2021 Honda Pilot: Edmunds Expert Review
Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the 2021 Honda Pilot, taking a close look at what Edmunds has to say. If you're in the market for a reliable and spacious SUV, the Pilot is definitely one to consider. We're breaking down everything from performance and comfort to tech and safety, all through the lens of Edmunds' detailed review. Buckle up, because we're about to explore every nook and cranny of this popular family hauler!
Overview of the 2021 Honda Pilot
The 2021 Honda Pilot stands out as a versatile and family-friendly SUV, combining practicality with a comfortable driving experience. Edmunds highlights its spacious interior, capable engine, and a host of features that make it a strong contender in the three-row SUV segment. Whether you're tackling daily commutes or planning long road trips, the Pilot offers a blend of functionality and convenience that appeals to a wide range of drivers. The Pilot's appeal is further enhanced by its reputation for reliability, a quality that Honda is well-known for. This reputation gives buyers peace of mind, knowing they're investing in a vehicle that's built to last. Let's not forget about its safety features, which are crucial for families. The 2021 Pilot comes equipped with a suite of advanced safety technologies designed to protect you and your loved ones on the road. All in all, the 2021 Honda Pilot is a well-rounded SUV that deserves a closer look if you're in the market for a dependable and spacious vehicle. The Edmunds review will provide you with all the insights you need to make an informed decision. So, keep reading to find out more about its performance, interior, technology, and overall value.
Performance and Driving Experience
When it comes to performance, the 2021 Honda Pilot offers a smooth and confident ride. Edmunds notes that the Pilot's 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers ample power for most driving situations, making it easy to merge onto highways and pass other vehicles. The engine produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, providing a good balance of power and efficiency. The nine-speed automatic transmission further enhances the driving experience, offering smooth and timely shifts. Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the open road, the Pilot's powertrain delivers a refined and enjoyable performance. Moreover, the Pilot's handling is commendable for its size. The steering is responsive, and the suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections. This makes for a comfortable ride, even on rougher surfaces. In terms of fuel economy, the Pilot achieves decent numbers for its class, with EPA estimates of up to 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. Real-world fuel economy may vary depending on driving conditions and habits, but overall, the Pilot offers reasonable efficiency for a three-row SUV. Edmunds' review also points out that the Pilot's all-wheel-drive system provides added traction and stability in inclement weather conditions. This is a valuable feature for drivers who live in areas with snow or rain. All in all, the 2021 Honda Pilot offers a well-rounded driving experience with a capable engine, smooth transmission, and comfortable ride. It's a great choice for families who need a reliable and versatile SUV.
Interior Comfort and Features
The 2021 Honda Pilot truly shines when it comes to interior comfort and features. Edmunds praises the Pilot for its spacious cabin, which offers plenty of room for passengers in all three rows. Even adults can comfortably sit in the third row, which is a rare feat for many SUVs in this class. The seats are well-cushioned and supportive, making long drives more enjoyable. The Pilot also boasts a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen display. The system is easy to navigate and includes features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. Other notable interior features include tri-zone automatic climate control, which allows passengers in different rows to set their preferred temperature. There are also plenty of storage compartments throughout the cabin, including a large center console and door pockets. In terms of cargo space, the Pilot offers a generous amount of room for luggage, groceries, and other items. With all the seats in place, there's still a respectable 16.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. Folding down the third row expands the cargo area to 46.8 cubic feet, and folding down both the second and third rows provides a massive 83.9 cubic feet of space. Edmunds' review also highlights the Pilot's available premium features, such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. These features add a touch of luxury to the Pilot's already comfortable and practical interior. Overall, the 2021 Honda Pilot offers a well-appointed and spacious interior that's perfect for families.
