The 2025 Honda Pilot continues to be one of the most compelling choices in the competitive three-row midsize SUV segment. With its powerful V6 engine, spacious interior for up to eight passengers, and Honda’s reputation for reliability, the Pilot offers families a practical yet capable vehicle for daily commutes and weekend adventures alike. This year’s model introduces the luxurious Black Edition trim while maintaining the rugged TrailSport variant that appeals to outdoor enthusiasts.
Whether you’re researching the 2025 Honda Pilot for the first time or comparing it against rivals like the Toyota Highlander and Kia Telluride, this comprehensive guide covers everything from pricing and specifications to safety ratings and real-world performance. We’ll help you determine which trim level offers the best value and whether the Pilot is the right SUV for your family’s needs.
2025 Honda Pilot: Key Specifications at a Glance
| Starting MSRP | $40,200 (Sport) – $54,580 (Black Edition) |
| Engine | 3.5L V6, 285 hp, 262 lb-ft torque |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic with paddle shifters |
| Fuel Economy (2WD) | 19 city / 27 highway / 22 combined MPG |
| Fuel Economy (AWD) | 19 city / 25 highway / 21 combined MPG |
| Seating Capacity | 7-8 passengers |
| Cargo Space | 18.6 – 87 cubic feet |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (2WD) / 5,000 lbs (AWD) |
| Safety Rating | IIHS Top Safety Pick+, NHTSA 5-Star |
| Available Trims | Sport, EX-L, Touring, TrailSport, Elite, Black Edition |
What’s New for the 2025 Honda Pilot
The 2025 Honda Pilot builds upon the fourth-generation platform introduced in 2023, bringing refinements rather than revolutionary changes. The most significant addition is the new Black Edition trim, which sits at the top of the lineup and offers exclusive styling and premium features.
Key Updates for 2025:
- New Black Edition trim with 20-inch gloss black alloy wheels, blacked-out exterior accents, and premium leather interior
- Enhanced rear seat belt systems with updated load-limiting retractors for improved safety
- Refined Sport and EX-L trims with additional upscale features
- LX base trim discontinued; Sport now serves as entry-level model
- Head-up display standard on Black Edition
Also read: 2025 Honda Odyssey: The Ultimate Family Minivan for Comfort, Utility & Long-Term Value
2025 Honda Pilot Trim Levels and Pricing
Honda offers the 2025 Pilot in six distinct trim levels, each designed to meet different buyer needs and budgets. All trims share the same powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine and 10-speed automatic transmission, ensuring consistent performance across the lineup. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each configuration.
2025 Honda Pilot Pricing by Trim Level
| Trim Level | 2WD MSRP* | AWD MSRP* | Key Features |
| Sport | $40,200 | $42,300 | LED fog lamps, 7″ touchscreen, tri-zone climate |
| EX-L | $43,500 | $45,600 | Leather seats, 9″ touchscreen, wireless CarPlay |
| Touring | $47,500 | $49,600 | Bose audio, hands-free tailgate, navigation |
| TrailSport | AWD Only | $49,400 | All-terrain tires, skid plates, TrailWatch camera |
| Elite | AWD Only | $53,080 | Ventilated seats, 10.2″ digital cluster, premium audio |
| Black Edition | AWD Only | $54,580 | 20″ black wheels, head-up display, exclusive styling |
*MSRP excludes $1,450 destination charge. Prices may vary by dealer.
| Best Value Pick: EX-L AWD
For most buyers, the EX-L trim with AWD ($45,600) offers the best balance of features and value. It includes leather seats, the larger 9-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging, and a power tailgate—features that significantly enhance daily usability without the premium price of higher trims. |
Engine, Performance, and Towing Capability
Every 2025 Honda Pilot is powered by the same proven 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 285 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 262 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm. This powertrain is paired with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission featuring paddle shifters for drivers who want more control. The combination provides responsive acceleration for highway merging and confident passing power.
