2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD: The Family SUV Champ
Hey guys, let's talk about a real contender in the family SUV arena: the 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD. If you're in the market for a vehicle that can haul the crew, handle a road trip with ease, and still offer a bit of luxury, this might just be your jam. Honda has a reputation for building reliable and practical vehicles, and the Pilot has consistently been a fan favorite for a reason. The 2017 model year really upped the ante, especially with the Touring trim, offering a blend of space, comfort, and technology that makes it a compelling choice for families on the go. We're talking about a vehicle that doesn't just get you from point A to point B; it makes the journey enjoyable, which, let's be honest, is a HUGE win when you've got kids (or even just a lot of gear) in tow. This SUV is designed with the modern family in mind, balancing everyday usability with the capability to tackle weekend adventures. When you're looking at SUVs, it's easy to get overwhelmed by all the options, but the Pilot Touring AWD stands out with its thoughtful design and robust performance. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about providing a functional and enjoyable experience for everyone inside. So, buckle up, because we're diving deep into what makes this 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD such a standout.
Performance and Powertrain: Smooth Sailing, Seriously
Let's kick things off with what's under the hood of the 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD, because, guys, this is where the magic happens. You're looking at a potent 3.5-liter i-VTEC V6 engine that pumps out a healthy 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Now, that might sound like just numbers on a spec sheet, but trust me, it translates to a really smooth and capable driving experience. Paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission (a big upgrade for this year!), the Pilot delivers power in a refined way. No jerky shifts here, just seamless acceleration that makes merging onto the highway or passing slower traffic feel effortless. This transmission is a game-changer, helping to keep the engine in its sweet spot for optimal performance and fuel efficiency. And speaking of efficiency, for an SUV this size, the Pilot is pretty darn good. You're looking at EPA estimated ratings of around 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, which is respectable given the power and AWD capability. The Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4) all-wheel-drive system on the Touring trim is the real star of the show when it comes to traction. This isn't just your basic AWD; it actively distributes torque not only between the front and rear axles but also between the left and right rear wheels. What does this mean for you? Superior grip and stability, especially in slippery conditions like rain, snow, or even some light off-roading. Whether you're navigating a snowy commute or heading to a campsite, this AWD system gives you that extra layer of confidence. The ride quality is also worth mentioning. Honda engineers worked hard to give the Pilot a comfortable and composed ride, absorbing road imperfections well. It feels planted and stable, not floaty or unsettled, which is crucial for long family trips. You get a good balance between a comfortable cruiser and a competent handler, avoiding that typical 'boat-like' feel some larger SUVs can have. So, whether you're cruising through the city or tackling a more adventurous route, the 2017 Pilot Touring AWD is more than up to the task, offering a driving experience that's both powerful and pleasing.
Interior Comfort and Space: Your Mobile Living Room
Now, let's talk about the cabin, because the 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD truly shines here, especially for families. Honda knows that comfort is king, especially on longer journeys. The Touring trim steps up the luxury game significantly. You'll find premium leather-trimmed seats that are both comfortable and durable, perfect for those inevitable spills and sticky fingers. The front seats are heated and ventilated, which is an absolute godsend, whether you're enduring a sweltering summer day or a chilly winter morning. And the driver's seat? It's power-adjustable with memory settings, so you can find your perfect driving position and not have to fiddle with it every time you get in. But it's not just about the front passengers; the second row is equally impressive. With captain's chairs in the second row on the Touring model, you get a more premium feel and easier access to the third row. There's plenty of legroom and headroom, even for adults, making those long drives much more tolerable for everyone. And let's not forget the third row. While it's typically tighter in most SUVs, the Pilot's third row is surprisingly usable, especially for kids or shorter trips for adults. Honda has done a great job maximizing the space available. Cargo space is another area where the Pilot excels. With all the seats up, you still have a decent amount of room for groceries or school bags. Fold down the third row, and you unlock a cavernous space perfect for hauling furniture, sports equipment, or all the luggage for a family vacation. The second-row captain's chairs also fold down, creating an even larger, flatter loading floor. You're looking at around 16.5 cubic feet of space behind the third row, expanding to a massive 46.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a colossal 83.9 cubic feet with both rear rows down. That's a ton of room, guys! Beyond the sheer space, the interior is designed for practicality. You've got tons of clever storage solutions, including a massive center console bin, numerous cup holders, and cubbies throughout the cabin. Plus, the overall cabin is impressively quiet, thanks to Honda's efforts in sound deadening. This means less road noise and wind noise, allowing for easier conversations or just a more peaceful ride. The materials used throughout the cabin feel high-quality and well-assembled, contributing to that premium feel. It’s a cabin designed for real life, combining comfort, utility, and a touch of refinement that makes every drive a pleasure.
