The 2021 Honda Pilot is a midsize SUV with a reliable mechanical platform. Before it hit the American market, this three-row vehicle successfully completed the Automotive Enviro Testing in the Midwest region. Families will appreciate the vehicle's robust powertrain, spacious cabin and premium entertainment amenities.
What's New for 2021?
Available in seven trims, the 2021 Honda Pilot offers more options than most midsize SUVs in North America. Featuring eight seats, the LX base model is equipped with the Honda Sensing safety suite, which includes a total of six different technologies. With an upgrade to the EX trim, families get second-row seats with one-touch controls and a driver's seat with a 10-way power design. This model also has heated front seats and a conversation mirror with a storage compartment for sunglasses.
The 2021 Pilot EX-L version comes standard with integrated sunshades in the second row and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. This mid-level model is also furnished with leather-trimmed front seats. In terms of exterior amenities, the EX-L has a one-touch power moonroof and power liftgate. Next on the lineup is the Special Edition, which is equipped with roof rails and a hands-free power liftgate. This all-new model includes a wireless phone charger and the HomeLink Remote System.
The 2021 Pilot Touring boasts the Advanced Rear Entertainment System, which includes a 10.2-inch monitor and Blu-Ray player. Rated at 590 acoustic watts, a 10-speaker sound system provides additional entertainment inside this high-end model. Heated front and rear seats are also installed in the Touring trim, which has a tri-zone climate control system. Additionally, this well-appointed SUV has the Multi-Zone Audio controls and a 4G Wi-Fi hotspot.
Equipped with captain's chairs, the 2021 Pilot Elite model accommodates up to seven people. This luxury trim comes with a panoramic sunroof and climate-controlled front seats. Families may also take advantage of the vehicle's CabinTalk In-Car PA System and a 115-volt power outlet. Additionally, the Elite version has courtesy door lights and blue ambient LED lighting inside the cabin.
The 2021 Pilot's lineup culminates with the Black Edition, which has exclusive interior and exterior styling. For instance, this lavish SUV comes with red LED ambient lighting and LED map lights. Illuminated beverage holders add an extra level of convenience of sophistication to the front row. Perforated front seats with multi-level ventilation and heating are also standard inside the Black Edition.
Driving Experience
The 2021 Pilot is equipped with a 3.5 L V6 engine block that burns unleaded gasoline. Consisting of six cylinders and 24 SOHC valves, this naturally aspirated powertrain produces 280 net horsepower. Direct injection is another important technology in this propulsion system, which is rated at 262 pound-feet of torque at 4,700 RPM.
Optional on the 2021 Pilot, the Intelligent Variable Torque Management AWD system creates an optimal combination of torque flow in the driveshafts and axles. The patented driveline is enhanced by the Intelligent Traction Management, which controls four different driving modes. The driver may manually optimize the vehicle for navigating snow, sand or mud. Additionally, the Normal Mode sends all available torque to the front wheels when the road isn't slippery.
An automatic transmission system with a nine-speed combination is standard on the 2021 Pilot. Paddle shifters give the driver extra leverage for cycling through the gearbox. A shift-by-wire mechanism also makes it easy to shift gears, especially in response to sudden changes in traffic and terrains. Equipped with the Hill Start Assist, this versatile Honda SUV smoothly climbs steep roads.
The Active Noise Cancellation technology silences loud sounds that are generated under the hood of the 2021 Pilot. All combustion cycles are also governed by the Active Control Engine Mount System, which prevents sudden spikes in tachometer readings. A direct ignition system with an engine immobilizer essentially prevents unauthorized use of the vehicle.
Fuel Economy
When rolling on a 2WD system, the 2021 Pilot gets up to 27 MPG on the highway and 20 MPG in the city. The i-VTM4 AWD system reduces the highway and city gas mileage by 1 MPG. Thanks to the Idle Stop technology, this powerful Honda SUV doesn't waste fuel while standing at traffic signals. The Eco Assist is a traditional technology that also reduces wasteful combustion on the highway. Additionally, the Variable Cylinder Management turns off some of the cylinders when maximum output isn't required.
Technology
An 8-inch electrostatic touch screen is set up inside the 2021 Pilot. In addition to supporting the HondaLink mobile suite, the updated multimedia console is fully compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. GPS navigation software with the Honda HD Digital Traffic is another advanced electronic technology that's optional for this three-row SUV. Additionally, 12-volt power outlets and 2.5-amp USB charging ports are available inside this family vehicle.
Safety
The Honda Sensing package helps a driver handle the 2021 Pilot on local roads and busy highways. Up to six technologies are managed by this signature suite, including the Adaptive Cruise Control. This midsize Honda SUV also has the Multi-Angle Rearview Camera and Cross Traffic Monitor for enhanced awareness of other vehicles behind the tailgate. Additionally, front and rear parking sensors provide extra guidance for handling this three-row model in tight spaces.
The front side air bags inside the 2021 Pilot are controlled by the SmartVent technology. All three rows are equipped with side curtain air bags and rollover sensors. The ACE body structure is another important passive safety highlight of this updated Honda SUV.
Formula for Calculating Dealer Cost:
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.
