2025 Honda Pilot Elite: One Big Problem | Full Specs & Test Drive

[@chadh983]

I’m not too sure about this gentleman‘s kid situation but the removable centre seats in the second row is the reason we are going with the Honda pilot. It is beyond frustrating to want an upper level trim in a vehicle and they normally force you into captains chairs. Having the option is, priceless

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@chadh983 thanks for sharing 👍

[@JacobStiegel]

Same here! We couldn’t order a grand Highlander, this pilot has been amazing for us!

[@munecaeburro]

Totally agree.

[@jayhova1776]

Just looked at a 25 Telluride SX. the back seat 3 row comfort was a joke for 2 adults and a young teen. Tried looking for an SX trim (to get the 360 camera) with the 2nd row bench, is pretty much impossible to find on a dealers lot in my area. Close to pulled the trigger on a 25 Touring.

[@williamvanorman9611]

The safety features of a Honda Pilot are the best. Trust me we know. In 2022 my spouse and I were parked at a red light & rear end by a Peter Built Dump Truck at 48 mph. The Honda Pilot was totaled. We walked away from this shaken, but no injuries. The hospital asked what vehicle we were driving, because we shouldn't be here. True believer in the Honda Pilot, and we just purchased a new one 2025 Honda Pilot EXL. Great vehicle, and family safety. No price tag on that♡ Thanks Honda 🙏

[@HawkeyeRides]

Thanks for sharing

[@marystrand992]

I’ve been driving this model for 2.5 months now and love it! It drives smooth, and plenty of space for the kids with car seats. I like being able to remove the middle seat for the older kids to get in and out easier, but also like having it incase we need to lay the back down and need that bench seat. That feature sold me. Plus, lifetime warranty on the engine and transmission is why I picked this vehicle over the Tahoe. I got the Elite trim for $50g. I was also looking at the Grand Highlander, but Toyota is charging more for very similar features and we had more leg room in the Pilot . Toyota has good resale value, but I don’t plan on trading in. So, overall the Pilot made the most sense to us.

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@marystrand992 thanks for sharing and congratulations

[@blackhouse7646]

We have a problem with our 2019 tahoe. How did you get the lifetime warranty on the engine?

[@DanielHernandez-mu6kd]

Lifetime warranty on the pilot not the Tahoe .

[@mica122213]

ty beautiful

[@El_Famous_W01f]

I just traded my 2011 pilot with 210k miles. It had vcm and i had no issues. I just bought the same model in this video. Same color combo too. Amazing car very happy.

[@HawkeyeRides]

Congratulations and thanks for sharing

[@SpencersStuffTV]

I chose the subaru ascent over this because the shifter and center console sits much lower in the vehicle. I'm 6 foot 5 and have struggled to find something horizontally that fits me. I don't know why these manufacturers insist on the massive center console. My knee is always jamming into them and it's extremely uncomfortable

[@HawkeyeRides]

The Ascent is awesome congratulations and thanks for sharing

[@markhu7454]

I had TL, MDX, RDX, Odyssey, Passport with V6 cylinder deactivation. No problem at all.

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@markhu7454 thanks for sharing

[@sugardove6075]

Big issue ... 3 or 4 cylinders turned off and oil fuel baking with no fuel providing cooling. Direct injection only. Good luck. Pos.

[@6thgen002]

​@@sugardove6075if you drove it hard where it doesn't activate cylinder deactivation you will be fine. Also there a bypass you can install where it tricks the vehicle where it doesn't activate cylinder deactivation

[@v12kingV10]

@@markhu7454 today recalled for fires

[@BalsamicVinegarAce]

As for the cylinder deactivation, I trust Honda with it way more than American manufacturers. I think Honda does it correctly

[@HawkeyeRides]

Thanks for your insight

[@WilburClark-c7q]

I think only time will tell

[@seymourbutts8850]

It makes know difference in the brand it's a horrible idea and will be a problem.

[@loski1955]

Cylinder deactivation is a no go item for me. I need to be able to disable it in a driving mode...........

