2024 Honda Pilot Review: Trim Level Comparisons
Exploring the 2024 Honda Pilot reveals a versatile and family-friendly SUV option with several trim levels, each catering to different needs and preferences. Whether you’re seeking a budget-friendly base model or a fully loaded luxury experience, the Pilot has something for everyone. This review compares the various trim levels of the 2024 Honda Pilot to help you make an informed decision. We’ll explore differences in exterior, interior, pricing, specifications, and technology, concluding with how you can schedule a test drive with us at Frank Leta Honda.
Exterior Differences
Examining the exterior, the 2024 Honda Pilot maintains a consistent design language across all trims but with some notable differences in features and styling elements. Base LX and Sport trims offer a more straightforward appearance, with standard 18-inch alloy wheels and LED headlights. Moving up to the EX-L and Touring trims, you’ll notice enhancements like larger 20-inch wheels and chrome accents that add a touch of sophistication. The TrailSport trim stands out with its rugged design, featuring unique 18-inch alloy wheels, higher ground clearance, and off-road capabilities. Elite trim, at the top of the lineup, combines all the best exterior features, including power-folding side mirrors, panoramic roof, and distinctive styling elements that signify its premium status.
These exterior differences not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also serve practical purposes, such as improved off-road performance in the TrailSport and a more luxurious feel in the Elite. Whether you prioritize style, functionality, or both, the 2024 Pilot has a trim level that aligns with your needs.
Interior Differences
Diving into the interior, the 2024 Honda Pilot varies significantly across the trim levels, offering a range of materials and features. LX and Sport trims provide comfortable cloth seating with standard amenities like a multi-angle rearview camera and tri-zone climate control. Stepping up to the EX-L and Touring trims introduces leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and an upgraded audio system for a more refined driving experience.
Luxury seekers will find the Elite trim offers perforated leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. TrailSport, on the other hand, focuses on durability with water-resistant seat coverings and all-weather floor mats, making it perfect for adventurous families. Across all trims, the Pilot’s interior is spacious, offering ample room for passengers and cargo, but the choice of trim will dictate the level of comfort and luxury you’ll enjoy.
Pricing Range
Delving into the pricing, the 2024 Honda Pilot’s range reflects its broad appeal, catering to different budgets and needs. Base LX trim starts at an MSRP of $37,090, making it an accessible option for families seeking a reliable SUV without breaking the bank. Sport trim, with additional features and styling enhancements, has a starting MSRP of $39,600.
Those looking for more luxury will find the EX-L and Touring trims priced at $42,400 and $46,900, respectively. These trims offer a higher level of comfort and technology, justifying the price increase. TrailSport starts at $48,800, catering to those with a penchant for off-road adventures. Finally, Elite trim tops the range with an MSRP of $52,480, offering the best of what the Pilot has to offer in terms of luxury and features.
The Specifications
Under the hood, all trims of the 2024 Honda Pilot share the same 3.5L V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. While the engine remains consistent, the drivetrain varies, with the LX, Sport, EX-L, and Touring trims coming with front-wheel drive as standard, while the TrailSport and Elite trims feature all-wheel drive.
Fuel economy shows slight variations depending on the drivetrain, with the front-wheel-drive models achieving 19/27/22 MPG (city/highway/combined) and the all-wheel-drive models offering slightly lower efficiency. Dimensions remain consistent across trims, but the TrailSport’s increased ground clearance of 8.3 inches and specialized tires cater specifically to off-road conditions.
Technology and Features
Packed with technology across all trims, the 2024 Honda Pilot ensures that higher trims come with more advanced features. Essential features like Bluetooth connectivity, adaptive cruise control, and a multi-angle rearview camera are standard across the board. Sport trim adds a sunroof and heated front seats, while EX-L and above introduce a power liftgate, wireless charging, and a larger touchscreen with advanced navigation.
