The Honda Pilot is a true leader in the three-row SUV market, celebrated for its practicality, dependable performance, and family-oriented features. With the 2025 model year, Honda has unveiled an exciting refresh that enhances this already impressive vehicle. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the 2025 Honda Pilot, highlighting its new TrailSport trim upgrades, stylish updates, essential features, and how it measures up against tough rivals in this competitive segment. Don’t miss out on discovering why the Pilot remains a top choice for families everywhere!
What’s New for the 2025 Honda Pilot?
The 2025 Pilot receives a mid-cycle refresh that focuses on aesthetic tweaks, tech upgrades, and bolstering the appeal of its adventure-ready TrailSport model. This isn’t a full redesign but a strategic update to keep the Pilot competitive.
Exterior Updates: The most noticeable change is a revised front grille and bumper design across all trims, giving the Pilot a bolder, more upright, and modern presence.
TrailSport Enhancements: The off-road-themed TrailSport trim gets significant upgrades, including standard all-terrain tires, a one-inch factory lift, and revised front and rear fascias for a more aggressive look and improved approach/departure angles.
New Color: A new Canyon River Blue Metallic paint option is available.
2025 Honda Pilot Review: Pros, Cons, and Verdict
The Pilot’s core strengths remain intact for 2025, making it a top contender for families seeking a dependable and capable hauler.
Pros:
✔ Spacious and Versatile Interior: One of the most roomy cabins in its class, featuring a clever second-row “Slide and Tilt” seat for easy third-row access and ample cargo space behind the third row.
✔ Smooth and Powerful V6 Engine: The 285-horsepower 3.5L V6 provides confident power for merging and towing, a welcome alternative to turbocharged four-cylinders.
✔ Excellent Towing Capacity: With a class-leading 5,000-pound towing capacity (when properly equipped), the Pilot can handle a small boat or trailer with ease.
✔ Refined Ride and Handling: A comfortable and quiet highway cruiser with predictable handling.
Cons:
❌ Fuel Economy: The V6, while powerful, is less efficient than some turbocharged rivals, especially in city driving.
❌ Infotainment System: While functional, the system isn’t as sleek or quick as those found in competitors like Hyundai Palisade or Kia Telluride.
❌ No Hybrid Option: In an era of rising efficiency, the lack of a hybrid powertrain is a notable omission.
The Verdict:
The 2025 Honda Pilot is a smart, sensible choice for active families. Its updates, particularly the more capable TrailSport, make it more attractive than ever. It excels in practicality, power, and reliability, though it gives up some luxury frills and fuel efficiency to rivals.
In-Depth Look: Trims and Pricing
The 2025 Pilot is offered in a wide range of trims to suit different needs and budgets.
LX: The value-packed entry point, starting around $39,500.
EX-L: Adds leather upholstery and a power tailgate.
TrailSport: The adventure-focused trim with off-road upgrades, around $47,000.
Sport: Features blacked-out accents for a sportier look.
Touring: Focuses on premium comfort with ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel.
Elite: The top-tier luxury model with premium audio, heated second-row seats, and a panoramic roof, topping out around $53,500.
Key Features and Specifications
Engine: 3.5L SOHC i-VTEC® V6 Engine (285 hp, 262 lb-ft torque)
Transmission: 10-Speed Automatic Transmission
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or Intelligent Variable Torque Management™ (i-VTM4®) AWD
Towing: Up to 5,000 lbs
Seating: 8-passenger standard (7-passenger with captain’s chairs on Touring and Elite)
Cargo Volume: Behind 3rd row: 18.6 cu ft | Behind 2nd row: 55.9 cu ft | Behind 1st row: 87.0 cu ft
Tech Highlights: 7-inch or 9-inch touchscreen, Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Honda Sensing® suite (standard), available 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster.
2025 Honda Pilot vs. The Competition
How does the refreshed Pilot stack up? Here’s a quick comparison.
| Feature | 2025 Honda Pilot | 2024 Toyota Highlander | 2024 Hyundai Palisade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Engine | 3.5L V6 (285 HP) | 2.4L Turbo I4 (265 HP) | 3.8L V6 (291 HP) |
| Towing | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| 3rd Row Space | Spacious | Cramped | Good |
| Key Strength | Packaging, Towing, Reliability | Fuel Economy (Hybrid) | Luxury & Features |
| Starting MSRP | ~$39,500 | ~$41,420 | ~$38,295 |
Buying Guide and Current Offers
Best Trim for Most: The EX-L offers an excellent blend of features, comfort, and value for the average family.
For Adventurers: The enhanced TrailSport is now a genuinely capable off-road trim right from the factory.
For Luxury: The Elite trim provides all the premium amenities expected in a top-of-the-line family SUV.
Deals and Incentives: As a new model year vehicle, initial offers may be limited. Look for competitive APR financing deals from Honda Financial Services. The best deals will likely be on remaining 2024 inventory.
Conclusion: Is the 2025 Honda Pilot Right for You?
The 2025 Honda Pilot reinforces its position as a pragmatic and powerful choice in the three-row SUV segment. Its thoughtful updates address specific areas, making the TrailSport a true standout for outdoor enthusiasts. While it may not have the flashiest interior or a hybrid option, it wins where it counts for families: with unmatched interior space, proven mechanicals, and unwavering reliability.
Ready to experience the 2025 Honda Pilot for yourself? Find a local Honda dealer to schedule a test drive.