[@Cfox2000]

This is still an issue for Honda as well, as a Honda Warranty manager engineers anticipate this years in advance. Dealers offer cleaners as options to prolong engine life past warranty of parts

[@mommyof7282]

We just bought a 2025 pilot trail sport. I’m having a problem getting comfortable in it. The seat is short and causes my legs to hurt. I don’t like that the passenger seat doesn’t have 10 way adjustment with lumbar. Other than that I would really like it.

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@mommyof7282 congratulations and thank you for sharing

[@PangChou-q4y]

I have 2006 pilot , no problem still good

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@PangChou-q4y thanks for sharing your owners insight. How do you feel about the problem in the review? I know the older gen’s are awesome.

[@selwyndacosta1748]

Just deactivate the VCM using the aftermarket kit and the car will improve

[@skidbootify]

looks like a good machine to me....smooth, comfortable and has enough horsepower.... I think its too expensive but I think ALL vehicles nowadays are... Thanks for the video and Happy New Year!

[@HawkeyeRides]

You’re welcome and happy 2025 🎊

[@DigiModelsdfz]

great content thanks

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@DigiModelsdfz you’re welcome

[@infiniti8153]

i’ve been really considering this vehicle . but the cylinder management just turned me off .

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@infiniti8153 it’s nice they still have a v6

[@ForwardThinkingIncome]

Good review however the best thing about the Honda Pilot is the side impact measurements from IIHS. I look at all safety ratings then the vehicles. That is why this might be my wife's next vehicle. I agree I hate cylinder deactivation.

[@HawkeyeRides]

Thanks for the info

[@Aj85234480]

I agree. I read that has reinforced side beams above and beyond what is needed for this vehicle. Just hesitant because lack of overhead rear AC vents. In 115 degree weather that's a deal breaker.

[@johndavies1475]

VCM and direct fuel system can cause issues [DI]

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@johndavies1475 I agree John

[@seymourbutts8850]

It will cause issues.

[@mikes9198]

I purchased the Elite in August and traded a 2018 Pilot Elite. Two things I do not like is the new windshield wiper set-up and the fog lights. To lift the wipers off the windshield for cleaning you must lift and hold the wiper arm on steering wheel within 10 seconds of turning the vehicle off. This causes the wipers to center on your windshield. Only then can you lift the wiper blade off the windshield to clean it. It’s irritating to clean the windshield and then have the wiper blades smear it when returning to their off position. Second concerning the fog lights, I’m extremely disappointed. They do not illuminate in front of the vehicle like my prior pilot and do not help when I have driven in fog. I think it’s because sensors have been placed where the fog lights used to be. Poor design on both things which I hope is corrected in future models.

[@HawkeyeRides]

Thanks for the info and congratulations Mike

[@JohnnyBeans-w9k]

I have the 2021 Black edition and just paid off two Honda’s. The second one is the CRV. I think I’m just holding on to them.

[@HawkeyeRides]

Thanks for sharing Johnny

[@screennamenottaken2]

The Honda Pilot has caught my eye recently, but has models with the cylinder deactivation been a problem in the past? Is there a way to disable it? Can a mechanic disable it? Does driving in Sport Mode disable it? Car manufacturers seem to try too hard to include all kinds of gimmicky electronics or fuel saving features. To each their own but I don’t particularly drive a ton of miles a year and don’t care much about mpg, at all. I hate in some of the newer vehicles where it does that crap at a stop where it turns off the engine. If it’s an option that can be turned on/off with a button then that’s fine. If they just stick you with it, it’d make me look more at other options.

[@HawkeyeRides]

No you cannot disable it. I’m sure you could find aftermarket mods but this could void your warranty.

[@davidjackson8794]

I disabled mine on a 2012 with an aftermarket part, took 10 minutes. No engine codes and gas mileage too close to call.

[@Japplesnap]

MDX also has a touchscreen.

[@HawkeyeRides]

For the new 2025 it does at the time of this review the 2025 didn’t have talks of the update.

[@marisao6723]

When it comes to money vs features what’s best trim?

