The 2024 Honda Pilot has arrived with a bold new look and a promise of more capability. So, is the new one better? We spent a week with the latest top-tier TrailSport model to find out, putting it through its paces on pavement, dirt, and with the family in tow. This is our comprehensive first test review.
Honda’s three-row SUV has always been a favorite for its reliability and smart packaging. For this new generation, the company aimed to inject more toughness and technology. The result is a vehicle that feels more substantial, both in style and substance.
We’ll look at everything from the new engine and transmission to the updated interior and off-road chops. Let’s get started.
2024 Honda Pilot First Test Review: Is the New One Better?
The short answer is yes, the 2024 Pilot is a better vehicle overall. It builds on the previous generation’s strengths while addressing some key weaknesses. The design is more rugged, the interior is more modern, and the driving experience feels more refined.
However, “better” can mean different things to different buyers. For some, it’s about towing capacity. For others, it’s about third-row space or infotainment. We break down all the key areas below.
Exterior Styling: From Minivan to Mountain Ready
Gone is the softer, rounded look of the previous Pilot. The 2024 model features a boxier, more upright profile. The front end is dominated by a larger grille and sharper LED headlights. It looks more like a traditional SUV, which many buyers will apreciate.
The change is most dramatic on the TrailSport trim. It gets unique front and rear bumpers, all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels, and orange recovery hooks. It genuinely looks ready for an adventure. Even the lower trims, like the EX-L and Touring, benefit from the more assertive stance. The new design also improves visibility, with thinner roof pillars.
Interior & Technology: A Step Into the Modern Era
Step inside, and the upgrades are immediately apparent. The dashboard is cleaner, with a honeycomb mesh accent that adds a premium touch. Materials feel improved, especially on the higher trims. The biggest change is the new standard 7-inch digital instrument cluster and the 9-inch touchscreen that sits proudly on the dash.
The previous Pilot’s push-button gear selector is replaced by a more conventional gear lever. This frees up space for a larger wireless charging pad and more storage cubbies. Here’s a quick breakdown of the tech highlights:
* Standard 9-inch Display: Every Pilot now gets this responsive touchscreen.
* Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto: No more cords cluttering the cabin.
* Google Built-In (on higher trims): This allows for native Google Maps and Assistant without your phone.
* Available 12.3-inch Digital Gauge Cluster: It’s customizable and very sharp.
* More USB Ports: Including USB-C, there are up to 8 ports to keep everyone’s devices charged.
The system is much faster and more intuitive than the old one. While not perfect, it’s a massive leap forward for Honda.
Passenger & Cargo Space: Still a Family Hauler Champion
The Pilot was always roomy, and the 2024 model continues that tradition. Honda has actually increased the wheelbase slightly, and all that extra length goes to the third row. Adults can now sit back there for short trips without to much complaint. The second-row seats are spacious and comfortable, with captain’s chairs available on many trims.
Cargo space is excellent. Behind the third row, you get 18.6 cubic feet. Fold the third row down, and that expands to 48.5 cubic feet. With all rear seats folded, you have a van-like 87 cubic feet. The underfloor storage in the rear is also a handy bonus for hiding valuables.
Performance & Powertrain: More Muscle, Same Smoothness
All 2024 Pilots are powered by a revised 3.5-liter V6 engine. It now makes 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. That’s a slight increase. More importantly, the old 9-speed automatic is gone, replaced by a new 10-speed transmission. The combination is excellent.
The power delivery is smooth and confident. The new 10-speed gearbox shifts seamlessly and is quick to downshift when you need to pass. The Pilot never feels fast, but it always feels capable. The engine note is pleasantly muted, even under hard acceleration.
Towing and Capability
This is a major area of improvement. All Pilots now have a standard towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. Opt for the TrailSport or Elite trims with the towing package, and that number jumps to an impressive 5,000 pounds. That’s enough for a decent-sized boat or travel trailer.
The TrailSport also gets a unique all-wheel-drive system with terrain management modes (Normal, Snow, Mud, and Sand). It has increased ground clearance and specially tuned dampers. We took it on a mild forest service road, and it handled ruts and loose gravel with complete composure. It’s not a Jeep, but it’s more than capable for most light off-pavement excursions.
