2017 Honda Pilot EX

The 2017 Pilot is Honda's three-row family SUV, slotting above the CR-V and competing with the Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer. The V6 delivers strong, linear acceleration for a family hauler, and the steering is light but accurate around town. The ride is composed on the highway, though the suspension is tuned a bit firm over sharp bumps; that firmness pays off in stable cornering. The cabin is roomy for eight, with a spacious second row and a third row that folds flat to open up generous cargo space. Honda Sensing, including adaptive cruise and collision mitigation braking, is available on most trims, and upper trims add a rear-seat entertainment system. Stepping up to the EX from the LX adds Honda Sensing, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and blind-spot monitoring, making it the sweet spot for families who want safety tech without jumping to leather. The 3.5L V6 makes 280 horsepower and pairs with a six-speed automatic, delivering smooth, confident power for merging and passing, while the front-wheel drive helps it achieve 22 mpg combined. The EX is the only trim where Honda Sensing is standard but leather is not, so you get the driver-assist suite without the premium price of the EX-L.