Hey guys! Choosing the right trim for your next SUV can be a tough decision, especially when you're stuck between two awesome options like the Honda Pilot EX-L and the Touring. Both offer a fantastic blend of comfort, features, and reliability, but they also have key differences that might make one a better fit for your needs than the other. Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you make the best choice!

Honda Pilot EX-L: The Sweet Spot

The Honda Pilot EX-L is often considered the sweet spot in the Pilot lineup, blending value and features in a way that appeals to many families. It provides a significant upgrade over the base LX and EX trims without jumping to the higher price point of the Touring or Elite models. Let's explore what makes the EX-L so attractive.

Leather Upholstery

First and foremost, the EX-L comes with leather upholstery, adding a touch of luxury and comfort to the cabin. This not only makes the seats more pleasant to sit on, especially during long drives, but also makes them easier to clean than cloth seats – a major plus for families with kids or pets.

Power Tailgate

Another convenient feature of the EX-L is the power tailgate. This allows you to open and close the tailgate with the push of a button, which is incredibly useful when your hands are full of groceries or sports equipment. Some EX-L models even come with a hands-free access feature, where you can simply wave your foot under the rear bumper to open the tailgate.

One-Touch Power Moonroof

The EX-L also includes a one-touch power moonroof, bringing natural light and fresh air into the cabin. This can make the interior feel more spacious and inviting, especially on sunny days. The moonroof adds a touch of sophistication to the overall driving experience.

Advanced Safety Features

In terms of safety, the EX-L comes standard with the Honda Sensing suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies. This includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. These systems help to enhance safety and provide peace of mind on the road.

Technology and Convenience

The EX-L trim typically includes an upgraded infotainment system with an 8-inch display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration. This allows you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation. Other convenience features may include a wireless phone charger, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.

Honda Pilot Touring: The Premium Experience

The Honda Pilot Touring trim takes things up a notch, offering a more premium and feature-rich experience compared to the EX-L. While it comes with a higher price tag, the Touring trim adds several desirable features that may justify the cost for some buyers. Let's take a closer look at what the Touring trim has to offer.

Premium Audio System

One of the standout features of the Touring trim is the upgraded premium audio system. This typically includes more speakers and a more powerful amplifier, delivering a richer and more immersive sound experience. Music lovers will appreciate the enhanced audio quality, especially on long road trips.

Navigation System

The Touring trim also comes with a built-in navigation system. This can be a lifesaver when you're traveling in areas with poor cell service or when you simply prefer not to rely on your smartphone for directions. The navigation system is integrated into the infotainment display and provides turn-by-turn guidance.

Rear Entertainment System

For families with kids, the Touring trim often includes a rear entertainment system. This typically consists of a large screen mounted on the ceiling, along with a DVD player and wireless headphones. The rear entertainment system can help keep kids entertained on long drives, reducing boredom and keeping the peace in the back seat.

HondaLink Connectivity

The Touring trim often includes HondaLink connectivity features, which allow you to remotely access and control certain vehicle functions from your smartphone. This can include features like remote start, door lock/unlock, and vehicle location. HondaLink can also provide vehicle health reports and maintenance reminders.

Exterior Upgrades

In addition to the interior features, the Touring trim often includes some exterior upgrades, such as larger alloy wheels, chrome accents, and LED headlights. These upgrades enhance the overall appearance of the Pilot and give it a more premium look. These subtle changes make a significant impact, elevating the vehicle's aesthetic appeal and road presence.

Key Differences: EX-L vs Touring

Okay, let's break down the main differences between the Honda Pilot EX-L and the Touring to make your decision easier.

Features and Amenities

The Touring trim generally includes all the features of the EX-L, plus additional amenities such as a premium audio system, navigation system, rear entertainment system, and HondaLink connectivity. If these extra features are important to you, the Touring trim may be worth the upgrade. Consider how often you'd use features like the rear entertainment system or the built-in navigation. If you frequently take long road trips with kids, the rear entertainment system could be a game-changer. Similarly, if you often find yourself in areas with unreliable cell service, the built-in navigation could be invaluable.

Price

The Touring trim typically has a higher price tag than the EX-L. The price difference can vary depending on the model year and specific features, but it's something to keep in mind when making your decision. Evaluate whether the added features of the Touring trim justify the higher cost for your budget.

Target Audience

The EX-L is a great choice for families who want a comfortable and well-equipped SUV without breaking the bank. It offers a good balance of features and value. The Touring trim, on the other hand, is geared towards buyers who want a more premium and feature-rich experience, even if it means paying a bit more. Think about your priorities and what you value most in a vehicle. If you're primarily concerned with getting the most bang for your buck, the EX-L is likely the better choice. However, if you're willing to splurge for added convenience and luxury, the Touring trim could be the perfect fit.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing between the Honda Pilot EX-L and the Touring trim really comes down to your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a step-by-step approach to help you make the right decision:

Assess Your Needs

Think about how you plan to use your Pilot. Do you need a rear entertainment system to keep the kids happy on long trips? Is a premium audio system a must-have for your daily commute? Do you frequently travel to areas where a built-in navigation system would be beneficial? Understanding your needs will help you prioritize which features are most important to you.

Consider Your Budget

Determine how much you're willing to spend on your new SUV. The Touring trim will cost more than the EX-L, so it's important to factor that into your decision. Don't forget to consider the long-term costs of ownership, such as insurance, maintenance, and fuel.

Test Drive Both Trims

If possible, test drive both the EX-L and Touring trims to get a feel for the differences between them. Pay attention to the features that are important to you and see how they perform in real-world driving conditions. A test drive can often reveal nuances that you wouldn't otherwise notice, helping you make a more informed decision.

Read Reviews and Compare Specs

Do your research and read reviews of both trims from reputable sources. Compare the specifications and features side-by-side to get a clear picture of what each trim has to offer. Online reviews can provide valuable insights from other owners, helping you understand the pros and cons of each trim.

Final Thoughts

Both the Honda Pilot EX-L and Touring are excellent choices for families seeking a reliable, spacious, and well-equipped SUV. The EX-L offers a great balance of features and value, while the Touring trim provides a more premium and feature-rich experience. By carefully considering your needs, budget, and preferences, you can choose the trim that's right for you and your family. Happy driving!