2017 Honda Pilot EX-L

2007 HONDA PILOT EX L 4dr SUV
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3.5L V6 280hp 262ft. lbs.

Here’s why many owners consider it “best in class”:
1. One of the Best Family Interiors in the Segment
The Pilot EX-L offers an incredibly roomy and practical cabin with:
3 rows of seating
room for up to 8 passengers
huge cargo space
excellent storage compartments
easy third-row access
Families loved how usable the interior felt compared to tighter competitors like the Highlander or Explorer. Consumer Reports praised its roomy cabin and functionality.
2. Smooth & Powerful 3.5L V6
The 3.5L V6 producing 280 horsepower delivers strong acceleration while remaining smooth and refined. Reviewers consistently praised how effortlessly the Pilot moves for a large SUV.
3. Outstanding Ride Comfort
One reason people love the Pilot is because it drives more like a comfortable crossover than a bulky SUV. The suspension absorbs bumps well, road noise is low, and long trips are easy on passengers. Many owners specifically mention road-trip comfort as a major strength.
4. Excellent Fuel Economy for a 3-Row SUV
The front-wheel-drive EX-L delivers impressive MPG for a large SUV, helping it beat many V6 competitors at the gas pump. Car and Driver noted its fuel economy was near the top of its class.
5. Honda Reliability & Longevity
Honda’s reputation for long-term durability is a huge reason buyers choose the Pilot. Many owners report well over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. Reliability studies and ownership reports consistently place later-model Pilots among the better choices in the midsize SUV category.
6. Strong Safety Reputation
The Pilot earned excellent crash-test scores and became a favorite for safety-conscious families. The EX-L trim includes advanced safety and convenience features that helped it compete with much newer SUVs.
7. EX-L Trim Hits the Sweet Spot
The EX-L trim is widely considered the “best value” trim because it adds premium features without the higher cost and complexity of the top trims. Common EX-L features include:
leather seats
power moonroof
heated front seats
power liftgate
blind-spot camera
tri-zone climate control
push-button start
It gives a near-luxury feel without luxury maintenance costs.
8. Huge Real-World Practicality
The Pilot excels at everyday life:
school runs
road trips
hauling kids
cargo hauling
towing small trailers
commuting
The flexible seating and cargo layout make it one of the most usable SUVs in its class.
9. Strong Resale Value
Honda vehicles typically hold value extremely well, and the Pilot is no exception. Kelley Blue Book specifically noted its strong resale reputation and long-term value retention.
10. Quiet Confidence Instead of Flash
The Pilot doesn’t try to be flashy or overly sporty. Instead, it focuses on:
dependability
comfort
family usability
low ownership stress