I enjoyed test driving the 2023 Honda Pilot TrailSport SUV this week. It was sporting a powerful 285 hp 3.5L/V6 engine linked to a ten-speed transmission. No need for a turbo boost, it wasn’t needed.
The all-wheel drive had multiple modes; normal, eco, sport, and off- road selections of tow, trail, and sand. To accommodate the many driving selections the TrailSport had 18” alloy wheels and “rugged” terrain tires.
The appearance was spartan with a gray shaded “Diffusion Sky” paint, similar to the grayish rain cloud that we’ve had this month.
The panoramic roof showed the raindrops falling, but fortunately no large hail stones. A rare feature was a heated windshield and heated outside mirrors with turn indicators.
The interior is spacious, the Pilot is a larger SUV with captain seats in front and second row, with fold down third row seating, capable of extending the large trunk capacity.
The drive was the best part of the Pilot with the powerful engine, smooth versatile transmission, firm suspension, and comfortable bucket seats.
The Pilot has not been safety rated but is loaded with the latest safety features, including the newer lane keeping assist and lane departure mitigation, both designed to keep the Pilot in the proper lane while fumbling with the center console applications.
Loaded with the latest navigation and communication features, that including smart phone charger, a very flexible 9” color screen, and a selection of camera view selections. I’ve become very fond of the rear cross traffic alerts with people racing out of grocery store parking lots.
The Pilot is loaded with many special features and options with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $48,350 that includes all the options except the “Diffusion Sky” paint adding $455 to the price.
The Pilot has been around for a long time, a best seller and especially practical here in the Rocky Mountains. It is rugged, built for offroad and winter conditions. Fuel economy is overall 20 mpg that falls short of the new hybrid SUVs.
Made in the USA by Honda, with the final assembly in Lincoln, Alabama with both engine and transmission made in the United States.
Honda is making some exciting sedans and SUVs and the Pilot is a very solid, well built, versatile SUV made for Colorado country.