Your family needs a reliable SUV that fits everyone comfortably. But most three-row SUVs feel too big to handle or too small to be useful.
The 2025 Honda Pilot brings something different. This SUV stands out in today’s crowded market with its refreshed design and thoughtful interior layout.
Honda has crafted an SUV that makes daily life easier. From school runs to weekend trips, the new Pilot handles it all with better fuel efficiency, smarter storage solutions, and safety features that give you peace of mind.
Let’s examine what makes the 2025 Pilot worth your attention.
This review will examine the key updates, notable features, and real-world benefits that could make this SUV your next family vehicle.
What’s New for 2025?
| Category | Features & Updates |
|---|---|
| Exterior Design | • Reshaped LED headlights |
| • Wider grille | |
| • Updated front design | |
| Interior Tech | • 10.2-inch digital display |
| • Larger touchscreen | |
| • Wireless phone connection | |
| Safety Systems | • New cameras |
| • Updated sensors | |
| • Collision prevention tools | |
| Performance | • Improved fuel usage |
| • Enhanced engine | |
| • Better sound control | |
| • Quieter interior |
How the Black Edition Stands Out
The Black Edition package sets itself apart with distinctive styling choices. The exterior comes with dark chrome accents and glossy black wheels.
The roof rails, door handles, and grille all feature black finishes that create a unified look.
Red accent lighting adds character to the black leather seats and dashboard. The steering wheel and shifter wear special black edition badges.
This model also includes all the top-tier features in the lineup, from premium audio to heated seats in both rows.
Here are the detailed features of the honda pilot black edition 2025:
1. Technology and Infotainment
Infotainment Features in the Black Edition
The system in the new Pilot helps drivers stay connected safely. A clear screen sits in easy reach on the dashboard. Phone links work without cables, and controls respond quickly to touch. Both Apple and Android phones connect right away.
The main features that make daily drives better:
- 9.0-inch screen with wireless phone connections
- Digital display shows speed and maps clearly
- Internet connection keeps devices online
- Twelve Bose speakers create a full, rich sound
- Voice commands let you control features while driving
The screens show what you need without causing distraction. Drivers see important details through the main display. Backseat riders can stream videos and music easily. The sound system fills the cabin with clear audio at any volume.
Buttons on the wheel help you adjust settings safely. Maps update as you drive to show the best routes. Phone calls come through crisp and clear over the speakers. Quick buttons let you find common features quickly.
The whole system helps keep your eyes on the road. Everything works together to make trips more fun. Updates happen automatically when you’re parked. Each feature adds something useful to your daily drive.
Comparison of Digital Displays Across Trims
| Trim | Infotainment Display | Driver Display | Audio System |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sport | 7.0-inch touchscreen | 7.0-inch gauge cluster | Standard 7-speaker system |
| EX-L | 9.0-inch touchscreen | Analog gauges | Standard 7-speaker system |
| Touring | 9.0-inch touchscreen | 10.2-inch digital | Bose® 12-speaker premium system |
| Elite | 9.0-inch touchscreen | 10.2-inch digital | Bose® 12-speaker premium system |
| Black Edition | 9.0-inch touchscreen | 10.2-inch digital | Bose® 12-speaker premium system |
The Black Edition comes with top-level screen features found in premium models. The large touchscreen shows clear images and responds well to inputs. A digital screen behind the wheel puts key information right where you need it.
The sound quality matches what you’d expect in a premium vehicle. Every seat gets clean, and there is full audio from the Bose speakers. Music fills the space without distortion at any volume. Phone calls come through with perfect clarity.
2. Engine and Performance
3.5L V6 Engine: Power and Efficiency
This V6 motor provides steady power for daily driving needs. The 3.5-liter design balances speed with fuel use. Smooth acceleration makes merging onto highways feel natural. The engine runs quietly while driving in a normal city.
A quick response comes when you press the gas pedal. The motor works well with the automatic transmission. Fuel stops can be fewer, thanks to good gas mileage. City driving and highway speeds both show balanced performance.
All-Wheel Drive: Standard for the Black Edition
Power flows to all four wheels automatically as needed. The system sends extra force to wheels with the best grip. Wet roads and snow become easier to handle. Driving feels stable in various weather conditions.
