How Much Does A Honda Pilot Cost?

The Honda Pilot has long been a favorite among families and individuals seeking a spacious, versatile, and reliable midsize SUV. With its roomy interior, advanced features, and Honda’s reputation for quality, the Pilot has consistently ranked among the top choices in its class. However, one of the critical questions that potential buyers often have is, “How much does a Honda Pilot cost?“

The cost of a new Honda Pilot can range from around $37,000 for the base LX trim to over $52,000 for the top-of-the-line Elite model with all available options and packages. This pricing guide will provide a detailed breakdown of the Honda Pilot’s trim levels, optional features, and additional costs to consider, helping you make an informed decision when purchasing this popular SUV.

In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore the following aspects of Honda Pilot pricing:

Honda Pilot trim levels and their respective pricing
The starting price of the base model and the cost of a fully loaded Pilot
Additional costs to consider, such as destination fees, optional packages, and local taxes
Factors that can affect the Pilot’s pricing, including model year, location, and incentives
Used Honda Pilot pricing and the advantages of buying a certified pre-owned vehicle
Tips for getting the best deal on a new or used Honda Pilot

Whether you’re a growing family in need of a spacious and reliable SUV or an adventurous individual seeking a capable and versatile vehicle, this pricing guide will help you navigate the costs associated with owning a Honda Pilot. Let’s dive in!

Honda Pilot Trim Levels and Pricing

The Honda Pilot is available in several trim levels, each offering a different combination of features and amenities. Understanding the pricing and inclusions of each trim level is crucial when determining the right fit for your needs and budget.

Honda Pilot LX (Base Model)

Starting Price: Around $37,000 MSRP

The Honda Pilot LX is the base model of the lineup, but it comes well-equipped with a range of standard features. Some key highlights of the LX trim include:

3.5-liter V6 engine with 285 horsepower
8-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
Honda Sensing suite of driver-assistance technologies
Tri-zone automatic climate control
Seating for up to 8 passengers

While the LX trim provides a solid foundation, many buyers may opt for higher trims to access additional conveniences and luxury features.

Honda Pilot EX

Starting Price: Around $39,000 MSRP

The Honda Pilot EX builds upon the LX trim with several notable additions, such as:

Blind-spot monitoring system
Heated front seats
Power driver’s seat with lumbar support
Remote engine start
Upgraded audio system

For those seeking a few extra conveniences without breaking the bank, the EX trim offers a compelling value proposition.

Honda Pilot EX-L

Starting Price: Around $42,000 MSRP

The Honda Pilot EX-L introduces several premium features, including:

Leather-trimmed upholstery
Power liftgate
Power-adjustable front passenger seat
Heated second-row outboard seats
Ambient lighting

With its enhanced interior appointments and additional conveniences, the EX-L trim caters to buyers seeking a more luxurious driving experience.

Honda Pilot TrailSport

Starting Price: Around $48,000 MSRP

Designed for adventurous drivers, the Honda Pilot TrailSport is the off-road-oriented trim in the lineup. It includes:

All-wheel drive (AWD) system with improved traction capabilities
Increased ground clearance and off-road-tuned suspension
Exclusive exterior styling with rugged accents
All-terrain tires and skid plates
TrailWatch camera system for improved visibility on rugged terrain

If you plan on venturing off the beaten path, the TrailSport trim provides the necessary equipment and capabilities to tackle challenging terrains.

Honda Pilot Touring

Starting Price: Around $47,000 MSRP

The Honda Pilot Touring is geared towards buyers seeking a more premium and tech-savvy experience. Key features of this trim include:

9-inch infotainment display with navigation
Premium audio system
Wireless charging pad
Panoramic sunroof
Heated and ventilated front seats

With its advanced technology and upscale amenities, the Touring trim offers a refined and connected driving experience.

Honda Pilot Elite

Starting Price: Around $52,000 MSRP

Sitting atop the lineup, the Honda Pilot Elite is the most luxurious and feature-packed trim. Notable inclusions are:

Heated and ventilated front seats
Heated second-row captain’s chairs
Premium leather upholstery
Panoramic sunroof
Wireless smartphone charging
Rear entertainment system with wireless headphones

For those seeking the ultimate in comfort, convenience, and luxury features, the Elite trim is the pinnacle of the Honda Pilot range.

