The 2019 Honda Pilot proved to be a pleasant addition to Honda’s line of family SUVs. The changes made to that model improved the Pilot and made it a decent competitor in its class. 

The 2020 model rolled off the production line and is ready for sales on dealership lots. But is it really worth going for? Cars.com reviewed the 2020 version and showed how practical it is and why there’s only one type of person who would benefit from this newer model. Let’s take a look at what the 2020 version offers and see whether or not it’s worth the extra money. 

What does the 2020 Honda Pilot model offer?

The 2019 model saw many significant changes to the Honda Pilot, but the 2020 model only has one real change. It offers a brand new trim level as the highest package you can buy for the Pilot. It’s the Black Edition trim that appeals more for those who want to show off their SUV’s looks.

As far as performance goes, the 2020 model has the same 3.5-liter V6 engine that the 2019 model had. It still gets 280 hp coupled with the standard six-speed automatic transmission. The Touring, Elite, and the Black Edition trim levels come with the nine-speed automatic as a standard option. 

The Honda Pilot comes standard with front-wheel drive for the LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring trims. For the Elite and Black Edition, the all-wheel-drive drivetrain is standard. You can choose the all-wheel-drive option on the lower-tiered trim levels, but it would cost you $2,000 more on top of your purchase price. 

We also find many of the same features that its competitors offer with the Pilot, like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

What does the Black Edition trim level offer?

The Black Edition trim level has all the same equipment as the Elite package, but it comes with the Crystal Black Pearl paint color. You’ll get many black-colored accents throughout the exterior of the vehicle. The grille and bumpers will be all black along with the 20-inch wheels on the Pilot.

The interior, of course, has black materials throughout the cabin, but they put red stitching accents on the seats, and a few other red accents sprinkled inside as well. This package is only $1,500 more than the top trim, which is the Elite.

Is it worth choosing the 2020 model over the 2019 model?

There isn’t a lot of change from the 2019 model to the 2020 model, especially when it comes to safety. The introduction of the Black Edition trim is the only difference you’ll find on the Honda Pilot. But that begs the question of whether it’s worth paying more for the newer model or save money by sticking with the 2019 version instead. 

If you’re looking for an SUV with excellent performance, comfortable ride, and decent handling, then stick with the 2019 model. The newer version will not bring you anything more to justify spending the extra dough unless you really want a black-colored SUV. Everything you could want, whether standard or as an option, is found in the 2019 model.

The only type of person who would benefit from the newer version would be the one that wants a nice, sleek styled SUV in the black-colored version. If black is your color, then the 2020 Honda Pilot would do you well. The trim level allows you to a bit of uniqueness to your purchase with the black-all-over look. 

When it comes down to it, the Black Edition is the only reason to get the 2020 Honda Pilot. If you’re one who doesn’t happen to be interested in the dark look, stick with the 2019 version. Your wallet will thank you.