2019 Honda Pilot vs 2020 Honda Pilot

2019 Honda Pilot
2019 Honda Pilot
$31,450MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Honda Pilot
2020 Honda Pilot
$31,650MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2019 Honda Pilot
$31,450MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Honda Pilot
$31,650MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP

$31,450

MSRP

$31,650

Listings

917

Listings

627

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

8.3 out of 10

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Pros

  • Powerful engine

  • Standard advanced safety features

Cons

  • Unintuitive technology

  • Interior materials feel cheap

2019 Honda Pilot Reviews Summary

The 3-row crossover is the king of family vehicles. Sure, minivans remain a popular choice for large families, but there has been a pendulum swing from the days of blocky old Dodge Caravans to now. Having one or two children does not immediately necessitate a minivan, and there are plenty of useful, capable, and more nimble SUVs from which to choose.

The 2019 Honda Pilot stands as one of the cornerstones of this 3-row SUV market. It’s large, versatile, and designed specifically with families in mind. It may not have the sliding doors or built-in vacuum of the Honda Odyssey, but for active families, a vehicle like this truly rivals a minivan in actual usability.

The Pilot joined the SUV market in the early 2000s, at the height of the SUV craze and in the waning days of the minivan’s rule. With plenty of cabin space, moderate ability to get off the beaten trail, and V6 power, the Pilot was perfectly positioned for rising fuel prices later in the decade. As many consumers ditched their traditional truck-based SUVs to save on fuel, the Pilot only grew in popularity.

The Pilot is now in its third generation, having received a mild refresh for 2019 that includes slightly updated front and rear styling. It also receives an updated infotainment system and, more importantly, it brings the Honda Sensing suite of driver-assistance features as standard equipment.

2020 Honda Pilot Reviews Summary

The Honda Pilot was once the leader of the midsize 3-row SUV pack. But several rivals from Hyundai, Kia, and Mazda have caught up to (and in some cases, surpassed) the Pilot. Still, the Pilot offers tons of cargo space, an adult-friendly third row, and an impressive list of standard safety features. But Honda’s choices on driver controls and in-car tech are its biggest shortcomings. Read on to learn how the Pilot stacks up against the competition, and to learn the CarGurus recommended trim.
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

3.5L 280 hp V6

Engine

3.5L 280 hp V6

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

8

Seating Capacity

8

Horsepower

280 hp @ 6000 rpm

Horsepower

280 hp @ 6000 rpm

MPG City

19

MPG City

19

MPG Highway

27

MPG Highway

27
2019 Honda Pilot
2019 Honda Pilot
$31,450MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Honda Pilot
2020 Honda Pilot
$31,650MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2019 Honda Pilot
$31,450MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Honda Pilot
$31,650MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP
$31,450
$31,650
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.6

4.3

Expert reviews

8.3 out of 10

Read full review

8.0 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

Pros

  • Powerful engine

  • Standard advanced safety features

Cons

  • Unintuitive technology

  • Interior materials feel cheap

Summary

The 3-row crossover is the king of family vehicles. Sure, minivans remain a popular choice for large families, but there has been a pendulum swing from the days of blocky old Dodge Caravans to now. Having one or two children does not immediately necessitate a minivan, and there are plenty of useful, capable, and more nimble SUVs from which to choose.

The 2019 Honda Pilot stands as one of the cornerstones of this 3-row SUV market. It’s large, versatile, and designed specifically with families in mind. It may not have the sliding doors or built-in vacuum of the Honda Odyssey, but for active families, a vehicle like this truly rivals a minivan in actual usability.

The Pilot joined the SUV market in the early 2000s, at the height of the SUV craze and in the waning days of the minivan’s rule. With plenty of cabin space, moderate ability to get off the beaten trail, and V6 power, the Pilot was perfectly positioned for rising fuel prices later in the decade. As many consumers ditched their traditional truck-based SUVs to save on fuel, the Pilot only grew in popularity.

The Pilot is now in its third generation, having received a mild refresh for 2019 that includes slightly updated front and rear styling. It also receives an updated infotainment system and, more importantly, it brings the Honda Sensing suite of driver-assistance features as standard equipment.

The Honda Pilot was once the leader of the midsize 3-row SUV pack. But several rivals from Hyundai, Kia, and Mazda have caught up to (and in some cases, surpassed) the Pilot. Still, the Pilot offers tons of cargo space, an adult-friendly third row, and an impressive list of standard safety features. But Honda’s choices on driver controls and in-car tech are its biggest shortcomings. Read on to learn how the Pilot stacks up against the competition, and to learn the CarGurus recommended trim.
Video
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
3.5L 280 hp V6
3.5L 280 hp V6
Drive Train
FWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
8
8
Horsepower
280 hp @ 6000 rpm
280 hp @ 6000 rpm
MPG City
19
19
MPG Highway
27
27
Look and feel

