Hey guys! So, you're eyeing the 2021 Honda Pilot, huh? Great choice! It's a fantastic SUV, perfect for families and anyone needing that extra space and capability. But now you're stuck at the big question: Touring or Elite? Don't sweat it! I’m here to break down the key differences between these two top-tier trims to help you make the best decision for your needs and budget. Let's dive in and get you cruising in the perfect Pilot for you!

Honda Pilot Touring: The Sweet Spot

The Honda Pilot Touring is often considered the sweet spot in the Pilot lineup. It offers a significant step up in features and luxury compared to the lower trims while remaining a bit more accessible in price than the Elite. This trim is loaded with goodies that enhance comfort, convenience, and technology, making it a popular choice for families who want a well-equipped SUV without breaking the bank.

Key Features of the Touring Trim

Let's get into the nitty-gritty of what makes the Touring trim so appealing. One of the most noticeable upgrades is the premium audio system. You'll enjoy crystal-clear sound quality throughout the cabin, making road trips and daily commutes much more enjoyable. Plus, the integrated navigation system ensures you'll never get lost, even in unfamiliar territory. The Touring also adds a rear-seat entertainment system, which is a lifesaver for keeping kids occupied on long drives. Imagine the peace and quiet! No more, "Are we there yet?" every five minutes.

Another significant benefit of the Touring trim is the Honda Sensing suite of safety features. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and collision mitigation braking, all designed to keep you and your passengers safe on the road. These features act as an extra set of eyes, helping to prevent accidents and providing added peace of mind. The blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert is another invaluable feature, making it easier to change lanes and back out of parking spaces safely.

Comfort is also a priority in the Touring trim. You'll appreciate the leather-trimmed seats, which not only look great but also provide a more luxurious feel. The driver's seat has a memory function, so you can easily return to your preferred seating position after someone else has been driving. The power tailgate makes loading and unloading cargo a breeze, especially when your hands are full. And let's not forget the heated front seats, which are a welcome addition on chilly mornings.

In summary, the Honda Pilot Touring trim offers a fantastic blend of features, technology, and comfort at a competitive price point. It's an excellent choice for families who want a well-equipped SUV that can handle daily errands and long road trips with ease. If you're looking for a step up from the lower trims but don't want to splurge on the Elite, the Touring is definitely worth considering.

Honda Pilot Elite: Top-Tier Luxury and Features

Now, let's talk about the Honda Pilot Elite. This is the crème de la crème of the Pilot lineup, offering the utmost in luxury, convenience, and advanced features. If you want all the bells and whistles, the Elite is the way to go. It's designed for those who want a premium SUV experience with no compromises.

Exclusive Features of the Elite Trim

What sets the Elite apart from the Touring and other trims? First and foremost, it's the exclusive features that elevate the driving experience to a whole new level. One of the most notable is the standard all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. While AWD is available on the Touring, it comes standard on the Elite, providing enhanced traction and stability in all weather conditions. This is especially beneficial if you live in an area with snow or frequent rain.

The Elite also boasts unique styling elements that set it apart from the rest of the Pilot lineup. These include a distinctive grille design, chrome accents, and exclusive alloy wheel designs. These subtle yet stylish touches give the Elite a more upscale and sophisticated appearance. Inside, you'll find even more luxurious appointments, such as premium leather seating surfaces and exclusive interior trim options.

One of the standout features of the Elite trim is the second-row captain's chairs. These replace the traditional bench seat with two individual seats, providing more space and comfort for rear passengers. The captain's chairs also make it easier to access the third row, which is a plus for families with kids. Additionally, the Elite includes a panoramic sunroof, which lets in plenty of natural light and creates an open and airy feel in the cabin. Imagine cruising down the road with the sun shining in and the wind in your hair!

Furthermore, the Elite trim offers a heated steering wheel, which is a godsend on cold winter days. It also includes rain-sensing windshield wipers, which automatically adjust their speed based on the amount of rainfall. This is a convenient feature that allows you to keep your focus on the road. The auto-dimming rearview mirror helps to reduce glare from headlights at night, further enhancing visibility and safety.

The Honda Pilot Elite truly delivers a top-tier SUV experience with its exclusive features, luxurious appointments, and advanced technology. If you're looking for the ultimate in comfort, convenience, and style, the Elite is the perfect choice. It's an investment that will pay off in years of enjoyable driving.

Key Differences: Touring vs. Elite

Okay, so we've talked about each trim individually. Now, let's break down the key differences between the Honda Pilot Touring and the Elite in a more direct comparison. This will help you clearly see where each trim shines and which one aligns better with your priorities.

Performance and Drivetrain

• Touring: Offers available all-wheel drive (AWD) as an option.
• Elite: Comes standard with all-wheel drive (AWD).

If you live in an area with challenging weather conditions, the Elite's standard AWD might be a significant advantage. However, if you don't need AWD, you can save some money by opting for the Touring with front-wheel drive.

Interior and Comfort

• Touring: Features leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, and a memory driver's seat.
• Elite: Adds premium leather seating surfaces, heated second-row captain's chairs, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic sunroof.

The Elite takes interior comfort to the next level with its additional features. The heated second-row seats and steering wheel are luxurious touches that make a big difference in cold weather. The panoramic sunroof also creates a more open and inviting cabin.

Technology and Convenience

• Touring: Includes a premium audio system, navigation system, rear-seat entertainment system, and a power tailgate.
• Elite: Adds rain-sensing windshield wipers and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

While both trims are well-equipped with technology features, the Elite offers a few extra conveniences that can make your life easier. The rain-sensing wipers are especially useful, as they automatically adjust to changing weather conditions.

Exterior Styling

• Touring: Features standard Pilot styling with available options.
• Elite: Boasts a unique grille design, chrome accents, and exclusive alloy wheel designs.

The Elite's exterior styling is more upscale and sophisticated, giving it a more premium appearance. If you want your Pilot to stand out from the crowd, the Elite is the way to go.

Which Trim is Right for You?

So, after all that, which trim should you choose? Here's a simplified breakdown to help you decide:

• Choose the Touring if:
  • You want a well-equipped SUV with a balance of features and affordability.
  • You don't necessarily need all-wheel drive.
  • You're looking for a great value for your money.
• Choose the Elite if:
  • You want the ultimate in luxury, convenience, and advanced features.
  • You need all-wheel drive for your driving conditions.
  • You're willing to pay extra for the best of the best.

Ultimately, the best trim for you depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. I recommend visiting your local Honda dealer to test drive both the Touring and Elite trims. This will give you a better feel for the features and help you decide which one is the right fit for you. And don't be afraid to ask questions! The dealership staff can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision.

No matter which trim you choose, you're getting a fantastic SUV that's sure to provide years of reliable service and enjoyable driving. Happy car shopping, and I hope you find the perfect Pilot for your needs!