If you’re comparing the latest Honda Pilot trims, you’re likely looking at the Honda Pilot Elite Vs. Touring models. These two top-tier options offer distinct features for different priorities and budgets. Choosing between them can be tricky, as the differences have evolved across model years. This guide breaks down every generation and trim from 2017 to 2023 to help you decide.
We’ll look at specs, standard features, and pricing. You’ll get a clear picture of what you gain by stepping up to the Elite and what you might be perfectly happy with in the Touring.
Honda Pilot Elite Vs. Touring
The core battle between the Pilot Elite and Touring has been consistent: the Touring is the well-equipped, value-focused top trim, while the Elite is the true luxury flagship. However, Honda made significant changes in 2022 with a new generation, reshuffling features and even removing the Touring trim for a year. Understanding this timeline is key to making a smart choice.
Key Differences At A Glance (2019-2021 Models)
For the previous generation (2016-2022 model years, sold as 2017-2022), the lineup was stable. Here’s a quick snapshot of the main differentiators between Touring and Elite:
* Seating & Interior: Touring had second-row captain’s chairs (7-seat layout). Elite had them standard and added premium perforated leather.
* Audio System: Touring featured a 590-watt system with 10 speakers. Elite upgraded to a 610-watt system with 11 speakers, including a subwoofer.
* Comfort & Convenience: Elite added a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, and a front passenger 4-way power seat.
* Exterior & Tech: Elite included roof rails, a panoramic sunroof (vs. a regular one), front and rear parking sensors, and a hands-free power tailgate.
Now, let’s examine each generation in detail.
The Previous Generation: 2017-2022 Model Years
This generation established the Touring and Elite as the top trims, with the Elite sitting clearly above.
2017-2018 Pilot Trims: Touring and Elite Established
The 2016 redesign introduced the Elite trim as the new king. The Touring was the step just below.
* Touring Standard Features: Leather seats, 10-speaker audio, sunroof, Honda Sensing® suite, power tailgate, and rear-seat entertainment system option.
* Elite Additions: The Elite bundled almost every option. It added the panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, the upgraded audio, and the front passenger power seat. The rear-seat entertainment system was also standard on the Elite.
2019-2021 Pilot: The Peak of the Lineup
Honda refined the features, making this the most stable period. The differences between Touring and Elite were very clear.
* A Major Touring Change: For 2019, Honda made the 9-speed automatic transmission standard on all trims, improving the drive for Touring and Elite models.
* Elite’s Exclusive Tech: The Elite gained a head-up display, a premium addition that projected speed and navigation onto the windshield. This wasn’t available on the Touring at all.
* Value Proposition: The Touring offered immense value with nearly all the luxury features. The Elite was for those wanting the absolute best, with every comfort and tech feature included.
2022 Pilot: The Last of the Generation
The 2022 model was a carryover, but it’s important as it was the final year of this body style. The feature sets between Touring and Elite remained largely unchanged from 2021. Shopping for this year means you’re getting a proven, refined vehicle with a clear hierarchy between the two trims.
The New Generation: 2023 Pilot and the Trim Reshuffle
The all-new 2023 Pilot brought a dramatic change. Honda temporarily removed the Touring trim, creating a new structure.
2023 Pilot Lineup Overview
The 2023 trims were: Sport, EX-L, TrailSport, and Elite. Notice the missing Touring.
* Elite as the Sole Top Trim: The 2023 Pilot Elite served as the direct successor to the previous Elite, packing all premium features.
* Where Did Touring Go? Its features were essentially absorbed or redistributed. The new TrailSport (adventure-focused) and well-equipped EX-L filled the price gap. This made the 2023 Elite an even more significant jump from the trim below it.
2023 Pilot Elite Standout Features
The new generation Elite came loaded:
* A more powerful 285-hp V6 engine (standard on all trims).
* A 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and 9-inch touchscreen.
* Heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats.
* Panoramic sunroof, hands-free tailgate, and wireless phone charger.
* The premium audio system and front/rear parking sensors continued as Elite hallmarks.
Detailed Feature Comparison: Touring vs. Elite
Let’s break down the categories where these two trims consistently differed.
Interior Comfort and Seating
Comfort is a major differentiator. The Elite always offered more.
* Seat Materials: Both had leather, but Elite often used a higher-grade, perforated leather.
* Heating and Ventilation: Touring typically had heated front seats. Elite added ventilation for the front seats and heating for the outer second-row seats—a huge perk for family passengers.
