The 2023 Honda Pilot marks a significant redesign for this popular family SUV, introducing enhanced performance, rugged styling, and a suite of advanced features across its various trim levels. Whether you’re prioritizing fuel efficiency, off-road capability, or premium comfort, the 2023 Pilot lineup offers a configuration to meet diverse needs. Let’s delve into the specifications of each trim – LX, Sport, EX-L, TrailSport, Touring, and Elite – to help you understand what each model brings to the table.
Engine and Performance Specifications
At the heart of every 2023 Honda Pilot lies a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 285 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 262 lb.-ft. of torque at 5,000 rpm. This engine, consistent across all trims, ensures responsive acceleration and ample power for both city driving and highway cruising. The redline is set at 6,500 rpm, and the engine features a sophisticated 24-Valve DOHC Dual VTC valve train and direct fuel injection for optimal performance and efficiency.
The engine incorporates several fuel-saving and emission-reducing technologies, including the Eco Assist™ System and Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®). These systems help the Pilot achieve a CARB Emissions Rating of LEV3-SULEV30, reflecting its commitment to environmental responsibility. Additionally, features like Active Control Engine Mount System (ACM), Active Noise Cancellation™ (ANC), and Idle-Stop contribute to a refined and quiet driving experience.
Drivetrain and Transmission
The 2023 Honda Pilot offers both Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and the 2nd-Gen Intelligent Variable Torque Management™ (i-VTM4™) AWD System, depending on the trim. FWD is standard on the LX, Sport, and EX-L models, while AWD is available on these and standard on the TrailSport, Touring, and Elite trims. The i-VTM4™ AWD system enhances traction and control in various driving conditions. The TrailSport trim uniquely features Trail Torque Logic, further optimizing off-road performance.
All 2023 Pilot models are equipped with a smooth and responsive 10-Speed Automatic Transmission (10AT) with Shift-By-Wire (SBW) and Paddle Shifters. This advanced transmission provides a wide gear ratio range for both fuel efficiency and spirited driving. The gear ratios range from 5.246 in 1st gear to a fuel-sipping 0.517 in 10th gear, with a final drive ratio of 4.167 across all trims.
Fuel Efficiency and Economy
Fuel economy for the 2023 Honda Pilot varies slightly depending on whether you choose a 2WD or AWD model. 2WD trims achieve an EPA-estimated MPG rating of 19 city / 27 highway / 22 combined. AWD trims, except for the TrailSport, offer 19 city / 25 highway / 21 combined MPG. The TrailSport, with its focus on off-road capability, has a slightly lower rating of 18 city / 23 highway / 20 combined MPG.
All models come with an 18.5-gallon fuel tank and run on regular unleaded gasoline. These figures make the 2023 Honda Pilot competitive in its class, balancing power and efficiency for daily driving and longer journeys.
Chassis and Dimensions
The 2023 Pilot is built with an Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) Body Structure and unit-body construction, prioritizing safety and structural rigidity. It features a MacPherson Strut Front Suspension and a Multi-Link Rear Suspension for a comfortable and controlled ride. Electric Power-Assisted Rack-and-Pinion Steering (EPS) is standard across the range.
Dimensions vary slightly between trims, with lengths around 199.9 to 200.2 inches, a width of 78.5 inches, and heights ranging from 70.9 to 72.0 inches. The wheelbase is consistent at 113.8 inches. Ground clearance differs, with 2WD models at 7.3 inches and the TrailSport AWD model increasing to 8.3 inches unladen. Approach and departure angles also vary, reflecting the TrailSport’s enhanced off-road geometry.
The steering system offers a turning diameter of around 37.7 to 37.8 feet, and the steering ratio is either 15.0 or 14.8 depending on the trim. Braking is handled by Power-Assisted Ventilated Front Disc and Solid Rear Disc Brakes, with a size of 13.8 / 13.0 inches across all models. Wheel sizes range from 18-inch to 20-inch alloys, and tire specifications vary by trim, including rugged terrain tires on the TrailSport.
Interior Space and Cargo
The 2023 Honda Pilot is designed for passenger comfort and cargo versatility. Interior dimensions are generous, with headroom in the first row at 40.5 inches, second row at approximately 40.2 inches, and third row at 39.3 inches. Legroom is also spacious, offering 41.0 inches in the front, 40.8 inches in the second, and 32.5 inches in the third row.
Shoulder room measures 61.9 inches in the front, 61.7 inches in the second, and 59.5 inches in the third row, while hip room is 58.4 inches, 57.4 inches, and 44.6 inches respectively. EPA passenger volume is substantial, ranging from 154.9 to 158.4 cu ft depending on the trim.
Cargo volume is highly adaptable. Behind the third row, you get 18.6 cu ft of standard cargo space, expanding to 21.8 – 22.4 cu ft with maximum configuration. Behind the second row, cargo space increases to 48.5 cu ft standard and up to 59.5 – 60.1 cu ft max. With both the second and third rows folded, the Pilot offers a cavernous cargo area of 87.0 cu ft standard and up to 111.8 – 114.3 cu ft maximum, depending on the specific trim level.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features (Honda Sensing®)
Safety is a paramount concern in the 2023 Honda Pilot, evidenced by the inclusion of Honda Sensing® technologies across all trims. This suite of safety and driver-assistive systems includes:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™)
- Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM)
- Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow
- Traffic Sign Recognition System (TSR)
- Traffic Jam Assist
- Driver Attention Monitor
- Auto High-Beam Headlights
Higher trims like EX-L and above add features such as Low Speed Braking Control and Parking Sensors. Blind Spot Information System (BSI) and Cross Traffic Monitor are standard from the Sport trim upwards, further enhancing driver awareness and safety. The TrailSport and Elite trims also include a Multiview Camera System with Trailwatch and front camera washer for improved visibility in off-road and challenging conditions.
Trim Level Differentiations
While all 2023 Honda Pilots share the same engine and core performance features, differences arise in drivetrain availability and specific equipment across the trims. The LX serves as the base model, providing essential features and FWD. The Sport trim adds more visual appeal and some upgraded features like Blind Spot Information. The EX-L trim enhances comfort and convenience with leather-trimmed seats and a power liftgate.
The TrailSport is specifically designed for off-road adventures, featuring standard AWD with Trail Torque Logic, increased ground clearance, and rugged terrain tires. The Touring trim focuses on premium features and technology, including a Bose audio system and Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation. Finally, the Elite trim represents the pinnacle of luxury and features, adding ventilated front seats, a heads-up display, and a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, among other upgrades.
Understanding these specifications is crucial for choosing the 2023 Honda Pilot trim that best fits your needs and lifestyle. Each trim offers a unique blend of features and capabilities, all built upon the solid foundation of Honda engineering and reliability.
