Nov 13, 2024

Ready to plan your next family adventure? Then you should check out an off-road SUV like the 2025 Honda Pilot. This family-oriented vehicle is packed with muscle and offers tons of interior space to make camping and family road trips exceptionally convenient. Explore the features of the base Sport model to see if this SUV is right for your next getaway. 

The first thing to know about this eight-passenger SUV is that the Honda Pilot Sport is available with a standard 2WD or an AWD drivetrain upgrade. The towing capabilities of the SUV depend on the drivetrain configuration, so be sure to pick the model that is best suited for hauling your boat, horse trailer, camper, or other large hitch items. The 2WD model can tow up to 3,500 lbs, while the AWD version can tow 5,000 lbs when properly equipped.

The fuel economy for the Sport model is similar for each drivetrain option, since each model gets 19 MPG in the city. However, if you want the best long-range performance, you may want to opt for the 2WD version that gets 27 MPG on the freeway and 22 MPG combined. By contrast, the upgraded AWD drivetrain gets 25 MPG on the interstate. 

Powertrain

Honda engineering is reliably powerful and eco-friendly. The base Sport model is equipped with a V6 motor that produces 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This motor supports technology like remote engine state, idle-stop to reduce fuel consumption when the vehicle is idling, and an Eco Assist System that maximizes the efficiency of the motor. This engine also has Active Noise Cancellation so you can enjoy a quiet ride. 

The Sport model can adapt to any driving environment thanks to the selectable drive mode system. If you’re in the suburbs, you can turn on the ECON or Normal driving modes. If you’re on the highway, the Sport mode can maximize powertrain performance. You can select Tow when you have your hitch hooked up to a trailer or turn on Snow mode during inclement winter weather for optimized road traction. 

Seating

For a family vehicle like the Honda Pilot, it’s important to have flexible seating capacity. The second-row outboard seats can fold flat to make more space for cargo at the push of a button, while the entire third-row bench seat can fold flat or fold with a 60/40 split, depending on your needs. For the Sport model, the second-row seat is fixed in position, but can also fold flat as needed. 

The Honda Pilot is a fantastic option for family vacations and recreational activities. Explore the flexible performance and seating capacity of this SUV when you visit Columbia Honda in Columbia, MO.