2025 Honda Pilot Configurations & Trims (Latest Upgrades & Hidden Perks!)

Combining power, convenience, and versatility into a well-rounded package, the 2025 Honda Pilot remains a top contender in the midsize SUV market. With a comfortable three-row cabin and high-tech features, the Pilot has a strong appeal among families, adventurers, and daily drivers. Honda offers a range of trim levels, from affordable to premium, each with a unique blend of off-road SUV capacity and technology. So, there is a version to fit nearly any lifestyle and budget.

However, some 2025 Honda Pilot models have been recalled for an engine stalling issue. You can check the official NHTSA report for details before buying.

Recognized as one of the top SUVs for 2025 by Car and Driver, the Pilot continues to refine its winning formula. Honda has spent the last few months refining the Pilot with more driver-assist features, a more sophisticated infotainment system, some new subtle styling, and a few other niceties to help keep it on its toes in a crowded field.

The powerful 3.5L V6 engine makes 285 horsepower under the hood Before the economy of the highway and metropolis. The interior features an expansive cabin, accommodating up to eight passengers, high-quality materials, and various connectivity options to entertain all your passengers while on the road.

Honda offers the Pilot in six trim levels, from the well-equipped Sport to the off-road-ready TrailSport and the luxury-oriented Elite, so there’s a Pilot for nearly everybody. From an affordable commuter vehicle or family-friendly SUV with all the right tech to a do-it-all versatile family SUV, we’ve sorted through the Honda Pilot ranks to match you with the ideal vehicle you need.

Must Check: Compare Honda Pilot Elite and Toyota Grand Highlander Limited

What’s New in the 2025 Honda Pilot?

2025 Honda Pilot
Via: Honda

The 2025 Honda Pilot takes a mostly successful approach by tweaking a functional formula. This three-row SUV enters its fourth generation for 2023, and it builds on its space, tech, performance, and family-friendly versatility to remain a top choice. Underneath the skin, it retains the same powertrain, but Honda has made some significant upgrades to improve the complete driving experience.

Key Upgrades for 2025:

  • Updated Infotainment System: Honda has updated its infotainment system to improve touchscreen responsiveness and user interface to make it more intuitive for drivers and passengers. That means faster loading speeds and a streamlined menu design that makes the most important features quickly accessible.
  • Improved Honda Sensing® Safety Suite: The driver-assist suite has been updated for more seamless operation. The system is now more accurate in the real world, thanks to less invasive lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and collision mitigation braking.
  • Wireless Software Updates: Honda also added features that will deliver updates over the air (OTA) via wireless technology to the Pilot to roll out new features and enhance existing systems continuously. This helps ensure the Pilot gets updates without having to visit a dealership.
  • Enhanced Suspension Tuning: Honda has further honed the suspension for a quieter and smoother ride. These changes improve shock absorption, reducing vibrations in the cabin and making it more convenient for long drives.
  • More Premium Interior Materials: Though the design is familiar, Honda has improved the materials in the cabin for better durability and comfort. Softer-touch surfaces, better stitching, and more premium accents help create a luxurious ambiance in higher trims.

Unchanged Yet Proven Powertrain

The Pilot continues to use the same 3.5-litre V6 engine we already know, producing 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It is connected to a 10-speed automatic that offers seamless gear changes and aids in efficient power delivery. FWD and AWD setups are still available in the market.

Since its fully reworked 2023 model year, the Honda Pilot still offers a balanced suite of safety, comfort, and tech in a midsize SUV. Though much of its mechanicals carry over, updates in infotainment, driver assistance, and ride quality help keep the Pilot among the best choices for families. Coupled with wireless updates to keep it ready for the future, the model offers even more value over the long haul.

1. 2025 Honda Pilot LX – Budget-Friendly & Practical

2025 Honda Pilot LX Trim
Via: Honda
  • Starting Price: $39,000
  • Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (optional AWD)
  • Fuel Economy: 19 MPG city / 27 MPG highway

Key Features:

  • 7-in. touchscreen with Apple CarPlay® & Android Autoâ„¢
  • Safety suite Honda Sensing® (lane-keeping assist, automatic braking, adaptive cruise control)
  • Push-button start and/or remote engine start
  • Seating for up to 8 across three rows
  • Strong cloth upholstery
  • 18-inch alloy wheels

Why Choose the LX Trim?

The thing is, Honda already has a family hauler that fits the bill, the  Honda Pilot LX, which is the version of the Honda’s three-row SUV that’s aimed at families in need of a no-frills yet dependable hauler without a hefty price tag. Standard safety features, a relatively simple infotainment system, and a comfortable interior for the Price make it a perfect entry-level trim.

