Is Honda Pilot fuel-efficient?
For most drivers, the Honda Pilot offers moderate fuel efficiency for a spacious, three-row SUV. It isn’t a standout “gas saver,” but it sits in the mid-range for its class, delivering usable mileage on both city streets and highways.
The question of efficiency depends on the model year, drivetrain, and driving conditions. This article reviews typical EPA estimates, real-world factors that affect MPG, and how the Pilot compares with peers to help you gauge whether it fits your fuel-economy priorities.
Fuel economy by powertrain and year
What year and trim mean for efficiency
EPA fuel-economy estimates for recent Pilots reflect a mix of configurations. Here are typical figures for common setups in recent model years:
- Front-wheel-drive (FWD) with the 3.5-liter V6 and the standard automatic transmission: roughly 20 miles per gallon in the city, about 27 miles per gallon on the highway, and around 23 miles per gallon combined.
- All-wheel-drive (AWD) with the same engine: roughly 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and about 22 mpg combined.
These numbers illustrate the trade-offs that come with a roomy, capable family SUV. Real-world mileage can vary by load, terrain, weather, and driving style, but the figures above provide a practical baseline for most drivers.
Real-world factors that affect fuel economy
What actually happens on the road
Beyond the official estimates, several practical factors shape the MPG you’ll experience day to day. Understanding them helps set realistic expectations for daily use:
- Driving style: Smooth acceleration and gradual braking improve efficiency; aggressive driving lowers it.
- Payload and towing: Carrying passengers, cargo, or towing a trailer increases fuel consumption, especially at higher speeds.
- Terrain and climate: Hilly routes and cold weather typically reduce mileage.
- Maintenance and tires: Proper tire inflation, regular maintenance, and clean air filters help sustain efficiency.
- Wheel size and equipment: Larger wheels or roof racks can modestly reduce MPG due to increased aerodynamic drag and weight.
Even small adjustments—like keeping tires inflated to recommended pressures and avoiding unnecessary roof-mounted cargo—can yield measurable gains in real-world fuel economy.
How the Pilot compares to peers in the segment
Within the three-row SUV class, the Pilot’s fuel economy lands in the mid-range for non-hybrid configurations. Many rivals with similar V6 powertrains show comparable combined MPG, while some offer higher efficiency through hybridization or lighter-weight designs. If maximizing miles-per-gallon is a top priority, a hybrid or a smaller, more efficient model may offer a clearer advantage.
- Common non-hybrid three-row rivals typically fall in the low-to-mid 20s combined range, with variations based on engine, drivetrain, and wheel options. Hybrid variants from some competitors can deliver significantly better overall efficiency.
In short, the Pilot provides solid, practical fuel economy for its size and purpose, but it isn’t the fuel-economy leader in the segment. For buyers who value space and versatility alongside efficiency, it remains a strong all-around choice; for those who want the best possible mpg, exploring hybrid alternatives within the same class is worth consideration.
Summary
The Honda Pilot offers reasonable fuel efficiency for a roomy, three-row SUV, with typical MPG in the low- to mid-20s combined depending on drivetrain. It isn’t the most economical in its class, but it remains competitive given its size, power, and capabilities. If maximizing fuel economy matters most, examine driving habits, weight management, and nearby hybrid options within or outside the Honda lineup when evaluating your next family SUV.