It’s important to note that the prices mentioned here are approximate and may vary based on location, dealership, and any additional options or packages selected.

What is the Starting Price of a Honda Pilot?

The starting price of the base Honda Pilot LX model for 2023 is around $37,000 MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price). This includes the standard features and equipment offered on the entry-level trim.

However, it’s essential to consider additional costs that can impact the final price, such as destination and handling fees, optional packages or accessories, and any applicable state or local taxes and registration fees.

What is the Price of a Fully Loaded Honda Pilot?

At the top end of the lineup, the Honda Pilot Elite trim can cost upwards of $52,000 when fully loaded with all available options and packages. This includes premium features like heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row captain’s chairs, a rear entertainment system, and a panoramic sunroof.

It’s worth noting that the Elite trim’s price can vary depending on the dealership, location, and any additional accessories or packages selected. Additionally, factors like supply and demand, as well as available incentives or discounts, can influence the final price.

Additional Costs to Consider

While the MSRP provides a baseline for the Honda Pilot’s pricing, there are several additional costs to consider when budgeting for your purchase:

Destination and Handling Fees

Also known as “delivery charges,” these fees cover the cost of transporting the vehicle from the factory to the dealership. Destination and handling fees for the Honda Pilot typically range from $1,000 to $1,200.

Optional Packages and Accessories

Honda offers various optional packages and accessories for the Pilot, such as the Premium Audio Package, Rear Entertainment System, and exterior enhancements like running boards or roof rails. These additions can quickly increase the overall cost of the vehicle.

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) vs. Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

While the base Honda Pilot LX comes standard with front-wheel drive (FWD), upgrading to all-wheel drive (AWD) typically adds an additional cost of around $2,000 to $2,500, depending on the trim level.

Local Taxes and Registration Fees

Depending on your location, you may also need to factor in state and local taxes, as well as registration fees, which can vary significantly from one region to another.

How Much Does It Cost to Finance a Honda Pilot?

Many buyers choose to finance their Honda Pilot purchase through a loan or lease agreement. The overall cost of financing will depend on several factors, including:

Interest rates: Interest rates can vary based on your credit score, loan term, and the lender’s rates. Higher interest rates will result in higher monthly payments and a higher overall cost of financing.
Down payment: A larger down payment can reduce the amount you need to finance, potentially lowering your monthly payments and overall interest costs.
Loan term: Longer loan terms (e.g., 72 months or 84 months) typically result in lower monthly payments but higher overall interest costs compared to shorter loan terms (e.g., 36 months or 48 months).

It’s advisable to shop around with different lenders, including banks, credit unions, and the dealership’s finance department, to compare interest rates and loan terms. This can help you secure the most favorable financing options for your budget and needs.

Factors That Affect Honda Pilot Pricing

While the MSRP provides a baseline for pricing, several factors can influence the actual cost of a Honda Pilot:

Model Year

Like most vehicles, the Honda Pilot’s pricing can vary from one model year to the next. Generally, newer model years tend to command higher prices due to updated features, technologies, and design elements. However, as a new model year approaches, dealerships may offer incentives or discounts on the outgoing model year to clear inventory.

Location and Dealership Pricing

The cost of a Honda Pilot can also vary based on your location and the specific dealership you visit. Factors such as regional market conditions, dealership overhead costs, and local competition can influence the pricing strategies employed by different dealerships. In some cases, you may find better deals at dealerships in less competitive markets or those with higher inventory levels.

Supply and Demand

The laws of supply and demand can also impact the pricing of the Honda Pilot. If demand for the Pilot is high and supply is limited, dealerships may have less incentive to offer significant discounts or negotiate on pricing. Conversely, if supply exceeds demand, dealerships may be more willing to provide attractive incentives or negotiate lower prices to move inventory.

Incentives and Discounts

Honda, as well as individual dealerships, may offer various incentives and discounts throughout the year. These can include cash back offers, low-interest financing rates, or special lease deals. By timing your purchase strategically and taking advantage of available incentives, you can potentially save thousands of dollars on the cost of a new Honda Pilot.

Is the Honda Pilot a Good Value?

