Special collaboration, Marc Bouchard, Automotive journalist
The 2024 Honda Pilot Trailsport is a bit like that cozy old sweater you put on to face a busy day. It may not have the glitz of the latest electric SUVs, but it knows exactly what it is and what it offers. No frills, no extravagant pretensions. Just the essentials.
You quickly realize this when you look at the exterior appearance. Although it was completely redesigned last year, it adopts the rounded lines and less prominent grille of the rest of the family.
In fact, the design of the Honda Pilot Trailsport is a tribute to simplicity. It doesn’t seek to impress with futuristic curves or aggressive lines. On the contrary, it relies on an elongated hood, set-back front pillars and a beefy beltline. It almost seems like a return to basics, to the time when SUVs had less elaborate shapes.
Let us point out, however, that the bright blue called Dynamic Pearl, exclusive to the Trailsport version, makes it less discreet, which is an excellent thing.
Practical and functional
Inside, the Honda Pilot Trailsport continues its minimalist momentum. Neutral shades soften a horizontal presentation. Certainly, the quality of the materials does not rival that of a luxury SUV or even more elaborate versions like the Mazda CX-90, but the assembly is solid, and practicality is there.
The storage spaces in the front and rear doors are there to prove it. The rear seats are comfortable, even if the seats remain a little low. At the front, I admit that it took me a few long minutes to find the ideal driving position, but once installed, comfort was there.
And because the Honda Pilot is a 7-passenger, we’re happy that Honda thought of an ingenious mechanism to access the third row with a simple button. Simply practical.
Under the hood
The Honda Pilot Trailsport’s 3.5L V6 produces 285 horsepower at 6,100 rpm, barely more than the previous engine. No frills here either. Honda has updated this naturally aspirated engine that has been with the Pilot since its infancy. Gone is the VTEC system, in favor of a more traditional double overhead camshaft configuration. No fuss, but proven reliability and sufficient power to move the imposing frame of the SUV. The 10-speed automatic transmission completes the picture, providing smooth and efficient gear changes.
All-wheel drive and the choice of driving modes add to the vehicle’s qualities. But, because there is a but, a bit like the relative anonymity of its design, the Pilot’s steering does not display the desired precision or communication with the road. We feel obliged to insist more to obtain a certain precision.
As for the suspensions, one might think they are better suited to rougher trails, which makes them a little soft for the road. The transfer of weight, when cornering, is therefore felt insistently, just as during sudden braking.
I have to say it: I highly recommend the Honda Pilot. It is reliable, solid, well assembled and has undeniable resale value. Unfortunately, the ride is a bit boring, even for an SUV of this size. You won’t get a thrill or a big smile while driving the Pilot. On the other hand, you will get to your destination with ease and without worry.
And sometimes, that’s exactly what you need: an SUV that gets the job done without fuss, with rock-solid reliability. So, put on your old sweater, climb aboard the Honda Pilot Trailsport and set off on an adventure. You will not be disappointed.
In the podcast
A little episode break this week, but we still invite you to take a look at our video on the Toyota Camry!