Technology and Connectivity
In the realm of technology, the 2021 Honda Pilot doesn't disappoint. Edmunds highlights the intuitive infotainment system, which features an 8-inch touchscreen display. The system is easy to navigate, with clear graphics and quick response times. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration come standard, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and contacts. The Pilot also offers a range of other tech features, including a premium sound system, a wireless charging pad, and multiple USB ports throughout the cabin. These features help keep you and your passengers connected and entertained on the go. The available HondaLink app allows you to remotely start your vehicle, lock and unlock the doors, and check vehicle status. This adds a layer of convenience to your ownership experience. Edmunds' review also praises the Pilot's advanced driver-assistance systems, which include features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These systems help to enhance safety and provide added peace of mind on the road. The adaptive cruise control system maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting your speed as needed. The lane departure warning system alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane, and the automatic emergency braking system can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent collision. Overall, the 2021 Honda Pilot offers a comprehensive suite of technology features that enhance convenience, entertainment, and safety.
Safety Features and Ratings
Safety is paramount, and the 2021 Honda Pilot is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. Edmunds emphasizes the Pilot's impressive safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Pilot has earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, indicating excellent performance in crash tests. It has also been named an IIHS Top Safety Pick, further demonstrating its commitment to safety. Standard safety features on the 2021 Pilot include a rearview camera, antilock brakes, stability control, and a full suite of airbags. The Pilot also comes standard with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems that includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These systems help to prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. The adaptive cruise control system maintains a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead, while the lane departure warning system alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane. The automatic emergency braking system can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent collision. Edmunds' review also notes that the Pilot's available blind-spot monitoring system and rear cross-traffic alert system further enhance safety by alerting you to vehicles that may be in your blind spots or crossing your path when backing up. Overall, the 2021 Honda Pilot offers a robust set of safety features and impressive safety ratings, making it a top choice for families.
Trim Levels and Value
The 2021 Honda Pilot is available in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and price points. Edmunds provides a detailed breakdown of each trim level, helping you choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. The base LX trim comes standard with essential features like a rearview camera, Honda Sensing, and an 8-inch touchscreen display. The EX trim adds features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and tri-zone automatic climate control. The EX-L trim adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver's seat. The Special Edition trim includes features like wireless phone charging, a hands-free power liftgate, and black roof rails. The Touring trim adds a premium sound system, a rear entertainment system, and HondaLink subscription services. The Elite trim includes features like heated second-row seats, ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. Finally, the Black Edition trim offers unique styling cues, such as black exterior trim and red interior accents. Edmunds' review also considers the Pilot's overall value proposition, taking into account its price, features, reliability, and resale value. The Pilot is known for its strong resale value, which means you can expect to get a good return on your investment when you eventually decide to sell or trade it in. Overall, the 2021 Honda Pilot offers a compelling value proposition, with a range of trim levels to choose from and a reputation for reliability and strong resale value. Whether you're looking for a basic family hauler or a fully-loaded luxury SUV, there's a Pilot trim that's right for you.
Edmunds' Verdict: Is the 2021 Honda Pilot a Good Choice?
So, what's the final verdict from Edmunds? Is the 2021 Honda Pilot a good choice? According to their comprehensive review, the answer is a resounding yes! Edmunds praises the Pilot for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, capable engine, and comprehensive suite of safety features. The Pilot's versatility and practicality make it an excellent choice for families who need a reliable and spacious SUV. While it may not be the flashiest or most exciting SUV on the market, the Pilot excels in the areas that matter most to families: safety, comfort, and reliability. The Pilot's strong resale value and reputation for durability further enhance its appeal. Of course, no vehicle is perfect, and the Pilot does have a few minor drawbacks. Some reviewers have noted that the infotainment system could be more user-friendly, and the exterior styling may not be to everyone's taste. However, these are relatively minor issues that are easily overlooked in light of the Pilot's many strengths. Overall, the 2021 Honda Pilot is a well-rounded and highly recommended SUV that's sure to please families for years to come. If you're in the market for a three-row SUV, be sure to check out the 2021 Honda Pilot and see for yourself why Edmunds gives it such a positive review. You won't be disappointed!
