In a world where you can find an automobile for every possible niche interest, Honda has taken a different approach with a three-row SUV that makes sense for anyone who needs extra seating or cargo space. Offered in an array of distinct trim levels (with a choice of seating seven or eight passengers), the 2025 Honda Pilot touches on all the key necessities for the road: power, performance, and pleasure.
The 2025 Pilot provides drivers with the ability to select an SUV that makes sense for them, rather than trying to fit into a car that's not quite right for their needs. From the introductory Sport trim to the off-road-ready TrailSport and the luxurious Elite and Black Edition, each 2025 Honda Pilot trim is just different enough to meet the needs of nearly every driver while still pleasing practically everyone. Let's take a look at what helps the three-row 2025 Honda Pilot stand out on the Honda planet...
The Fundamentals of Performance
Drivers frequently ask whether the 2025 Honda Pilot is a front-wheel or all-wheel-drive vehicle, and the answer is both! While the TrailSport, Elite, and Black Edition trims are offered exclusively with an all-wheel drivetrain, the 2025 Pilot's Sport, EX-L, and Touring trim levels provide drivers with a choice between front-wheel and all-wheel drive.
There are a few differences between the two drivetrains, as far as performance is concerned. Front-wheel-drive models are equipped with five drive modes (Normal, Econ, Snow, Tow, and Sport), while all-wheel-drive models add two more modes (Trail and Sand); note, however, that the entry-level Sport trim doesn't get these extras even if with an all-wheel drivetrain. Furthermore, all-wheel-drive models can tow up to 5,000 lbs, while front-wheel-drive models max out at 3,500 lbs.
If drivers choose the Sport, EX-L, Touring, Elite, or Black Edition trim, an eight-seat configuration is standard; however, swapping the second-row bench seat for captain's chairs is possible. The TrailSport trim makes the seven-passenger configuration standard. There is only one engine for the 2025 Pilot: a 285-hp V6 that makes navigating city streets and merging onto crowded highways equally easy and enjoyable.
More of the Things That Matter
It's not uncommon for drivers to have a few things that they absolutely will not compromise on, and the 2025 Honda Pilot makes sure that no driver is left wanting more. The most common concern for three-row SUV drivers is space, and the Pilot offers plenty for passengers in all three rows, also delivering an appropriate number of cup holders (with four in the front, six in the second row, and four in the rear).
This cabin space translates beautifully into cargo room, thanks to standard one-touch, fold-flat outboard second-row seats and a flat-folding third-row bench seat. With all seats occupied, the Pilot offers 18.6 cu.ft. of cargo room. This increases as each rear seat is collapsed, for a maximum of 87 cu.ft. of cargo space with both back rows stowed.
Then there's the matter of safety. Regardless of the type of precious cargo you're hauling, the 2025 Honda Pilot is designed to keep people and objects safe. Each trim includes the Honda Sensing suite of driver assistance technology, including familiar features like forward collision warning, collision mitigation braking, a driver attention monitor, and traffic sign recognition. Drivers who opt for the EX trim or higher unlock even more supportive technology in the form of low-speed braking control and parking sensors in the front and rear.
Rule the Road From the Cabin
No one likes to drive in discomfort, which is why Honda has provided the 2025 Pilot with a truly impressive selection of standard features. Drivers who get the most budget-friendly Sport trim are treated to plenty of perks, such as a tri-zone automatic climate control system with rear-seat heater ducts. Furthermore, heated front seats are standard.
The seven-inch driver display provides details about the vehicle's health and performance, while the infotainment system is operated via a seven-inch color touchscreen. Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto are also standard, and your driving tunes are delivered via a seven-speaker audio system with subwoofer.
Selecting the EX-L trim adds quite a bit of advanced technology. In this trim, second-row passengers gain their own climate control panel. A Qi-compatible wireless phone charger is standard, along with a Conversation Mirror and CabinTalk In-Car PA System, which allow drivers to communicate clearly and easily with the rear rows. The audio system gains two speakers, as well, and the infotainment touchscreen grows to nine inches.
Top Shelf Features for the Top Trims
While you don't need to go directly to the Touring, Elite, or Black Edition trims in order to experience bliss behind the wheel, these ones are very well-equipped to make your drive even more enjoyable.
Features such as a moonroof, a twelve-speaker Bose Premium audio system, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and multi-zone audio capability make the Touring feel more luxurious, while the Elite and Black Edition offer ventilated front seats, heated outboard second-row seats, a four-inch head-up display, and a heated steering wheel.
And then there's the TrailSport trim. Designed to treat any surface like a road, the 2025 Honda Pilot TrailSport is equipped with a MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a multi-link suspension in the rear. Underbody skid plates and recovery points help drivers stay safe when the going gets rough. Honda employs a multi-angle rearview camera and multi-view camera system to provide a better view of the trail, culminating in TrailWatch, a feature that gives drivers every possible view they might need to overcome trail obstacles.
Special Editions and Offerings
Once again, Honda is giving drivers the opportunity to do something a little extra with their Pilot. In fact, few SUVs get to have as much fun as the 2025 Honda Pilot. First, there's the HPD wheels. Drivers who select an EX-L or Touring trim have the chance to add these rugged, heavy-duty wheels. Direct from the Honda Performance Development garage, these race-inspired wheels give the 2025 Pilot a sportier edge.
Then there's the 2025 Black Edition trim. Building off of the Elite, the Honda Pilot Black Edition is the sleek, elegant member of the family, with Gloss Black wheels and accents. The interior has exclusive red-accented perforated leather upholstery, red contrast stitching, and red accent lighting, giving the 2025 Pilot an entirely new attitude. For those who love to stand out, the 2025 Honda Pilot Black Edition is ready to roll.
The 2025 Honda Pilot: Going New Places
There's nothing wrong with driving the same car your friends and family drive, so long as that car is a perfect match for your needs. And while many automotive manufacturers try to convince drivers that we all want the same thing, it's just not true. Honda understands that drivers are unique in their tastes, budgets, and needs.
To provide all drivers with the three-row SUV they need, the 2025 Pilot is offered in a variety of trim levels and a choice of drivetrain and cabin configuration. Regardless of what inspires your desire for a three-row SUV, the 2025 Honda Pilot may have something that makes those dreams come true, creating a happier life for drivers and passengers alike.