The computer manages power distribution without driver input. Each wheel can receive the right amount of force. This helps prevent slipping on slick surfaces. Corners feel more controlled with four-wheel power.
Towing and Off-Road Capabilities
This SUV can pull trailers with confidence and control. The frame and suspension handle extra weight effectively. Special cooling systems keep temperatures normal while pulling loads. Built-in features help keep trailers straight on highways.
Regular trails and dirt roads pose no problems. Good ground clearance helps avoid scraping underneath. The wheels maintain grip on loose gravel and sand. Hill climbing stays controlled with proper gearing.
3. Interior Comfort and Practicality
Cabin Space and Seating Configurations
The 2025 Pilot offers lots of room for families and groups. Three rows fit up to eight people with good space above and below. Second-row seats can switch to two single seats, making room for seven while adding walk-through space.
Key features include:
- Eight seats come standard, with an option for seven
- The middle seat in row two comes out when needed
- The back row fits three adults with 59.5 inches of shoulder width
- Black seats use quality leather with special edition marks
Every seat gives passengers a good view outside. The layout works well for school runs or vacation drives. Families can adjust the space to match their daily needs. Each row provides enough room for bags and devices.
Parents can reach the back row easily to help children. The seats fold down flat when you need to carry large items. Simple controls make changing the setup quick and easy. The black leather stays cool and cleans up well after trips.
Cargo Capacity: Family-Friendly Versatility
The Pilot offers lots of room for your everyday items. Small bags or big boxes – the back area fits what you need. The space changes quickly to match your plans for each trip. Loading sports gear or shopping bags becomes simple and quick.
Helpful storage features:
- Hidden space under the floor keeps items out of sight
- Second-row middle seat stores beneath the cargo floor
- Seats fold down to create a level surface for loading
This SUV gives families more space than many other choices. The back area handles weekly groceries or vacation luggage with room to spare. Moving between people space and cargo space takes just seconds. Every inch serves a clear purpose for daily use.
The floor stays flat when seats fold down, making it easy to slide items in. Wide door openings help when loading bigger things. The back door opens high enough for tall people to work underneath. Smart storage spots throughout help keep small items in place.
4. Design and Styling
Exterior Features: Blacked-out trim and Glossy Accents
The SUV’s outer design catches your eye with dark details and bright touches. The front grille makes a strong first impression with its dark finish and modern pattern.
Black trim flows smoothly along the sides, while the window borders blend into the overall look. Small chrome details add just enough shine to stand out against the darker parts.
The side mirrors and door handles wear a shiny black coat that fits perfectly with the SUV’s style. At the back, dark-painted pillars make the roof seem to float above the body. Each part plays its role in the complete picture, from the front bumper to the back lights.
These careful design touches help this SUV look different on the road. The mix of black parts and bright spots creates a balanced look that differentiates it from other family vehicles. Every detail adds to the SUV’s presence without trying too hard to get attention.
Interior Highlights: Red Stitching and Premium Materials
Step inside, and you’ll notice the focus on comfort and style. The cabin brings together quality materials with smart design choices that make every drive better. Red contrast stitching runs precisely across the seats, door panels, and center console.
The leather-wrapped steering wheel combines black surfaces with carefully placed red thread details.
High-quality materials cover all major touch points, focusing on daily use patterns. The front seats offer firm support with shapes that fit different body types well.
Each seating row provides sufficient space for adults, with good head and leg clearance. The dashboard combines soft-touch surfaces with solid construction methods.
Multiple storage compartments spread throughout the cabin help keep personal items in place. The interior shows clear planning in its layout and material choices.
These features combine to create a space where drivers and passengers feel at home.
5. Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Honda Sensing Suite: Standard Safety Features
The 2025 Pilot comes with tools that help prevent issues on the road. The system watches the road and helps you react to changes ahead. These features work together to make each trip safer for everyone in the car.
The main safety tools include:
- Smart braking that spots cars and people ahead
- Help staying in your lane when driving gets tiring
- Speed control that keeps safe space between cars
- Gentle steering help to stay centered in your lane
- Alerts about speed limits and road signs
- Headlights that switch modes by themselves
The features make driving easier without taking over. You stay in control while getting extra help when needed.
