Honda is expanding the Pilot’s available trim levels with the addition of a new Special Edition (SE) trim. The new SE trim comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, a nine-speed automatic transmission, and front-wheel drive as standard. Where the SE creates a gap from other trims in the Pilot line is when it comes to standard features.
Building off of the EX-L’s list of standard features, the SE adds things that were once only reserved for higher trim levels. A wireless charger, a hands-free power liftgate, 20-inch black alloy wheels, and roof rails as standard. Pricing for the SE trim with front-wheel drive starts at $40,080 including destination, which is $600 more than the EX-L trim and $3,960 less than the Touring trim. The difference in pricing makes the SE a better value option than the EX-L trim.
The rest of the Pilot lineup sees minor changes. For 2021, every Pilot now comes with a nine-speed automatic transmission as standard. Before, only the Touring, Elite, and Black Edition trims came with the nine-speed gearbox, others came with a six-speed automatic unit. The entry-level LX trim gets a modest increase in pricing, as it now costs $600 more than before, while the range-topping Black Edition sees a price increase of $200. Dual-zone automatic climate control and automatic stop/start are now standard throughout the Pilot lineup.
The changes don’t do a lot to change the Pilot, which remains a safe option in the packed midsize SUV segment. The stylish SUV has comfortable seats, good performance from the standard V6 engine, and a great list of safety features. The addition of the nine-speed automatic transmission as the standard gearbox throughout the lineup is a good change, as it was the preferred unit.
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