2018 Honda Pilot 3.5L V6 I-VTEC 6AT AWD (280 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Honda enjoyed great success with its three-row SUV Pilot and tried to keep sales figures high by refreshing the model three years after it launched the vehicle’s third generation in 2015.

By 2018, customers were already delighted by Honda’s eight-seat crossover vehicle. However, there were a few things that the Japanese automaker had to improve to keep up with the fierce competition. Even though it had to bump the prices a bit, the car still had its aces up its sleeves to convince buyers, and one of them was the excellent resale value of the vehicle. In addition, there were some significant improvements meant to make life on board easier for all seven or eight occupants, depending on the trim level.

One of the key areas that was improved was the car’s front fascia. The 2019 Honda Pilot came with new headlights that sported an angular shape, swept back on the sides, and featured LED daytime running lights on the outer edges. Another noticeable change was for the grille, which sported two chromed slats instead of three as on its predecessor. In addition, the radar for the standard Honda Sensing safety package across the range was placed behind the brand’s badge. On the lower side of the bumper, the automaker added a pair of side scoops that housed the round fog lamps, while the center air intake featured a rock-slider-like silver trim underneath it.

From its profile, there were no significant changes compared to the 2016 model year Pilot. However, the rearview mirrors with integrated turn signals were new. Its side sills were available with chromed trims on their lower sides that emphasized the offroad capabilities of the vehicle, which were adequate for vehicles in its segment. Another change was at the back, where Honda installed new taillights for the 2019 Pilot.

Inside, there was a very similar design to the non-facelifted version of the Pilot. The most obvious change was in the infotainment system. Honda was criticized for ditching the turn-volume knob on the eight-inch touchscreen placed atop the center stack. As a result, it rearranged the layout and placed the volume knob closer to the driver. Like its predecessor, the three-row SUV was available with either two seats at the front and three on the other rows. Those who opted for the Limited trim level could enjoy heated and cooled seats (available as an option). Base versions didn’t have too many things to brag about, albeit from the second grade up, the 2019 Honda Pilot was fitted with the heated steering wheel as well.

Under the hood, there were no surprises. The Japanese automaker installed a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produced 284 PS (280 hp) and paired it with a six-speed automatic. At the same time, upper grades were fitted with a reworked nine-speed automatic transmission.