The Honda Sensing® suite, which includes lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control, bolsters driver confidence and safety during highway driving. The 7-inch touchscreen that effortlessly captures driver’s devices with Apple CarPlay® and Android Autoâ„¢ allows drivers to carry their on-the-go connectedness into the new pilot cabin.

On the inside, the three-row seating has room for up to eight passengers and is covered in durable cloth upholstery. For even more convenience, the range features a push-button start and remote engine start, while 18-inch alloy wheels give it a solid footprint.

The Pilot LX strikes a fine balance between power and efficiency, boasting an estimated 19 MPG around town and 27 on the highway. It is perfect to get you around for your California commute and to the desert with the kids. A four-wheel drive is optional for anyone who needs additional grip.

The result is a family SUV that represents wonderful value with plenty of space in all three rows, class-leading safety, and class-leading infotainment—not a bad place to be for the bang-for-your-buck-conscious parent.

2. 2025 Honda Pilot Sport – A More Stylish & Feature-Rich Option

2025 Honda Pilot Sport Trim
Via: Honda
  • Starting Price: $41,500
  • Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (All-Wheel Drive available as an option)

Additional Features Over LX:

  • 20-inch alloy wheels for more aggressive styling
  • Low-light car fog lights LED
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel & shift knob for a classy feel
  • Power-adjustable front seats with climate control and lumbar support
  • Darkened exterior trim for an even meaner appearance
  • Keyless entry system

Why Choose the Sport Trim?

Suppose you want a nice design and some luxury elements while staying on a budget. In that case, the Honda Pilot Sport trim delivers an excellent combination of sportiness, comfort, and technology features. This trim adds a sportier, more modern character to the Pilot with 20-inch alloy wheels and blacked-out exterior accents. You get more visibility with LED fog lights, and there are luxury touches with the leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.

You also get the convenience of its power-adjustable driver’s seat, while the smart entry system further enhances the hassle-free experience inside the vehicle. This trim increases flare and utility over the base LX trim while retaining the day-to-day utility expected of a practical SUV.

For those who lean toward sporty styling with just enough comfort features to take on road trips, you’ll find the sweet spot between performance and Price in the Honda Pilot Sport.

3. 2025 Honda Pilot EX-L – Best Value for Comfort & Tech

2025 Honda Pilot EX-L Trim
Via: Honda
  • Starting Price: $44,500
  • Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (AWD available)

Additional Features Over Sport:

  • Leatherette seats boost comfort and a more upscale ambience
  • Power-adjustable front passenger seat 
  • 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
  • Wireless phone charging so devices stay charged without the clutter
  • Power liftgate for easy loading and unloading

Why Choose EX-L Trim?

The Honda Pilot EX-L is a solid choice for buyers seeking a more premium interior with enhanced tech. Leather-trimmed seats provide a more luxurious experience, and even the passenger is power-adjustable, making your travels better together.

The standout of the lot is the 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which not only brings in a bigger display but also gets wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. That means no more tangled wires—just wireless integration for GPS, your music, and phone calls hands-free. Past that, you also get a convenient wireless phone charger to keep your device topped up while driving.

The power tailgate is a major boon for those who often use the cargo area. Loading the groceries or packing for a weekend out of town, opening and closing the tailgate is seamless.

The EX-L trim provides a good mix of luxury technology and practicality at a reasonable price over the sport trim. If you want more refinement, modern tech, and a few convenience features, the EX-L is a naturally worthy step up.

Read More:

4. 2025 Honda Pilot TrailSport – Off-Road Ready

2025 Honda Pilot TrailSport Trim
Via: Honda
  • Starting Price: $50,000
  • Drivetrain: All-wheel drive (Standard)

Additional Features Over EX-L:

  • Suspension tuned for off-road for better trail performance
  • Exclusive 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires
  • Steel underbody skid plates
  • Hill Descent Control & Trail Mode
  • Roofing rails for additional storage in case you need it

Why Choose the TrailSport Trim?

The Honda Pilot TrailSport is specifically bred for expeditions. With all-terrain tires and an off-road-tuned suspension, it offers reliable stability and control on rough trails. The standard all-wheel-drive system provides added traction when the going gets tough, whether navigating mud, gravel, snow, or other challenging terrain.

TrailSport trim is ruggedly engineered and equipped with steel skid plates to safeguard essential underbody elements from rocks and debris. Further boosting confidence on steep declines and uneven surfaces, its Hill Descent Control and Trail Mode enable smooth and progressive braking. The exclusive 18-inch wheels not only look rugged and tough, but they also enhance off-road capabilities.

