2021 Honda Pilot

2021 Honda Pilot Highlights

The 2021 Honda Pilot continues to be a strong contender in the midsize SUV segment, offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and reliability. Honda has introduced several updates for this model year to enhance the Pilot's appeal and competitiveness.

Critical updates for the 2021 model year include:

• Introduction of the new Special Edition (SE) trim, positioned in the middle of the Pilot range
• Standardization of the nine-speed automatic transmission across all trim levels
• Addition of paddle shifters as standard equipment
• Inclusion of dual-zone automatic climate control in the base LX trim

Key Details

• Midsize crossover SUV
• Three-row seating for eight passengers (seven in Elite and Black Edition trims)
• 3.5-liter V6 engine standard across all trims
• Available in front-wheel drive (FWD/2WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD)
• Honda Sensing suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies standard on all trims

Benefits

• Spacious and versatile interior
• Powerful V6 engine
• A comprehensive suite of standard safety features
• Available advanced all-wheel-drive system (i-VTM4)
• User-friendly technology features
• Strong reliability reputation

Related: 2021 Honda Pilot Reliability: What To Know Before Investing In Your Purchase

2021 Honda Pilot Overview

Performance

The same engine powers all 2021 Honda Pilot trims:

• 3.5-liter V6 engine
• 280 horsepower at 6,000 rpm
• 262 lb-ft of torque at 4,700 rpm
• nine-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters

This V6 engine uses Honda's Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system, which can deactivate cylinders to improve fuel efficiency under light load conditions.

For 2021, all Pilot trims now come standard with the nine-speed automatic transmission, which was previously reserved for higher trims. This transmission offers smoother shifts and better fuel economy than the outgoing six-speed unit.

The Pilot is available in front-wheel drive (FWD/2WD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. The available all-wheel-drive system, known as i-VTM4 (Intelligent Variable Torque Management), can send up to 70% of the engine's torque to the rear wheels and 100% to either the left or right rear wheel.

Performance features include:

• Eco Assist System to help maximize fuel efficiency
• Hill Start Assist to prevent rolling back on inclines

Towing capacity for the Pilot is notable for its class:

• 2WD models: Up to 3,500 pounds
• AWD models: Up to 5,000 pounds (when properly equipped)

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Pilot a top five-star overall safety rating.

Standard safety features across all 2021 Honda Pilot models include:

• Honda Sensing suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies:
  • Forward collision warning
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Lane departure warning
  • Lane-keeping assist
  • Adaptive cruise control
• Multiple airbags
• Stability control
• Traction control
• Rearview monitor

Higher trims also get safety upgrades:

• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Automatic high beams
• Front and rear parking sensors

Driving

The 2021 Honda Pilot offers a driving experience that balances comfort with capability. The V6 engine provides ample power for most driving scenarios, offering smooth acceleration and confident highway passing ability.

The Pilot's ride quality is strong, with the suspension absorbing most road imperfections. Despite its size, the Pilot handles well for a midsize SUV, with responsive steering and reasonable body control in corners.

Visibility is generally good, aided by the Pilot's large windows and available blind-spot monitoring system. The standard multi-angle rearview camera assists with parking maneuvers, while higher trims offer additional aids like front and rear parking sensors.

Interior

Another advantage of the 2021 Honda Pilot's interior is its spacious, versatile, and well-designed cabin.

Key interior features include:

• Seating for up to eight passengers
• Available leather-trimmed seating
• 60/40 split-folding second-row seats
• 60/40 split-folding third-row seats
• Available one-touch second-row seats for easy third-row access
• Tri-zone automatic climate control (on EX trims and above)

The Pilot's cabin is notably spacious, with ample headroom and legroom in the first and second rows. While not as spacious as some competitors, the third row is usable for adults on shorter trips and comfortable for children.

Cargo space is generous:

• 16.5 cubic feet behind the third row
• 46.8 cubic feet with the third row folded
• 83.9 cubic feet with both rear rows folded

Technology

The 2021 Honda Pilot embraces modern tech with features designed to keep occupants connected, entertained, and safe. At the heart of its technological offerings is an intuitive infotainment system that caters to drivers and passengers alike.

