What Year Honda Pilot is the Best?
The Honda Pilot is a reliable and versatile SUV that has been a popular choice for families and adventure-seekers alike. With its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and robust engine, it’s no wonder why the Pilot has remained a top contender in the midsize SUV market. But with so many model years to choose from, which one is the best?
What Year Honda Pilot is the Best?
After researching and comparing various model years, we’ve found that the 2016 Honda Pilot is the best year to buy. Here’s why:
Improved Engine
The 2016 Honda Pilot features a more powerful and efficient engine compared to its predecessors. The 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, making it more than capable of handling heavy loads and towing. Additionally, the engine is paired with a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission.
Enhanced Safety Features
The 2016 Honda Pilot boasts a range of advanced safety features, including:
- Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
- Multi-Angle Rearview Camera with dynamic guidelines
- Blind Spot Information System (BSI) with cross-traffic monitor
These features help prevent accidents and provide added peace of mind for drivers.
Improved Interior and Comfort
The 2016 Honda Pilot’s interior is designed with comfort and practicality in mind. Features include:
- One-touch second-row seats for easy access to the third row
- Fold-down third-row seats for increased cargo space
- Premium leather-trimmed seats with heated front seats
- Dual-zone automatic climate control for improved comfort
Reliability and Durability
The 2016 Honda Pilot has a reputation for being extremely reliable and durable. With proper maintenance, it’s not uncommon for these vehicles to reach 200,000 miles or more without major issues.
Model Year Comparison
Here’s a comparison of the top model years for the Honda Pilot:
| Year | Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Transmission | Safety Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 3.5L V6 | 250 | 253 | 5-speed auto | FCW, CMBS, LDW, LKAS |
| 2015 | 3.5L V6 | 280 | 262 | 6-speed auto | FCW, CMBS, LDW, LKAS |
| 2016 | 3.5L V6 | 280 | 262 | 6-speed auto | FCW, CMBS, LDW, LKAS, BSI, cross-traffic monitor |
| 2019 | 3.5L V6 | 280 | 262 | 6-speed auto | FCW, CMBS, LDW, LKAS, BSI, cross-traffic monitor, LED headlights |
As you can see, the 2016 Honda Pilot stands out from the rest due to its improved engine, enhanced safety features, and improved interior and comfort.
Pros and Cons
Here are some pros and cons to consider when buying a 2016 Honda Pilot:
Pros:
- Powerful and efficient engine
- Advanced safety features
- Spacious and comfortable interior
- Reliable and durable
- Good fuel economy (22 MPG combined)
Cons:
- Some critics find the exterior design to be bland
- Infotainment system can be slow to respond
- Third-row seats can be cramped for taller passengers
Conclusion
The 2016 Honda Pilot is the best year to buy due to its impressive engine, advanced safety features, and comfortable interior. While it may have some minor drawbacks, the pros far outweigh the cons. If you’re in the market for a reliable and versatile SUV, the 2016 Honda Pilot is an excellent choice.
Specifications:
| Model Year | Engine | Transmission | Drive Type | Curb Weight | Fuel Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 3.5L V6 | 6-speed auto | FWD/AWD | 4,040-4,160 lbs | 22 MPG combined |
Table of Comparisons:
| Model Year | Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Transmission | Safety Features | Price (New) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 3.5L V6 | 250 | 253 | 5-speed auto | FCW, CMBS, LDW, LKAS | $30,000 |
| 2015 | 3.5L V6 | 280 | 262 | 6-speed auto | FCW, CMBS, LDW, LKAS | $32,000 |
| 2016 | 3.5L V6 | 280 | 262 | 6-speed auto | FCW, CMBS, LDW, LKAS, BSI, cross-traffic monitor | $34,000 |
| 2019 | 3.5L V6 | 280 | 262 | 6-speed auto | FCW, CMBS, LDW, LKAS, BSI, cross-traffic monitor, LED headlights | $38,000 |
Note: Prices are approximate and based on new vehicle prices at the time of release.
