What is the difference between a Honda Pilot EX and EX-L?
The Honda Pilot EX-L is the more premium version and typically adds leather seating and extra comfort features not found on the EX. The EX sits below, offering a strong feature set at a lower price; exact equipment varies by model year and market.
What the EX offers and how it differs from the EX-L
The following list highlights areas where the EX generally diverges from the EX-L. Equipment can change with model year and region, so verify the exact spec sheet for the year you’re considering.
- Upholstery
- Interior comfort and trim
- Convenience and seating adjustments
- Infotainment and audio options
- Availability of premium convenience features
In practice, the EX provides a solid range of standard amenities and tech, while the EX-L leans toward a more upscale feel with premium materials and additional creature comforts. Always check the specific year’s brochure for precise inclusions.
Upholstery and interior materials
A key difference is typically in materials and interior finishes. The EX-L usually replaces cloth seating with leather-trim seats or leather-like upholstery, which changes the cabin’s look and feel and can affect cleaning and maintenance.
- EX: cloth upholstery as standard, with fabric surfaces throughout the cabin.
- EX-L: leather-trim seats (or leather-like material) are commonly standard, elevating the cabin’s premium feel.
For many buyers, the switch from cloth to leather is a primary motivation to choose the EX-L, as it signals a step up in perceived quality and comfort.
Comfort, convenience, and seating features
The EX-L generally adds or upgrades several comfort-oriented elements. The exact lineup varies by year, but buyers typically see improvements in seating and convenience on the EX-L.
- Power-adjustable seating: The EX-L commonly includes at least a more extensively adjustable driver’s seat, and sometimes the front passenger seat is upgraded as well.
- Heated front seats: Heated seating is frequently standard on the EX-L, while it may be optional or unavailable on the EX depending on the year.
- Power tailgate: A hands-free or power-operated liftgate is often part of the EX-L package in many model years, whereas the EX may rely on a manual liftgate or a simpler power liftgate option depending on the year.
These upgrades contribute to a more comfortable and convenient daily experience in the EX-L, especially for families or frequent travelers.
Infotainment and technology
- Display and audio: The EX-L often features a larger touchscreen or a premium audio system compared to the EX, though some years keep similar base systems with different software capabilities.
- NAV and connectivity: Built-in navigation or enhanced connectivity may appear on EX-L in some generations, whereas the EX typically relies on smartphone integration and standard display sizes.
Because infotainment packages are frequently updated, verify the specific year’s screen size, features, and available navigation for accurate comparison.
Safety systems and driver-assist features
Honda Sensing and related safety tech are commonly present across both trims in modern Pilot generations, but the breadth of features can expand with higher trims or newer model years.
- Core safety: Honda Sensing suite (including collision mitigation braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and road departure mitigation) is often standard on EX and EX-L, with minor feature differences by year.
- Additional safety aids: Some years may offer extra driver-assist options on the EX-L, though the base EX typically covers the essentials.
Overall, both trims prioritize safety with Honda’s Sensing features, but you may see more refined or extended capabilities on the EX-L depending on the year.
Choosing between EX and EX-L: practical guidance
To decide which trim suits you, weigh the premium feel of the EX-L against the value-conscious stance of the EX. Consider how much you value leather interior, potential heated seats, a power tailgate, and any year-specific infotainment upgrades.
- Budget and value: If price is a primary concern, the EX offers strong features without the premium leather. If you want premium materials and extra conveniences, the EX-L is the logical upgrade.
- Comfort vs. practicality: Leather seats and enhanced trim in the EX-L can improve daily comfort, while the EX remains a very capable family SUV with robust standard equipment.
- Year and market variations: Feature availability shifts by model year and region; always confirm the exact specs for the year you’re shopping.
Bottom line: The EX-L is the more luxurious option with leather and typically additional comfort features, while the EX provides a balanced, lower-price alternative with most of the core Pilots’ capabilities.
Summary
In short, the main difference between the Honda Pilot EX and EX-L centers on interior materials and comfort-focused equipment: the EX-L usually adds leather seats, a more refined interior, and sometimes a power tailgate and heated front seats, along with potential infotainment upgrades. The EX remains a strong value proposition with plentiful features but without the premium touches found on the EX-L. Always verify the exact feature set for the model year you’re considering, as specifications can change.
