With three roomy rows of seating and sporty towing and trail-riding capabilities, the 2018 Honda Pilot is the go-to crossover for active families.
Why Buy the 2018 Honda Pilot?
This three-row crossover SUV is perfect for those who travel in packs. All Pilot models support up to eight passengers - except the top-trim Elite, which reduces accommodations to seven with second-row captain's chairs. With its strong V6 engine, the Pilot tows max loads of 5,000 pounds with smooth authority. And, if you're looking to move through snow, sand, or mud, you can add all-wheel drive to any Pilot model.
Which Honda Pilot Model Should I Buy?
There are five Pilot trim models: the LX, EX, EX-L, Touring, and Elite. With so many options available, this three-row crossover SUV has a little something for every kind of shopper. If you're looking for an affordable family hauler or a luxurious commuter - or anything in between - you've come to the right SUV.
The base LX supplies all the necessities for a comfortable, convenient ride. These include air conditioning and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, fold down 60/40-split third-row seat to expand the cargo hold, and the tech basics - think Bluetooth connectivity and a USB port - so you can call home or stream your favorite smartphone-based music service all the way to work.
The mid-range EX gives you more for your money, with a long list of tech and performance upgrades. It adds the Honda LaneWatch blind-spot camera, as well as an upgrade to the rearview camera which displays dynamic guidelines as you back into a parking space or driveway.
The mid-grade EX also includes the Intelligent Traction Management system. On front-wheel-drive Pilots, this means you can go into snow mode for increased precision on slushy pavement. In all-wheel-drive models, you can switch between snow, sand, and mud modes for optimal off-road performance. Inside, three-zone automatic climate control lets driver, front passenger, and rear passengers pick their own perfect temperatures for long-term road-trip comfort. The EX also features the upgraded infotainment system, complete with an 8-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility. This technology displays smartphone apps on your central touchscreen, minimizing distraction as you switch music playlists or make a quick phone call.
The 2018 Honda Pilot EX-L offers even more tech features. With it, you can choose either a navigation system or a rear Blu-ray entertainment system with a single overhead screen - though you can't have both features. In addition, the EX-L's 115-volt power outlet and two second-row USB ports offer convenient charging stations.
Next up is the 2018 Honda Pilot Touring. With its nine-speed automatic transmission, this model offers a smooth modern ride. Automatic engine stop-start technology cuts the engine off when you're stopped at a light, reducing overall fuel consumption. Inside, ambient interior lighting and a 10-speaker sound system enhance your nights out on the town.
The top-trim 2018 Honda Pilot is the Elite. It's classy, with a panoramic sunroof and heated and ventilated front seats to create an upscale experience. It also increases comfort with second-row captain's chairs, though these also reduce overall seating accommodations to seven. When the next snowstorm hits, the Elite's heated steering wheel and heated front- and second-row seats keep everyone cozy. During the summer, ventilated front seats cool you off.
How Much Can the 2018 Honda Pilot Tow?
This sporty crossover SUV is perfect for boat owners and families with a mid-size camper at home. Properly equipped, the 2018 Honda Pilot can tow up to 5,000 pounds. Because all Pilots come with an athletic V6 engine, you'll always have enough power to tow heavy loads. When the weekend hits, just hitch your favorite toys to the Pilot and head out for some good, old-fashioned outdoor fun.
Is the Honda Pilot Four-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive?
You can add all-wheel drive to any 2018 Honda Pilot model. If you live in a rainy or snowy climate, you're going to need extra traction to keep from hydroplaning or skidding through the slush. All-wheel-drive technology optimizes performance in bad weather, giving you greater precision and a safer ride.