When evaluating the value proposition of the Honda Pilot, it’s essential to consider its pricing in relation to its competitors. In the midsize SUV segment, the Pilot competes with vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, Subaru Ascent, and Toyota Highlander.

While the Honda Pilot’s pricing may be slightly higher than some of its competitors, it offers a well-rounded package that includes Honda’s reputation for reliability, a spacious and versatile interior, and a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features. Additionally, the Pilot’s strong resale value can offset some of the initial higher costs over time.

Ultimately, the decision of whether the Honda Pilot represents good value will depend on your specific needs, budget, and priorities. It’s essential to carefully evaluate your requirements and weigh the Pilot’s strengths against those of its competitors to determine if it’s the right choice for you.

Used Honda Pilot Pricing

For those on a tighter budget or looking to maximize value, considering a used Honda Pilot can be a viable option. Here’s an overview of used Pilot pricing:

Average Used Honda Pilot Prices

The average price of a used Honda Pilot can vary significantly based on factors such as the model year, mileage, condition, and trim level. According to industry pricing guides, a used Honda Pilot from the previous generation (2016-2022) can range from around $20,000 for an older, higher-mileage model to over $35,000 for a newer, low-mileage version.

Certified Pre-Owned Honda Pilot Prices

Honda’s Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program offers peace of mind and additional benefits when purchasing a used Pilot. CPO vehicles undergo a rigorous inspection process and come with extended warranty coverage, roadside assistance, and other perks. Prices for CPO Honda Pilots typically range from around $25,000 to $40,000, depending on the model year and trim level.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Buying Used

Buying a used Honda Pilot can offer significant savings compared to purchasing a brand-new model. Additionally, pre-owned vehicles have already absorbed the initial depreciation hit, potentially making them a better value proposition in the long run.

However, it’s essential to carefully inspect any used vehicle and obtain a comprehensive vehicle history report to ensure you’re making an informed decision. Used vehicles may also lack the latest safety and technology features found in newer models.

How to Get the Best Deal on a Honda Pilot

Whether you’re purchasing a new or used Honda Pilot, there are several strategies you can employ to get the best possible deal:

Research and Compare Prices: Before visiting a dealership, research and compare prices from multiple sources, including online listings, pricing guides, and local dealerships. This will give you a better understanding of the market value and help you negotiate from a position of knowledge.
Time Your Purchase Wisely: Certain times of the year, such as the end of the month, quarter, or model year, may present better opportunities for dealerships to offer incentives or be more willing to negotiate on pricing.
Consider Pre-Owned Options: As mentioned earlier, opting for a certified pre-owned or well-maintained used Honda Pilot can provide significant savings while still offering reliability and peace of mind.
Negotiate Effectively: Don’t be afraid to negotiate on the price, fees, and interest rates when financing. Be prepared to walk away from a deal that doesn’t meet your expectations, as this can sometimes prompt dealerships to reconsider their offer.
Explore Financing Options: Shop around with multiple lenders, including banks, credit unions, and the dealership’s finance department, to secure the best interest rates and loan terms for your financial situation.
Take Advantage of Incentives and Discounts: Stay informed about any available incentives, rebates, or discounts offered by Honda or the dealership, and make sure to factor these into your negotiations.

By employing these strategies and being an informed buyer, you can increase your chances of getting the best possible deal on a new or used Honda Pilot that meets your needs and budget.

Final Thoughts

The Honda Pilot is a well-rounded and capable midsize SUV that offers a compelling combination of space, versatility, and reliability. With its range of trim levels and pricing options, there’s a Pilot configuration to suit various budgets and needs.

While the starting price for the base Honda Pilot LX model is around $37,000 MSRP, the cost can quickly escalate as you move up the trim levels and add optional features and packages. The top-of-the-line Elite trim can reach upwards of $52,000 when fully loaded. Additionally, factors such as destination fees, all-wheel drive, and local taxes can further impact the final cost.

For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, considering a certified pre-owned or well-maintained used Honda Pilot can provide significant savings while still offering the benefits of Honda’s reputation for quality and reliability.

Ultimately, the decision to purchase a Honda Pilot should be based on a careful evaluation of your specific needs, budget, and priorities. By researching and comparing prices, exploring financing options, and employing effective negotiation strategies, you can increase your chances of getting the best possible deal on this versatile and family-friendly SUV.