2021 Honda Pilot Review

Serving Gastonia, NC, Charlotte, and Rock Hill
The Honda Pilot gets some noteworthy changes for the 2021 model year. This year brings a new nine-speed automatic transmission that is standard across the 2021 Honda Pilot lineup. There is also a new trim level for the Pilot this year called the Special Edition. The base trim, which is called the LX, adds dual-zone climate control as a now-standard amenity. With the addition of a new trim level for 2021, you now have a choice of seven trim levels for the 2021 Honda Pilot. Seating for eight is standard for most Pilot models, but you can choose captain’s chairs and seating for seven on some models instead.
Specs | 2021 Honda Pilot LX |
Starting MSRP* | $32,550* |
Fuel Economy (City/Hwy)** | 20 city / 27 hwy mpg** |
Standard Engine | 3.5L i-VTEC® V6 |
Horsepower | 280-hp |
Honda Sensing® | Standard |
Multi-Angle Rearview Camera | Standard |
Exterior and Performance
Performance is the same across the board for the 2021 Honda Pilot. All trim levels are equipped with a 3.5L gasoline engine that has six cylinders. This engine has a total of 280 HP and up to 262 LB-FT of torque. New this year, a nine-speed automatic transmission is standard starting even with the base level. Front-wheel drive is the standard drivetrain for most Pilot trims, although all-wheel drive is available on all except for the Black Edition and Elite trims. All-wheel drive is standard on the latter two trims.
Interior and Technology
A comfortable and spacious interior characterizes all trims of the 2021 Honda Pilot. Cloth seats are standard on the base trims, while the higher-end trims have premium leather upholstery. Split-folding seats in the third row are standard on the base trim level. There is plenty of room for passengers and cargo in the Pilot, which has a spacious trunk and exceptional passenger volume. The Pilot also features a smooth and compliant ride to make even the longest trips more relaxing and enjoyable. Depending on the trim level you choose, the Honda Pilot will either have bench-style seating arrangements with a capacity for eight individuals or two captain’s chairs in the back that accommodate seven occupants instead.
There are many features that come standard in the 2021 Honda Pilot. The base trim has cloth seating and a variety of driver-assist safety aids. It also comes with a five-inch infotainment display screen that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A seven-speaker sound system is included. The EX, which is the next trim, adds even more to that list of features. Heated front seats are standard on the EX. It also comes with tri-zone climate control and a keyless entry system. The driver’s seat is power-adjustable, and the second row seats slide and fold with the touch of a button. A larger eight-inch infotainment system is standard on this trim, and you’ll get a few more safety features. A sunroof and leather seats are added to the EX-L. The SE gets a hands-free liftgate and wireless phone charging. The Touring adds roof rails and navigation. It also extends heated seats to the back. The Elite comes standard with a heated steering wheel and ventilated front seats. It also has a panoramic sunroof.

Safety
Automatic LED headlights are standard on all trims of the 2021 Honda Pilot. All Pilot trims also have forward collision warning, automatic braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. A few more advanced safety aids are added as you progress in trim level. Blind-spot monitoring is added starting with the EX, and you can also get rear cross-traffic alert that notifies you if a car behind your vehicle is about to cross into your path while reversing. The Pilot also has seat belts for all occupants in the cabin, and it is equipped with advanced airbags for all rows as well.
Test Drive Today!
Contact us today to learn more about the 2021 Honda Pilot and to arrange a test drive in this amazingly versatile and comfortable model.
*MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, $1,175 destination charge and accessories. Dealer prices may vary. MSRP does not include $395 charge for select premium colors. $395 charge applies to 2021 and newer models.
**20 city/27 highway/23 combined mpg rating for 2WD trims. 19 city/26 highway/22 combined mpg rating for AWD trims. Based on 2021 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions and other factors.