2023 Honda Pilot Review: Rugged Redesign Challenges Kia Telluride
Rugged Redesign Meets Family Practicality
If you're comparing three-row SUVs like the Kia Telluride or Nissan Pathfinder, Honda's complete redesign of the 2023 Pilot demands your attention. After analyzing Honda's engineering choices and testing the TrailSport trim off-road, I believe they've successfully targeted adventure-seeking families. The boxier grille, upright profile, and functional plastic fenders aren't just cosmetic – they signal genuine capability improvements while retaining Honda's packaging genius. With 285 horsepower from a new 3.5L V6 and a responsive 10-speed automatic (a welcome departure from CVTs), the Pilot addresses key pain points for buyers who need space without sacrificing responsiveness.
Power and On-Road Refinement
The 285hp/262 lb-ft V6 delivers adequate acceleration for merging and highway passing, though it won't thrill performance seekers. The 10-speed transmission is the powertrain's standout feature, shifting smoothly and responding promptly when you need power. During our testing, the steering felt unusually light – even in Sport mode – creating a slightly disconnected feel that families might appreciate for low-effort commuting but enthusiasts may find vague. Ride quality prioritizes comfort, with noticeable body roll in corners but excellent bump absorption. Road noise emerges on coarse surfaces, though it's comparable to segment standards. Honda expects top IIHS safety ratings, and the available adaptive cruise control operated smoothly during our highway evaluation, maintaining consistent gaps without jerky inputs.
TrailSport: Real Off-Road Credentials Tested
Unlike many "off-road" packages that merely add cosmetic tweaks, the Pilot TrailSport incorporates legitimate hardware. After pushing it through moderate trails near Sedona, I can confirm its capabilities surpass rivals like the Telluride. The reworked suspension provides 1-inch additional ground clearance without compromising highway stability, while skid plates rated to support the vehicle's weight offer genuine protection. The all-terrain tires transmitted noticeable vibration on pavement but gripped confidently during our rock crawl test. Trail Drive modes (including a dedicated Sand setting) optimize throttle response and traction control. If you occasionally venture beyond graded dirt roads, this package delivers tangible benefits while maintaining daily-driver comfort.
Interior: Clever Solutions Dominate
Step inside, and Honda's practical genius shines. The dashboard design prioritizes storage over aesthetics, featuring a deep phone tray that fits large tablets and oversized door pockets accommodating 1L water bottles. The removable second-row center seat is a game-changer: stow it under the cargo floor when not needed, then instantly convert the console into an eighth seat when carpooling emergencies strike. Front seats offer exceptional, sofa-like cushioning – I'd confidently drive 8-hour stretches without fatigue. While the 9-inch infotainment screen feels small for the dash, physical climate controls prevent menu diving. Bose audio debuts in the Pilot, delivering the punchy bass the brand is known for.
| Cargo & Space Comparison | Honda Pilot | Kia Telluride |
|---|---|---|
| Behind 3rd Row | 22 cu ft | 21 cu ft |
| 2nd Row Folded | 60 cu ft | 62 cu ft |
| All Seats Folded | 114 cu ft | 110 cu ft |
| 3rd Row Legroom | Adequate | Slightly Better |
The Verdict: How It Stacks Up
Priced from $27,000 to over $50,000 for the Elite, the Pilot now ties the Telluride as a segment leader – but for different buyers. Choose the TrailSport if you'll actually use its off-road hardware; otherwise, the Telluride's plusher interior and slightly roomier third row may better suit strictly paved-road families. The Pathfinder trails both in powertrain refinement. Honda's packaging innovations – especially the stowable seat and dual-purpose cargo lid (water-resistant flip side for wet gear) – demonstrate unmatched practicality. After testing both on-road and off, I believe your decision hinges on one question: Do you value adventure readiness or maximum cabin luxury more?
Actionable Buyer Checklist
- Test third-row access – Use the one-touch second-row slide feature to gauge ease of entry for your family's needs
- Verify cargo configurations – Practice folding seats and installing the removable center seat to ensure it suits your routine
- Compare road noise levels – Drive rivals back-to-back on coarse pavement; sensitivity varies greatly among buyers
- Negotiate safety features – Honda Sensing is standard, but blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert require higher trims
When test driving, which feature matters most to your daily life: the TrailSport's off-road upgrades or the Telluride's premium interior touches? Share your priority below! For moderate adventurers, this Pilot finally delivers substance behind its rugged new styling – a compelling alternative to the long-reigning Telluride.
