If you’re interested in a new three-row midsize SUV, the 2023 Honda Pilot is a likely option. For the new model year, it’s fully redesigned, but that’s not all there is to love about it. Many things separate the Pilot from other models in its class. With the automaker’s improvements to the 2023 model, the Honda Pilot might be able to reclaim its spot at the top. Here’s what to love about the fourth-generation version of the popular SUV.

2023 Honda Pilot’s fresh redesign and new engine

According to Edmunds, the 2023 Honda Pilot is completely redesigned for the new model year. As a result, it’s the freshest-looking three-row midsize SUV available. It has a new exterior design, a sharper interior, additional length for more cargo space, and a few other niceties. Among them is a new V6 engine with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Although the automaker says it’s a new engine, the 3.5-liter V6 is the same. The only difference is a 5-horsepower increase, boosting the performance to 285 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. Additionally, the 10-speed automatic transmission is new, replacing the nine-speed offered by the previous generation.

Overall, the new look of the Pilot is more modern to better compete with its biggest rivals. There’s also a brand-new TrailSport trim, enhancing more than just how it looks.

New TrailSport trim

Next, the 2023 Honda Pilot now has an available TrailSport model in its lineup. Like other Honda models, the trim is ready, willing, and able to go off-roading. According to Honda, the Pilot TrailSport has excellent off-roading and rugged features. For example, roof rails, hill descent control, 18-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic moonroof, a 5,000-lb towing capacity, i-VTM4 all-wheel drive, and a 7-mode drive system with Normal, ECON, Snow, Tow, Sport, Trail, and Sand Modes.

Pilot TrailSport owners also gain access to all-terrain tires, LED headlights/foglights, durable synthetic leather seats with orange stitching, and more for off-road purposes. For safety and driver assistance, it also has collision mitigation braking, road departure mitigation, blind spot information with cross traffic monitor, a multi-angle rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, and parking sensors.

However, this new trim level isn’t just for off-roaders. It also has some of the best technology and comfort features in the Pilot lineup. For example, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, heated front seats, a wireless phone charger, TrailWatch multi-view camera, and tri-zone automatic climate control.

The 2023 Honda Pilot is reasonably priced

Many models in the automotive industry claim a low starting price to entice customers. However, once more features and higher trims are added, the price gets much higher. Sometimes a range-topping model is double the price of a base model. For the 2023 Honda Pilot, that isn’t the case. Instead, the entire Pilot lineup is about $13,000 in price difference. The Sport base model starts at $40,495, while the top-of-the-line Elite trim is $53,375. Moreover, the three trims between them are well-equipped, providing immense value to the owner.

Since none of the Pilot trims are significantly overpriced, it’s easy to choose which one fits your budget. However, if you need some assistance, Car and Driver recommends the EX-L trim. The second model in the lineup is priced above the base model at $43,295. C/D says it’s the best option because it offers a perfect balance of price and features. Customers can get one of the best trims in the lineup for barely more than the Sport base model.

Things to love about the Pilot

In conclusion, there are many things to love about the 2023 Honda Pilot. The competition is tough in the three-row midsize SUV category, so it’s no surprise that Honda improved its trustworthy model for 2023. With a complete redesign, you’ll love the fresh look, upgraded engine, and more. Further, the new TrailSport trim adds off-road features and a rugged look many desire. Finally, the Pilot price remains reasonable, so any trim in the lineup is nearly as affordable as the last.