Real-world car advice, without the sales pitch Start Here About Trust Newsletter
Honda Pilot Elite — US review

Honda Pilot Elite Review (2025–)

Three-Row Family Hauler

Honda US review Since 2025 By the True Motion Auto editorial team

The 2025 Honda Pilot Elite is a 3-row family SUV with V6 punch, 5,000 lb towing, and a flexible 8-passenger interior — Honda's answer to the Telluride/Palisade.

Vehicle Overview

Vehicle SegmentSUV
Body Style3-row mid-size SUV
Release Year2025
Trim/Variant ReviewedElite
Available TrimsSport, EX-L, Touring, Elite, TrailSport, Black Edition

Key Specifications (Honda Pilot Elite)

Engine3.5L V6
Power285 hp, 355 Nm
Transmission10-speed automatic
EPA MPG19 city / 25 hwy / 21 combined
DrivetrainAWD (i-VTM4)

0–60 mph: 6.8s

Dimensions199.9" L × 78.5" W × 71.0" H
Curb weight4,623 lb
Cargo18.6 cu ft (87 max)
TowingUp to 5,000 lb
Seats8

Exterior Design

Squared-off, modernized styling for the 4th-gen

20" alloys on Elite

Available panoramic moonroof

Interior, Comfort & Materials

Standard 9" touchscreen, available 10.2" digital cluster

Heated/ventilated front and second-row seats on Elite

8-passenger seating standard; 7-passenger captain's chairs available

Features & Infotainment

Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto

12-speaker Bose audio

Hands-free tailgate

Safety & Ratings

Honda Sensing 360+ standard

Driving Performance & Handling

The 2025 Honda Pilot delivers a balanced driving experience appropriate for its segment.

Fuel Efficiency

EPA Combined MPG21
City MPG19
Highway MPG25
Fuel tank18.5 gallons
Estimated total range388 miles

Practicality & Everyday Usability

87 cu ft cargo with all seats folded

5,000 lb tow rating

Adult-friendly second row, kid-friendly third row

Warranty & Maintenance

Basic warranty3 years / 36,000 miles
Powertrain warranty5 years / 60,000 miles

On-Road Price & Value for Money

Starting MSRP$53,480

Considering its competition and equipment level, the 2025 Honda Pilot offers competitive value for the segment.

Comparison with Rivals

Key competitors include the Toyota Highlander, Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade.

The Telluride and Palisade have nicer cabins; the Highlander Hybrid is more efficient. The Pilot has the strongest V6 and the best on-road dynamics.

Pros & Cons

Pros

285 hp V6 with smooth 10-speed auto

5,000 lb tow rating

Spacious 8-passenger cabin

Honda reliability

Cons

No hybrid option

Fuel economy trails hybrid rivals

Cabin styling more conservative than Telluride

Overall Rating

4.3 / 5 — based on segment expectations, value, performance, and practicality.

Final Verdict

The 2025 Pilot Elite is the family SUV that drives like a sedan. Strong V6, real towing, and roomy 8-seat layout.

Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.