2023 vs 2024 Honda Pilot Models: The Differences Explained
Honda wasn't always one of the leading car manufacturers across the globe. In the beginning, they cut their teeth with motorcycles. Since the late 50s, they've been the world's biggest motorcycle manufacturer and are still going strong.
Aside from this, Honda makes incredible cars. New or used, you get the same wonderful Honda experience for a steal of a price. So when you're on the lot and considering the 2023 and 2024 Honda pilot models, you might find yourself unable to make a decision.
What's the difference between the 2023 and 2024 Honda pilot models? In this guide, we take a look at these two versions so you know which to get when buying a Honda.
2023 and 2024 Honda Pilot Models
The Honda Pilot is a three-row crossover SUV known for its rugged off-road performance, stylish exterior, and plenty of space for the entire family. It gives ample seating for both the first and second rows. There are tons of cargo nooks and crannies aside from the standard trunk area.
It shares a lot of similarities with the Odyssey, focusing on family friendliness. Think of it as a more aesthetically pleasing minivan that can tackle camping trips, too.
Driver assist features are standard here, as with other Honda models. The Pilot does lane-keeping, adaptive cruise control, and has some emergency braking features.
All around, it's an excellent vehicle. When searching for a Honda dealership, you're guaranteed to stumble upon both. There are only a few small differences of note between the 2023 and 2024 models, so let's look at them.
Honda Pilot Specs
Both Honda versions feature the same 285-horsepower V-6 engine. They are both 10-speed automatics and front-wheel drive by default. All-wheel drive is an option if you decide to upgrade to higher trim models.
For off-road-heavy users, the TrailSport variant is available for both years. This gives you all-terrain tires with more clearance on 18-inch wheels, in addition to increased torque transfer.
Handling and Offroading
Reviewers note that the pilot isn't a speed demon, but it offers a solid experience when steering and breaking. It's capable on even moderately difficult types of terrain. The 2024 feels more refined than its 2023 counterpart in this regard.
However, neither the 2023 nor the 2024 version is intended for extreme rock-crawling. This is a city vehicle first, with off-road capabilities second.
If you get the TrailSport version, you get a slew of helpful features. This includes a hill-descent control system, steel skid plates, and a 1.0-inch lift.
Towing Capacity
The Pilot can do an impressive amount of towing, with a max capacity of 5,000 pounds on the AWD models. Regular front-wheel drive models can handle about 3,500 pounds. This is the same for both models.
Fuel Economy
Both models have the same fuel economy, which is about 27 MPG Highway and 19 MPG city. All around, this results in a 22 real-world MPG. Both offer excellent fuel efficiency for an SUV that has that extra oomph for towing or offroading.
Pricing
One noticeable difference is the increase in price for the base LX model, at around $1,000. Pricing has remained more or less the same for the other models. Pricing differences are likely due to inflation more than anything else.
Honda Pilot Accessories and Interior
The Honda Pilot manages to make you feel like a king with its front and second-row captain chairs. Regardless of year or model, you get the same 8-seat capacity in three rows. Elite and Touring models give you the option to stow or remove the second-row seating.
Cargo is the same for both years. You can fit six carry-on-sized boxes in the trunk cargo area, with more if you fold the seats down. There's even more room for your Big Gulp cups; fit up to 8 of them in the 32-ounce cupholders.
Infotainment
Base models and up come with a standard 7.0-inch touchscreen for your infotainment. You get the standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay with an easy-to-use interface. A larger display comes with higher-trim models.
Looking for a better speaker system? Consider the Elite and Touring versions, as they include a 12-speaker Bose setup.
Safety Assistance Features
Honda driver-assistance features come under the moniker Honda Sensing. This includes their full suite of automated safety features, such as the following:
- Pedestrian detection
- Automated emergency braking
- Lane-departure warnings
- Land-keeping assistance
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Automatic high-beam headlamps
- Adaptive cruise control
These features are useful for shoring up common challenges when driving. Especially in situations where something happens before you can react. Honda Sensing can mitigate the risk of a pedestrian jumping out into the road, or a driver not paying attention.
2023 vs. 2024: Which One Should You Get?
So now comes the big question. If you're looking at a Honda Pilot for sale, which should you get?
All things considered, there aren't any major differences between the 2023 and 2024 models. You will only see a few small, incremental improvements between them. It may not be worth it to upgrade to the 2024 model if you already have the 2023.
This doesn't mean you shouldn't get the 2024, though. Let's look at the reasons you should choose one over the other.
Reasons You Should Get the 2023
The biggest reason to get a 2023 model is if you want to save money. There are plenty of benefits to buying a used Honda. Just because it's an older model doesn't mean that it doesn't have the same high Honda standard of quality.
A used Honda 2023, aside from being more affordable, will have fewer miles than other used vehicles. There's only so far a person can drive in a single year! Plus, you'll still have access to a sizeable portion of the Honda warranty and guarantees.
Reasons You Should Get the 2024
The 2024 Pilot is an excellent vehicle despite only small refinements. If you want the latest cutting-edge features and the most current coverage, get the 2024.
Find More at Gerald Jones Honda
What are the differences between the 2023 and 2024 Honda pilot models? To put it in a sentence, the 2024 only makes a few refinements over the previous year. They are both excellent vehicles, and the reason for choosing one over the other will come down to price.
Gerald Jones Honda in Augusta helps you find the perfect Honda for you at a great price. Take a look at our new vehicle specials and become a proud Honda owner.