by VIN, Year, Make, Model by License Plate

2020 Honda Pilot Review: Very Reliable Midsize SUV With Reasonable Ownership Costs

Rating: 4.28
Based on 100 Owner Reviews ▶
Cathleen V | March 31, 2025
The 2020 Honda Pilot is a mid-size, three-row SUV that has been a popular choice for families for years. It's offered in a wagon/SUV body style. Key trims include LX, EX, EX-L, Touring, Elite, and Black Edition. The original Pilot was launched in 2003. The 2020 model's MSRP typically ranged from the low $30,000s to the high $40,000s. It stands out for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reputation for reliability, making it ideal for those needing ample passenger and cargo space.
The Good

The 2020 Honda Pilot boasts a smooth and capable V6 engine, renowned Honda reliability, and a comfortable, spacious interior. Its practical appeal lies in its safety features and family-friendly design. Emotionally, it offers peace of mind and a sense of security, knowing you have a dependable and versatile vehicle for all your needs. Good value for the money adds to its appeal.

The Bad

Weaknesses of the 2020 Honda Pilot can include a sometimes-clunky 9-speed automatic transmission (on higher trims), infotainment system usability frustrations, and a somewhat uninspired exterior design compared to rivals. Watch out for potential transmission issues during test drives. Some find the third-row access a bit tight.

2020 Honda Pilot: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: One engine option: a 3.5-liter V6.
  • Horsepower: 280 hp.
  • Fuel Economy:
    • FWD: 19 mpg city / 27 mpg highway.
    • AWD: 18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway.
  • 0-60 Times: Around 6.5-7.0 seconds.
  • Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs (with AWD).
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • LX: Standard features include Honda Sensing safety suite, multi-angle rearview camera, push-button start, and a 5-inch display screen.
    • EX: Adds an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a power driver's seat.
    • EX-L: Includes leather upholstery, a power liftgate, a sunroof, and heated front seats.
    • Touring: Features a navigation system, rear entertainment system, premium audio system, and parking sensors. Available second-row captain's chairs.
    • Elite: Adds heated second-row seats, ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and wireless phone charging.
    • Black Edition: Similar to the Elite trim but with unique blacked-out exterior trim and interior accents.

2020 Honda Pilot Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2020
Make Honda
Model Pilot
Trim -
Style -
Type Sport Utility Vehicle
Category Standard Sport Utility Vehicle
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City LINCOLN
Dimensions
Doors 5-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 6000 pounds
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating 8
Engine & Performance
Engine J35Y6
Engine Size 3.5L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission 6-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 6-Speed
Drivetrain Four-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System Standard
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle
Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Accident
Check
Theft
Check
Open Lien
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Market Price
Analysis
View VINCheck Report

What Problems Does the 2020 Honda Pilot Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2020 Honda Pilot often center around the 9-speed automatic transmission found in higher trims (Touring, Elite, Black Edition). Some owners have reported rough shifting, hesitation, and occasional gear slippage. Software updates have been released to address these issues, but results vary. Another area of concern can be the infotainment system, which some users find slow to respond and not particularly intuitive.
There have been recalls for the 2020 Pilot, so it's essential to check the NHTSA website for any active recalls related to specific VINs before purchasing a used model. Common recall items across multiple model years can sometimes include issues with the rearview camera, fuel pump, or airbag systems, though specific 2020 model year recalls should be verified.
Long-term reliability is generally good, but the 9-speed transmission remains a potential weak point. Regular maintenance, particularly transmission fluid changes, is crucial for longevity. Overall, while the Pilot has a strong reputation, paying close attention to the transmission's performance and checking for recalls is advisable.

How long will the 2020 Honda Pilot last?

