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It’s that time again. What time is it? It’s time for a new generation of the Honda Pilot. This three-row midsize SUV is the largest and most powerful Honda SUV in history.

Entering the 2023 model year, the Honda Pilot is all-new, bringing improved rugged styling, more passenger and cargo space, and a class-leading combination of capabilities. This new Honda SUV has become the ultimate family SUV.

 Hey, Honda Pilot, what’s new with you?

The 2023 Honda Pilot delivers a lot more in the midsize three-row SUV class

Honda throws down the virtual gauntlet against the likes of the Kia Telluride, Toyota Highlander, Hyundai Palisade, and Chevrolet Traverse. These new features show that this Honda SUV means business.

Here’s what’s new for the Pilot:

  • An impressive rugged exterior design
  • Upgraded V6 engine
  • Second-generation i-VTM4 torque-vectoring AWD system
  • Improved interior
  • Class-leading passenger space
  • Multi-function removable second-row seats
  • Larger cargo area
  • 10.2-inch digital instrument display
  • 9-inch HD touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Seven available drive modes, including Sport, Tow, and Trail modes
  • Honda Sensing system with new wide-view camera and radar
  • Hill Descent Control
  • Next-gen front passenger airbag
  • Trail torque logic optimized off-road performance AWD (TrailSport trim)
  • TrailWatch camera system for off-road navigation

What are the pros and cons of this Honda SUV?

2023 Honda Pilot TrailSport off-roading
2023 Honda Pilot TrailSport | Honda

Kelley Blue Book has reviewed the new Pilot and tells us this new Honda SUV has a roomy and versatile cabin, updated technology, and it brings a new TrailSport off-road model. These are all positive qualities of this new fourth-generation Honda Pilot. So far, KBB hasn’t found anything negative to put in the cons column of this three-row midsize SUV.

Will the 2023 Pilot have a hybrid option?

Red 2023 Honda Pilot Driving on a Wilderness Trail in the Rain
2023 Honda Pilot | Honda

No, unfortunately, Honda didn’t give this new generation of the Pilot a hybrid powertrain. That could change in the coming years, but this new model won’t have hybrid power.

The 3.5-liter V6 engine, which has been part of the Pilot for many years, brings more power than before. It reaches 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque for the 2023 Pilot SUV. This engine mates to a new 10-speed automatic transmission to offer smooth shifting and an excellent ride.

What are the trim levels and estimated starting prices of this three-row midsize SUV?

The trim levels and starting prices of this new generation for the 2023 Honda Pilot are:

  • Sport Trim – $39,000
  • EX-L – $41,000
  • TrailSport – $45,000
  • Touring – $48,000
  • Elite – $51,000

Is the 2023 Honda Pilot roomy enough for your family?

2023 Honda Pilot Cabin Area
2023 Honda Pilot Cabin Area | Honda

This Honda midsize three-row SUV claims class-leading interior space with 40.8 inches of legroom in the second row and a relatively spacious third-row seat. The Touring and Elite models offer a removable middle seat to make it easier to access the third row or offer more cabin room. The second row folds and fits into a space beneath the cargo floor.

There’s plenty of room for cargo in the Pilot. Behind the rear seats, you’ll find 22.4 cubic feet, while the entire cabin offers 113.7 cubic feet behind the front seats.

When you’ve got to carry the whole family with you, there are 14 cup holders in the Pilot. Eight of the cup holders fit 32-ounce bottles, making it easy to carry larger drinks on the road.

Is the new Pilot a good midsize three-row SUV?

When we ask what’s new with the 2023 Honda Pilot, it’s pretty incredible to see the long list of new features. This means Honda gives us a much better package in one of the most popular SUVs in its class. The new Pilot has something for everyone, making it a good SUV to drive.

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