2018 Honda Pilot SUV Crossover Review & Ratings

Performance

The 2018 Pilot is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 280 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. The output is distributed via a six-speed automatic transmission in its LX, EX and EX-L trims while its Touring and Elite trims are operated by a nine-speed automatic. All trims of the SUV except the Elite model is propelled by a front-wheel drive system with an option to make it an all-wheel drive. The Elite variant has an all-wheel drive system as a standard fit. The 2018 Pilot's top speed is electronically-capped at 112 mph and its zero to 60 mph acceleration is at 6.2 seconds. The numbers are definitely better compared to its contemporaries from other makers because its rivals normally take eight to nine seconds to reach the 60 mph mark from a standstill.

Technology

Standard in the basic trim of the 2018 Pilot is the multi-angle rearview camera, 8-inch touchscreen. The EX adds the Honda Lane Watch, remote engine start and Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control. The EX-L brings up the game with one-touch second-row seats plus the optional rear entertainment system (RES) and Honda Sensing. The Touring has the Honda Sensing as a standard feature plus the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation. The top-of-the-line Elite model gets heated Captain's Chairs in the second row, Blind Spot Information System (BSI), and LED Headlights with auto on and off feature.

Safety

Aside from the standard air bags, seatbelts and child lock, the 2018 Honda Pilot is equipped with four-wheel ABS, four-wheel disc brakes, traction control, Daylight Running Lights and Stability Control. The notable tech features of the SUV that improve its safety include the Lanewatch, which offers a broader view of the passenger side road when the SUV is about to make a right turn. There's the Honda Sensing also that alerts the driver when in a risk of collision and it applies the correct braking or steering during dangerous driving conditions.

Appearance

The 2018 Honda Pilot is a four-door SUV with three rows of seats. The capacity of the auto is similar to a minivan. The new Pilot has an athletic styling which is neither too boxy or very muscular. The SUV is highlighted by its three horizontal radiator grille design, LED lighting system, smooth body lines, 18-inch wheels for the LX to EX-L variants and 20-inch wheels for the Touring and Elite versions. The Panoramic Roof is available in the Elite version too. Going in will reveal a very refined interior design with its high-quality leather materials, seat stitching and chrome inserts. Putting these all together makes the new Pilot look very organized visually. Honda surely did a good job in balancing its utility, aero and styling.

Comfort

The interior of the 2018 Pilot is so cozy. The seats have that pillowy feel, especially in the heated seats of the Touring variant and Captain's Chairs of the Elite model. Then, there is enough room to stretch the legs. The vehicle can fit up to eight adult passengers. Buying the Elite trim will reduce it to a seven-seating capacity because the mid seats are replaced by two Captain's Chairs. The buttons and panels of the SUV are soft to the touch while the infotainment system is easy to operate. Moreover, the cabin of the auto is very effective in insulating the noise coming outside while it is being driven. The models of the range lack extra leg or knee support though, which is usually found in the top trims of some of its SUV rivals. You will have to contend with having a knees-up seating position during your trip.

Cargo

The SUV has a cargo space of 83.9 cu-ft with the second and third row seats folded down. Even with only the third row seats folded will yield up to 46.8 cu-ft of cargo space. Having all the seats up still leaves 16.5 cu-ft for your luggage.