2018 Honda Pilot Prices: MSRP vs Dealer Invoice vs True Dealer Cost w/ Holdback

The Honda Pilot has continuously been ranked as one of the best midsized SUVs. Capable of comfortably toting your family about, the 2018 Honda Pilot is not just cozy, it is also safe and reliable. Despite having some issues with shifting on the 9-speed automatic transmission and a somewhat basic-looking exterior style, the Honda Pilot is one of the most well-rounded vehicles in its class. It has an impressive amount of cargo space, a ton of device connectivity options, and some of the best safety scores you will see for the model year.

What's New For 2018?

Almost everything on the 2018 Honda Pilot carries over unchanged from the previous model year. The one noticeable difference is that the new Pilot was built on Honda's new global platform design, which slightly lengthens the wheelbase and widens the middle of the vehicle. This creates a little bit more cargo space and leg and hip space in the cabin.

Available Styles

The 2018 Honda Pilot is only available as a midsized SUV. It does feature third-row seating, which can easily be accessed with the simple push of a button.

Available Trims

You can take your pick of five different trim levels on the Honda Pilot. The LX is anything but basic, as it incorporates more physical controls than on the previous year's model. The next trim level up is the EX, which adds more safety features, such as the Honda blindspot monitoring system, automatic headlights, and Snow, Sand, and Mud modes on the AWD variants thanks to the traction management feature. The EX-L includes everything that's on the EX and adds a sunroof for a little extra luxury. The Honda Sensing package is available on both the EX and EX-L. The Touring model incorporates automatic engine stop-start and adds in a 9-speed automatic transmission. The line-topping Elite trim includes more automatic features, such as automated windshield wipers, second-row captain's chairs that are heated, and automated control over the vehicle's high-beam headlights.

Driving Impressions

The standard 3.5-L V6 engine and 6-speed automatic transmission pairing match up nicely, providing an ample 280 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. Unfortunately, the 9-speed automatic that gets swapped in on the higher trim levels doesn't make shifts as smoothly as the 6-speed. However, the powertrain is solid and allows for a quick acceleration speed of roughly 7 seconds going from 0 to 60 mph. Braking on the 2018 Honda Pilot feels secure, and emergency stops can be made in just under 120 feet from 60 to 0 mph, which is short for this class. This three-row SUV is particularly nimble and handles turns and bumps with confidence and is a surprisingly sturdy off-roader when you have all-wheel drive equipped. With the addition of AWD, the Pilot can handle just about any road condition.

Fuel Economy

One of the biggest bonuses to buying a Honda Pilot is the gas mileage. Most three-row SUVs are gas guzzlers. While a few competitors offer hybrid models that boost fuel economy, the Pilot is gas-only. In terms of fuel economy, the Honda Pilot gets a combined 22 mpg (19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway) on the LX with FWD. The models with the 9-speed automatic transmission do slightly better, getting 23 mpg combined (20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway).

The 2018 Honda Pilot is making waves as one of the most family-friendly vehicles to hit the market for another year running. Despite some minor issues with the automatic transmission, the Pilot has a good amount of power while still managing to be safe and efficient.

How to Calculate The Dealer Cost of a Honda Pilot

Formula for Calculating Dealer Cost:

• Example: Base Honda Pilot invoice price + the dealer Invoice price of all the options + destination - Holdback = Total Dealer Cost.
• What is Holdback? A hidden amount that manufacturers give back to a dealer. It is a percentage of the MSRP or the Invoice price.

Total Dealer Cost - Rebate and Incentive + Taxes / Licensing Fees = True Dealer Cost. (You can get rebates and incentives here)

Note: All Honda Pilot MSRP, invoice and dealer cost dollar figures above are approximate amounts. Prices are subject to change without notice.

A note about rebates: Most rebates are subtracted from the "on the road" figure. In most cases, you can have the rebate if you are arranging your own financing or you are paying cash. If you decide to use the manufacturer’s low interest financing, you do not usually get the rebate. Ask your dealer for details.