/10
- View 2024 HR-V DetailsStarting at $25,950 · 8/10
- View 2023 HR-V DetailsStarting at $25,150 · 8/10
- View 2022 HR-V DetailsStarting at $23,115 · 6/10
- View 2021 HR-V DetailsStarting at $22,445 · 6/10
- View 2020 HR-V DetailsStarting at $22,095 · 6/10
- View 2019 HR-V DetailsStarting at $21,740 · 6/10
- View 2018 HR-V DetailsStarting at $20,665 · 6/10
- View 2017 HR-V DetailsStarting at $20,440 · 6/10
2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid
10
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$35,700
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: The standard CR-V already possesses everything you expect in a compact SUV, and the 2025 CR-V Hybrid’s efficient and refined powertrain sweetens the deal. Learn More
Honda CR-V Hybrid Model Years
- View 2025 CR-V Hybrid DetailsStarting at $35,700 · 10/10
- View 2024 CR-V Hybrid DetailsStarting at $35,400 · 10/10
- View 2023 CR-V Hybrid DetailsStarting at $33,750 · 10/10
2024 Honda Prologue
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$48,795
EPA Est. Range
273–296 miles
C/D SAYS: Honda’s new 2024 Prologue electric SUV benefits from solid range and charging capabilities thanks to its GM underpinnings but doesn't quite feel like a Honda. Learn More
2025 Honda CR-V
10
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$31,450
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: The Honda CR-V maintains its leadership in the compact crossover segment, continuing into 2025 as an all-around gem. Learn More
Honda CR-V Model Years
- View 2025 CR-V DetailsStarting at $31,450 · 10/10
- View 2024 CR-V DetailsStarting at $30,850 · 10/10
- View 2023 CR-V DetailsStarting at $29,760 · 10/10
- View 2022 CR-V DetailsStarting at $28,045 · 9/10
- View 2021 CR-V DetailsStarting at $26,575 · 9/10
- View 2020 CR-V DetailsStarting at $26,325 · 9/10
- View 2019 CR-V DetailsStarting at $25,570 · 10/10
- View 2018 CR-V DetailsStarting at N/A · 10/10
- View 2017 CR-V DetailsStarting at N/A · 10/10
2025 Honda CR-V Fuel Cell
6.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$51,350
EPA Est. Range
29 miles
C/D SAYS: Honda is re-entering the hydrogen-powered EV segment with a new fuel-cell crossover based on the popular CR-V SUV. Learn More
2024 Honda Accord / Accord Hybrid
10
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$28,990
EPA MPG
32–48 combined
C/D SAYS: The Honda Accord is a Car and Driver favorite, winning our praise year after year with its spacious cabin, refined road manners, and first-rate build quality. Learn More
Honda Accord Model Years
- View 2024 Accord DetailsStarting at $28,990 · 10/10
- View 2023 Accord DetailsStarting at $28,390 · 10/10
- View 2022 Accord DetailsStarting at $27,615 · 10/10
- View 2021 Accord DetailsStarting at $25,985 · 10/10
- View 2020 Accord DetailsStarting at $25,265 · 10/10
- View 2019 Accord DetailsStarting at $24,675 · 10/10
- View 2018 Accord DetailsStarting at N/A · 10/10
- View 2017 Accord DetailsStarting at N/A · 9/10
2026 Honda Passport
Starting at
$45,000 est
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: The Honda Passport gets a significant redesign for 2026 to stay competitive in the two-row SUV arena. Learn More
Honda Passport Model Years
- View 2026 Passport DetailsStarting at $45,000 est
- View 2025 Passport DetailsStarting at $43,795 · 8.5/10
- View 2024 Passport DetailsStarting at $43,295 · 8.5/10
- View 2023 Passport DetailsStarting at $42,495 · 8.5/10
- View 2022 Passport DetailsStarting at $39,665 · 8.5/10
- View 2021 Passport DetailsStarting at $34,015 · 8.5/10
- View 2020 Passport DetailsStarting at $33,165 · 8.5/10
- View 2019 Passport DetailsStarting at N/A · 9/10
2025 Honda Civic Si
10
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$31,045
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: A cut above the everyday Honda Civic, the 2025 Civic Si is an affordable enthusiast's choice that's permanently set in sport mode. Learn More
Honda Civic Si Model Years
- View 2025 Civic Si DetailsStarting at $31,045 · 10/10
- View 2024 Civic Si DetailsStarting at $30,195 · 10/10
- View 2023 Civic Si DetailsStarting at $29,895 · 10/10
- View 2022 Civic Si DetailsStarting at $28,595 · 9/10
- View 2020 Civic Si DetailsStarting at $26,195 · 8.5/10
- View 2019 Civic Si DetailsStarting at $25,255 · 9/10
- View 2018 Civic Si DetailsStarting at N/A · 9/10
- View 2017 Civic Si DetailsStarting at N/A · 9/10