Flash Drive

2019 Honda Pilot

September 9, 2019 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2019 Honda Pilot AWD Elite

The 2019 Honda Pilot is a great family activity SUV, perfect for hauling people and their gear.

Engine: 3.5-liter V-6, 280-horsepower 262 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 9-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel-drive

EPA Rating: 19-mpg city, 26-mpg highway, 22-mpg combined

Base Price: $48,020

As Tested: $48,020

Performance:

Smooth V-6 engine

Good fuel economy for its size—our best was 26.0-mpg highway

Although the Pilot is aimed more at paved roads it can handle rugged and snowy terrain efficiently.

Paddle shifters

Hill Start Assist

20-inch alloy wheels

Impressive standard safety suite

Smooth highway ride

Great long distance SUV

Capable in foul weather or on bad roads

Comfort:

Heated and ventilated front seats (3 temps)

Driver power lumbar support

Interior space and comfort are Pilot high points. Front seat accommodations are plush in the Elite trim.

Power front passenger seat, but no lumbar adjustment

Ample front row legroom

Medium thick, heated leather steering wheel

Good auxiliary controls

Very spacious second row Captain’s Chairs

Heated second row seats

Excellent knee and legroom even with front seats all back

Second row HVAC controls

Second row Captain’s Chairs are roomy with ample legroom.

Pull-up second row sunshades

Overhead DVD player

Adults can fit in third row seats

Third row access OK, but agility help

Utility:

Large front door bins with smaller bonus bins

Big, deep console bin with sliding cover

Medium size locking glovebox

Large, flat tray between second row seats

Big seatback storage pouches

Second row seats move forward to ease third row in/out. Once seated there is room for adults.

Two cupholders in each rear door

Third row seats fold flat

Large under floor storage bin

Power liftgate with great clearance

Ample groceries/luggage room behind third row

LED headlights

Rain sensing wipers

WOW Factors:

Excellent standard safety features

Double sunroofs

Split folding rear seats provide a great cargo flexibility.

Big storage under cargo deck

Spacious accommodations

Rear seat entertainment

Whines:

6-inch gap between folded second and third row seats

Bottom Line:

The 2019 Honda Pilot AWD Elite is an excellent way to transport people and belongings safely and comfortably. Styling is conservative, but the Pilot does everything it’s supposed to very

There is good cargo space behind the third row and bonus storage under the floor.

well. Comfort, spaciousness, reliability, flexibility, sensibility and safety are better than flash and cachet for families in real world driving conditions.