Touring and Elite trims include premium audio systems, integrated navigation, and a rear entertainment system that will keep passengers entertained on long drives. TrailSport, while focused on durability, doesn’t skimp on technology, offering similar features as the Touring trim but with off-road enhancements like a Trail mode and improved traction systems.
 | LX | Sport | EX-L | TrailSport | Touring | Elite |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting at $37,090* Build | Starting at $39,600* Build | Starting at $42,400* Build | Starting at $46,900* Build | Starting at $48,800* Build | Starting at $52,480* Build |
|
| Key Features | ||||||
| Engine | 3.5-liter V6 engine with 285 horsepower | 3.5-liter V6 engine with direct fuel injection | 3.5-liter V6 engine | 3.5-liter V6 with 285 horsepower for off-road capabilities | 3.5-liter V6 engine with smooth, strong performance | 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering smooth performance across all driving conditions |
| Horsepower | 285 hp at 6,100 rpm | 285 horsepower at 6,100 rpm for strong acceleration | 285 horsepower at 6,100 rpm | 285 hp at 6,100 RPM | Produces 285 horsepower at 6,100 rpm | Produces 285 horsepower at 6100 RPM for confident acceleration |
| Standard Transmission | 10-speed automatic transmission | 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters | Transmission: It features a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters for smooth gear changes and optimized fuel efficiency | 10-speed automatic transmission with all-wheel drive (AWD) | 10-speed automatic transmission for effortless shifting | Equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission for efficient gear shifting |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (FWD) and 5,000 lbs (AWD) | 3,500 lbs for front-wheel-drive and 5,000 lbs for all-wheel-drive | 5,000 lbs for towing light trailers or boats | Up to 5,000 lbs with AWD for hauling heavy loads | 5,000 lbs when properly equipped | Up to 5,000 lbs with all-wheel-drive configuration |
| EPA-Estimated MPG (City/Highway/Combined) | 19/27/22 MPG for FWD and 19/25/21 MPG for AWD | 19/27/22 MPG for front-wheel drive and 19/25/21 MPG for all-wheel drive | 19/27/22 MPG | 18/23/20 MPG | 19/25/21 MPG | 19/25/21 MPG for AWD trims |
| Technology | 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility | 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a 240-watt audio system with seven speakers | It includes a 9-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and wireless charging for modern connectivity needs | Features a 9-inch infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and TrailWatch cameras | Features a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto | Features wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot for smooth connectivity |
| Curb Weight | Approximately 4,091 to 4,350 lbs depending on the drivetrain | 4,251 lbs for front-wheel drive, slightly heavier with all-wheel drive | Approximately 4,251 lbs, ensuring stability while balancing agility for a family SUV. | Around 4,685 lbs, designed to handle tough terrain | Around 4,251 lbs | Approximately 4,580 lbs for AWD version |
| Highlights | The 2024 Honda Pilot LX is made as an entry-level option, yet it does not skimp on essential features. It provides three rows of seating for up to eight passengers and is perfect for families. Honda's commitment to safety is evident, as the Pilot LX includes the Honda Sensing suite as standard. This package incorporates advanced driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking. Despite being the base trim, the Pilot LX comes equipped with a powerful V6 engine. It guarantees confident acceleration and highway merging. The inclusion of a 10-speed automatic transmission promises smooth gear shifts and optimal fuel efficiency, which is competitive for its class. With the ability to tow up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with all-wheel drive, the Pilot LX also offers practical functionality for those who need to haul small trailers or boats. The technology within the cabin adds to the vehicle's modern appeal. The 7-inch touchscreen integrates with smartphones for an easy connection to apps and media through both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The user-friendly interface enhances the driving experience, making navigation and entertainment easily accessible. While more luxurious features like leather upholstery and a panoramic sunroof are reserved for higher trims, the Pilot LX offers excellent value with its standard cloth seating and straightforward design. | The 2024 Honda Pilot Sport offers a great balance of power, versatility, and comfort in a midsize SUV. One of its key features is its 3.5-liter V6 engine. It delivers 285 horsepower to provide the strength needed for towing and long highway drives. The vehicle’s 10-speed automatic transmission promises smooth gear transitions for better overall drivability. A highlight feature of the Pilot Sport is its towing capability. The front-wheel-drive version can tow up to 3,500 lbs, while the all-wheel-drive model ups this to 5,000 lbs. It’s a reliable choice for hauling trailers or boats. This capacity, combined with a generous cargo space of up to 87 cubic feet when the second and third rows are folded down, makes it incredibly versatile. It’s the perfect choice for family road trips or outdoor adventures. In terms of technology, the Pilot Sport is well-equipped with modern amenities. It comes with a 7-inch color touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The sound system is complemented by seven speakers including a subwoofer, to deliver quality audio during trips. | The 2024 Honda Pilot EX-L stands out with its spacious interior. It offers seating for up to eight passengers in its standard configuration. It features a high-quality leather-trimmed interior that improves overall comfort. The EX-L trim also comes with power-adjustable front seats, heated front seats, and driver-seat memory settings that enhance driving convenience. The Pilot EX-L is equipped with a broad safety suite, including Honda’s suite of driver-assist technologies. These features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a multi-angle rearview camera. All of these contribute to a safe and confident driving experience. The infotainment system includes a vibrant 9-inch touchscreen with intuitive controls. