First Drive: 2023 Honda Pilot Makes Big Strides With Redesign

This three-row Pilot is the largest, most powerful SUV in Honda’s history, with an all-new dual-overhead-cam (DOHC) 285-hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It’s available in seven- or eight-passenger seating configurations and, at least at the SUV’s launch, there isn’t a hybrid version. With these updates, it appears to be better poised to compete against the segment-leading Kia Telluride, an impressive SUV that has likewise expanded its offerings to include more trims, is trying to move upscale, and has a token off-road-oriented version. 

Honda has streamlined the Pilot line, which is now available in five trim levels (down from seven): Sport, EX-L, TrailSport, Touring, and Elite along with an available Honda Performance Development (HPD) package. We purchased a Touring for our test program, which Honda predicts will be the trim with the highest sales volume.

What we bought: 2023 Honda Pilot AWD Touring
Powertrain: 285-hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine; 10-speed automatic transmission; all-wheel drive. 
MSRP: $48,550
Options: Radiant Red paint ($395) 
Destination fee: $1,295
Total cost: $50,240

If you’re a Consumer Reports member, our initial expert assessment of the Honda Pilot is available to you below. We have since completed 2,000 break-in miles and put the Pilot through more than 50 tests at the CR Auto Test Center, including empirical measurements of acceleration, braking, handling, car-seat fit, and usability. CR members have access to the full road-test now.

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