The Honda Pilot is a popular midsize SUV that offers a great combination of space, comfort, and driving capability. For 2023, Honda continues to offer the Pilot in five trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, Touring, and Elite. The top Touring and Elite trims add more luxury and technology features, but which one is the better option for buyers?
This comprehensive guide examines the key differences between the 2023 Pilot Touring and Elite to help you decide.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Touring | Elite |
| Price | Starts at $46,415 | Starts at $51,315 |
| Engine | 3.5L V6 (280hp) | 3.5L V6 (280hp) |
| Fuel Economy | 19/26/22 mpg | 19/26/22 mpg |
| Seating | 8 passengers | 7 passengers (2nd row captain’s chairs) |
| Notable Features | Heated steering wheel, wireless phone charger, hands-free power tailgate, rain-sensing wipers | Perforated leather seats, ventilated front seats, heated 2nd row seats, auto-dimming side mirrors, panoramic roof |
Exterior Styling And Dimensions
The Touring and Elite share the same exterior dimensions and styling. Both ride on 20-inch alloy wheels and feature LED headlights, fog lights, and taillights. The overall shape and profile are unchanged from the previous Pilot generation.
With crisp lines and bold grille, the Pilot has an athletic, truck-inspired look. The Elite adds a few chrome accents on the window trim, but otherwise the exterior is identical between the two trims.
Interior Design And Technology
Inside, the Touring and Elite interiors look similar at first glance with soft-touch surfaces and upscale trim. However, the Elite takes luxury to the next level with perforated milano leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, heated 2nd row captain’s chairs, and ambient lighting. The Elite also includes a panoramic roof that gives the cabin an even more open, airy feeling.
Both trims come well equipped with technology and convenience features. An 8-inch touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless phone charging, and a 10-speaker audio system are standard. The Touring adds a hands-free power tailgate, while the Elite upgrades to a rear entertainment system with 10.2-inch screen and PA system.
Also Read: Differences Between Honda Passport Trailsport And Elite.
Performance And Capability
There are no mechanical differences between the Touring and Elite trims. Both use the same 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. This proven powertrain provides smooth, robust acceleration while delivering up to 22 mpg combined fuel economy. The Pilot is also quite nimble for its size thanks to precise steering and handling.
With standard all-wheel drive, the Pilot delivers surefooted grip and control in inclement weather. Drivers can also select different drive modes to tailor the driving dynamics. Maximum towing capacity is an impressive 5,000 pounds on both trims when properly equipped. Overall, the Pilot provides a great balance of power, efficiency, and versatility.
Safety Features And Driver Aids
Safety is a key highlight of the Pilot. Both the Touring and Elite come equipped with the Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver assists. This includes collision mitigation braking, road departure mitigation, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, and more. Additional standard safety features include blind spot information, front and rear parking sensors, and a multi-angle rearview camera.
The Elite trim takes safety up one more notch by adding Surround View parking cameras and parking sensors with automated braking. But otherwise, the core safety tech is similar between the two top trims. With 9 airbags, the Pilot aims to provide maximum protection for occupants as well.
Seating And Cargo Space
A key difference between the Touring and Elite is the 2nd row seating configuration. The Touring comes with an 8-passenger setup using a three-across 60/40 split bench. The Elite switches this to two captain’s chairs, reducing capacity to 7 passengers but increasing comfort. Access to the third row is easy in both versions thanks to one-touch slide mechanisms on the second row seats.
Cargo space is abundant in the Pilot. With the third row folded, there is 82.1 cubic feet of room. Both trims also have underfloor storage compartments to keep valuables out of sight. The Pilot can readily accommodate gear for a family road trip or home improvement hauling needs.
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Cost And Value Comparison
The Elite commands about a $5,000 premium over the Touring with a starting MSRP around $51,315. That’s a reasonable upcharge considering the upgrades like the panoramic roof, ventilated front seats, heated second row, and premium audio. However, the Touring provides the core luxury and safety tech at a more affordable price point around $46,415.
If staying under budget is important, the Touring hits a sweet spot between features and value. It offers a well-appointed cabin with leather, heated steering wheel, wireless charging, and excellent driver aids. Yet for buyers wanting absolute maximum luxury, the Elite brings more posh and pampering appointments. Ultimately, choosing between the two comes down to personal preference and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The main differences are the Elite has captain’s chairs in the second row, ventilated front seats, heated second row seats, panoramic roof, and parking sensors with automated braking. The Touring still has an excellent feature set, but the Elite goes more upscale.
The Elite is the top-of-the-line trim for the 2023 Honda Pilot. It builds off the well-equipped Touring model by adding more luxury and technology amenities.
The MSRP for a 2023 Pilot Elite starts around $51,315. With destination charges, expect an out-the-door price between $52,000-$55,000 depending on additional options. Shoppers can compare quotes online to find the best local price.
The Elite trim is the most luxurious Pilot model thanks to its perforated leather seats, heated/ventilated front seats, heated 2nd row, ambient lighting, and panoramic roof. The Touring trim still provides upscale features but the Elite goes further.
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Conclusion
For SUV shoppers seeking maximum passenger and cargo room paired with car-like refinement, the Honda Pilot deserves strong consideration. Choosing between the well-rounded Touring and ultra-luxurious Elite trims comes down to budget and personal priorities.
With handsome looks, a polished interior, strong V6, and excellent reliability ratings, the Pilot remains one of the smartest picks in the midsize segment.