2025 Honda Pilot Performance Specifications
| Specification | Value |
| Engine Type | 3.5L DOHC 24-valve V6 with i-VTEC |
| Horsepower | 285 hp @ 6,100 rpm |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic with paddle shifters |
| 0-60 mph | 6.9 seconds (Car and Driver tested) |
| Drivetrain Options | FWD or i-VTM4 AWD |
| Towing Capacity (2WD) | 3,500 lbs |
| Towing Capacity (AWD) | 5,000 lbs |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 18.5 gallons |
| Drive Modes | Normal, ECON, Sport, Snow, Tow, Trail, Sand (7 modes) |
Fuel Economy Ratings
The 2025 Honda Pilot delivers competitive fuel economy for a V6-powered three-row SUV. EPA ratings vary depending on drivetrain configuration, with front-wheel-drive models achieving slightly better numbers than their all-wheel-drive counterparts. The TrailSport’s all-terrain tires and off-road equipment result in marginally lower efficiency.
2025 Honda Pilot EPA Fuel Economy Ratings
| Configuration | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
| 2WD (All applicable trims) | 19 | 27 | 22 |
| AWD (Non-TrailSport) | 19 | 25 | 21 |
| AWD TrailSport | 18 | 23 | 20 |
Interior Space, Seating, and Cargo Capacity
The 2025 Honda Pilot excels in interior space, offering genuine room for adults in all three rows. Most configurations seat eight passengers with a second-row bench, while captain’s chairs on select trims reduce capacity to seven while adding easier third-row access. The cabin design prioritizes practicality with numerous storage compartments and family-friendly features.
Interior Dimensions and Cargo Space
| Dimension | Measurement |
| Overall Length | 200.2 inches |
| Wheelbase | 113.8 inches |
| Width | 78.5 inches |
| Height | 72.0 inches |
| First Row Legroom | 41.0 inches |
| Second Row Legroom | 40.8 inches |
| Third Row Legroom | 32.0 inches |
| Cargo Behind Third Row | 18.6 – 22.4 cubic feet |
| Cargo Behind Second Row | 48.5 – 60.1 cubic feet |
| Maximum Cargo (seats folded) | 87.0 – 113.7 cubic feet |
| Ground Clearance (TrailSport) | 8.3 inches |
Safety Ratings and Honda Sensing Technology
Safety is a cornerstone of the Honda Pilot’s appeal. The 2025 model has earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award—the highest recognition from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety—along with a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from NHTSA. Every Pilot comes standard with Honda Sensing, a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies.
2025 Honda Pilot Safety Ratings
| Organization / Test | Rating |
| IIHS Overall | Top Safety Pick+ |
| NHTSA Overall | 5 Stars |
| IIHS Small Overlap Front | Good |
| IIHS Side Impact | Good |
| IIHS Moderate Overlap Front | Acceptable |
| IIHS Pedestrian Front Crash Prevention | Good |
| IIHS Headlight Performance | Good |
Standard Honda Sensing Features:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) with Pedestrian Detection
- Forward Collision Warning
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
- Road Departure Mitigation with Lane Departure Warning
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow
- Traffic Sign Recognition
- Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Monitor (EX-L and above)
Also read: 2026 Subaru Outback: Features, Pricing, Ownership Costs & Buy vs Lease Analysis
2025 Honda Pilot vs. Competitors
The three-row midsize SUV segment is fiercely competitive. The Honda Pilot faces strong rivals in the Toyota Highlander and Kia Telluride, both of which offer compelling value propositions. Here’s how the Pilot stacks up against its primary competitors.
