Loading

Is the Honda Pilot a small or large SUV?


The Honda Pilot is a popular choice among families and individuals looking for a reliable and spacious vehicle. However, when it comes to categorizing the Honda Pilot, many people wonder whether it falls under the category of a small SUV or a large SUV. In this article, we’ll explore the size, features, and classification of the Honda Pilot to provide a clear answer.


Understanding SUV Classifications


SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles) are typically classified into three main categories based on their size: small (compact), midsize, and large. These classifications are determined by factors such as overall dimensions, seating capacity, cargo space, and towing capabilities. Let’s see where the Honda Pilot fits in.


The Honda Pilot: A Midsize SUV with Large SUV Features


The Honda Pilot is officially classified as a midsize SUV. However, it offers features and space that often rival those of larger SUVs. Here’s why:



  • Seating Capacity: The Honda Pilot can comfortably seat up to eight passengers, making it an excellent choice for larger families.

  • Cargo Space: With up to 109.2 cubic feet of cargo space when the rear seats are folded down, the Pilot provides ample room for luggage, groceries, or outdoor gear.

  • Dimensions: The Pilot’s overall length of approximately 197 inches places it firmly in the midsize category, but its spacious interior gives it a large SUV feel.

  • Towing Capacity: With a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds (when properly equipped), the Pilot is capable of handling tasks typically associated with larger SUVs.


Why the Honda Pilot Feels Like a Large SUV


Although the Honda Pilot is technically a midsize SUV, its design and features make it feel larger than it is. The roomy interior, advanced safety features, and smooth ride quality contribute to its reputation as a versatile and family-friendly vehicle. Additionally, the Pilot’s third-row seating and generous legroom set it apart from many other midsize SUVs.


Conclusion


In summary, the Honda Pilot is classified as a midsize SUV, but its spacious interior, impressive cargo capacity, and robust towing capabilities make it a strong contender for those considering a large SUV. If you’re in the market for a vehicle that offers the best of both worlds—midsize maneuverability with large SUV practicality—the Honda Pilot is an excellent choice.


Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Honda Pilot a medium or large SUV?


Mid-size crossover SUV

Honda Pilot
ClassMid-size crossover SUV
Body style5-door SUV
LayoutFront-engine, four-wheel-drive (2003–present) Front-engine, front-wheel-drive (2006–present)



What SUV is equivalent to Honda Pilot?


Cars similar to 2025 Honda Pilot. The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade are the same crossover with different skins, both featuring standout styling, upscale finishes, and big cabins, and they're the current class benchmarks in just about every way.



Is the Honda Pilot bigger than the RAV4?


Passenger Space
You can fit eight passengers easily in the Pilot, while the Toyota RAV4 only seats five people total. Honda Pilot passengers will also enjoy an extra inch of headroom, over three inches more of front shoulder room, and over five additional inches of rear shoulder room.



Is a Pilot considered a full size SUV?


The Honda Passport and the Honda Pilot are both SUVs produced by Honda. However, the Passport is a mid-size SUV, while the Pilot is a full-size SUV. The Passport is slightly smaller than the Pilot, with less interior space and a lower seating capacity.



Is a Honda Pilot bigger than a CR-V?


Pilot is a much larger vehicle and offers more standard goodies. You can't go wrong with the Pilot or CR-V, but Subaru builds some worthy competitors.



Is a Honda Pilot a small SUV?


Overview. If a roomy cabin, a comfortable ride, and family-friendly features are at the top of your wish list for your next mid-size, three-row family SUV, the 2025 Honda Pilot delivers just that—and even a little more.



What Toyota SUV compares to Honda Pilot?


If you're looking for an outstanding family-friendly SUV as your next new vehicle in Dover, compare the Honda Pilot vs. Toyota Highlander. Both offer three rows of seating, high-tech features, and plenty of cargo space for drives in New Philadelphia and Uhrichsville.



Is a Honda Pilot as big as a Suburban?


No matter how you measure it, the 2016 Chevrolet Suburban is a larger vehicle than the 2016 Honda Pilot: Overall Width: 80.5 inches vs. 78.6 inches. Wheelbase: 130 inches vs.



Is the Honda Pilot a big SUV?


The Pilot is Honda's largest SUV, although the 2010 Crosstour surpassed the Pilot in length. The Pilot is now currently in its fourth generation, with multiple design changes occurring from getting bigger and resembling a truck to downsizing and becoming sleeker to now a slight mix of both.



Which is bigger, the Honda Pilot or the Toyota Highlander?


The Honda Pilot is bigger than the Toyota Highlander. The 2025 Honda SUV is nearly 200 inches long and 71 inches tall. The current 2024 Toyota Highlander is a smaller midsize SUV that's nearly 195 inches long and just over 68 inches tall.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.