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@marisao6723 touring or elite

[@NMIBUBBLE]

Are the seats as wide as the 2025 honda odyssey ex-l ? Wondering if the Pilot seats are? Thanks

[@HawkeyeRides]

Yes

[@jameswalsh6131]

Great review Anthony. I did not know about the cylinder deactivation and I would be hesitant to go with that. Does the Passport have it as well? I just remember what a disaster it was for GM (along with the diesel engines) back in the day and though I am sure they have made huge strides in engineering I think I'd look at something else. 111 here today and the real heat is supposed to come tomorrow and Thursday. I don't have plans to go out but I might have to make a sushi run 😁 The regular Jetta seems like it's unpowered so of course I'd want the GLI lol! I saw a European review for the new Q5. Not sure if the US spec will have the screen on the drivers door and the passenger side. It's a bit different but I imagine they are something you could get used to. Hope all is well and happy Tuesday Anthony

[@HawkeyeRides]

The Passport has it too James but like I said in other comments at least we still have a naturally aspirated v6. It was 106.5 in St Pete today with some new Volvos. Luckily I finished before 3pm but I started before 7am so I guess it worked out better without the strong temperatures. I hope you stay in the ac as that is crazy hot 🥵. Sushi sounds delicious, I haven’t had some for a little while, maybe I’ll grab a lunch this weekend 😁. The Jetta is a cool vehicle but you can’t go base and I have seen the cameras for the side mirrors in Europe it is really cool but we will not see them here for a little while. Happy Tuesday James

[@davidjackson8794]

My 2012 Pilot came with cylinder deactivation and it wasn't an issue until the engine mounts started aging. You'd basically get more vibration at cruising speeds. I installed an after market product that tricked the car into always using 6 cylinders and have never looked back. That was about 5 years ago and has never been an issue, with throwing codes or any performance.

[@DeloresBrown-q3x]

I love this meets my needs❤

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@DeloresBrown-q3x awesome

[@bensonher1606]

I have 2023 trial sport love it, smooth ride does not feel like suv. Dollar to dollar over Toyota Highlander any day

[@HawkeyeRides]

Thanks for sharing

[@Holyheart1]

Is there more room? What about the mpg ?

[@bensonher1606]

Lots of room and mpg is great 24 on highway 20 in town

[@user-jo4en1zl7b]

I did not notice a spare tire in the back is there any 😮

[@HawkeyeRides]

You can option one

[@fredmoss4540]

Yes the spare tire a doughnut tire is located underneath exterior of Pilot. However with the TrailSport Pilot trim you get a Full-sized spare tire located underneath exterior. But the TrailSport Pilot trim only get Captains Chairs 2nd Row No removable center seat. I think the rear storage well not as deep as other Pilots that have option to stow that removable seat. With an Acura MDX in comparison. You can not stowaway it's removable center seat underneath rear storage compartment.

[@mark8684]

What are the power adjustments of the front passenger seat? Power lumbar? If so, 2-way or 4-way? Power height? Please.

[@HawkeyeRides]

It’s a total of 4 way like I say on the seat part of the review. Back, forward for the seat to move to the dashboard plus back and forward for the back of the seat.

[@2004cyrus]

You don’t get 4-way lumber at all on an average vehicle like this. You’d be lucky to get 2-way lumber. Pretty much have to go to luxury from Japan or Germany for that.

[@JeffSwank-x6o]

You should show the speedometer during acceleration.