With proper maintenance, a 2020 Honda Pilot can easily reach 200,000 miles or more, providing 10-15 years of service. Honda's are generally known for their durability. Consistent oil changes, timely fluid replacements (especially transmission fluid), and addressing minor issues promptly are key. The V6 engine is generally robust, but as mentioned before, the 9-speed automatic transmission in higher trims can be a long-term concern if not properly maintained. Rust can be a factor in colder climates where road salt is used, so rustproofing or regular washing is beneficial. Some owners report minor electrical glitches over time, but these are usually easily addressed.
Positive Owner Reviews
MMC70
Great vehicle. Really like everything about it. It has all the safety features a vehicle could have, making it safe to drive. It has just enough power and gets great gas mileage. It offers reliability with the Honda name. Comfortable with plenty of seating!
Tech savvy
Honda Pilot is the best suv. Bell Honda in Phoenix. Honda's worse dealership in the country. Honda Pilot gives me 25 miles per gallon city and state
Manda Bear
I love the Touring, just not the snap, crackle, and pop. Bought it brand new and have had an issue with it since the first few months. It is in the shop now for the 5th time to fix the issue. It effects the radio, navigation, and heating and air. Every time I take it, they tell me if is fixed. I don't drive it but a few times a month and the notice starts all over again. I believe and upgrade to a newer Pilot is needed with the same balance owing warranty, and car note. They were well aware of this issue I am sure.
Negative Owner Reviews
Wanda
Before buying the used 2020 Pilot (very low mileage, now i know why)I checked to see if there were any recalls on this car. I brought it from Carvana and they did not list any issues with the car. I was happy with the car for a couple of weeks then the crackling and popping sound started. The whole infotainment system gets messed up as well as the rear system. I wish I knew of this issue prior because I would not have gotten rid of my Odyssey. I'm so disappointed with Honda. They knew of this issue prior and keep building these cars this way. Ridiculous. I'm no longer a Honda fan. @honda @hondapilot @pilot
George
The car is good but I don't feel happy after that poor management attitude. Really I planing my self that I purchased from that poor place.
Deb
With the exception of the electrical issues I love the car. However, it has had the wiring harness tightened fit the cracking and popping noises appearing to come from the windshield. Then the harness was replaced twice or the same issue. Friday got the car back after the engineer changed the “ends” and plugged it back up. Guess we will see when this happens again. It was in the shop one other time for the same thing but they could not replicate it. Would not recommend.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2020 Honda Pilot comes standard with the Honda Sensing suite of driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims add blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

The base LX trim has a basic 5-inch display screen, while EX and above trims get an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. A rear entertainment system with a DVD player is available on the Touring trim. Higher trims also offer a premium audio system.

Optional features include a navigation system, parking sensors, a power liftgate, and heated rear seats.

The 2020 Honda Pilot earned good crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). It achieved a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS when equipped with specific headlights and a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. These ratings demonstrate the Pilot's commitment to passenger safety. Overall, the tech is competitive for its class, with a strong focus on safety and convenience.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Crystal Black Pearl
Lunar Silver Metallic
Modern Steel Metallic
Obsidian Blue Pearl
Platinum White Pearl
Steel Sapphire Metallic
Interior Colors
Black Leather
Gray Leather
Beige Leather

2020 Honda Pilot Prices and Market Value

The 2020 Honda Pilot had a starting MSRP in the low $30,000s, reaching the high $40,000s for the higher trims like Elite and Black Edition. Current used market prices typically range from the mid $20,000s to the low $30,000s, depending on mileage, condition, and trim level. The Pilot depreciates at a moderate rate, holding its value relatively well due to Honda's reputation for reliability. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition (especially accident history), trim level (higher trims hold value better), and the presence of desirable options like AWD and the rear entertainment system.

2020 Honda Pilot Cost of Ownership

Insurance costs for the 2020 Honda Pilot are generally moderate, reflecting its family-oriented nature and good safety record. Fuel costs are typical for a mid-size SUV. Maintenance is relatively affordable, with Hondas known for their reliability. Regular maintenance will keep repair costs down. However, repairs on the 9-speed transmission can be expensive. Long-term ownership costs are moderate, making the Pilot a reasonably economical choice, provided major transmission issues are avoided.

