The 2023 Honda Pilot is a versatile SUV designed for families who crave space, comfort, and the ability to tow various types of recreational equipment. Whether planning a weekend getaway from Hanover or needing a reliable vehicle for daily driving, the new Pilot offers excellent towing capacity and fuel economy. This article will explore the towing capabilities and fuel efficiency of this popular SUV, making it easier for you to decide if it's the right choice for your needs.
Impressive Towing Capacity
One main factor that sets the 2023 Honda Pilot apart from its competitors is its impressive towing capacity. This capable SUV can tow up to 5,000 pounds, allowing you to haul a wide variety of items without breaking a sweat. The towing capacities vary depending on whether you choose a two-wheel-drive (2WD) or an all-wheel-drive (AWD) drivetrain configuration. Here are your options:
2WD standard
The towing capacity for the 2WD option is 3,500 pounds, with the option to upgrade to AWD available for Pilot Sport, Pilot EX-L, and Pilot Touring. With a Honda Pilot with a 3,500-pound towing capacity, you can hitch up the following items:
- Small utility trailers.
- Personal watercraft, such as Jet Skis.
- Smaller boats, such as rowboats or canoes.
- Small camping trailers.
- Light-duty cargo trailers.
- Single motorcycle or ATV trailers.
AWD standard
The towing capacity for the standard AWD is 5,000 pounds for the Pilot Elite and Pilot TrailSport. And if you choose a Honda Pilot with a 5,000-pound towing capacity, you can tow the following items:
- Larger utility trailers.
- Fishing and bass boats.
- Multiple motorcycles or ATVs on a trailer.
- Several Jet Skis.
- Teardrop and A-frame campers.
- Single-axle camper trailers.
- Small enclosed cargo trailers.
These impressive numbers are made possible by the powerful V-6 24-valve dual overhead cam engine with dual variable timing control, which produces 285 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and delivers 262 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm.
Excellent Fuel Economy Figures
In addition to its outstanding towing capacity, the 2023 Honda Pilot boasts impressive fuel economy numbers. With up to 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, this SUV won't have you stopping at gas stations too frequently during your adventures.
The fuel economy figures vary depending on the specific configuration, so the specifics are as follows:
- 2023 Honda Pilot Sport, EX-L, and Touring (2WD): 19 mpg city/27 mpg highway.
- 2023 Honda Pilot Sport and EX-L (AWD): 19 mpg city/25 mpg highway.
- 2023 Honda Pilot TrailSport (AWD): 18 mpg city/23 mpg highway.
- 2023 Honda Pilot Touring and Elite (AWD): 19 mpg city/25 mpg highway.
The efficient yet powerful 3.5L naturally aspirated V-6 engine makes these fuel economy numbers possible. The advanced i-VTM4 AWD system further improves efficiency while offering better traction and control on various terrain types. Also, hill-descent control technology improves the handling and performance of the Pilot during your off-road adventures.
TrailSport Trim for Off-Road Enthusiasts
The new Pilot TrailSport trim is designed specifically for off-road enthusiasts who require added capability from their SUVs. This particular model features an additional 1-inch ground clearance, trail torque logic with AWD control and Trail mode, steel skid plates for underbody protection, high-strength recovery points for towing, and exclusive all-terrain tires and 18-inch alloy wheels with the TrailSport logo. It also offers a durable black synthetic leather interior with orange stitching.
The TrailSport trim comes equipped with a seven-mode drive system, including modes for Normal, ECON, Sport, Snow, Trail, Sand, and Tow. This system, which is paired with the performance-enhancing features mentioned earlier, ensures that you can confidently tackle any terrain you encounter.
Choosing the Right 2023 Honda Pilot for Your Needs
As you explore the 2023 Honda Pilot, you'll find that it offers a variety of trims to cater to different preferences and requirements. Each trim level brings unique features and benefits, ensuring there's a perfect Pilot for every driver.
LX: Starting MSRP $36,300
The base LX trim offers a solid foundation for the 2023 Honda Pilot lineup. Key features include the following:
- 285-horsepower V-6 engine.
- Multi-angle rearview camera.
- i-VTM4 AWD system (available).
- Hill-descent control.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
- 18-inch alloy wheels.
- Honda Sensing safety technologies.
- Smart entry with auto lock.
Sport: Starting MSRP $39,500
Building on the LX trim, the Sport variant adds several upgrades for added style and convenience, such as:
- Roof rails.
- Heated front seats.
- 20-inch alloy wheels.
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel.
EX-L: Starting MSRP $42,300
The EX-L trim provides more luxury and advanced technology features, making it an excellent choice for drivers seeking additional comfort. This trim includes:
- Power tailgate.
- Wireless phone charger.
- Leather-trimmed seats.
TrailSport: Starting MSRP $48,700
Tailored for off-road enthusiasts, the TrailSport trim delivers enhanced capability and rugged features that include:
- Roof rails.
- 18-inch alloy wheels with exclusive TrailSport logo.
- Panoramic roof with a moonroof.
- 5,000-pound towing capacity.
- AWD system with trail torque logic and Trail mode.
- All-terrain tires and off-road-tuned suspension.
Touring: Starting MSRP $46,800
The Touring trim focuses on premium features and technology, offering a luxurious driving experience by adding the following:
- 20-inch alloy wheels.
- Hands-free access power tailgate.
- Bose premium sound system.
- Panoramic roof with a moonroof.
- Honda satellite-linked navigation system.
Elite: Starting MSRP $52,380
As the top-of-the-line model, the Elite trim delivers the ultimate luxury experience with advanced features and premium materials such as:
- Heated and ventilated front seats.
- i-VTM4 AWD system.
- Heated second-row captain's chairs.
- Head-up display.
- Panoramic roof with a moonroof.
Each of these trims offers unique features and benefits to cater to a diverse range of needs. Visit Apple Honda of Hanover today to explore our extensive selection of new 2023 Honda Pilot models and find the right one for you.
How To Decide on Trim
When deciding on your perfect Honda Pilot, consider factors such as seating capacity, cargo space, towing needs, and fuel efficiency. With its impressive towing capacity and excellent fuel economy figures, the 2023 Honda Pilot is an ideal choice for drivers who want a versatile SUV that can handle their adventurous lifestyles without sacrificing efficiency or comfort.
Explore the Honda Pilot in Person
Visit Apple Honda of Hanover today to test-drive the 2023 Honda Pilot and experience its outstanding performance firsthand. Our friendly staff is dedicated to providing a stress-free environment where you can explore our extensive selection of high-quality vehicles in comfort. Don't forget to ask about our new Honda specials to ensure you're getting the best deal on your new vehicle purchase.
OEM Image via Honda
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