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@JeffSwank-x6o why do it matter

[@seymourbutts8850]

​@HawkeyeRides I don't know why do it? 😅😅😅

[@ericpena3268]

Can you comment on the government regulations on MPGs? Lately many shoppers have been mad that vehicles are given turbos, or auto stop/start, or VCM engines. And then at the far end of the spectrum are hybrids, PHEVs, and full EVs. But it seems that the push for more MPGs are not necessarily shoppers but more like government regulations forcing auto manufacturers to produce cleaner and more efficient vehicle. And hey who doesn't like more MPGS?......... But not at the expense of reliability in my opinion. So Honda seems to be trying to hold on to Natural Aspirated engines as loooong as possible before having to move to smaller engines with turbos. But in order to do that they have to compromise somewhere......et al: VCM :/

[@HawkeyeRides]

This is all because of epa. The government apply an extra tax to the companies that do not achieve the amount that is set. With Honda it's not that they are holding on to the v6, it is because with all of the vehicles they make, you add them together and divide it by that number (of vehicles it makes), only the fuel parts is what you add and if the mpg is not at the government set number they pay a fine or tax. The tax increase depending on the total number of vehicles the company makes and how far off they are. This is also why companies have other companies in it. Like Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep etc. They have some loop holes to get around the fee but with some companies, they have too many gas alcoholics (lol) leading to high fines and tax. Another reason why they are dropping these v8 engines and v6 engines to add turbos so it meets the requirements of the government. In short, none of these companies care what the fuel is so we have to have laws as we have not really done much engineering of new engines to make it better so the quick fix a turbo 4. The newest engineering we have had was from Nissan with the Infiniti QX50 vc turbocharge engine which adds a multi link to adjust the compression ratio to get mpg like a diesl 4 cylinder and if you mash the gas pedal it will get mpg like a v6. That was released in 2019 and hadd over 500,000 miles of testing. This engine has been prone to problems with shrapnel. What would be nice is if the auto industry would develop something new but that's not going to happen.

[@felicelgato59]

Cylinder deactivation is not a problem with hondas. Maybe gmc ford chevy or any other brand. Honda is the best. Honda owner for 30 years now

[@HawkeyeRides]

Thanks for your owners insight

[@seymourbutts8850]

Yes, it is no matter the brand.

[@billthestinker]

I thought Honda got rid of vcm on the 2023 pilot? did they bring it back?

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@billthestinker they have it you can cross check with Honda.com and see for yourself. I wouldn’t say it has something it doesn’t 👍

[@brianbarbe9646]

Does the NA V6 on the MDX have the same cylinder deactivation feature? Don't recall that being mentioned before on other reviews. Nice vehicle and a good alternative to Grand Highlander. Share your concerns about the cylinder deactivation engine though. Would probably be deal breaker for me.

[@HawkeyeRides]

Yes it does, with Honda it isn’t so bad but GM they have a lot of issues where the pistons hit the wall and unfortunately you need a new engine. The VCM isn’t my favorite but at least Honda has keep the v6 as Nissan is changing to the vc-turbo 4 which will leave Honda as the only naturally aspirated v6.

[@frankbiz]

Once you said it has piston management, that was the deal breaker. They will have big problems with that engine. No thank you.

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@frankbiz if companies want to do this way wouldn’t they just offer a 4 cylinder so we can keep the v6 alive

[@TheAutomotiveReview]

I agree with you that Honda needs to eliminate the VCM on the Pilot to ensure engine longevity. Honda is lagging behind other OEMs when it comes to technology and HMI (Human Machine Interface). There is no need for paddle shifters on this class of vehicle. Camera based rear review mirror is necessary on this size vehicle. Interior noise dampening is necessary for interior comfort and engine noise reduction.

[@HawkeyeRides]

All great points

[@darenmcgovern4285]

Just hit 100,000 miles on my pilot and just changed plugs. They were dirty but we're not as bad as I thought they would be due to the vcm.

[@KewalTmg]

best car but inside display is small

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@KewalTmg I agree the screen needs some work

[@steve8421]

Cylinder management is the kryptonite to long life durable engines.

[@HawkeyeRides]

A change that isn’t people like or don’t 👍

[@yamiletsnelson2253]

As a momma with back facing car seats I need the vents in the ceiling. It’s the only thing holding me back from getting this 😞

[@HawkeyeRides]

I agree I have 3 kids myself and air needs to be everywhere 😁

[@s2324]

Did your parents vehicle have air vents everywhere? [Roan;y not. It is a nice to have feature, but not needed in my personal opinion.