2025 Honda Pilot vs. Toyota Highlander vs. Kia Telluride
| Specification | Honda Pilot | Toyota Highlander | Kia Telluride |
| Starting MSRP | $40,200 | $39,520 | $36,190 |
| Horsepower | 285 hp | 265 hp | 291 hp |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| Seating | 7-8 | 7-8 | 7-8 |
| Max Cargo Space | 87.0 cu ft | 84.3 cu ft | 87.0 cu ft |
| Highway MPG | 27 | 29 | 26 |
| Transmission | 10-speed auto | 8-speed auto | 8-speed auto |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5yr/60k mi | 5yr/60k mi | 10yr/100k mi |
| Off-Road Trim | TrailSport | None | X-Pro |
| Competitive Analysis
The Honda Pilot offers the most powerful standard V6 among these competitors (excluding the Telluride’s slight edge), the most advanced transmission, and a dedicated off-road TrailSport variant. The Kia Telluride wins on starting price and warranty coverage, while the Toyota Highlander offers hybrid powertrain options the Pilot lacks. For buyers prioritizing power, refinement, and off-road capability, the Pilot remains highly competitive. |
2025 Honda Pilot: Pros and Cons
| PROS | CONS |
| • Powerful, refined 285-hp V6 engine
• Spacious three-row interior • Top Safety Pick+ and 5-star NHTSA rating • TrailSport trim for off-road capability • 5,000 lb towing with AWD • Honda reliability reputation • Seven selectable drive modes |
• No hybrid powertrain option
• Higher starting price than some rivals • Fuel economy trails Highlander hybrid • Shorter warranty than Kia Telluride • Infotainment learning curve • Third row best for children |
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2025 Honda Pilot
Is the 2025 Honda Pilot a good car?
Yes, the 2025 Honda Pilot is considered a strong choice in the three-row SUV segment. It earns high marks for its powerful V6 engine, spacious interior, excellent safety ratings (IIHS Top Safety Pick+), and Honda’s reputation for reliability. Edmunds rates it 6.1 out of 10, while consumer reviews average 4 out of 5 stars.
How much does a 2025 Honda Pilot cost?
The 2025 Honda Pilot starts at $40,200 for the Sport trim and ranges up to $54,580 for the top-tier Black Edition. Adding the destination charge of $1,450, the effective starting price is $41,650. Current market conditions show buyers paying approximately 5-6% below MSRP on average.
What is the towing capacity of the 2025 Honda Pilot?
The 2025 Honda Pilot can tow up to 3,500 pounds with front-wheel drive or up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with all-wheel drive. Proper towing accessories are required, and Honda recommends premium fuel when towing heavy loads.
Does the 2025 Honda Pilot have a hybrid option?
No, the 2025 Honda Pilot does not offer a hybrid powertrain. All models are powered by the 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine. Buyers seeking a Honda three-row SUV with hybrid capability should consider the Honda CR-V Hybrid for smaller needs or wait for potential future Pilot hybrid variants.
Which 2025 Honda Pilot trim is best?
For most buyers, the EX-L trim with AWD offers the best value at $45,600. It includes leather seating, the larger 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, and a power tailgate. Families prioritizing outdoor adventures should consider the TrailSport, while those seeking maximum luxury will appreciate the Black Edition.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the 2025 Honda Pilot?
The 2025 Honda Pilot earns a strong recommendation for families seeking a capable, reliable three-row SUV. Its powerful V6 engine provides confident acceleration and 5,000-pound towing capacity, while the spacious interior accommodates up to eight passengers with genuine comfort. The IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating and comprehensive Honda Sensing suite provide peace of mind for parents.
The Pilot’s primary strengths lie in its refined powertrain, practical interior design, and the availability of the TrailSport trim for buyers wanting off-road capability without sacrificing on-road comfort. While it lacks a hybrid option and carries a higher starting price than some competitors, Honda’s reputation for long-term reliability and strong resale values help offset the initial investment.
For buyers cross-shopping the segment, the Kia Telluride offers better value and warranty coverage, while the Toyota Highlander provides hybrid efficiency. However, the Honda Pilot delivers the most refined driving experience and remains a top choice for families who prioritize performance, safety, and Honda’s proven engineering.
| Disclaimer: Prices, specifications, and features are based on manufacturer information and may vary by dealer and location. MSRP excludes destination charges, taxes, title, and registration fees. Fuel economy figures are EPA estimates; actual mileage may vary. Safety ratings are current as of publication. Always verify details with your local Honda dealer before making a purchase decision. |
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