Honda Pilot

Power comes from a slick 3.5-liter V6 that is rated at 280 hp. We got 20 mpg overall in our tests of an EX-L with the standard six-speed automatic. We found the ride to be comfortable but handling ungainly, doing little to hide the Pilot's bulk. The knob-less touch screen infotainment system is unintuitive. Touring and Elite trims get a nine-speed that doesn't shift very smoothly and is stuck with an unintuitive push-button gear selector. Front- and all-wheel drive are offered, and the optional Honda Sensing safety system includes forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. Only top trips get blind spot monitoring; some lower trims get LaneWatch, a camera-based system that is less useful and more distracting. For 2019, all Pilots get Honda's suite of advanced safety systems, which include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking and lane keeping assistance. The blind spot warning and rear cross traffic features comes standard on EX and up trims. Also, the infotainment system gets an actual volume/on-off knob, making it easier to use. Changes for 2020 include a new Black Edition version that gets various exterior and interior styling updates. For 2021, all Pilots get the nine-speed automatic transmission, and a Special Edition model joins the lineup. Also, a dual-zone automatic climate system is now standard for all trims. For 2022, blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning became standard on all trims.

The third row is a bit tight, but usable for kids and preteens. Unfortunately, the interior isn't as well finished in this second generation with flimsy-looking plastics. Look for an EX model with leather seats, since they hold up better and make sure you get the available rear-view camera, a must in any tall SUV. Handling isn't particularly agile, but the car steers responsively and remains secure. It also rides comfortably, has a slick powertrain and gets 18 mpg overall. Road noise is pronounced, making the cabin loud. By the end, the Pilot was rather outdated, lacking modern safety gear and scoring Poor in the IIHS small overlap crash test.