The Car Guide’s 2019 Best Buys: Honda Pilot

Published on November 19, 2018 in News by Michel Deslauriers

In order to help consumers make the right decision, every year, The Car Guide announces its Best Buys in all passenger-vehicle categories on the market. In the midsize SUV segment, the 2019 Best Buy title goes to the Honda Pilot.

For the 2019 model year, the third-generation Pilot benefits from revised grille, bumpers, taillights and alloy wheel designs. In addition, a new Black Edition variant boasts a sinister, monochrome appearance that we find quite pleasing.

Since its introduction in 2003, the Pilot offers a cabin that can comfortable seat up to eight passengers, and this formula hasn’t changed since. The VUS obtains a new infotainment system with a real volume knob, while features such as CabinControl (for controlling audio and climate settings through a smartphone) and CabinTalk (a built-in PA system so front-seat passengers can talk through the 2nd- and 3rd-row speakers) have been added as well. Parents and children will appreciate family road trips even more!

Honda reprogrammed the nine-speed automatic transmission in order to make perform better, while the automatic start/stop system runs more smoothly. We love the 3.5-litre V6 that produces 280 horsepower and allows for a maximum towing capacity of 5000 lbs. (2268 kg). While not perfect, the Pilot’s reliability record is a plus, as is its ride comfort and driving dynamics. The Pilot starts at $41,090 before freight and delivery charges, and all-wheel drive is included.

In second place, we find the Chevrolet Traverse (MSRP from $38,300 with AWD) that impresses us by its spacious and comfortable cockpit, its excellent infotainment system and its list of advanced safety features at a reasonable price. Third place goes to both the Volkswagen Atlas (MSRP from $39,790 with AWD) and the Subaru Ascent (MSRP from $35,995) for their versatile cabins, their fun-to-drive factor and their capable all-wheel drivetrains.

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