The Best Configurations for the 2024 Honda Pilot: Your Guide to Making the Right Choice

When it comes to choosing the perfect SUV for your family or adventurous road trips, the 2024 Honda Pilot stands out as one of the best options out there. Honda has upped its game again with this model, offering a great balance between comfort, performance, and utility. But with various configurations available, which one is the best fit for you? That's where this guide comes in.

We’ll break down each configuration of the 2024 Honda Pilot in detail, cover the key features, pros, and potential drawbacks of each, while keeping things real and professional but still easy to follow. By the end, you’ll have a good grasp of which version of the 2024 Honda Pilot suits you best.

Overview of the 2024 Honda Pilot Configurations

Before we dive into the different trim levels, let’s quickly highlight what you can expect across the board with the 2024 Honda Pilot:

• Engine: A 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 285 horsepower
• Transmission: Standard 10-speed automatic transmission
• Seating: Up to eight passengers
• Cargo Space: Best-in-class cargo space, offering up to 109.2 cubic feet of cargo space when the seats are down
• Fuel Economy: Average of 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway

Now that we have the basics down, let's dig into the different configurations of the 2024 Honda Pilot.

LX: The Base Trim

The LX trim is the entry-level option for the 2024 Honda Pilot, but don’t let that fool you into thinking it’s basic. It still offers a lot of the great features that make the Pilot a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment. If you’re looking for a reliable family vehicle without all the fancy extras, the LX might be for you.

Features:

• 18-inch alloy wheels
• Cloth upholstery
• 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
• Honda Sensing Safety Suite (adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking)

Pros:

1. Affordable price point: The LX is one of the most affordable trims, making it a great option for families on a budget.
2. Comprehensive safety features: The Honda Sensing suite is included even in the base model, which adds peace of mind.
3. Ample cargo space: Even in the base configuration, the Pilot provides lots of room for groceries, camping gear, or whatever life throws at you.

Drawbacks:

1. Limited tech: The smaller infotainment screen and lack of some high-end features might be a letdown for tech enthusiasts.
2. Cloth seats: Some might find the cloth upholstery less luxurious compared to leather options.

EX-L: Stepping Up in Style

The EX-L trim takes things up a notch, offering additional comfort and convenience features that many families will appreciate. This version of the 2024 Honda Pilot is perfect if you're after a few more luxuries but still want to keep things practical.

Features:

• Leather-trimmed seats (heated front seats)
• Power tailgate
• 10.2-inch infotainment display
• Sunroof
• Wireless smartphone charging

Pros:

1. Luxurious feel: The leather-trimmed seating and heated seats add a touch of luxury for those cold winter mornings.
2. Convenience: The power tailgate and wireless charging make day-to-day life easier.
3. Family-friendly: With a one-touch second-row for easy access to the third row, it's ideal for those with young kids.

Drawbacks:

1. Cost: The price jump from the LX to EX-L may be steep for some, and not everyone may feel the extra features are worth it.
2. No all-wheel drive standard: While front-wheel drive comes standard, you'll need to pay extra for AWD.

TrailSport: The Off-Road Adventurer

Now, if you're someone who likes to go beyond city streets and wants an SUV ready for off-road adventures, the TrailSport is worth considering. It's got a more rugged setup with all the features you'd need to tackle those tougher trails.

Features:

• Off-road-tuned suspension
• All-terrain tires
• Skid plates for undercarriage protection
• AWD comes standard
• Roof rails for extra gear storage

Pros:

1. Adventure-ready: The suspension and all-terrain tires make the TrailSport perfect for families or individuals who love camping, hiking, or any off-the-grid adventures.
2. Solid performance on rough terrain: Skid plates and AWD ensure the TrailSport can handle more than just pavement.
3. Unique styling: The rugged look sets it apart from the other trims.

Drawbacks:

1. Fuel economy: The TrailSport's off-road capabilities can take a toll on fuel efficiency, especially compared to other trims.
2. Higher price: It's more expensive than the EX-L but not quite as feature-packed as the higher-end Elite trim.

Touring: Tech and Comfort Combined

The Touring configuration of the 2024 Honda Pilot adds a lot of tech features to the mix. It’s the perfect SUV for long road trips with the family because it’s packed with entertainment options and comfort features that can keep everyone happy.