Key technology features include:

• 5-inch color LCD screen (base LX trim)
• Available 8-inch touchscreen system (EX trims and above)
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration (EX trims and above)
• Available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System
• Bluetooth HandsFreeLink and streaming audio
• Available Wi-Fi hotspot capability
• HondaLink connected car services

The Pilot also offers several family-friendly technology features:

• Available rear entertainment system with a 10.2-inch high-resolution screen
• Available CabinTalk in-car PA system
• Available CabinControl app compatibility

Higher trims offer additional tech features such as:

• Wireless phone charger
• Multi-zone audio
• 590-watt premium audio system with ten speakers

Fuel Economy

The 2021 Honda Pilot offers competitive fuel economy ratings for its class, particularly considering its V6 engine and spacious interior. EPA fuel economy estimates are as follows:

3.5-liter V6:

• FWD/2WD (mpg): 20 city / 27 highway / 23 combined
• AWD (mpg): 19 city / 26 highway / 22 combined

2021 Honda Pilot Reviews

2021 Honda Pilot consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book are underwhelming, with an average rating of 3.5 out of 5. At the same time, owners praise the Pilot’s comfort and styling, but scores are subpar for value, quality, reliability, and performance.

Reasons to Buy It

• Spacious cabin
• Generous cargo space
• Standard V6 engine
• Numerous standard and available safety features
• Smooth ride quality
• Good balance of comfort and capability

Problems

• Some find the infotainment system less intuitive than competitors
• Third-row space is tight for adults
• Exterior styling may be considered bland by some
• Not as fuel-efficient as some hybrid competitors
• Higher trims can get expensive

Explore: Honda Pilot Pros and Cons: What To Know When Weighing Your Decision

CoPilot's Take

The 2021 Honda Pilot is a solid choice in the midsize SUV segment, offering a well-rounded package. Its strengths lie in its spacious and versatile interior, powerful V6 engine, and comprehensive suite of standard safety features.

However, the Pilot isn't without its drawbacks. The infotainment system, while functional, may feel less intuitive compared to some competitors. The third-row space, while usable, is tight for adults, which is worth considering for those who frequently transport more prominent groups.

While fuel economy is competitive for a V6-powered SUV, it falls short of some hybrid competitors in this segment. Buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency might want to consider these alternatives. Some may regard the Pilot's inoffensive exterior styling as bland, especially compared to more boldly styled competitors.

2021 Honda Pilot FAQs

Is the 2021 Honda Pilot a reliable car?

A review of NHTSA and carcomplaints.com shows that the 2021 Pilot has a mixed reliability rating. The engine and electrical system are known trouble spots, but these problems don’t affect every example. Always get a pre-purchase inspection for any used vehicle under consideration.

What is a good year for the Honda Pilot?

While the Honda Pilot has been a solid choice across multiple generations, some standout years include:

• 2016-2021: The third generation Pilots, including the 2021 model, are known for their spacious interiors, improved technology, and refined powertrains.
• 2009-2015: The second generation, particularly after the 2012 refresh, offered a good balance of reliability and features.
• 2019 and newer: These models benefit from the nine-speed transmission becoming more widely available and various technology updates.

Which is bigger, the 2021 Honda Pilot or the 2021 Toyota Highlander?

The 2021 Honda Pilot is slightly larger than the 2021 Toyota Highlander in most dimensions:

• Overall length: Pilot (196.5 inches) vs. Highlander (194.9 inches)
• Wheelbase: Pilot (111 inches) vs. Highlander (112.2 inches)
• Cargo space behind the third row: Pilot (16.5 cubic feet) vs. Highlander (16.0 cubic feet)
• Maximum cargo space: Pilot (83.9 cubic feet) vs. Highlander (84.3 cubic feet)

While the differences are slight, the Pilot generally offers more passenger space, especially in the third row. However, the Highlander has a slight edge in maximum cargo capacity.

How many miles do 2021 Honda Pilots usually last?

With proper maintenance, a 2021 Honda Pilot can last 200,000 to 300,000 miles or more. Many Honda owners report that their vehicles surpass 200,000 miles with regular care. Factors that influence longevity include maintenance, driving conditions, and environmental exposure.

What are the 2021 Honda Pilot configurations?

The 2021 Pilot has several trims:

• 2021 Honda Pilot LX
• 2021 Honda Pilot EX
• 2021 Honda Pilot EX-L
• 2021 Honda Pilot Special Edition (SE)
• 2021 Honda Pilot Touring
• 2021 Honda Pilot Elite
• 2021 Honda Pilot Black Edition

Check Out: Which Years Of Used Honda Pilots Are Most Reliable?