If you require extra cargo capacity, the integrated roof rails enable you to transport additional gear, from kayaks to camping equipment. The TrailSport trim is an ideal option for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a family-friendly SUV that can tackle rugged terrain, thanks to its adventurous spirit and considerable practical improvements.

5. 2025 Honda Pilot Touring – Near-Luxury With Premium Tech

2025 Honda Pilot Touring Trim
Via: Honda
  • Starting Price: $47,500  
  • Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (AWD optional

Additional Features Over EX-L:

  • Heads-up display (HUD) 10.2
  • Displays important driving information right on the windshield, where the driver can see it
  • Crisp and clear Bose premium 12-speaker audio system
  • Unobstructed rear view for digital rearview mirror, enhancing safety
  • Wipers with a rain sensor that reacts to changing conditions
  • Power tailgate that opens with a foot motion for easy access to cargo hands-free
  • Heated second-row captain’s seats are a nice feature, especially during winter

Why Choose the Honda Pilot Touring 

The Honda Pilot Touring offers top-notch tech in a near-luxury SUV. This Touring trim builds on the Pilot’s reputation for reliability and practicality with many features that enhance comfort, convenience, and driving experience.

Its multitude of safety specs, including a multi-angle rearview camera and Honda Sensing suite, ensures you have peace of mind while driving. A premium audio system employs 12 speakers and a 10.2-inch display to provide an enriched listening experience. Every drive feels fancy in the top-shelf interior filled with heated second-row captain’s chairs and a power tailgate.

Be it on your everyday runs or family road trips, the Pilot Touring provides a smooth and satisfying ride. If you want the ultimate SUV experience, the Honda Pilot Touring is hard to beat for its fantastic mix of technology, luxury, and capability.

6. 2025 Honda Pilot Elite – The Ultimate Trim

2025 Honda Pilot Elite Trim
Via: Honda
  • Starting Price: $54,000
  • Drivetrain: All-wheel drive(Standard)

Additional Features Over Touring:

  • The front seats feature heating and ventilation.
  • Head-up display (HUD) that projects essential data on the windscreen.
  • The 360-degree surround-view camera is more helpful when parking
  • Second-row captain’s chairs w/ heating
  • Intelligent Traction Management on All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

Why Choose the Elite Trim?

Leveling up to the Honda Pilot Elite fills one of the more luxurious trim slots in the lineup, ready to deliver an upscale ride experience. Heated and ventilated front seats keep you and your copilot comfy in any weather, and heated second-row captain’s chairs add extra luxury for whoever’s being stashed in the second row.

Head-up display (HUD) the system displays critical driving information directly on the windshield, allowing the driver to safely and naturally glance at necessary information without distraction. Additionally, the 360-degree surround view camera assists in parking in tight spots by giving you a 360-degree image of your surroundings.

Paired with Intelligent Traction Management and standard all-wheel drive, the Pilot Elite makes quick work of tough handling and sure-footed stability. It is perfect for family drivers navigating various weather conditions.

If you want an SUV with the best safety, luxury, and technology a Honda Pilot can offer, the no-compromises Elite trim checks all the boxes.

2025 Honda Pilot Performance & Towing Capabilities

Towing Capacity:

  • Front-Wheel Drive Models: 3,500 lbs
  • All-Wheel Drive Models: 5,000 lbs

A solid performer and tow vehicle, the Honda Pilot proves a worthy companion for the daily grind and outdoor adventure. The Pilot’s powerplant is a 3.5L V6, producing 285 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission (with a regenerative motor), this solid engine delivers crisp, buttery-smooth power delivery.

Towing is quite the surprise with the Pilot, however. The towing figures max out at 3,500 pounds for Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) models and 5,000 pounds for All-Wheel Drive (AWD) variants. It helps round out the Pilot for families that like boat, camp or tow trailers. The Honda Pilot has a powerful engine and impressive towing capacity, making it capable of handling various tasks.

Conclusion

Having the right amount of trims to find the perfect Honda Pilot for a specific need is a good problem to have. The LX trim represents a value-oriented, well-equipped offering for those on a budget. Sport trim adds larger wheels and blacked-out accents to emphasize a sportier edge. Best value features are applied to the EX-L trim, which comes with leather upholstery, a larger touchscreen, and wireless charging. TrailSport offers skid plates, all-terrain tires, and all-wheel drive for off-road fans.

The Touring trim and its panoramic sunroof and Bose audio system provide a near-luxury experience if that’s what you’re after. Then, at the top of the hierarchy sits the Elite trim, which adds a long list of premium touches, including a head-up display, ventilated seats, and a surround-view camera.

No matter which trims you choose, the Honda Pilot ranks as one of the top picks among midsize SUVs for its reliability, comfort, and (for now) tech.

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