[@yamiletsnelson2253]

@@s2324 no because I grew up poor and we didn’t have a vehicle. If I’m going to spend that amount on a car it better have everything I want.

[@2004cyrus]

@@s2324agreed people now are so spoiled

[@2004cyrus]

@@yamiletsnelson2253it’s not that expensive

[@2004cyrus]

Wow that infotainment screen sure seems small.

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@2004cyrus with all the other companies going to a one panel two screens, I agree Honda needs to update this.

[@2004cyrus]

@ yessir thank you.

[@JayBD626]

Does it function well and convey information properly? Of course it does. Why all of a sudden is having a smaller screen such an abomination to some folks?

[@randall6144]

Toyota eating Hondas lunch, we have a 2017 Pilot, like it enough to by buy the Honda Pilot HYBRID - maybe 2027????

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@randall6144 thanks for sharing

[@fredmoss4540]

No Check out 2024 sales of Pilot.

[@distrongker]

It’s a dodge Durango

[@HawkeyeRides]

No it’s a Honda

[@v12kingV10]

now recalled for fires lol

[@HawkeyeRides]

This one has been for maybe a month now

[@pahanin2480]

Honda is falling behind toyota and the gap is getting more and more noticeable

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@pahanin2480 it depends on what a consumer is looking

[@heromuff7338]

Toyota can’t sell any cars due to outrageous pricing and major issues with their new engines.

[@JeffSwank-x6o]

Head room: For a 6' 4" gentleman? I don't think so.

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@JeffSwank-x6o I’m 6’3 👍

[@Elamigodedios1050]

I rather buy a Honda or Nissan not American made

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@Elamigodedios1050 thanks for sharing

[@shawn1869]

The car sounds too whiny... Needs more insulation and refinement. Your can tell it's going to be clunky 60k into ownership

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@shawn1869 thanks for your input 👍

[@XX-166]

2025 with all those incandescent bulbs on the outside…SMH

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@XX-166 they all leave room for updates

[@XX-166]

@ that’s the same thing they said when this thing was introduced.

[@amosjsoma]

Until Honda releases the Pilot and Odyssey with a hybrid drive train they will lose market share. Toyota can't produce them fast enough.

[@HawkeyeRides]

It is something people are wanting 👍

[@cynicalcb]

Ready for vehicles to die faster huh with tons of recalls. Fun times

[@heromuff7338]

All of Toyotas new engines are having major problems 😂 they are not reliable any more with the new generation

[@quinnh9107]

Sslow

[@HawkeyeRides]

It’s not bad for an suv

[@jameslester4474]

The problem with Honda is they only have one hybrid. The Prologue, Passport and Ridgeline all should have been HYBRIDS in 2025! Hondas slipping into irrelevant land with their slow updates. Sure old school people are comfortable with the V6 , but times have changed and there is nothing wrong with a 4 Cyl properly sized along with a Hybrid powertrain to get the fuel economy numbers all up over 30 MPGs across the board of their models. Now is a great opportunity for Honda, as Toyota screwed up BIG time with their iforce max powertrain basically getting the same mileage as the non Hybrid, as they used the hybrid system WRONG for Power, not economy. I drive a SUV right now with a tiny 1.6l 4 cyl that is hybrid and gets over 37 MPG average , and will snap your neck back in sport mode if you do desire. I personally could care less if a vehicle has 400 BHP, for my daily driver. It needs comfort, economy, luxury to be determined by trims, and reliability. Honda being known for reliability ,needs to step it up and NOW, not two or three model years down the road ! Build a Hybrid powertrain that gets great MPGs , decent power, and make the interiors competitive with the Koreans, and Toyota, and Honda will kill the market. Or, keep doing what you all are doing , and wither away...