2020 Honda Pilot Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2020 Honda Pilot Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Side Overall Star Rating
Overall Rollover Star Rating
Combined Front Seat Rating
Combined Rear Seat Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Overall Side Star Rating
Side Barrier Star Ratings
Side Pole Star Rating
Combined Side Barrier And Side Pole Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating

2020 Honda Pilot Recalls & Defects

Structure:body
Recall date 2019-10-31
Recall no. 19v784000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2019-2020 Pilot and 2019 Passport Vehicles. THE Front Frame Left and Right Side Upper Members MAY NOT Have Been Welded Completely TO THE Unibody. AS Such, These Vehicles MAY Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Numbers 208, "occupant Crash Protection" and 219, "windshield Zone Intrusion."
Consequence IN THE Event OF A Crash, Incomplete Body Welding MAY Provide Inadequate Protection TO Occupants, Increasing THE Risk OF AN Injury.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Vehicle FOR Missing Welds, Free OF Charge. IF THE Vehicle IS Identified AS Missing Welds, THE Dealer Will Offer TO Repurchase THE Vehicle or Provide A Similar Replacement Vehicle. Owner Notification Began November 6 2019. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Number FOR This Recall IS X6j.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date 2020-02-06
Recall no. 20v067000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2020 Passport and Pilot Vehicles. THE Certification Label MAY Have Been Printed With INK That CAN BE Wiped Away With A Solvent, Removing THE Gross Axle Weight Rating (Gawr) and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (gvwr) Information.
Consequence IF THE Operator IS Unable TO Refer TO THE Label Information, THE Vehicle MAY BE Overloaded, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Certification Label, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began March 24, 2020. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Number FOR This Recall IS B6t.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:software
Recall date 2020-07-28
Recall no. 20v439000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2018-2020 Odyssey, 2019-2020 Passport, and 2019-2021 Pilot Vehicles. Incorrect Instrument Panel Control Module Software CAN Cause THE Instrument Panel TO NOT Display Critical Information, Such AS Engine OIL Pressure, Speedometer, and Gear Selector Position Until THE Next Ignition Cycle. Additionally, IT CAN Prevent THE Rearview Camera Image From Displaying. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Numbers 101, "control and Displays" and 111, "rearview Mirrors."
Consequence Operating A Vehicle Without A Functioning Instrument Panel or Rearview Camera Display Increases THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Reprogram THE Instrument Panel Control Module Software, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began September 23, 2020. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Number FOR This Recall IS T89.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera
Recall date 2020-07-28
Recall no. 20v439000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2018-2020 Odyssey, 2019-2020 Passport, and 2019-2021 Pilot Vehicles. Incorrect Instrument Panel Control Module Software CAN Cause THE Instrument Panel TO NOT Display Critical Information, Such AS Engine OIL Pressure, Speedometer, and Gear Selector Position Until THE Next Ignition Cycle. Additionally, IT CAN Prevent THE Rearview Camera Image From Displaying. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Numbers 101, "control and Displays" and 111, "rearview Mirrors."
Consequence Operating A Vehicle Without A Functioning Instrument Panel or Rearview Camera Display Increases THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Reprogram THE Instrument Panel Control Module Software, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began September 23, 2020. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Number FOR This Recall IS T89.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:software
Recall date 2020-07-28
Recall no. 20v440000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2019-2021 Pilot, 2019-2020 Odyssey and 2019-2020 Passport Vehicles. Incorrect Central Network Software Programming MAY Cause Several Errors TO Occur That CAN Delay or Prevent THE Rearview Camera Image From Displaying. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 111, "rearview Mirrors."
Consequence A Delayed or Inoperative Rearview Camera Display CAN Reduce THE Driver's View OF What IS Behind THE Vehicle, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners That Updated Software IS Available. Owners Have THE Option TO Either Follow THE Mailed Instructions TO Download and Update THE Software FOR Free, or Visit A Dealer TO Have THE Software Update Performed, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began September 23, 2020. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Number FOR This Recall IS Y7y.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera
Recall date 2020-07-28
