While other manufacturers continue to lag behind in entering the EV SUV and hybrid markets, Honda continues to deliver excellence while being a master of the consumer car market. This week in Grasso’s garage is the flagship 2023 Honda Pilot Elite.
Our tester was a fourth-generation 2023 Honda Pilot Elite wrapped in Modern Steel Metallic. With a rugged design and his largest SUV to date, the Pilot boasts a wheelbase of 113.8 and a length of nearly 200 inches. Athletic stance is 71 inches tall and 67.5 inches wide. Redesigned exterior styling includes a large upright grille, a muscular lower bumper, and LED lighting. Bigger tires and increased storage space make the Honda Pilot the king of carpooling. Capable of seating eight people with more comfortable seats than the third generation, the third row seat extends 0.5 inch and the second row seat reclines 4 degrees, increasing legroom by over 2 inches. . Front-row changes include a taller, wider center console with more storage, 14 total cupholders, and cell phone charging for two people. Cargo space has increased by 13.2 cubic feet for a total of 196.8 cubic feet.
The 10.2-inch driver digital display is typical Honda with good visibility and technology, and the 9-inch touchscreen was easy to use. Bose Premium Stereo provided his 12 speakers. Powering the 2023 Honda Pilot Elite was his familiar 3.5-liter DOHC V6 offering 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, this is Honda’s first 10-speed that is extremely smooth for the AWD Pilot Elite. With seven drive modes, 5,000 pounds of towing capacity, and eight color options, consumers have just about everything they need when choosing a family SUV.
Honda continues to offer affordable cars to consumers in many markets, and the Honda Pilot easily tops the family market. As with any recently reviewed Honda vehicle, its longevity, price, and reliability are what make Honda what it is today, but also great design, ease of use for many, and most importantly safety. Besides, Honda always wins in Grasso’s garage. Pilot is the best flagship ever.
Grasso’s Garage is here for you! Are you considering buying a new car? I’ll be happy to give you my honest opinion. Email me: marc.grasso@bostonherald.com.
2023 Honda Pilot Elite
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $48,350
MPG: 18 city / 23 highway / 20.4 (tested)
Tested: $50,150