2023 Honda Pilot Design
2023 is the kickoff of the Honda Pilot’s fourth generation, and Honda put some muscle behind the Pilot this year. It received a grille-to-taillight revision that gave it a more truck-like appearance. It’s more than just appearance though because Honda got their off-road enthusiast team members together to take the Pilot off the highway and onto the trails. With five models to choose from, there is a model that fits every lifestyle now.
Every model is powered by a 3.5 V6 DOHC with 285 horses at 6100 RPM and 262 lb-ft of torque at 5000 RPM. It redlines at 6500. The engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that uses shift-by-wire and paddle shifters for smooth, responsive shifts. You can choose between 2WD or AWD models with both getting 19 city MPG and 27 highway with the 2WD and 25 on the AWD models.
Exterior
Honda created the truck-like appearance by beefing up the front end with a hexagon-mesh grille and narrowed LED headlights for a fierce look about its new face. It is fully determined to conquer whatever terrain you embark on. You’ll find straight lines and bold angles that add to its rugged appearance. The 20-inch wheels on the Sport, Touring, and Elite models leave a bold footprint, and the 18-inch wheels on the TrailSport and EX-L aren’t afraid of the woods. Underbody skid plates keep your undercarriage from becoming damaged while off-road, and the TrailSport edition has a 1-inch lift for higher clearance powering through wooded trails.
Roof rails offer extra cargo room on some models, and the tow package is capable of towing 3500 pounds with 2WD and 5000 pounds with the AWD option. A programmable power tailgate lets you access your cargo space with ease, and the walk-away close on some models is hands-free. The LED taillights are bright and noticeable.
Interior
There is no skimping when it comes to the interior of the new Pilot. Honda gave you lots of room for everyone and everything dear to you. There is space for up to 8 passengers, depending upon the model, and the surfaces are all easy to clean, which is great when some of those passengers are children or pets.
When you need a little more room, a second-row center seat can be unfolded from a hidden compartment. When not needed, put it away and use the pass-through to carry long cargo like skis and golf clubs.
Some models are equipped with leather-trimmed seats and a leather wrapped steering wheel for the extra luxury you expect in your SUV. The second row is equipped with captain’s chairs that offer support and comfort for your passengers, which means you can ride longer between stops. With a simple touch of a button, you can access the third row, so everyone can get in and out easily. The upper trim levels include a power panoramic moonroof.
While the seating is impressive, the other conveniences and technology upgrades Honda added to the Pilot make traveling fun and entertaining. The Sport model has a 7-speaker audio system, but the higher trim levels include a 12-speaker Bose system, as well as CabinTalk®, which is an in-car PA system that allows you to talk through your speakers to your passengers.
Of course, the latest connectivity technology is included in all of the Honda Pilot models, so you can stay connected through your Apple CarPlay® or Android Auto™ devices. Additional charging ports, power outlets, and other electronics are included.
Design Highlights
Honda made heated seats standard on all models, so no more shivering while trying to drive during the winter. They are ventilated for summer comfort, too. A Tri-Zone climate control lets everyone ride at a temperature where they are comfortable.
The cargo capacity of all Pilot models is impressive. There are 18.6 cu feet behind the 3rd row, 48.5 cu feet behind the second row, and 87.0 cu feet behind the first row. Legroom in the front is 41 inches, 40.8 inches in the middle, and 32.5 inches in the rear seats. Don’t forget, if you need more cargo space, you can tow or use the roof rack to add more cargo.
Throughout the cabin, there are numerous small hidden storage compartments like a roomy enough center console that can hold a purse or a tablet. Under the cargo floor panel is a hidden compartment that holds a laptop or bags. 14 beverage holders are big enough to hold reusable water bottles, too.
There are so many other features that make the 2023 Honda Pilot worth a look that you should take it for a test drive. It is designed for adventure, so take it out and discover what the Pilot can do for you and your family.