Does a Honda Pilot get good gas mileage?
The Honda Pilot offers respectable fuel efficiency for a three-row SUV, but it isn’t a standout in its class. In typical mixed driving, most Pilots deliver roughly 22–23 mpg combined, with front-wheel-drive models often edging a bit higher than all-wheel-drive versions. Exact numbers vary by model year, drivetrain, and load.
How the Pilot’s fuel economy stacks up
The Pilot’s mileage is influenced by its powertrain, drivetrain, and how it’s loaded. The current generation uses a 3.5-liter V6 paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, and a shift to all-wheel drive generally lowers fuel economy slightly compared with front-wheel-drive versions. There is no hybrid Pilot option in the U.S. market as of the latest model years, so fuel economy relies on a conventional gasoline engine rather than a hybrid system.
What powers the Pilot and how it affects mpg
Understanding where the mpg numbers come from helps set expectations. The V6 engine provides steady performance for family duties and highway cruising, but it isn’t optimized for the highest possible efficiency. All-wheel-drive adds a layer of capability for adverse weather and rough roads, yet it typically reduces fuel economy versus front-wheel-drive models. For most buyers, this trade-off is worth it for the added traction and space.
EPA estimates, which vary by model year and configuration, provide a practical baseline for real-world fuel economy. The figures below reflect common configurations seen in recent years.
- Front-wheel-drive (FWD) Pilot: roughly 20–23 mpg in the city, about 27–28 mpg on the highway, for a combined of around 22–23 mpg.
- All-wheel-drive (AWD) Pilot: roughly 19–21 mpg in the city, about 26–27 mpg on the highway, for a combined of around 21–23 mpg.
These ranges show why real-world mileage depends a lot on where you drive (cities with frequent stops vs. long highway trips) and how you load the vehicle.
Maximizing fuel economy in a Honda Pilot
Small changes can have a noticeable impact on mpg, especially on a vehicle that carries families and cargo. The list below outlines practical steps owners can take to improve efficiency.
Tips to optimize fuel economy include the following strategies.
- Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure and monitor regularly; underinflated tires increase rolling resistance.
- Limit roof-top cargo when not needed, as extra height and crosswinds raise aero drag.
- Drive smoothly: steady acceleration, gradual braking, and slower speeds on the highway improve efficiency.
- Use cruise control on highways when appropriate to maintain a steady pace and reduce fuel use.
- Schedule regular maintenance (air filters, spark plugs, and recommended oil) to keep the engine running efficiently.
In practice, combining these habits with mindful driving can help a Pilot edge closer to its EPA estimates, particularly on long highway trips.
Real-world performance and comparisons
Owner reports generally align with EPA ranges, though real-world numbers often sit a bit lower in heavy city driving or when carrying a full load of passengers and cargo. Highway runs tend to deliver the best mileage, while urban commutes, with frequent starts and climbs, tend to reduce overall efficiency. Compared with some hybrids and lighter two-row SUVs, the Pilot’s gas mileage is solid for its size but isn’t class-leading.
Summary
The Honda Pilot offers solid fuel economy for a three-row SUV powered by a traditional gasoline V6, especially in front-wheel-drive form. With all-wheel drive, mpg figures dip modestly, but the Pilot remains competitive within its segment. If fuel economy is a top priority, potential buyers can improve numbers through mindful driving and maintenance, though the Pilot isn’t equipped with a hybrid option as of the latest model years. For shoppers prioritizing efficiency, alternatives like hybrid 3-row SUVs may deliver higher mileage, while the Pilot balances family utility with reasonable fuel economy.