* Passenger Seat: The front passenger seat on the Elite got 4-way power adjustment (up/down, not just forward/back), while the Touring’s was often manual for height.
Technology and Infotainment
The audio experience is a key battleground.
* Audio Systems: The Touring’s system was very good. The Elite’s was great, with more watts, more speakers (including a subwoofer), and better clarity.
* Displays: For 2019-2022, the Elite’s head-up display was a exclusive tech feature not found on the Touring. In 2023, the digital gauge cluster was on higher trims, but the Elite’s overall integration felt more premium.
Exterior and Convenience Features
These are the daily-use items you’ll notice.
* Sunroof: Touring had a standard single-panel sunroof. The Elite featured a panoramic sunroof, brightening the entire cabin.
* Tailgate: Both had power tailgates, but the Elite often featured hands-free operation (kick sensor).
* Parking Aids: The Elite traditionally included front and rear parking sensors, while the Touring made do with a rear camera and sometimes just rear sensors.
Performance and Capability
Interestingly, performance was usually identical. Both trims shared the same engine, transmission, and drivetrain options (FWD or AWD). The difference here was in price, not in powertrain. You paid for luxury, not more horsepower.
Pricing and Value Analysis
This is where your decision gets practical. The price gap has varied.
* Typical Price Difference: Historically, the Elite commanded a $3,000 to $5,000 premium over the Touring when new.
Value Verdict: The Touring consistently offered the better value. It included 85-90% of the features for significantly less money. The Elite was for buyers who wanted the absolute best and were willing to pay for those final luxury touches.
* Depreciation Note: Both trims hold value well, but the Elite’s higher initial cost can mean a slightly larger monetary loss over time, even if the percentage is similar.
Which Trim is Right For You?
Use this simple guide to direct your choice.
Choose the Honda Pilot Touring if:
* You want excellent value with most premium features.
* A standard sunroof is sufficient, and you don’t need a heated steering wheel or ventilated seats.
* The premium audio system isn’t a critical must-have.
* You’re shopping for the 2017-2022 models and found a good deal on a Touring.
Choose the Honda Pilot Elite if:
* You want the fullest luxury experience and aren’t as budget-conscious.
* Ventilated front seats and heated rear seats are important for your climate or family.
* You love tech like a head-up display or the premium audio system.
* You’re looking at a 2023 model, where the Elite is the clear top dog.
* The panoramic sunroof and hands-free tailgate are daily conveniences you’ll use.
FAQ Section
What is the difference between a Honda Pilot Touring and Elite?
The main differences are in luxury features. The Elite typically adds a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, a heated steering wheel, a more powerful audio system, and front parking sensors compared to the Touring.
Is Honda Pilot Elite worth it over Touring?
It depends on your budget and desire for luxury. If you value top-tier comfort features like seat ventilation and premium sound, the Elite is worth it. If you want a well-equipped SUV for less money, the Touring offers fantastic value and is the smarter financial choice for most people.
What is the top-of-the-line Honda Pilot trim?
From 2017-2022, the Elite was the top trim. In 2023, with the Touring trim removed, the Elite remained the top-of-the-line Honda Pilot trim. For the latest models, the Elite continues to be the flagship.
Does Pilot Touring have a panoramic sunroof?
No, traditionally the Pilot Touring has a standard single-panel sunroof. The panoramic sunroof has been a signature feature of the Pilot Elite trim across all generations it was offered.
What year did Honda Pilot get a redesign?
The Pilot received a major redesign for the 2016 model year (sold as 2017). It was then redesigned again for the 2023 model year, which brought significant changes to the trim lineup, including the temporary removal of the Touring model.
Is there a difference in power between Touring and Elite?
No, both trims share the exact same engine, transmission, and drivetrain options. The differences are entirely in interior luxury, comfort features, and some technology. You don’t get more horsepower by choosing the Elite.
Choosing between the Honda Pilot Elite and Touring ultimately comes down to how much you’re willing to spend for that last level of comfort and technology. Across all generations, the Touring has proven to be a remarkably capable and well-appointed family SUV. The Elite, however, turns the Pilot into a genuine luxury hauler. By understanding how the features changed from 2017 through 2023, you can confidently shop for the model that fits your family’s needs and budget perfectly. Always remember to test drive both trims if you can—feeling the seat ventilation and hearing the audio system might make your decision instantly clear.