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What are the trim levels for a pilot?

The Honda Pilot is a popular midsize SUV known for its spacious interior, versatile features, and reliable performance. When it comes to purchasing a Pilot, buyers have several trim level options to choose from, each offering a unique set of features and capabilities. In this article, we'll dive into the various trim levels available for the Honda Pilot and help you understand the key differences between them.


The Honda Pilot Trim Levels


The Honda Pilot is available in the following trim levels:



  • LX - The base trim level, offering essential features like a 3.5-liter V6 engine, front-wheel drive, and a 5-inch infotainment display.

  • EX - Adds features like an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, tri-zone automatic climate control, and push-button start.

  • EX-L - Includes leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, power liftgate, and a power-adjustable driver's seat.

  • Touring - Upgrades to a premium audio system, navigation, and a hands-free power liftgate.

  • Elite - The top-of-the-line trim, featuring features like a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, and a wireless phone charger.


Each trim level offers a unique combination of features and amenities, allowing buyers to choose the Pilot that best fits their needs and budget.


Key Differences Between Trim Levels


The main differences between the Honda Pilot trim levels lie in the available features and technology. The base LX trim provides the essentials, while the higher-end trims, such as the Touring and Elite, offer more premium features and advanced technology. Some of the key differences include:



  • Infotainment System - The LX and EX trims come with a 5-inch or 8-inch infotainment display, respectively, while the Touring and Elite trims feature a larger 8-inch touchscreen with navigation and a premium audio system.

  • Seating and Comfort - The EX-L, Touring, and Elite trims offer leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, as well as power-adjustable driver's seats, while the Elite trim adds heated and ventilated front seats.

  • Convenience Features - The higher trims, such as the Touring and Elite, include features like a hands-free power liftgate, wireless phone charging, and a panoramic sunroof.

  • All-Wheel Drive - While the LX and EX trims come standard with front-wheel drive, the higher trims offer the option of all-wheel drive for improved traction and capability.


By understanding the key differences between the Honda Pilot trim levels, you can make an informed decision and choose the model that best suits your needs and preferences.

What is the order of Honda trim levels?


LX – Entry-level trim with essential features. Sport – Sportier design and styling. EX – Added comfort and technology. Special Edition (SE) – Premium features at a great value.



Does the Pilot have a luxury trim?


The Touring trim is the first of three luxury trim offerings for the 2025 Pilot. It expands on the features offered in the Sport, EX-L, and TrailSport, adding a number of luxury and convenience features designed to make it an even more comfortable and enjoyable SUV.



What are the trim levels for Honda Pilot?


The 2025 Honda Pilot has six main trim levels: Sport, EX-L, TrailSport, Touring, Elite, and Black Edition. Some trims, like the EX-L and Touring, also have an option for HPD wheels. The base Sport trim starts with essential features, while the top-tier Elite and Black Edition trims come fully loaded with the most premium amenities. 
This video provides an overview of the 2025 Honda Pilot trim levels: 58sFast Car HelpYouTube · Jun 26, 2025

  • Sport: The entry-level trim with standard features like 20-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, and a 7-inch touchscreen. 
  • EX-L: Adds features like leather-trimmed seats and a larger 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 
  • TrailSport: An off-road focused trim that comes standard with all-wheel drive and unique features like all-terrain tires. 
  • Touring: Includes high-end technology and comfort features, often with a more premium audio system and second-row captain's chairs. 
  • Elite: The most luxurious option, with standard all-wheel drive and top-of-the-line features like ventilated front seats, a panoramic roof, and a head-up display. 
  • Black Edition: A new top-tier trim that builds on the Elite, offering unique interior and exterior styling elements. 

This video discusses the differences in features and price between the Honda Pilot trims: 58sNamCarYouTube · Jul 7, 2025



Which is better, pilot touring or elite?


The Honda Pilot Elite is better than the Touring if you want more luxury features and technology, while the Touring is a strong choice if you prefer to save money. The Elite builds on the Touring by adding premium upgrades like ventilated front seats, a 10.2-inch driver information screen, a head-up display, and acoustic laminated glass for a quieter cabin. 
You can watch this video to see the interior of the Honda Pilot Touring and Elite: 1m703SpeedYouTube · May 7, 2024

Feature Elite Touring
Standard AWD Yes No (AWD is optional)
Front Seats Heated and ventilated Heated
Second-Row Seats Heated Standard (Elite adds heated seats)
Driver Information Display 10.2-inch screen 9-inch screen (standard on lower trims)
Head-Up Display Yes No
Audio System 12-speaker premium audio system Standard premium audio system
Glass Acoustic laminated front and rear glass Standard windshield glass (Elite adds more acoustic glass)
Other Features Heated wiper zone, rain-sensing wipers, hands-free power tailgate, LED ambient lighting Hands-free power tailgate, rain-sensing wipers, LED ambient lighting
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This video discusses the key differences between the Honda Pilot Touring and Elite models: 1mHawkeye RidesYouTube · Sep 3, 2024
Choose the Elite if you prioritize luxury and technology
  • You want the quietest cabin possible thanks to acoustic glass throughout the vehicle. 
  • You desire the convenience of ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. 
  • You prefer having a head-up display for key driving information. 
  • You want the premium audio experience and the larger driver information screen. 

Choose the Touring if you prioritize value
  • You're comfortable with heated front seats instead of ventilated ones. 
  • You don't need the head-up display or the larger driver information screen. 
  • You are happy with the standard premium audio system. 
  • You want to save money while still getting a well-equipped and comfortable SUV. 


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.