2023 Honda Pilot Review: How It Stacks Against Telluride
content: 2023 Honda Pilot vs Kia Telluride: The Ultimate Family SUV Showdown
If you're comparing three-row SUVs, you've likely encountered the Kia Telluride's dominance. But Honda's completely redesigned 2023 Pilot demands attention. After extensive on-road and off-road testing, we'll break down where this new contender excels—and where the Telluride still leads. Forget generic comparisons; we're focusing on what matters most to families: space, comfort, capability, and real-world value.
Under the Hood: Performance and Efficiency Trade-offs
Honda's new 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 285 horsepower—just 5 more than before—paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. While power gains seem minimal, Honda prioritized emissions reduction to meet stricter standards. Our highway testing revealed a smooth, quiet cruiser below 3,000 RPM, though the transmission frequently hunts for gears during acceleration.
Fuel economy dips slightly versus the previous Pilot, with EPA estimates of 19/27/22 mpg (city/highway/combined) for FWD models. The sophisticated all-wheel-drive system (standard on TrailSport and Elite) can send up to 70% of torque rearward and distribute it between rear wheels. For towing, it maintains a 5,000-pound capacity—competitive but not class-leading.
Family-Focused Interior: Clever Solutions and Missed Opportunities
Honda made significant strides in cabin functionality:
- Second-row legroom increased by over 2 inches with meaningful recline functionality
- Removable middle seat stores beneath the cargo floor (25 lbs), converting bench to captain's chairs
- Third row adds dedicated air vents and USB ports, accommodating 5'8" adults comfortably
- Reversible cargo floor switches between carpet and wipe-clean hard surface
However, the 9-inch infotainment screen feels small for this segment. Honda's newer 12.3-inch system with Google integration (available in Accord) is notably absent. While wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto work flawlessly, competitors offer more advanced tech. Heated third-row seats—available in rivals—are missing even on the $53K Elite trim.
Off-Road Credentials: TrailSport Put to the Test
The TrailSport trim ($48,520) introduces legitimate off-road capability:
- Continental all-terrain tires (first for Honda) and 18-inch wheels
- Steel skid plates protecting engine, transmission, and fuel tank
- Retuned suspension with revised dampers and control arms
- Trail Watch camera system for navigating tight obstacles
During our Sedona trail evaluation, the system distributed torque effectively across rutted terrain. We noted repeated skid plate contact, but protection held firm. While not a body-on-frame rock crawler, it outperformed expectations for a family SUV. The camera system proved particularly valuable when maneuvering through narrow tree-lined paths.
Pricing and Competitive Positioning
The 2023 Pilot's pricing structure:
- LX FWD: $38,885
- TrailSport AWD: $48,520
- Elite AWD: $52,955
| Feature | Honda Pilot Elite | Kia Telluride SX-Prestige |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment | 9-inch screen | 12.3-inch standard |
| Third-Row Heated | Not available | Available |
| Highway MPG | 27 | 26 |
| Rear Seat Tech | Heated second row | Ventilated second row |
| Warranty | 3yr/36K basic | 5yr/60K basic |
The Verdict: Who Should Choose the Pilot?
The 2023 Pilot delivers meaningful improvements: smarter storage, genuine TrailSport capability, and a supremely comfortable highway ride. Honda loyalists will appreciate its reliability pedigree and thoughtful packaging. However, the Kia Telluride maintains advantages in tech sophistication, available premium features, and warranty coverage.
Choose the Pilot if: Off-road readiness (TrailSport), cabin flexibility, or Honda brand trust are priorities. Opt for the Telluride if: Cutting-edge tech, luxury amenities, or maximum value lead your decision. Both excel as family transporters, but the Telluride's complete package still edges ahead for most buyers.
Have you test-driven both SUVs? Which features tipped your preference? Share your experience in the comments!
