Flash Drive

2020 Honda Pilot

Model Tested: 2020 Honda Pilot AWD Black Edition

The 2020 Honda Pilot Black Edition is new at the top of the Pilot lineup and it looks very stealthy.

Engine:3.5-liter V6, 280 horsepower, 262 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 9-speed automatic, all-wheel-drive

EPA Rating: 19-mpg city, 26-mpg highway, 22-mpg combined

Base Price: $49,620

As Tested: $50,715

Performance:

Smooth, pretty peppy V6

Cushy highway ride

Excellent safety features

The 2020 Honda Pilot Black Edition has unique red interior appointments.

Good highway fuel economy

Econ mode

Competent all-weather SUV

Comfort:

Heated and ventilated front seats (3 temps)

Driver power lumbar support

Excellent front passenger legroom, but tight on toe room under dash

Second row Captain’s Chairs slide forward/back

Heated Captain’s Chairs (3 temps)

The 2020 Honda Pilot Black Edition is based on the upscale Elite trim package. Styling is crisp and contemporary.

Good second row legroom

Flat floor second row

Available 3-passenger second row seat

Third row seat has 60/40 split

Third row tight for adults

Bright interior with big panoramic moon roof

Heated steering wheel

Utility:

Power tailgate with ample clearance for tall people

Big wide opening with no lift-over

Cargo capacity/flexibility is great in all 2020 Honda Pilots.

Flat floor with seats folded down

Full width storage bin under deck

Flat, table-like bin between Captain’s Chairs

Pull-up second row sunshades

Two level front door bins, lots of storage

Big center console bin with sliding cover

Oversize visors with ample sliding range

Medium size locking glovebox

WOW Factors:

Third row access is OK, but this row is best suited to young, flexible passengers.

Great cargo space for a midsize SUV

Bonus storage under cargo deck

Double panoramic moon roofs

Impressive safety suite

Whines:

Black Edition was too much black for me; a little chrome would be nice

Steering wheel too skinny

Bottom Line:

The 2020 Honda Pilot Black Edition is a

There is ample cargo/groceries space behind the third row. There is great bonus space under the floor.

new trim offering that’s based on the top Elite model. The differences are style based, not performance. All Honda Pilot models offer lots of space, comfort, and features in a handsome midsize SUV. Interior flexibility is great for passengers and cargo with a flat floor and easy access. The Honda Pilot favors excellent execution over exhilarating excitement, but there’s nothing wrong with that.