Features:

• 12-speaker premium audio system
• Wi-Fi hotspot capability
• Rear-seat entertainment system with a Blu-ray player
• Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System
• Hands-free power tailgate

Pros:

1. Family-friendly entertainment: The rear-seat entertainment system is perfect for families with kids, making long drives more enjoyable.
2. Great sound system: With the 12-speaker system, you'll be able to enjoy your favorite tunes in top quality.
3. Spacious and comfortable: The extra tech and comfort features make this a great option for those who spend a lot of time on the road.

Drawbacks:

1. Pricey: The Touring trim is quite a bit more expensive than the lower trims, and not everyone will need the extra entertainment features.
2. Fuel consumption: The added weight of the tech could result in slightly lower fuel efficiency.

Elite: The Top-Tier Trim

For those who want nothing but the best, the Elite trim is the highest configuration of the 2024 Honda Pilot. It’s packed with premium features that elevate the driving experience to luxury status. But with that luxury comes a higher price tag.

Features:

• Panoramic sunroof
• Ventilated front seats
• Heated second-row captain’s chairs
• Head-up display
• 360-degree camera system
• Adaptive suspension for a smoother ride

Pros:

1. All the bells and whistles: The Elite trim is loaded with features that make driving more comfortable and enjoyable, like the panoramic sunroof and ventilated seats.
2. Top-notch safety: With the 360-degree camera system and adaptive suspension, safety and comfort are prioritized.
3. Luxury feel: The heated second-row captain’s chairs add a touch of luxury, and the overall fit and finish are hard to beat.

Drawbacks:

1. High price: As the most expensive configuration, the Elite trim may be out of reach for some buyers.
2. Fuel efficiency: With all the added features and weight, fuel efficiency can take a hit.

Which 2024 Honda Pilot Trim Is Right for You?

Factors to Consider:

1. Budget: If budget is a big concern, the LX offers great value for its price. But if you’re willing to spend a bit more, the EX-L adds some nice conveniences without going overboard.
2. Family needs: For those with large families, trims like the Touring and Elite will be the most practical because of the added tech and comfort features.
3. Adventure plans: If you’re planning to take the Pilot off-road, the TrailSport is your best bet.
4. Luxury: For those who want a luxurious driving experience, the Elite trim is hard to beat.

Real Opinions: What Experts Say

According to Alex Collantes, an automotive expert and car enthusiast, “The 2024 Honda Pilot is one of the most well-rounded SUVs out there. It offers versatility, comfort, and a solid lineup of features across all trims. I’d personally go for the TrailSport because of its off-road capabilities, but I can see why the EX-L is the sweet spot for most families—it gives you the perfect balance of price and features.”

Collantes also points out that “the Elite trim is fantastic, but for a lot of drivers, it may be overkill unless you really want all the luxury features.”

Final Thoughts: Why the 2024 Honda Pilot Stands Out

The 2024 Honda Pilot is a versatile SUV that caters to a wide range of needs. Whether you're a budget-conscious buyer, a tech enthusiast, an adventurer, or someone who simply wants a luxurious ride, there's a configuration for you. Its powerful V6 engine, spacious interior, and modern tech features make it a top contender in the midsize SUV market.

While the price goes up as you climb the trim ladder, the Pilot still provides great value in each configuration. Just remember to weigh your priorities, whether it's a more affordable option with basic features or a more expensive one with all the bells and whistles.

In summary, the 2024 Honda Pilot is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable, well-rounded SUV. Keep an eye on the drawbacks mentioned for each trim, but otherwise, you can’t go wrong with this Honda classic.

Common FAQs About the 2024 Honda Pilot:

1. Does the 2024 Honda Pilot come with AWD?
   • Yes, all trims can be equipped with AWD, and the TrailSport comes standard with it.
2. How fuel-efficient is the 2024 Honda Pilot?
   • On average, the 2024 Honda Pilot gets 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
3. What’s the towing capacity?
   • The 2024 Honda Pilot can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

Now you have all the info you need to make a smart choice with the 2024 Honda Pilot.