Do Honda Pilots have real leather seats?

The short answer is that it depends on the trim and the model year. Entry-level Pilots typically come with cloth seats, while higher trims are more likely to offer leather seating surfaces or leather-trim. The exact material—real leather versus synthetic leather—varies by year and market, so it’s important to check the specific model you’re considering.

This article explains how leather seating is typically offered across recent Honda Pilot trims and how to verify the material for a given year, so buyers can make an informed choice.

Leather seating by trim in recent Honda Pilots

In recent generations, Honda generally reserves leather seating for mid-to-high trims. The wording used in official materials—such as “leather seating surfaces” or “leather-trim” seats—helps distinguish whether the interior uses genuine leather or a synthetic alternative. The following patterns reflect common practice, but exact materials can vary by year and market.

• Lower trims (LX and EX): primarily cloth upholstery.


• Mid-to-high trims (EX-L, Touring, Elite): more likely to include leather seating surfaces or leather-trim seats. Top-tier trims often feature higher-quality leather materials and perforated designs, though some years or regions may still use leather-trim instead of full real leather.

When shopping, remember that “leather” in dealership materials can refer to genuine leather or to leather-trim (synthetic material) on some portions of the seats. Always confirm the exact material for the year and trim you’re evaluating.

How to verify leather seating for your Pilot

Before you commit to a purchase, use these steps to confirm the material behind the seats:

1. Check the official Honda spec sheet for the model year you’re interested in; it will specify the seating material for each trim.


2. Look at the vehicle’s window sticker or official interior photos for terms like “leather,” “leather seating surfaces,” or “leather-trim.”


3. Ask the dealer to confirm whether the seats are real leather or synthetic leather, especially if you’re considering used inventory where materials can vary by production run.


4. When possible, inspect the seats in person to assess texture, grain, perforation, and edge stitching, which can help identify genuine leather versus synthetic options.

Note that upholstery materials can differ by region and production year, so always verify for the exact vehicle you’re considering.

Summary

Real leather seats are not standard on base Honda Pilot trims. Higher trims are more likely to offer leather seating surfaces or leather-trim, with the exact material (genuine leather vs synthetic) varying by year and market. Always verify the interior materials for the specific model year and trim you’re evaluating by checking official specifications, window stickers, or confirming with a dealer.

Does Honda use real leather in their vehicles?

Yes, Honda uses real leather in its vehicles, but it's often offered as a "leather-trimmed" option, meaning only specific parts of the interior use real leather, while other surfaces are made of synthetic material. Higher trim levels, such as the EX-L or Touring models, are most likely to have genuine leather seats, while lower trims typically have cloth or synthetic leather alternatives. 
Where you might find real leather

• Seating surfaces: The parts of the seats that you directly sit on are often real leather. 
• Steering wheel and shift knob: These are also commonly made with genuine leather, especially in higher trims. 

Where you'll likely find synthetic leather

• Seat backs and sides: The backs and sides of seats are frequently made of a synthetic "leather-match" vinyl that mimics the look and feel of real leather. 
• Door panels and other trim: Many other interior pieces that have a leather-like appearance are actually made of synthetic materials. 
• Lower trim levels: Models like the Accord LX, SE, and Sport Hybrid use cloth seating surfaces instead of leather. 

How to tell the difference

• Check the trim level: Real leather is almost exclusively found in the higher-end trims, like the EX-L, Sport-L, and Touring models. 
• Look for "leather-trimmed": If a feature is described as "leather-trimmed," it means only parts are real leather. 
• Ask the dealership: The safest way to confirm is to ask the dealer about the specific vehicle you are interested in. 

Does the Honda Pilot have leather seats?

Leather-trimmed seats standard on EX-L, Touring, Elite, and Black Edition. Appointed with an available leather-wrapped steering wheel and leather-trimmed seats, the interior is a comfortable retreat whether you're on a road trip or crossing tough terrain. TrailSport shown.

What are the downfalls of a Honda Pilot?

Common cons for the Honda Pilot include transmission issues like jerking or hesitation, a potentially cramped third row for adults, and subpar acceleration and braking performance. Some model years have been associated with specific problems, such as electrical malfunctions, airbag defects, and premature brake/suspension issues. Other drawbacks can include a small standard infotainment screen and a lack of luxury features compared to some competitors.
 
Performance and driving

• Acceleration: Acceleration can be lackluster, with some reviewers noting it feels slow to respond, especially when accelerating from a stop or during passing maneuvers. 
• Braking: While stopping is generally smooth, the Pilot's emergency stopping distances are longer than those of some rivals. 
• Transmission: Some model years have reported transmission problems, including rough shifts, hesitation, and jerking. 
• Handling: Some have described the steering as vague and cornering as cumbersome. 

Interior and technology

• Third row: While the third row can fit adults, it is often cramped and better suited for children or short trips. 
• Infotainment: The standard touchscreen is considered small on lower trims compared to competitors. Some wireless features like the charger or phone pairing can be inconsistent. 
• Luxury features: The Pilot can lack certain luxury features found in competitors, such as cooled second-row seats or standard head-up displays on more trims. 

Reliability and build 

• Specific model years: Certain model years, such as 2003, 2004, 2005, 2011, 2016, and 2017, have been cited as having recurring issues with transmissions, airbags, or electrical systems. 
• Brake issues: Some owners have reported brake vibration, which may be due to warped rotors. 
• Windshield cracks: Some users have noted issues with windshields cracking easily, possibly due to thinner glass or a larger surface area. 

Other drawbacks

• Fuel economy: The Pilot may not be as fuel-efficient as some competitors. 
• Visibility: While generally good, some find the available surround-view camera system difficult to use due to a small screen and poor resolution. 
• Customization: There can be a lack of consistency in features across different trims, which may limit customization options for some buyers. 

Does the 2025 Honda Pilot have real leather seats?

On EX-L, the 2025 Honda Pilot EX-L's Black interior is appointed with an available leather-wrapped steering wheel and leather-trimmed seats, while the entry-level Sport trim gets a Black cloth interior.