2022 Honda Pilot Adds Two New Models, Feels More Adventurous
Honda’s three-row midsize SUV is getting some changes for the 2022 model year, which will be the last before the next generation arrives. The current Pilot was launched for 2016.
First, the LX and EX entry-level models have been replaced by the new Pilot Sport, which starts at $46,210. That’s a hike of nearly $3,500 from the previous base MSRP.
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The good news is that standard equipment has been revised in the process to include 20-inch alloy wheels (just like on the top-line Touring models), LED fog lights, HomeLink garage door opener, 10-way power driver’s seat and heated leather steering wheel.
Safety and driver assistance features on this model include the full Honda Sensing suite except for blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert.
The other key change for 2022 is the additon of a TrailSport model as seen on the Passport. Slotting right in the middle of the lineup and priced from $51,620, this Pilot gets a suspension lift that increases ground clearance by 1.5 centimetres. Under the flared fenders are exclusive 18-inch black alloy wheels and tires sporting a more rugged-design sidewall. A black bar on the grille and special black and orange TrailSport badge on the liftgate round out the exterior look.
Inside, standard leather seating with orange TrailSport logos and contrasting orange stitching continue the exterior theme. Amber-coloured ambient lighting is also part of the mix.
Make no mistake: the TrailSport is more adventurous than a regular Pilot but not as off-road capable as, say, a Jeep Grand Cherokee L. Honda simply wanted to jump on the bandwagon started by companies like Ford with the Explorer Timberline.
However, similar to the Passport TrailSport, Honda may decide to further increase off-road capability over the next few model years with upgrades such as more aggressive tires and off-road-tuned suspension
