Does the Honda Pilot Have Android Auto?
The Honda Pilot has gotten a few more changes since its complete redesign in 2016. For 2019, this SUV got new safety features, a new transmission option, and some minor styling updates. These desirable new features increased the Honda Pilot’s profits by 60 percent during its initial release quarter.
An expensive new trim is also available as well as smartphone integration. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are great features to get the most out of your vehicle’s infotainment system. However, some vehicles only offer compatibility for one of the two operating systems. Does the latest Honda Pilot include Android Auto?
Android Auto in the Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot does have Android Auto, but it’s not a standard feature. It’s available in the EX trim and above, requiring drivers to pay a minimum of $3,000 more than the base price. The EX trim also features a standard 8-inch touchscreen and satellite radio. In the base trim, there’s only a 5-inch touchscreen, two USB ports, and Bluetooth.
The EX-L trim has an available package that includes built-in navigation, a rear-seat entertainment system, a power outlet, and an HDMI port. The highest trims have all these features plus a premium ten-speaker audio system and a Wi-Fi hotspot. One thing’s for sure: you’ll never have to worry about passengers getting bored during long trips in the Pilot.
Do other SUVs have standard Android Auto?
The Honda Pilot has some nice infotainment tech, but some rivals offer the same features at no upcharge. The base Kia Telluride includes smartphone integration, an 8-inch touchscreen, and four extra USB ports compared to the standard Pilot. Some may be hesitant to spend money on a brand-new model, but it comes with an excellent predicted reliability rating.
Another good SUV with standard smartphone integration is the Toyota Highlander. It features connectivity for both Android and Apple devices, plus Amazon Alexa. An 8-inch touchscreen, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and satellite radio are also standard.
What else does the Honda Pilot have to offer?
The Honda Pilot also has a lot of interior comforts. In the base trim, cloth upholstery is standard with a seating capacity of eight. Its second row can fit three car seats across – perfect for families with younger children. Seating options can differ between trims, like a pair of captain’s chairs instead of a bench for the second row.
Seating upgrades include leather upholstery, heating, and ventilation. The first two rows are roomy, though most critics note that things are a little tight in the third row. If you need a few extra cupholders, the Pilot has a grand total of 16.
The three most expensive trims also come with the new nine-speed automatic transmission. It’s paired with a V6 engine capable of 280 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. In lower trims, a six-speed automatic transmission is standard.
However, the six-speed transmission has the potential to cause some hassling gear hunting. With the new transmission, the Honda Pilot’s overall driving performance has greatly improved. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive can be added to any trim.
New safety functions
The 2015 Honda Pilot may be the perfect size for families, but it doesn’t have many standalone safety features. There’s only one in the base trim: a rearview camera.
Fortunately, the Honda Sensing driver’s assistance suite was made standard for 2019. This system includes lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and collision braking. In higher trims, blind-spot monitors, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors are also included.
These additions make the Honda Pilot even more ideal for families than before. For some drivers, the abundance of safety features could even make up for the lack of standard Android Auto.