Technology and Safety: Staying Connected and Protected
In today's world, a family SUV needs to be packed with tech and safety features, and the 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD delivers in spades. Honda really stepped up its game with the infotainment system on this generation of Pilot. The Touring trim comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen display that serves as the central hub for all your needs. It's intuitive and responsive, making it easy to navigate through menus, control your music, and access navigation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are also standard on the Touring, which is a massive win! This means you can seamlessly integrate your smartphone, accessing your favorite apps, making calls, sending texts, and getting directions using familiar interfaces right on the car's screen. This is a huge upgrade for connectivity and convenience, making your drives safer and more enjoyable. Bluetooth HandsFreeLink and streaming audio are also standard, so you can connect your phone wirelessly for calls and music. The premium audio system, often a multi-speaker setup with a subwoofer, provides excellent sound quality for your playlists or podcasts. In terms of driver assistance technology, the Touring trim is loaded. You get a multi-angle rearview camera, which is essential for parking and maneuvering in tight spaces. But the real stars are the Honda Sensing suite of safety features, which often come standard or are readily available on the Touring trim. This includes things like Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), which can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent frontal collision, and Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM), which helps keep you in your lane if you start to drift off the road. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is also a fantastic feature, allowing you to set a cruising speed and a following distance, and the car will automatically adjust its speed to maintain that distance from the vehicle ahead. Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) helps you stay centered in your lane by making small steering corrections. These advanced safety systems are like having an extra set of eyes on the road, providing a significant boost to driver confidence and reducing the risk of accidents. Blind Spot Information System (BSI) with Cross Traffic Monitor is also a lifesaver, alerting you to vehicles in your blind spots when changing lanes or backing up. The sheer number of active and passive safety features means you can drive with greater peace of mind, knowing that you and your loved ones are well-protected. The 2017 Pilot Touring AWD isn't just a comfortable cruiser; it's a technologically advanced and safety-conscious vehicle designed for the modern family.
Exterior Styling: Sophisticated and Ready for Anything
The 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD rocks a more sophisticated and modern exterior design compared to its predecessors. Gone are the boxier, more utilitarian looks of older generations; this Pilot sports a sleeker, more aerodynamic profile that looks right at home whether you're pulling up to a suburban school or heading to a weekend getaway. The front fascia features Honda's signature grille and sharp, swept-back headlights, giving it a confident and contemporary face. The Touring trim typically comes with some nice exterior touches, like chrome door handles and roof rails, adding a touch of elegance and practicality. The body lines are smoother and more sculpted, contributing to its refined appearance and also helping with airflow for better efficiency. The LED taillights not only look good but also provide excellent visibility. One of the key features for an SUV of this class is its stance and proportions. The Pilot has a well-balanced look, appearing substantial without being overly bulky. It sits confidently on its wheels, hinting at its capability without being aggressive. The 18-inch alloy wheels on the Touring model are stylish and complement the overall design. For families, practicality often dictates aesthetics, and the Pilot strikes a great balance. The large doors provide easy access for passengers and child seats, and the overall height is manageable for most people. The integrated roof rails are a boon for carrying extra gear like kayaks, bikes, or luggage carriers, expanding your adventures without cluttering the interior. The power tailgate is another convenience feature that's highly appreciated, especially when your hands are full. It opens and closes smoothly, making loading and unloading cargo a breeze. While the Pilot might not be the flashiest or most rugged-looking SUV on the market, its design is mature, versatile, and very well-executed. It’s a vehicle that aims to please a broad audience, and its understated yet sophisticated styling achieves just that. It’s designed to be functional, efficient, and visually appealing, making it a great choice for anyone who needs a capable family hauler that doesn't compromise on style.
Conclusion: The Smart Choice for Modern Families
So, what's the verdict on the 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD? In a nutshell, guys, it’s a fantastic option for families looking for a capable, comfortable, and tech-savvy SUV. Honda really hit it out of the park with this generation, blending a smooth and powerful V6 engine with an efficient 9-speed transmission and a confidence-inspiring AWD system. The interior is where this SUV truly shines, offering a spacious, luxurious, and highly practical cabin with comfortable seating for up to eight (or seven with the captain's chairs), ample cargo space, and a quiet, refined ride. The abundance of technology, from the user-friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to the comprehensive suite of Honda Sensing safety features, ensures that every drive is connected, convenient, and secure. The exterior styling is mature and modern, striking a great balance between sophistication and rugged utility. When you consider its reliability, fuel efficiency (for its class), and the overall value it provides, the 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD stands out as a smart, well-rounded choice. It’s the kind of vehicle that can handle the daily grind of school runs and errands just as easily as it tackles long road trips or weekend adventures. If you're in the market for a mid-size SUV that prioritizes passenger comfort, driver convenience, and safety without sacrificing performance, the 2017 Pilot Touring AWD should definitely be on your shortlist. It's a testament to Honda's engineering prowess and their understanding of what modern families truly need in a vehicle.