2019 Honda Pilot

9/10

2020 Honda Pilot

8/10
CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Honda Pilot as 9 out of 10 and the 2020 Honda Pilot as 8 out of 10. The 2019 Honda Pilot features subtle visual updates, with futuristic headlights and a cleaner front valence. Interior updates include an updated steering wheel, new proprietary shifter design, and a new infotainment system. 2019 Honda Pilot trims range from LX to Elite, with each offering a unique set of features and upgrades. The 2020 Honda Pilot shares dynamic styling with the rest of the current Honda lineup, featuring thin LED headlights and a multi-tiered grille. The 2020 Honda Pilot offers a modern cabin with a semi-digital instrument panel and comfortable, spacious interior. Trims include LX, EX, EX-L, Touring, Elite, and the Black Edition, each with distinct features and upgrades.
Picture of 2019 Honda Pilot
Picture of 2019 Honda Pilot
Picture of 2019 Honda Pilot
Picture of 2019 Honda Pilot
Picture of 2019 Honda Pilot
Picture of 2019 Honda Pilot
Picture of 2019 Honda Pilot
Picture of 2019 Honda Pilot
Performance

2019 Honda Pilot

8/10

2020 Honda Pilot

8/10
CarGurus experts rate both the 2019 and 2020 Honda Pilot 8 out of 10. The 2019 Honda Pilot comes standard with a V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, delivering solid acceleration. The 2019 Hona Pilot is available with a 6-speed or 9-speed automatic transmission, with the 9-speed designed for improved power management and fuel economy. Fuel economy varies based on trim and transmission, with FWD Touring being the most efficient at 20/27/23 mpg. The 2020 Honda Pilot is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. The 2020 Honda Pilot offers a 6-speed automatic on lower trims and a 9-speed automatic on higher trims, providing refined acceleration and improved fuel economy. The 2020 Honda Pilot features drive modes via the Intelligent Traction Management System for various driving conditions.
Form and function

2019 Honda Pilot

9/10

2020 Honda Pilot

9/10
CarGurus experts rate both the 2019 and 2020 Honda Pilot 9 out of 10. The 2019 Honda Pilot offers adult-friendly third-row seating and ample storage spaces, including 15 cupholders. Cargo volume varies based on trim, with up to 83.9 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats folded. The 2019 Honda Pilot offers comparable cargo capacity to rivals such as the Toyota Highlander and Subaru Ascent. The 2020 Honda Pilot provides a spacious 8-passenger cabin with second-row bench seating, or second-row captain’s chairs in higher trims. The 2020 Pilot offers 83.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third rows folded, comparable to competitors in the segment. It features ample spaces for family hauling and convenient storage solutions for kids' gear.
Technology

2019 Honda Pilot

8/10

2020 Honda Pilot

6/10
CarGurus experts rate the 2019 Honda Pilot 8 out of 10 and the 2020 Honda Pilot 6 out of 10. The 2019 Honda Pilot features a new infotainment system with a volume knob and crisp graphics, a significant improvement over the previous system. Rear entertainment system available on higher trims, along with rear USB ports and a mobile hotspot capability. Parent-friendly tools such as a wide-angle cabin mirror and CabinTalk PA system for communication with rear passengers. The 2020 Honda Pilot fffers an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on all trims above the base LX. Features includes HD Radio, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Cabin Control Remote Capability on all trims except the LX. Optional navigation, rear-seat entertainment system, and a wireless charging pad on higher trims.
Safety

2019 Honda Pilot

9/10

2020 Honda Pilot

9/10
CarGurus experts rate both the 2019 and 2020 Honda Pilot 9 out of 10. The 2019 Honda Pilot comes standard with the Honda Sensing suite of driver-assistance features, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. Optional blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is available on higher trims. The 2019 Honda Pilot earns top crash test ratings from the NHTSA and the IIHS, with superior scores in IIHS crash prevention technology evaluation. The 2020 Honda Pilot also comes standard with the Honda Sensing suite of driver assistance systems, including forward-collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Optional front and rear parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. The 2020 Honda Pilot earns top crash test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, with superior scores in IIHS crash prevention technology evaluation.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for 2019 Honda Pilot is 8.3 out of 10, while the 2020 Honda Pilot scores 8.0 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2019 Honda Pilot is recommended for its user-friendly infotainment system, spacious interior, and good combination of features and value.

Choose the 2020 Honda Pilot if:

8of 10overall
  • You value advanced technology features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless charging.
  • You prefer a refined and comfortable driving experience with efficient powertrain options.
  • You prioritize safety and crash test ratings, along with modern driver-assistance systems.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for 2019 Honda Pilot is 8.3 out of 10, while the 2020 Honda Pilot scores 8.0 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2019 Honda Pilot is recommended for its user-friendly infotainment system, spacious interior, and good combination of features and value.

Choose the 2020 Honda Pilot if:

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8of 10overall
  • You value advanced technology features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless charging.
  • You prefer a refined and comfortable driving experience with efficient powertrain options.
  • You prioritize safety and crash test ratings, along with modern driver-assistance systems.
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By: CarGurus + AI

At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.

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