What are the trim packages for the Honda Pilot?
The Honda Pilot lineup, as of the 2024-2025 model years, comprises five trims: LX, EX, EX-L, Touring, and Elite. This article explains what distinguishes each trim and how optional packages or regional offerings can affect what's included.
Understanding trim levels helps buyers balance price with safety tech, interior comfort, and convenience across three rows of seating. This guide covers what to expect in each trim and how they differ from one another.
Current trim lineup
Here is a quick rundown of the five main trims and what generally sets them apart across model years.
- LX — Entry level with essential safety features and practical cargo space. Standard Honda Sensing safety suite and a flexible 3-row seating configuration.
- EX — Adds more tech and convenience features, including a larger infotainment display and smartphone integration options.
- EX-L — Elevates the interior with leather-trim seating and more comfort amenities such as a power-adjustable driver’s seat.
- Touring — A higher level of comfort and tech, often with a premium audio system, navigation, and additional creature comforts.
- Elite — The flagship trim with top-tier features, including the most premium interior finishes and advanced driver-assistance technology.
Across model years, Honda has maintained the same five-trim structure, but features can vary with updates and regional availability. Always verify the exact content on a given vehicle or with a dealer.
Optional packages and regional variations
In some years and markets, Honda has offered special or limited-edition variants and packages beyond the core trim levels. Availability can depend on the model year, dealer inventory, and region, and may include distinct styling cues or added equipment.
For buyers, this means you might encounter trim-specific packages or limited-edition models that sit alongside the five main trims. The best approach is to check the specific model year’s brochure or the dealer’s inventory to see what is currently offered where you live.
How to choose the right trim
Choosing a trim comes down to your priorities: budget, passenger and cargo needs, tech desires, and comfort expectations. If you want essential safety features and a strong value proposition, LX is a solid start. If you value interior comfort and tech, consider EX-L or Touring, and if you want maximum luxury and convenience, Elite is the target. Always test-drive and compare the exact equipment list for the year you’re buying.
Summary
The Honda Pilot is positioned with five core trims—LX, EX, EX-L, Touring, and Elite—each delivering a distinct balance of safety features, technology, and interior comfort. Optional special editions or regional packages may appear in certain years, so confirm current availability with a dealer. By aligning a trim with your budget and needs, you can enjoy a versatile three-row SUV with a strong safety record and Honda reliability.
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.
Which Pilot trim is the best value?
The EX-L is the value leader in the Pilot lineup and therefore our recommended trim. For several thousand extra, it adds wireless smartphone integration, a 9-inch touchscreen, leather-trimmed seating and a power liftgate.
What are the trim packages on the Honda Pilot?
Honda Pilot Trim Levels at a Glance
- The 2025 Honda Pilot trim levels include the Sport, EX-L, Touring, TrailSport, Elite, and Black Edition, with the EX-L and Touring available with HPD wheels.
- All trims accommodate up to eight passengers except for the Trailsport, which has seating for seven.
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.