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@jameslester4474 thanks for the info 👍

[@aaronzheng519]

do you remember when CRV hybrid first came out and the mpg was pretty bad too? lol... it probably will take another 3-4 years before they could come up with a good one. I read some other news that Honda CEO said they are ready to put a lot of models to hybrid....I just took the delivery of 2025 pilot EX-L with $4000 off MSRP, probably will change something more fuel efficient in 4 years. highlander and grand highlanders(on hold) are so expensive... they have markups on their hybrid models.....the interest rate is like 7% vs Honda is 4%...I really like the new Chevy Traverse... but their interest rate is 10% which completely kills the deal

[@davidgonzalez3562]

There is a recall for the Grand Highlander and Toyota will be available to sell them till December. That’s a big Red Flag! I got my Pilot 2025 1 month ago and I’m so happy with that Amazing V6. I don’t care to spend a few dollars extra in gas to feel that pleasure. I drove the GH and naaa Not the same smooth powerful feeling. 4 cylinder vs 6 N/A to move 4,000 pounds will make a big difference in the engine life 150,000 vs 300,000 Mine is getting 19.3 mpg and Im ok with that!

[@Holyheart1]

@@davidgonzalez3562your not worried about the engine being vcm?

[@fredmoss4540]

​@@davidgonzalez3562When I get my 2025 Pilot Elite I'm still going to use Premium fuel Shell mostly. I have had my 2000 Acura 3.2TL sedan for in a few weeks will be 25yrs. It has a 17 gal fuel tank the Pilot has 18 gal. The 2007 Ridgeline we have in family uses Regular Fuel but Owners Manual states using Premium for towing. We never towed anything but I put Premium in it when driving on highway trips. It seem to perform better in response. Whe I went to Ridgeline Owners Meets in early days. The Chief Engineer of the Honda Ridgeline was there. He said burn Premium fuel. Some technical stuff he explained when Owners were crying for more HP. It's the way the vehicle was shifting more responsive. So haven't read Owners Manual to newer Pilot does it say Premium when towing. That Regular Acura MDX recommends Premium to get 5 extra HP. I know it's tuning might be different. But I will mix Premium and Regular often.

[@vkhiev]

In 2025 honda still using the same old 3.5 inefficient engine with timing belt that cannot make 300hp while guzzling gas

[@HawkeyeRides]

It’s better than a turbo4 but I guess it depends on the buyer 👍

[@fredmoss4540]

Other reviews say Honda Suspension better Dialed in than say Toyota Highlander Grand Highlander also the Turbo 4 that some people Dislike more HP but noisy.

[@bobgonet6107]

And having to change the timing belt every 105,000 miles.

[@BlahBlahBlah85651]

Horrendously outdated and inefficient engine. Still uses timing belt. Cylinder deactivation. Wow

[@HawkeyeRides]

@@BlahBlahBlah85651 to each its own 👍

[@BlahBlahBlah85651]

@@HawkeyeRides Ironically, NHTSA announces a probe into 1.4 million Honda vehicles with the V6 for catastrophic engine failure with any Honda/Acura V6. LOL

[@michaelG1122]

This car's touch screen comes straight from 1990s. Simply atrocious. Kia Telluride is way better and is $10,000 cheaper.

[@HawkeyeRides]

I’m not a big fan of large screens but it needs some work

[@v12kingV10]

worst in class. doesn’t make 300hp in the year 2024. poor mpg, looks like a 1998 isuzu rodeo, honda fans will be pleased lol

[@HawkeyeRides]

It’s not the worst in class, almost every rival is going turbo4 at least this still has a v6. It can have some updates but it’s a Honda 👍

[@v12kingV10]

@@HawkeyeRides “still has a v-6” has barely anymore hp and less torque than a turbo 4. And this v-6 is new and still can’t make 300hp No hybrid no technology. This is to please honda faithful who buy average products

[@HawkeyeRides]

@BB2001hjk I wouldn’t say 50-60k is an average vehicle, I do not own a Honda myself but to each its own

[@henrylam1120]

Worst in class comment without any technical justification. The Honda j series v6 among most reliable engine

[@v12kingV10]

@@henrylam1120 new engine can’t make 300hp. Terrible mpg, No hybrid available. Tiny screen, Same interior as hr-v or civic. The seat trick thing is cool. Honda knows its fans will buy average. So you get average products