2019 Honda Pilot Elite AWD: Full Review

by Alex Braham 40 views

Let's dive deep into the 2019 Honda Pilot Elite AWD, guys! If you're considering a family-friendly SUV that blends comfort, capability, and a touch of luxury, the Pilot Elite AWD might just be your ride. In this comprehensive review, we'll explore everything this vehicle has to offer, from its performance and interior features to its safety technologies and overall value. Buckle up; it's going to be a detailed journey!

Performance and Handling

When we talk about the 2019 Honda Pilot Elite AWD's performance, we're looking at a vehicle designed to handle daily commutes and weekend adventures with equal ease. Under the hood, you'll find a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine that churns out 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission, which contributes to a refined driving experience. The all-wheel-drive system ensures confident traction in various weather conditions, making it a reliable choice for families living in areas with snow or rain.

On the road, the Pilot Elite AWD offers a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension soaks up bumps and imperfections, providing a smooth experience for both the driver and passengers. Steering is precise and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic and on winding roads. While it's not a sports car, the Pilot handles surprisingly well for its size, offering a good balance of comfort and agility. The Intelligent Traction Management system allows you to select different driving modes (Normal, Snow, Mud, and Sand) to optimize performance based on the terrain.

Fuel efficiency is also a key consideration for many SUV buyers, and the 2019 Pilot Elite AWD delivers respectable numbers. It achieves an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, which is competitive for its class. The nine-speed transmission helps to maximize fuel economy by keeping the engine in its optimal power range. Overall, the performance and handling of the 2019 Honda Pilot Elite AWD make it a well-rounded choice for families seeking a versatile and capable SUV.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the 2019 Honda Pilot Elite AWD, you're greeted with a spacious and well-appointed cabin. The Elite trim is the top-of-the-line model, so it comes packed with premium features and luxurious touches. The seats are upholstered in perforated leather, offering both comfort and a touch of elegance. The front seats are heated and ventilated, ensuring a comfortable ride in any weather. The second-row captain's chairs provide ample space for passengers, and the third-row seating is surprisingly accommodating for adults on shorter trips.

The Pilot Elite AWD is equipped with a wide range of technology features designed to enhance convenience and entertainment. The eight-inch touchscreen display is the central hub for infotainment, offering access to navigation, audio controls, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The premium audio system delivers crisp and clear sound, making every drive more enjoyable. Other notable features include a Blu-ray rear entertainment system, a panoramic sunroof, and a hands-free power tailgate.

Storage space is abundant throughout the cabin, with numerous cubbies, cupholders, and door pockets to keep your belongings organized. The cargo area behind the third-row seats offers enough room for groceries or luggage, and the rear seats can be easily folded down to create even more space. The interior of the 2019 Honda Pilot Elite AWD is designed with both comfort and practicality in mind, making it a great choice for families who value space, features, and convenience. The premium materials and attention to detail elevate the overall driving experience, making it feel like a true luxury SUV.

Safety and Technology

When it comes to safety, the 2019 Honda Pilot Elite AWD excels with its comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies. Honda Sensing, a suite of driver-assist features, comes standard on the Elite trim. This includes adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. Lane keeping assist helps you stay centered in your lane by providing gentle steering corrections. Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes to reduce the severity of an impact.

Blind Spot Information System (BSI) with Cross Traffic Monitor alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots and when backing out of parking spaces. These features work together to provide an extra layer of protection and help prevent accidents. The Pilot Elite AWD also comes equipped with a multi-angle rearview camera, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. The advanced airbag system includes front, side, and curtain airbags, providing comprehensive protection in the event of a collision.

The 2019 Honda Pilot Elite AWD has earned excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), further solidifying its reputation as a safe and reliable family SUV. With its advanced safety technologies and robust construction, the Pilot Elite AWD provides peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike. These safety features not only protect you in the event of a crash but also help prevent accidents from happening in the first place.

Pros and Cons

Alright, guys, let's break down the 2019 Honda Pilot Elite AWD into its pros and cons to give you a clear picture of what it brings to the table:

Pros:

  • Spacious and Comfortable Interior: The Pilot offers ample room for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for families.
  • Premium Features: The Elite trim comes packed with luxurious features like leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a rear entertainment system.
  • Advanced Safety Technologies: Honda Sensing provides a comprehensive suite of driver-assist features that enhance safety and prevent accidents.
  • Smooth and Refined Ride: The Pilot delivers a comfortable and composed ride, making it enjoyable for long trips.
  • Capable All-Wheel Drive: The AWD system provides confident traction in various weather conditions, ensuring reliable performance.

Cons:

  • Infotainment System: The touchscreen interface can be a bit clunky and less intuitive compared to some competitors.
  • Third-Row Access: While the third-row seating is reasonably spacious, accessing it can be a bit challenging for adults.
  • Styling: The Pilot's styling is somewhat conservative and may not appeal to everyone.
  • Price: The Elite trim is the most expensive model in the Pilot lineup, which may be a barrier for some buyers.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final word on the 2019 Honda Pilot Elite AWD? Overall, it's a strong contender in the three-row SUV segment. It offers a compelling combination of space, comfort, features, and safety. The Elite trim elevates the Pilot to near-luxury status with its premium appointments and advanced technologies. While it may not be the flashiest or most exciting SUV on the market, it excels in the areas that matter most to families: practicality, reliability, and safety.

If you're looking for a well-rounded SUV that can handle daily commutes, weekend adventures, and everything in between, the 2019 Honda Pilot Elite AWD is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully and compare it to other SUVs in its class to make the best decision for your needs and budget. Thanks for joining me on this in-depth review, guys! I hope this helps you make an informed choice.