Driving Impressions: Comfort Meets Confidence
On the road, the Pilot is quiet and comfortable. The ride quality is superb, soaking up bumps without feeling floaty. The steering is light but precise, making it easy to maneuver in parking lots. Wind and road noise are well controlled, contributing to a serene highway cruise.
The longer wheelbase improves high-speed stability. You feel more planted going around sweeping corners, though body roll is still present—this is a large, family-focused SUV, after all. The brakes feel strong and progressive. Overall, the driving dynamics are polished and predictable, which is exactly what you want in this class.
Fuel Economy: What to Expect at the Pump
The EPA estimates for the 2024 Pilot are respectable for a V6-powered three-row SUV. Front-wheel-drive models are rated at 19 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined. All-wheel-drive models see a slight drop to 19/26/22 mpg.
The TrailSport, with its more aggressive tires, is rated at 18/23/20 mpg. In our real-world mixed driving with the TrailSport, we averaged about 21 mpg, which aligns with expectations. You won’t buy this for hypermiling, but its efficiency is competitive.
Safety Features: Honda Sensing Gets an Upgrade
Every 2024 Pilot comes standard with the latest Honda Sensing suite of driver-assist features. The system now uses a single-camera setup with a wider field of view. Key features include:
* Collision Mitigation Braking System
* Road Departure Mitigation
* Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow
* Lane Keeping Assist System
The systems work smoothly and are less intrusive than before. New available features include blind-spot information, a rear cross-traffic monitor, and a front and rear parking sensor system. The Elite trim even adds a hands-free power tailgate.
Trim Level Breakdown: Which One is Right For You?
The 2024 Pilot is available in six main trim levels: LX, EX-L, Touring, TrailSport, Elite, and Black Edition. Here’s a simple guide:
1. LX: The value leader. Gets the new engine, 9-inch screen, and Honda Sensing.
2. EX-L: Adds leather, power tailgate, and a sunroof. A popular choice.
3. Touring: Features ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and the 12.3-inch gauge cluster.
4. TrailSport: The off-road styled model. Gets unique looks, AWD, and terrain management.
5. Elite: The luxury option. Has massaging front seats, a panoramic roof, and acoustic glass.
6. Black Edition: A style-focused trim with blacked-out accents and unique interior trim.
For most families, the EX-L or Touring offer the best blend of features and value. Adventure seekers will love the TrailSport’s capability and look.
The Verdict: Who Should Buy the 2024 Pilot?
The 2024 Honda Pilot successfully evolves into a more capable, stylish, and modern SUV. It fixes the outdated infotainment system and adds a more confident driving character. The increased towing capacity and the genuine off-road readiness of the TrailSport broaden its appeal significantly.
It faces stiff competition from the Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, and Toyota Highlander. The Pilot counters with Honda’s legendary reliability, a smoother V6 engine, and a more rugged personality. If you need a dependable, spacious, and now more adventurous three-row SUV, the 2024 Pilot should be at the top of your list. It is, without a doubt, the best Pilot yet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much does the 2024 Honda Pilot cost?
A: Pricing starts around $40,000 for the base LX FWD and can climb to over $53,000 for a fully loaded Elite or TrailSport model.
Q: Is the 2024 Honda Pilot good for towing?
A: Yes, especially in TrailSport or Elite trim with the towing package. It can tow up to 5,000 pounds, which is class-competitive.
Q: What is the difference between the 2023 and 2024 Pilot?
A: The 2024 is a full redesign. Key differences include a new exterior design, updated interior with better tech, a new 10-speed transmission, higher towing capacity, and the new TrailSport off-road trim.
Q: Does the 2024 Pilot have a hybrid engine?
A: No, not currently. All 2024 Pilots use a 3.5-liter V6 engine. A hybrid option may be introduced in future model years.
Q: How many people can the Pilot seat?
A: It can seat up to eight people in lower trims with a second-row bench. Trims with captain’s chairs in the second row seat seven.
Q: Is the infotainment system better than the old one?
A: Absolutely. The new 9-inch standard touchscreen is faster, features wireless connectivity, and has a much improved user interface. It’s a huge upgrade that adresses a major prior weakness.