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration make it easy to access apps, music, and navigation. The EX-L also has an available Wi-Fi hotspot, keeping passengers connected during long trips. Another notable feature is the vehicle’s quiet cabin. It helps minimize road noise for a serene environment for both the driver and passengers. The Pilot’s large cargo space of up to 87 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down offers excellent versatility for families who need space for gear or luggage. | The 2024 Honda Pilot TrailSport comes equipped with a rugged suspension system for trail adventures. It has exclusive 18-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, and underbody skid plates to handle rough terrain with ease. The vehicle also features a raised ride height, which provides better ground clearance. It’s ideal for off-road excursions. Additionally, it offers recovery hooks in case you encounter tricky situations on the trails. One of its unique aspects is the TrailWatch camera system, which enhances visibility on tough terrains. This system allows drivers to see obstacles clearly through multiple camera views. It is a valuable feature when navigating challenging off-road conditions. Inside, the cabin is fitted with all-weather floor mats and a panoramic sunroof. Tech-wise, the TrailSport trim has modern connectivity features such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. These features let you easily integrate your smartphone. It also has a nine-speaker premium sound system to enhance the driving experience. Additionally, the inclusion of a heated steering wheel and heated front seats guarantees comfort, even on colder days. | The 2024 Honda Pilot Touring has a spacious three-row configuration with seating for up to eight. It provides plenty of room for both passengers and cargo. This trim level is made with comfort in mind, featuring leather-trimmed seats, a power tailgate, and tri-zone automatic climate control. It guarantees a comfortable environment for everyone on board. One of the distinctions of the Pilot Touring is its focus on entertainment and connectivity. It comes with a rear entertainment system, perfect for keeping passengers engaged during long trips. It also supports wireless charging for added convenience. The 12-speaker audio system establishes a high-quality sound experience for all passengers. Safety is a top priority in the 2024 Pilot Touring. It includes a suite of advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. This makes it a safe and reliable option for families or anyone prioritizing safety on the road. With available all-wheel drive, the Pilot Touring also excels in versatility. It can handle various terrains, making it a capable vehicle for light off-roading or snowy conditions. The spacious interior and smart storage solutions make it ideal for both daily commutes and long road trips. Additionally, its towing capacity and engine provide the power needed to tow trailers or boats for another layer of versatility to this SUV. | The 2024 Honda Pilot Elite has a spacious three-row layout that accommodates up to seven passengers. The second-row captain's chairs provide both comfort and convenience. The cabin is luxurious with high-end materials and features like a panoramic roof that enhances the interior's open feel. The Elite trim comes standard with all-wheel drive (AWD). This enhances its off-road capabilities while providing added traction during inclement weather. This SUV is built with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, generating 285 horsepower, giving it the power to handle daily commutes or road trips with ease. The Elite trim also boasts a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. It’s an excellent choice for families who need to haul boats, trailers, or campers. Inside, the technology features of the Elite trim are top-notch. A 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and a 9-inch touchscreen come standard with crisp graphics and intuitive controls. For audiophiles, the Bose premium sound system offers exceptional sound quality throughout the cabin. Wireless phone charging, multiple USB ports, and smartphone integration features guarantee that passengers stay connected on the go. For safety, the Pilot Elite comes with Honda's suite of advanced driver-assist systems. These include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, collision mitigation braking, and a surround-view camera system. These features support drivers in a range of driving conditions for a stress-free experience behind the wheel. |
Schedule a Test Drive Today
Choosing the right 2024 Honda Pilot trim level depends on your specific needs and budget, but the best way to make an informed decision is to experience the vehicle firsthand. We invite you to schedule a test drive at Frank Leta Honda, where our team can guide you through the various trims and help you find the perfect fit. Whether you’re leaning towards the rugged TrailSport or the luxurious Elite, we’re here to assist you every step of the way. Schedule your test drive today and let us help you discover the 2024 Honda Pilot that’s perfect for you.