The 2022 Honda Pilot has more standard amenities, including LED headlights and an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but a higher starting price.
Honda no longer offers the entry-level LX and EX trim levels, so the EX-L, with a starting price of slightly over $40k, now tops the lineup.
It's $7000 more than last year's LX. There's also a new Sonic Gray Pearl paint color. Honda will release a new model this year.
The Pilot Special Edition combines features and pricing well. AWD boosts the Pilot's tow rating from 3500 to 5000 pounds for $2000.
It has 20-inch black wheels, a hands-free power tailgate, leather interior, roof rails, second-row sunshades, and wireless charging.
The Pilot's V-6 has enough of power and a lively sound, and we appreciate how quiet the nine-speed automated transmission is.
The 20-inch wheels that come with the higher trims detract slightly from the ride quality while improving the Pilot's otherwise awkward appearance.
Furthermore, the vehicle rides very smoothly when laden with passengers and cargo. At times, the Pilot's lack of body control makes it appear detached from the road.
Honda's showroom has good fuel economy, and the Pilot is efficient for a large, practical car, according to the EPA and our testing.
Front-wheel-drive models get 20/27 mpg city/highway. All-wheel drive reduces fuel economy by 1 mpg, to 19 city and 26 highway.
The Pilot's interior is roomy and useful, and it comes with extras for families like an in-cabin PA system.
For 8 passengers, most trim levels feature a three-across second row. In pricier models, two captain's chairs replace the bench, limiting passenger capacity to seven.
With a commanding view of the road and wide windows and thin, inconspicuous roof pillars, the Pilot has best-in-class visibility.
Trims EX and above have an 8.0-inch touchscreen with SiriusXM, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, voice command, and other app functionalities.
Honda's warranty is class-average. Hyundai's is longer, and Toyota offers free planned maintenance.