While other manufacturers continue to be behind the curve with EV SUVs and tip-toeing into the hybrid market, Honda continues to deliver excellence while being a master of the consumer automobile market. In Grasso’s Garage this week, it’s the flagship, 2023 Honda Pilot Elite.
Our tester, the 4th generation 2023 Honda Pilot Elite wrapped in Modern Steel Metallic. With a rugged design and the largest SUV to date, the Pilot boasts a 113.8 wheelbase and length of almost 200 inches. The athletic stance stands 71 inches high and 67.5 inches wide. The redesigned exterior styling offers a large upright grille, powerful lower bumper and LED lighting. Bigger tires and increased storage, makes the Honda Pilot the king of the carpool. More comfortable seating than the 3rd generation, and 8 passenger available seating with 3rd row seating growing a half of an inch and 2nd row seating reclining 4 more degrees and gaining 2+ inches in legroom. Front row changes include a high and wide center console with great storage, 14 total cupholders and cell phone charging for 2. Cargo space grew 13.2 cubic feet to a total of 196.8 cubic feet.
The 10.2 inch drivers digital display is typical Honda with their great visibility and technology, while the 9-inch touchscreen was easy to use. Bose Premium Stereo offered 12 speakers. Powering the 2023 Honda Pilot Elite, was a familiar 3.5 Liter DOHC V6 offering 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, this is Honda’s first 10-speed which is very smooth for the AWD Pilot Elite. 7-drive modes, 5,000 lbs of towing capability, 8 color options, ensure that consumers have just about everything they can possibly need in choosing a family SUV.
As Honda Motor Company continues to deliver realistically priced automobiles for consumers in many markets, the Honda Pilot easily tops the family market. Similar to recently reviewed Honda vehicles, their longevity, pricing and dependability is what has made them who they are today, add that to great design, usability for many and the most important of all, safety and Honda is always a win in Grasso’s Garage with the Pilot being the best Flagship to date.
Grasso’s Garage is here for you! Are you in the market for a new car? I would be happy to provide my honest input. All you have to do is email me: marc.grasso@bostonherald.com.
MSRP: $48,350
MPG: 18 city / 23 highway / 20.4 as tested
As Tested: $50,150