Families can focus on enjoying time together during trips. The car looks after everyone inside and watches for issues outside.
Black Edition-Specific Safety Enhancements
This version adds useful tools that work with the standard safety package. Extra features help with parking and checking around the car. Better visibility at night and in bad weather adds protection for everyone.
The special features of this model include:
- Sensors in front and back help with tight parking spots
- Cameras show all sides of the car when parking or backing up
- Side and back warning systems spot cars you might not see
- Special LED lights cut through fog and rain
The extra features make driving more relaxed in all situations. Parking becomes simpler with clear views from every angle. The car warns you about things you need to know. Good lighting helps you see better at night.
Clear images on the screen show what’s near your car. You can check all around before moving in tight spots. Warnings come early enough to help you react calmly. The systems work together to keep watch in all directions.
6. Fuel Economy and Efficiency
EPA Ratings for the 2025 Black Edition
The Pilot gives good fuel results for a large SUV with V6 power. The all-wheel-drive system helps save gas when an extra grip isn’t needed. Daily drives and road trips both show steady fuel use.
The official EPA numbers show:
- City driving: 19 mpg
- Highway trips: 25 mpg
- Mixed use: 21 mpg
These numbers match what other three-row SUVs achieve. The Kia Telluride and Toyota Grand Highlander show similar results. The V6 motor finds a good mix of power and fuel saving.
The gas tank lets you drive far between fill-ups. Stop-and-go city traffic won’t empty your tank quickly. Highway miles pass with fewer stops for fuel. The engine runs well on regular gas.
Real-World MPG: How It Compares
Actual driving tests show numbers close to official ratings. On highways, the Pilot uses about 22 mpg with normal driving. The V6 engine balances power needs with fuel use, though some similar SUVs use slightly less gas.
| Model | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG | Real-World MPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honda Pilot Black Edition | 19 | 25 | 21 | 22 |
| Kia Telluride | 20 | 26 | 23 | 24 |
| Toyota Grand Highlander | 21 | 28 | 24 | 23 |
The real-world numbers for each model:
- The Pilot Black Edition reaches 22 mpg on highways
- Kia Telluride shows 24 mpg during highway trips
- Toyota Grand Highlander gets 23 mpg on open roads
The Pilot offers strong pull when you need it. Small fuel differences won’t matter much to most families. The V6 gives good power for passing and pulling trailers. Daily drives and long trips both show steady fuel use.
7. Pricing and Value
Cost Breakdown of the 2025 Honda Pilot Trims
| Trim | Starting Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Sport | $41,595 | Leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats, roof rails |
| EX-L | $44,895 | Leather seats, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, power tailgate |
| Touring | $48,895 | Bose® 12-speaker sound system, in-trunk seat storage, 20-inch wheels |
| TrailSport | $50,795 | Off-road-tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, panoramic moonroof |
| Elite | $54,475 | Head-Up Display, ventilated seats, 10.2-inch driver display |
| Black Edition | $55,975 | Black exterior trim, red interior accents, premium technology |
The Sport model starts the range at $41,595. Each step up adds more comfort and tech features. The Black Edition tops the lineup at $55,975.
Key price points show clear steps between models:
- Sport to EX-L: $3,300 more
- EX-L to Touring: $4,000 more
- Touring to TrailSport: $1,900 more
- TrailSport to Elite: $3,680 more
- Elite to Black Edition: $1,500 more
Each trim adds specific items buyers want. The Sport comes well-equipped for daily use. Higher trims add extra comfort and special features. The Black Edition includes everything from other models plus unique style touches.
Is the Black Edition Worth the Premium Price?
The Black Edition sells for $55,975 in the 2025 Pilot lineup. It comes with specific style elements like black exterior parts and red interior details. The $1,500 difference from the Elite trim adds these design touches plus standard all-wheel drive.
