The third generation of Honda Pilot sees a major overhaul compared with the previous generations, giving a more rounded and modern design. The 2019 Honda Pilot is still one of the most popular midsize SUVs in one of the most crowded market segments.
The third generation Honda Pilot receives a full makeover with a brand-new exterior design, better materials, and an overall more refined fit and finish. It ditched the dated boxy look in favor of a more modern design with a lighter chassis.
REFINED EXTERIOR
The dated boxy shapes of older generation Honda Pilots have been replaced by sleek and modern lines, appealing to both young and old customers alike. While the 2019 Honda Pilot’s design was mostly inspired by the CR-V, some of the lines have been ironed out to create a sportier and more luxurious look. The new generation of Honda Pilot manages to look both athletic and aggressive, yet understated and refined at the same time. It’s a combination not many vehicles can pull off, yet the 2019 Honda Pilot does it brilliantly.
INTERIOR LUXURY
The materials and features of an interior can tell a lot about the luxury of a given automobile, and based on the 2019 Honda Pilot’s cabin, Honda is a class leader! The first thing you notice when stepping inside is the similarities to the Honda CR-V. While the overall feel of its little sibling is there, the 2019 Pilot is just that much more refined. The materials used are superb, without any cheap plastic or questionable materials in sight. The digital instrument cluster looks clean and the center stack has been configured to offer ideal usability and ergonomics.
An 8-inch touchscreen is nested within the dashboard, powered by an Android-based operating system, while an optional 9-inch rear entertainment system with DVD and Blu-Ray is a worthwhile cost if you plan on travelling with kids.
Overall the 2019 Pilot has a refined, well laid out and intuitive interior with lots of versatility for storing and transporting passengers and cargo. Superb quality materials, a high quality build and innovative features makes the 2019 Honda Pilot a top choice for a luxurious interior within the mid-sized SUV market.
ENGINE AND DRIVE
The well-known and trusty 3.5L V6 engine makes an appearance once again within the 2019 Pilot and is tuned to output 280hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine pairs well with the modern and sophisticated six-speed automatic transmission or the upgraded nine speed automatic transmission. The standard offering provides two wheel drive, while all wheel drive is offered on more upgraded models. The 2019 Pilot is also outfitted with a stop/start ignition and cylinder deactivation technology to help reduce fuel consumption.
As expected, performance is quite athletic with 280hp on tap. The sprint to 60 mph takes just 6.9 seconds, an amazing achievement given the Pilot’s size. Most of the performance is located in the upper rev range, but there’s plenty of torque for day to day driving. The real surprise is the Pilot’s nimbleness and agility. The 2019 Pilot feels light on its feet, with precise steering offering great feedback. The chassis is great at reducing body roll making for a very relaxed and enjoyable ride.
While the 2019 Pilot seems quite large on the outside, its maneuverability is still quite easy. A great turning radius, backup camera and sensors all help to navigate the Pilot into the tightest of spaces.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The 2019 Honda Pilot remains a top choice for anyone after a top notch three-row SUV, with its practical design, smooth driving experience, versatile and luxurious interior and modernized exterior. With a starting price tag of $41,290, the 2019 Pilot offers a lot for the price and the best way to experience it all is by taking one for a test drive.
