You need the space, but you don’t want a minivan. Honda gets it. You want something sportier, something bolder. Honda gets it. Have you considered the 2020 Honda Pilot? This is a three-row midsize sport utility vehicle that seats up to eight people. But its potent engine has more power than virtually any minivan. And its brash and bold looks have won the Pilot many fans. In this guide, we’ll take a look at what makes the Pilot a worthy alternative to settling for a minivan.
What’s New for 2020?
Just one thing is on our radar: the new Black Edition trim. For when you want to go to stealth mode or feel just a bit more like Batman. With this option, you get black exterior accents, 20-inch black alloy wheels, and unique trim badging. Otherwise, the Pilot remains unchanged from the 2019 model year, so let’s keep moving.
Potent Standard Engine
The 2020 Honda Pilot could wear circles around a minivan. It’s estimated to go from zero to 60 miles per hour in just 7 seconds flat. Let’s see a minivan do the same. That quick acceleration is due to a powerful 280-horsepower V6 engine that comes standard on every Pilot model. You’ll also take comfort in excellent braking (coming to a stop from 60 mph in just 129 feet) and expert handling. Go ahead and take on those long winding country roads and close corners. The Pilot can handle it.
Surprisingly Spacious, Oh So Comfortable
There’s one thing you might not expect from the three-row midsize SUV. There’s plenty of room in here, even in the second-row seats, which slide and recline. Front rows are supportive and comfortable as well. You’re probably wondering about the third row. There’s not quite as much space back there, but with the touch of a button the entire second row moves forward when needed. And, combined with very little wind or engine noise, the cabin is a cocoon of comfort on the highway or in a noisy city. Then add the tri-zone climate control and you’re sitting in the lap of comfort. Oh, and did we mention that there are tons of small compartments and cubbies thoughout the cabin so that everything has a place within easy reach.
Fuel Economy
This three-row SUV boasts good fuel economy compared to the 2020 Pilot’s competitors. The Pilot gets 19 city miles and 27 highway miles per gallon, which is average for the class and better than expected given the power of its engine. And we certainly can’t think of a minivan that does better. The kicker is how, when properly equipped, the Pilot can tow up to 5,000 pounds. Safe to say, this is no minivan.
*Any MPG listed is based on model year EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, battery pack age/condition (hybrid only) and other factors. For additional information about EPA ratings, visit http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/label/learn-more-PHEV-label.shtml.
** Government 5-Star Safety Ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA's) New Car Assessment Program. Model tested with standard side airbags (SABs). For additional information on the 5-Star Safety Ratings program, please visit www.safercar.gov.