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There’s great news for Honda Pilot fans. As SUV prices continue to climb without relief, the Pilot is going in a different direction. The 2023 Honda Pilot LX is back to provide you with a more affordable entry-level SUV! 

What is the 2023 Honda Pilot LX? 

The 2023 Honda Pilot LX is a new more affordable trim level
2023 Honda Pilot | Honda

The 2023 Honda Pilot LX is a new entry-level trim level that’s back by popular demand. It used to be available with older models from the previous generation but got dropped before the redesign kicked off the new generation. 

You can get started with the 2023 Pilot LX for $35,950. That’s the MSRP, and it doesn’t include the $1,295 destination fee, which brings the total up to $37,245. That’s still under $40,000. Then you can add AWD for $2,100, bringing things up to $39,345. 

So, you can get an SUV with seating for up to eight passengers without crossing the $40,000 mark. Before the LX model was reintroduced, the cheapest 2023 Pilot model started at $39,150. The destination fee forces it to be above $40,000.

Also, we can’t forget about the class-leading Kia Telluride, which starts at $35,890 before the $1,335 destination fee is added. All-wheel drive tacks on another $2,000 bringing the total starting fee up to $39,225. That’s some competitive pricing. 

What comes with the 2023 Pilot LX? 

The 2023 Honda Pilot LX is a basic, entry-level model that gives up a few desirable comfort and convenience features. But it still has the standard 3.5-liter V6 engine with 285 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. It’s aired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. 

While the Pilot isn’t exactly known for being sporty, it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.6 seconds. When properly equipped, it can tow up to 5,000 lbs. 

The Pilot LX rides on 18-inch alloy wheels, has LED headlights, keyless entry for the driver door, manually adjustable seats, push-button start, remote engine start, a 7.0-inch infotainment screen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, a seven-speaker sound system, and dual-zone automatic climate control. 

According to MotorTrend, opting for the LX gives up wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, which is pretty convenient. The 7.0-inch screen is a downgrade from the 90-inch option as well. 

Plus, the AWD models only get four driving modes for Snow, Normal, Eco, and Tow. Other models have Sand and Trail modes. 

Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, driver attention warning, and adaptive cruise control. 

What does upgrading to the Pilot Sport include? 

2023 Honda Pilot interior
2023 Honda Pilot interior | Honda

The 2023 Honda Pilot Sport builds upon the LX model with 20-inch wheels, LED foglights, keyless entry/ignition, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a second-row bench seat, power-adjustable front seats, heated front seats, blind spot warning, and rear-cross traffic alert. 

It still doesn’t get the bigger screen or wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, but it is slightly more convenient and comfortable. It has more interior upholstery and paint colors available too. 

But for the wireless phone charging pad, leather upholstery, power liftgate, digital rearview mirror, automatic tri-zone climate control, an acoustic laminated windshield, panoramic sunroof, built0in navigation, head-up display, and much more, you’ll have to move up in trim levels. 

However, the Honda Pilot LX still has wireless connectivity via Bluetooth, the same amount of power as other models, a long list of safety features, and modern convenience features. It has everything you need for less!