Honda Pilot EX L 2023 Revealed, Release Date, Pricing, and Specs

The venerable Honda Pilot, a stalwart in the SUV market, has undergone a complete metamorphosis for the year 2023, replete with a bevy of updated stylistic features that harmonize seamlessly with Honda’s latest models, including the compact sedan and hatchback, the Honda Civic, and the smaller CR-V SUV.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Regarding the issue of pricing and selecting the best option, prospective buyers will be presented with a range of choices, namely: the LX, the Sport, the EX-L, the Touring, the TrailSport, and the Elite models. These models are priced at $37,295, $40,495, $43,295, $47,795, $49,695, and $53,375, respectively.

In summary, the pricing for the various models is depicted in a tabular format below, in increments of $10k, ranging from $0 up to $90k.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

In the likeness of its 2022 predecessor, the spanking new 2023 iteration of the Pilot boasts a 3.5-liter V-6 engine. Nevertheless, the latest SUV model flaunts a striking upsurge in horsepower, recording 285 of it, which is a 5-hp spike from the previous year. The 2023 Pilot has abandoned the antiquated nine-speed automatic transmission system for a sophisticated 10-speed alternative.

Although the vehicle retains its front-wheel-drive-oriented model with all-wheel drive as an add-on feature. While the updated V-6 motor does not render the Pilot model noticeably swifter than its prior generation counterpart, the throttle’s response has been enhanced, and the 10-speed gearbox’s transitions are silky smooth.

The on-road sophistication is also significantly advanced compared to the 2022 model, sporting a more reliable steering and braking system. Furthermore, the trailblazing Trailsport model aptly demonstrated its competency in negotiating the moderately challenging terrains we encountered on genuine off-road routes near Breckenridge, Colorado, and once again in Sedona, Arizona. Nevertheless, Honda did not engineer a rock-climbing, ultra-performing machine that aims to outshine Broncos, Wranglers, and 4Runners on the daunting Moab course.

The Pilot Trailsport is equipped with an exclusive suspension system with a 1.0-inch rise, steel skid plates, all-terrain tires, a hill-descent control mechanism, and an exceptionally-tuned all-wheel drive system with a Trail driving mode.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

As per the estimations made by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the 2023 Pilot exhibits a commendable fuel efficiency of up to 19 miles per gallon (mpg) within city limits, while boasting an impressive 27 mpg on the highway. In due course, we shall embark upon the arduous task of evaluating the veracity of these claims by conducting a rigorous examination of the Pilot’s fuel economy on our 75-mile-per-hour highway route, and subsequently supplementing this narrative with our findings. For a more comprehensive insight into the Pilot’s fuel economy, kindly peruse the EPA’s website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The 2023 Pilot, as a family-friendly SUV, is specifically crafted with that use case in mind. It is worth noting that all models of this quintessential vehicle have the capacity to seat up to eight individuals in its three rows. However, it is the EX-L trim that provides the option of second-row captain’s chairs, which inevitably leads to a reduction in passenger capacity to a total of seven seats. On the other hand, it is crucial to highlight that captain’s chairs come as standard on the TrailSport model.

The Touring and Elite models of this prestigious vehicle are designed with a second-row seat layout that is undoubtedly intriguing. This arrangement permits the middle seat section to be disassembled and stowed beneath the floor in the cargo space when it is not required. Honda prides itself on the Pilot’s eight cupholders, each capable of accommodating significant 32-ounce water bottles, and the fact that its cargo area is more voluminous than ever before.

We at present, lack the opportunity to inspect the Pilot’s cargo area and determine the number of suitcases that it can contain. However, as soon as we have access to it, we will test it ourselves and update this narrative with our findings.

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