The 2023 Honda Pilot and CR-V are both redesigned and are in high demand and finding either (without a dealer mark-up) might require some additional effort. Let’s compare some of the key differences between these two brand-new market heavyweights to make sure you put your effort in the right direction.
Honda Pilot vs CR-V Price
The 2023 Honda Pilot and the CR-V overlap with their MSRP prices. The CR-V starts at $30,825 and can reach up to $40,825 in top trim with a hybrid powertrain and all-wheel drive. The Pilot starts at $38,465 and extends upward to $53,855.
Both the CR-V and Pilot are in high demand and specific feature demands might be met with a dealer mark-up. In general, Honda does not offer significant rebates, however, the strong residual values of the Pilot and CR-V allow for good lease deals to pop up.
Honda Pilot vs CR-V Size & Dimensions
The Honda Pilot gains in length (199.9 inches) and width (78.5 inches) versus its previous generation and it affords a larger interior with a more generous cargo area (21.8 cubic feet) behind the third row and more space for those destined to sit back there (although still limited to 32.5 inches of legroom. The Pilot can seat up to eight with the second-row bench seat.
The Honda CR-V maintains its five-passenger interior yet grows its exterior dimensions too (to 184.8 inches in length and 73.5 inches in width).
Honda Pilot vs CR-V Exterior and Interior Design
The Honda Pilot and CR-V share a common theme that is also shared with other new Honda models. Their exteriors carry an upright front end that carries up to a long hood that points into an a-pillar that has been pushed notably rearward. That (shared) approach makes for more athletic-looking models while the simple and horizontal body side curves refuse to offend but will last the test of time.
Their rear-end designs are notably distinct with the CR-V pulling its design from previous generations while the Pilot wears a new chunky tail light shape and a black bar that extends across the tailgate. The interior is designed with a low dashboard that is free of most styling curves, a prominent touchscreen in the middle, high-quality controls, and plenty of storage space for small items - especially in the case of the larger Pilot. The driver would feel instantly familiar with the design of the steering wheel, meter (with a digital screen), and traditional hood shape.
Honda Pilot vs CR-V Gas Mileage
The CR-V offers two powertrains - both of which received updates for 2023 - and fuel economy ranges from 29 miles per gallon combined for an all-wheel drive turbocharged powertrain to 40 MPG combined for a front-wheel drive hybrid, according to the EPA estimates. All Pilot models are powered by a freshly redesigned V6 and achieve EPA estimates between 22 MPG combined and 20 MPG combined - that lowest MPG rating is a strike against the Trailsport trim’s lifted suspension and all-terrain tires.
Honda Pilot vs CR-V Cargo Space
The CR-V’s large cargo area is one of the largest in the class with 39.3 cubic feet, although it doesn’t encroach on the Pilot’s territory with 59.5 cubic feet of space behind the second row. The Pilot’s cargo space can expand to 111.8 cubic feet behind the front row whereas the CR-V opens up to 76.5 cubic feet.
Which is Better: Honda Pilot vs CR-V?
The Honda Pilot and CR-V are both excellent at achieving their specific goals. The CR-V is an excellent spacious five-seater and its size is much more city friendly. It even offers a hybrid powertrain to deliver improved drivability and, of course, efficiency.
The Honda Pilot serves up more of everything: more seats, cargo capacity, and more power, but it comes at the expense of a higher price, greater fuel consumption (between $750 to $1,200 annually per the EPA), and more vehicle to try and maneuver around the parking lot. The CR-V has what it takes to satisfy most consumer’s needs and it does so with a refinement that breaks the mold of bigger-is-better.
Having said that, those who regularly see themselves using the Pilot’s added capability have an easier choice and the larger Honda won’t leave you thinking twice about the CR-V. There are no losers in this comparison.