2018 Honda Pilot review

1. Strong V6

If you're looking for a family hauler with good acceleration and gas mileage, the 2018 Honda Pilot is a smart choice. This three-row SUV comes with a 280-horsepower 3.5L V6 that pairs with a standard six-speed automatic transmission or an available nine-speed automatic with paddle shifters for a more engaging ride. For the most robust fuel economy, consider the front-wheel drive 3.5L V6 with the optional nine-speed automatic transmission to achieve an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.

2. Capability

The 2018 Pilot comes standard with FWD, but all-wheel drive versions are available for greater traction and control in slippery conditions. EX and higher trims also include Honda's Intelligent Traction Management system, which consists of a Snow mode in FWD models and Snow, Sand, and Mud modes for AWD. Whether tackling treacherous routes or enjoying light off-roading, the 2018 Pilot rises to the occasion. When properly equipped, this SUV's 3.5L V6 boasts an estimated 5,000-lb towing capacity to haul your boat or camper behind it.

3. Roomy interior

Big families love the 2018 Honda Pilot for its standard eight-passenger seating and an easy-access third row that's spacious enough for adults to ride comfortably. With all rows in place, the 2018 Pilot provides 16.5 cu-ft of space behind the third row for groceries and sporting equipment and 46.8 cu-ft with the 60/40-split folding third-row seat folded. With all rows folded, there is 83.9 cu-ft of volume to haul large cargo, and the flat load floor makes it easy to fill the SUV to the brim with the power liftgate (standard on EX-L and higher).

4. Family-friendly infotainment

The 2018 Honda Pilot is excellent for families who enjoy road trips. EX and higher models come standard with an infotainment system with an eight-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto^™ capabilities, and three USB ports for on-the-go device charging. In addition, a rear entertainment system with a Blu-ray^™ player, a single overhead screen, HDMI and RCA ports, and two additional USB ports for the second row sure come in handy on longer trips (optional in EX-L and standard in Touring and higher trims). 2018 Pilot Touring and Elite models also include a 115-volt power outlet and a navigation system as standard equipment.

5. Helpful driver aids

If having the most driver assistance features is important to you, consider the 2018 Honda Pilot Touring. This trim has several standard features to increase your behind-the-wheel confidence and peace of mind. With the Touring, you can maintain a desired following distance with adaptive cruise control, while forward collision warning and collision mitigation braking help you avoid potential accidents. In addition, the Touring includes road departure mitigation, lane keep assist, and lane departure warning to stay on course. Front and rear parking sensors are also standard in the 2018 Pilot Touring, making stressful parking situations easier.