Added features in the Black Edition:
- Black finished 20-inch wheels
- Black chrome exterior trim pieces
- Red accent stitching on seats and panels
- Interior lighting in red
- Black Edition floor mats and badges
Features shared with Elite ($54,475):
- Bose 12-speaker audio system
- 10.2-inch digital instrument panel
- Heated and cooled front seats
- Head-up display
- Wireless phone charging
- Panoramic sunroof
The EX-L trim costs $44,895 and includes essential features for daily use. The Elite trim at $54,475 provides luxury amenities without the Black Edition styling. The Black Edition at $55,975 adds distinct design elements to the full feature set.
Each buyer can examine the cost differences between trims. The price increases show exactly what features come at each level. The feature list and price point help determine which trim fits specific needs.
Comparison: 2024 vs. 2025 Honda Pilot
| Feature | 2025 Black Edition | 2024 Elite |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V-6 | 3.5L V-6 |
| Horsepower | 285 | 285 |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 262 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD (Standard) | 2WD or AWD |
| Max Towing | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 113.8 in | 113.8 in |
| Weight | 4,660 lbs | 4,660 lbs |
| MPG (City/Hwy/Combined) | 19/25/21 | 19/25/21 |
| Max Seating | 8 | 8 |
| Max Cargo (7/8 seats) | 112.1/86.5 cu ft | 112.1/87.0 cu ft |
| Length | 199.9 in | 199.9 in |
| Width | 78.5 in | 78.5 in |
| Height | 71.0 in | 71.0 in |
The 2025 model keeps the strong points of the previous year. Most features stay the same between years. The main change comes in how power reaches the wheels.
Key differences include:
- All-wheel drive now comes on every Black Edition
- Small changes in cargo space with eight seats
- Style updates inside and out
The engine stays the same for years. Both models pull trailers up to 5,000 pounds. Fuel use remains steady at 19 mpg in town and 25 mpg on highways.
The size and shape match the older model. Eight people still fit comfortably inside. Cargo space stays useful for family needs. The 2025 version focuses on making standard features better.
Competitive Analysis with Different Models
Honda Pilot Black Edition vs. Kia Telluride
Both SUVs stand out in the midsize category of the market. Each vehicle offers three-row seating and solid safety features. The Pilot and Telluride show different approaches to design and function.
| Feature | Honda Pilot Black Edition | Kia Telluride SX Prestige X-Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $55,975 | $54,935 |
| Engine | 3.5L V6, 285 hp | 3.8L V6, 291 hp |
| Drivetrain | AWD (Standard) | AWD (Standard) |
| Fuel Economy | 19/25 mpg | 18/24 mpg |
| Cargo Space | 22.4 cu ft | 21.0 cu ft |
| Screen Size | 9.0-inch touchscreen | 12.3-inch touchscreen |
| Interior Design | Black accents, red stitching | Quilted leather seats, wood trim |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs | 5,500 lbs |
Black Edition Compared to the Toyota Grand Highlander
The Pilot Black Edition and Toyota Grand Highlander serve families with different priorities. Each shows its own take on what makes a good three-row SUV. The Pilot focuses on strong performance, while the Grand Highlander puts fuel saving first.
| Feature | Honda Pilot Black Edition | Toyota Grand Highlander Platinum |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $55,975 | $54,040 |
| Engine | 3.5L V6, 285 hp | 2.4L Turbo, 265 hp / Hybrid options |
| Drivetrain | AWD (Standard) | AWD (Standard) |
| Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 19/25 mpg | 22/28 mpg (Hybrid) |
| Cargo Space (Behind 3rd Row) | 22.4 cu ft | 20.6 cu ft |
| Screen Size | 9.0-inch touchscreen | 12.3-inch touchscreen |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
Conclusion
The 2025 Honda Pilot Black Edition shows what happens when you mix family needs with refined style.
Its strong V6 engine, spacious cabin, and standard all-wheel drive meet daily demands well.
The dark exterior details and red interior touches help it look different from other SUVs.
While it sits at the top of the Pilot range at $55,975, this model combines all the best features in one package.
You’ll find better fuel numbers in some rivals, and the screen could be bigger. But families get what counts: space, safety, and comfort.
For those seeking a three-row SUV that adds a bit of flair to family trips, this Pilot makes its case.
It handles both school runs and weekend outings with equal skill.