What is the difference between Honda Pilot EX and EX L?
The EX-L is the more premium trim, adding leather seating, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and extra convenience features over the EX; the EX focuses on value with cloth seating and essential technology. Specific features can vary by model year and market, so check your brochure for the exact year you’re considering.
Overview of the trims
To understand the gap between EX and EX-L, it helps to look at how interior comfort, technology, exterior conveniences, and pricing differ. The EX-L generally outfits the Pilot with more luxurious materials and powered controls, while the EX emphasizes functionality and value with standard tech.
Interior and seating
EX-L upgrades the cabin with premium materials and additional comfort controls, whereas EX sticks with more basic materials and fewer power adjustments.
- Seating materials: Leather or leather-trim upholstery on the EX-L vs fabric seating on the EX.
- Driver’s seat: Power-adjustable on the EX-L (often with more range) vs manual or more basic adjustments on the EX.
- Other interior comfort: EX-L commonly includes features like a sunroof and an auto-dimming rearview mirror in many model years, while EX focuses on core comforts.
In short, if you want a more luxurious, hands-on adjustable cabin, the EX-L is the better pick; if you’re prioritizing affordability and still want solid comfort, the EX remains a strong option.
Technology and safety features
Both trims share core safety and infotainment tech, though the EX-L often adds optional or upgraded features depending on the year.
- Infotainment: Display Audio with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is commonly available on both, but screen size or features can vary by year.
- Safety: Honda Sensing safety suite (such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, Collision Mitigation Braking System, and Road Departure Mitigation) is typically standard on both EX and EX-L, though year-by-year availability should be confirmed.
- Upgrades: EX-L may offer a higher-tier audio system or other niceties in certain model years.
Overall, the technology and safety framework are similar across trims, with the EX-L offering potential upgrades rather than a wholesale feature gap.
Exterior and convenience features
Convenience and appearance tend to tilt toward the EX-L, though implementations vary by year and market.
- Wheels and lighting: EX-L often has different wheel designs and may include additional lighting features depending on year; EX uses standard wheels for the period.
- Power tailgate: More commonly found on EX-L; verify whether your year includes it as standard or as an option.
- Sunroof: A full or larger sunroof is more frequently associated with EX-L in many years.
For buyers who value ease of access and a more upscale exterior feel, EX-L is typically the better match; otherwise, EX focuses on essential exterior features with strong value.
Pricing and value considerations
Price typically reflects the leap from fabric to leather and the added convenience features. The exact gap depends on model year, region, and option packages.
- Cost delta: EX-L generally commands a higher price than EX due to leather and extra comforts.
- Resale value: Leather and premium conveniences can help retain value, depending on demand and condition.
- Year-specific differences: Feature availability can shift slightly with redesigns or midcycle updates; always verify the brochure for your year.
Bottom line: If premium interior and extra conveniences matter to you, the EX-L justifies the higher price. If you want solid technology and safety without the premium, the EX remains a practical choice.
Summary
The Honda Pilot EX-L is the more luxurious, feature-rich option, emphasizing leather seating, a more adjustable driver’s seat, and added conveniences such as a possible sunroof and power tailgate. The EX is the value-oriented mid-trim, offering strong technology and safety features with cloth seating and fewer premium comforts. Year-by-year differences exist, so always check the exact equipment list for the model year you’re considering.