Recall no. 20v440000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2019-2021 Pilot, 2019-2020 Odyssey and 2019-2020 Passport Vehicles. Incorrect Central Network Software Programming MAY Cause Several Errors TO Occur That CAN Delay or Prevent THE Rearview Camera Image From Displaying. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 111, "rearview Mirrors."
Consequence A Delayed or Inoperative Rearview Camera Display CAN Reduce THE Driver's View OF What IS Behind THE Vehicle, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners That Updated Software IS Available. Owners Have THE Option TO Either Follow THE Mailed Instructions TO Download and Update THE Software FOR Free, or Visit A Dealer TO Have THE Software Update Performed, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began September 23, 2020. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Number FOR This Recall IS Y7y.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Tires
Recall date 2021-03-11
Recall no. 21v165000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2019-2020 Passport and Pilot Vehicles Equipped With Continental Tires. ON THE Affected Vehicles, IT IS Possible That ONE or More Tires Were Cured FOR TOO Long During Tire Production.
Consequence Overcured Tires MAY Develop A Break IN THE Sidewall, Resulting IN Sudden AIR Loss or Belt Edge Separation, Which Could Lead TO Tread/Belt Loss. Either Condition CAN Cause A Loss OF Vehicle Control, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash or Injury.
Remedy Honda Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect All Four Tires and Replace Them AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began April 22, 2021. Owners MAY Contact American Honda Motor CO. Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Number FOR This Recall IS Ua2.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Visibility:rearview Mirrors/Devices:exterior
Recall date 2023-03-16
Recall no. 23v174000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor CO) IS Recalling Certain 2020-2021 Pilot and Ridgeline, and 2020-2022 Passport and Odyssey Vehicles. THE Heating Pads Behind Both Side-view Mirrors MAY NOT BE Bonded Properly, Allowing THE Mirror Glass TO Detach. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 111, "rear Visibility."
Consequence Detached Mirror Glass CAN Reduce Driver Visibility, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace Both Left and Right Side-View Mirrors, Free OF Charge. Owner Letters Were Mailed January 17, 2024. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Number FOR This Recall IS Fe5.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
Back Over Prevention:display Function
Recall date 2023-06-15
Recall no. 23v431000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2018-2023 Odyssey, 2019-2022 Pilot, and 2019-2023 Passport Vehicles. DUE TO A Faulty Media Oriented Systems Transport (Most) Communication Coaxial Cable Connector, THE Rearview Camera Image MAY NOT Appear ON THE Display. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 111, "rear Visibility."
Consequence A Rearview Camera That Does NOT Display AN Image CAN Reduce THE Driver's Rear View, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash or Injury.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Most Cable Harness and Install A Straightening Cover Over THE Vehicle Cable Connector, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed July 24, 2023. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE Eel, Zem, and Sfc.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date 2023-12-18
Recall no. 23v858000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, Cr-V, Hr-v, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura Ilx, Mdx, MDX Hybrid, Rdx, Rlx, Tlx, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda Cr-v Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Clarity Phev, Fit, and 2015-2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, Pilot, Acura NSX Vehicles. THE Fuel Pump Inside THE Fuel Tank MAY Fail.
Consequence Fuel Pump Failure CAN Cause AN Engine Stall While Driving, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Pump Module, Free OF Charge. Owner Letters Were Mailed September 6, 2024. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE KGC and Kgd. This Recall IS AN Expansion OF Nhtsa Recall Numbers 21v-215 and 20v-314.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
AIR Bags:sensor:occupant Classification:front Passenger
Recall date 2024-02-01
Recall no. 24v064000
Source NHTSA
Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) IS Recalling Certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic Sedan, Hr-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic Coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic Hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 Cr-v, Cr-v Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura Mdx, 2022 Acura Mdx, 2020-2022 Acura Rdx, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX Vehicles. THE Front Passenger Seat Weight Sensor MAY Crack and Short Circuit, Failing TO Suppress THE AIR BAG AS Intended.
Consequence AN AIR BAG That Deploys Unintentionally During A Crash CAN Increase THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Seat Weight Sensors, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed March 28, 2024, and October 18, 2024. This IS A Phased Recall. Owners MAY Contact Honda Customer Service AT 1-888-234-2138. Honda's Numbers FOR These Recalls ARE XHP and Vhq.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.

