2017 Honda Pilot Overview
The 2017 Honda Pilot continues its legacy as a capable and family-friendly three-row SUV, offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and advanced technology. Built for everyday commutes and road trips alike, the Pilot aims to be a reliable companion for modern families.
Highlights
- Engine: The 2017 Pilot is powered by a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering a confident 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with either a 6-speed automatic transmission (on LX, EX, and EX-L trims) or a more advanced 9-speed automatic transmission (on Touring and Elite trims). The 9-speed offers smoother gear shifts and improved fuel efficiency.
- Safety Features: Honda's commitment to safety is evident in the Pilot's comprehensive suite of available Honda Sensing® technologies. These include:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™): Can automatically apply brakes to help reduce the severity of a frontal collision.
- Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM): Can detect lane departures and assist in steering back to the lane or apply braking.
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Maintains a set distance between the Pilot and the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting speed.
- Other standard safety features include a multi-angle rearview camera, Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with traction control, and a suite of airbags.
- Trim Summary: The 2017 Pilot is offered in five distinct trims, each building upon the previous one with increasing levels of luxury and technology:
- LX: The well-equipped base model, offering essential features for a comfortable ride.
- EX: Adds popular features like Honda LaneWatch™ and a more advanced infotainment system.
- EX-L: Introduces premium touches like leather-trimmed seats, a power moonroof, and a power tailgate.
- Touring: Further enhances the experience with the 9-speed automatic transmission, Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™, and a rear entertainment system.
- Elite: The pinnacle of the lineup, featuring the 9-speed automatic, perforated leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic moonroof, and the advanced Honda Sensing® suite as standard.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Spacious Interior: The Pilot boasts a large and versatile cabin with seating for up to eight passengers (depending on second-row configuration).
- Comfortable Ride: The suspension is tuned for a smooth and compliant ride, making it ideal for long journeys.
- Family-Friendly Features: Available features like the rear-seat entertainment system, multiple USB ports, and a wide range of storage solutions cater specifically to families.
- Cargo Capacity: Offers generous cargo space, especially when the second and third rows are folded down.
What to Expect
Owning a 2017 Honda Pilot typically translates to a predictable and reliable ownership experience. Honda vehicles are renowned for their dependability, and the Pilot is no exception. Routine maintenance will involve oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks, generally following Honda's recommended maintenance schedule. These services are widely available at Honda dealerships and independent mechanics.
Insurance costs for the 2017 Honda Pilot will vary based on individual factors such as your location, driving record, chosen coverage levels, and the specific trim you select. However, as a mid-size SUV with a strong safety record, it generally falls within a reasonable range for its class. It's always advisable to get personalized quotes from multiple insurance providers to find the best coverage for your needs.
Potential Considerations
While the 2017 Honda Pilot is a strong contender in its segment, there are a few potential considerations buyers should be aware of:
- 9-Speed Transmission Lag (Early Models): Some owners of the 9-speed automatic transmission on Touring and Elite trims reported a slight hesitance or clunkiness when shifting at lower speeds or from a standstill in earlier production models. Honda addressed these issues with software updates.
- Infotainment System Responsiveness: While the infotainment system offers many features, some users have found its responsiveness to be less immediate compared to some competitors.
- Road Noise: While generally quiet, some reviews indicate that road noise can become more noticeable at higher speeds on certain surfaces, particularly for those accustomed to more premium levels of sound insulation.
- Base Engine Power (Relative): While the V6 is adequate for most situations, some drivers seeking more spirited acceleration might find it a bit uninspiring compared to some turbocharged V6s or larger engines offered by rivals.
Overall Summary
The 2017 Honda Pilot is a well-rounded and practical choice for families seeking a comfortable, spacious, and safe three-row SUV. Its strong V6 engine, extensive list of available safety features, and user-friendly interior make it a compelling option. While minor quibbles with the 9-speed transmission and infotainment system responsiveness exist, they do not significantly detract from the Pilot's overall appeal as a reliable and capable family vehicle that is likely to provide many years of dependable service.