In search of a dependable and roomy SUV, families have long preferred the Honda Pilot. However, with the arrival of the 2023 Honda Pilot the well-liked SUV has acquired a completely new rugged and boxy persona that is targeted at adventurers who want more from their vehicle than just a family hauler. But unlike so many pseudo SUVs today, Honda is taking things a little more seriously by offering up a model that is a lot more competent off the pavement.

Of the six available trims, the Honda Pilot TrailSport trim in particular is a versatile and capable variant that is designed to take on the most rugged terrain with ease. We'll use the TrailSport trim to show off the new Pilot's off-road prowess. This trim has a variety of features that set it apart from the other Pilot models in the lineup. Let's examine more closely what makes the TrailSport trim of the 2023 Honda Pilot the best feature of the car.

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Rugged Exterior Style

Blue 2023 Honda Pilot
Honda
A front 3/4 shot of a 2023 Honda Pilot off-roading

The exterior's rugged and sporty design is the first thing you'll notice about the 2023 Honda Pilot TrailSport trim. To accommodate all-terrain tires that are ideal for off-road driving, the car has been raised by one inch. It has an edgy and aggressive appearance thanks to the black wheels and trim, and it stands out from other Pilot models thanks to the distinctive TrailSport badging on the fenders and tailgate.

The front grille is unique to the TrailSport trim and has an aggressive mesh pattern with a blacked-out design. The LED headlights, which are also unique to this trim, are made to maximize visibility even in the darkest environments. So no problem with driving at night while in some of the world's more rugged terrain. You can also see how the Pilot has gone back to its boxy roots.

Fog lights with built-in parking sensors are also included with the TrailSport trim, making it simpler to maneuver through confined spaces. The exterior styling of the TrailSport trim is intended to exude a sense of capability and adventure. No matter how difficult the terrain is, it is a vehicle that is prepared to take on any challenge.

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Interior Convenience And Comfort

2023 Honda Pilot Trailsport interior
Honda
2023 Honda Pilot Trailsport interior three quarter view

Although the Honda Pilot TrailSport trim is built for adventure, comfort, and convenience are not sacrificed. With room for up to eight passengers, the TrailSport trim's interior is roomy and luxurious. Long trips are ideal for this SUV because the seats are upholstered in materials that are both durable and comfortable. In any weather, the heated and ventilated front seats provide maximum comfort. Additionally, power-adjustable, the driver's seat makes it simple to find the ideal driving position.

The panoramic sunroof in the TrailSport trim also floods the interior with natural light and offers a breathtaking view of the surroundings. In terms of technology, the Honda Pilot TrailSport trim is loaded with features. It comes equipped with a 9-inch touchscreen that is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible. The system also includes a rear-seat entertainment system complete with Bluetooth connections, a 10-speaker premium audio system, and satellite-linked navigation.

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Performance And Capability

Blue Honda Pilot
Honda
2023 Honda Pilot side action shot

Under the Trailsport's hood, you will find a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that delivers an impressive 280 horsepower delivering 262 pound-feet of torque, coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission that offers seamless and quick shifts to handle any situation. Also included with the TrailSport trim is Honda's Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4) all-wheel-drive system, which targets traction and handling by diverting power to any tire.

However, the TrailSport trim really stands out for its off-road prowess. The SUV's one-inch-higher ride height makes it easier for it to maneuver around obstacles. Excellent grip and traction are provided by the all-terrain tires, and the trail torque logic control helps to allocate power to the wheels that need it most. In addition, the TrailSport trim has skid plates that shield the chassis from rocks and other debris, and the front and rear tow hooks enable it to free itself from difficult situations. Additionally, the Trail Sport trim has a 5,000-pound towing capacity in case you need to bring along additional gear.

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Safety Options

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Honda has always placed a high priority on safety, and the Pilot TrailSport trim is no different. Modern safety features are built into it to keep you and your passengers secure while you're driving. Included are the following significant safety attributes: Collision Mitigation Braking System: Using sensors, this system looks for potential collisions and, if necessary, applies the brakes to lessen or avoid them.

Adaptive Cruise Control: This feature eases traffic congestion by keeping the Pilot and the vehicle in front of it apart by a predetermined distance. The lane-keeping assist system makes very slight steering adjustments to keep the car in the middle of the road when drifting out of its lane. The blind spot information system warns the driver when a car is in its blind spot, giving the driver a better grasp of their surroundings.

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Summing Up The 2023 Honda Pilot Trail Sport

Rear end of the 2023 Honda Pilot TrailSport
Honda
Rear end of the 2023 Honda Pilot TrailSport

The 2023 Honda Pilot TrailSport trim brings a more rugged nature to a sleek city-style SUV and its handsome staying and capability are what will help it stand apart in the crowded mid-size three row SUV segment. It nearly seamlessly blends a tough exterior design, a luxurious interior, and off-road capabilities, it is the perfect vehicle for thrill seekers who want the best of both worlds. The Honda Pilot TrailSport trim is up to the task, whether you're planning a weekend camping trip or simply navigating rough roads on your daily commute. Your confidence is boosted by its cutting-edge safety features, and its powerful engine and all-wheel drive system ensure that you can easily get over any obstacle.

Prices for the base model 2023 Honda Pilot in LX trim start at $35,950 and the range tops out at $52,030.The TrailSport trim sits in the middle of the pack, coming in at $48,350. It also distinguishes itself from other trims in the Pilot range and other SUVs on the road with a rugged exterior design and distinctive styling accents like blacked-out wheels and a skid plate. It is simple to understand why the TrailSport is the best feature of the 2023 Honda Pilot because the roomy cabin also provides plenty of room for passengers and cargo, making it a versatile option for families or adventure-seekers alike.