The 2025 Honda Pilot enters the bustling midsize SUV segment in the US, ready to take on established rivals. This segment caters to families and those seeking a spacious and comfortable driving experience. Let’s take a closer look at the Pilot and its top five competitors, including their starting US prices and recent North American sales figures.
2025 Honda Pilot: A Well-Rounded Contender
The 2025 Pilot remains true to its formula of offering a comfortable ride, a spacious interior, and a proven powertrain. It carries over the 3.5L V6 engine from the previous generation, producing 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. While not the most powerful option in the segment, the Pilot prioritizes reliability and smooth operation.
Honda hasn’t revealed official pricing yet, but estimates suggest a starting MSRP around $38,000. The Pilot is expected to be offered in various trims, with higher-end models featuring advanced technology and driver-assistance features.
Top 5 Rivals in the US Midsize SUV Arena
1. Toyota Highlander
The undisputed king of the segment, the Highlander boasts a comfortable ride, a spacious interior, and a variety of powertrains, including a fuel-efficient hybrid option that continues to dominate sales charts.
- Starting MSRP: $36,250
- Units Sold in 2023: 402,408
2. Kia Telluride
With its bold design, luxurious interior, and long list of features for the price, the Telluride has become a major threat to the Highlander’s reign. It offers a powerful V6 engine and an optional hybrid powertrain, catering to a wide range of buyer preferences.
- Starting MSRP: $34,690
- Units Sold in 2023: 131,617
3. Hyundai Palisade
The Telluride’s close cousin, the Palisade, is another strong contender with a stylish design, a feature-rich cabin, and a choice of gasoline or hybrid powertrains. Both Kia and Hyundai offer exceptional value with warranty packages and complimentary scheduled maintenance, making them attractive choices for budget-minded families.
- Starting MSRP: $35,450
- Units Sold in 2023: 122,103
4. Chrysler Pacifica
Standing out as a minivan alternative, the Pacifica offers exceptional passenger and cargo space, a comfortable ride, and a unique plug-in hybrid powertrain for maximum fuel efficiency. While it might not be the most exciting choice aesthetically, it prioritizes practicality for families with frequent road trips or large cargo needs.
- Starting MSRP: $40,390
- Units Sold in 2023: 75,469
5. Ford Explorer
The Explorer provides a good balance of capability and comfort, with a choice of turbocharged engines, including a powerful option for those who prioritize performance. It boasts strong towing capacity and off-road capability, making it a good fit for families with adventurous lifestyles.
- Starting MSRP: $36,670
- Units Sold 2023: 126,608
Choosing the Right Midsize SUV
The ideal choice depends on your specific needs and priorities. The Pilot caters to those seeking a reliable and comfortable family hauler with a proven powertrain. If fuel efficiency is a top concern, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid or Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid are strong contenders. For a feature-rich and luxurious option, the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade are worth considering. Finally, the Ford Explorer offers a compelling choice for those who prioritize power and capability.
The Future of the Midsize SUV Segment
The midsize SUV segment is constantly evolving, with manufacturers focusing on fuel efficiency, technology advancements, and advanced driver-assistance features. The 2025 Honda Pilot enters this competitive landscape with its strengths of comfort, space, and reliability. Whether it can reclaim a significant market share from established rivals remains to be seen, but it certainly offers a compelling option for families seeking a well-rounded SUV.