2020 Honda Pilot Insurance

Insurance for a 2020 Honda Pilot is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2020 Honda Pilot Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2020 Honda Pilot competes with the Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, and Chevrolet Traverse. In terms of reliability, the Pilot is generally on par with the Highlander, both being top contenders. The Highlander and Telluride offer more striking designs. The Explorer offers more powerful engine options (especially the ST trim) for performance enthusiasts, but reliability can be a concern. The Palisade and Telluride offer more modern interiors and comparable features at a potentially lower price point. The Traverse boasts more cargo space.

Compared to the Pilot, the Highlander often has a slightly better reputation for long-term reliability, while the Telluride and Palisade offer a more luxurious feel for the money. The Pilot's strength lies in its blend of practicality, space, and Honda's established reliability, even with the 9-speed transmission caveats.

Alternatives to the Pilot would depend on priorities. If reliability is paramount, the Toyota Highlander is an excellent choice. If design and value are key, the Kia Telluride or Hyundai Palisade are strong contenders. If performance is a must, the Ford Explorer ST might be considered, keeping in mind its potential reliability drawbacks.

Ranks #216 SUV

1 2023 Toyota 4Runner (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid (5.0★)
3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0★)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0★)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (3.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0★)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0★)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0★)
216 2020 Honda Pilot (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2020 Honda Pilot a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2020 Honda Pilot is a solid choice for families seeking a spacious, reliable, and well-rounded mid-size SUV. It's worth buying, particularly if you prioritize Honda's reputation for dependability and need three rows of seating. However, thoroughly inspect the 9-speed transmission (on Touring, Elite, Black Edition trims) for any signs of issues before purchasing a used model. Lower trims (LX, EX, EX-L) with the 6-speed transmission might be a safer bet for long-term reliability. If considering a used model, carefully check the vehicle history report and maintenance records. If budget allows, consider a newer model year that might have addressed some of the earlier transmission concerns. Overall a good but not perfect choice.

2020 Honda Pilot Owner Reviews

4.28
Overall rating
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Don E on November 15, 2024

Waited to give an honest review.

Waited to give an honest review. 4 years later, I know have 109,000 miles on my 2020 Pilot Tour. The bad: It developed the known crackle sound coming from the speakers. This was fixed under warranty twice. The second time not coming back and has been fine. The looks are "meh". My wife's Nissan of similar trim level has a far nicer interior and much fancier seats. On curves the "warning" light flashes on my dash and the steering wheel shakes sometimes if a car is coming from the other direction. It's annoying, but I hear a problem for many manufacturers with these safety features, not just Honda. The Good: I consider my Pilot practical. It does everything well, just not flashy. My previous car was a 2012 Honda Pilot that I put 190,000 trouble free miles on. This Pilot with an updated transmission feels MUCH quicker. It is much easier to drive. It handles well, averages around 24 mpg on my commute (non expressway), and has been trouble free outside of the speaker issue. It hauls the family well, with lots of room, especially if the 3rd row is not used. I put on the dealer installed trans cooler and trailer hitch to tow a couple of waverunners, which it hauls easily. If you can get past the "ok" styling, it is a car that does everything well and my reliability has been very, very good so far.

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Stoshic on May 31, 2024

Purchased 2020 Honda Pilot EX-L AWD for spouse to

Purchased 2020 Honda Pilot EX-L AWD for spouse to primarily drive in town with grandkids. Only 37K miles after 4 years ownership, but many issues. Within a couple of months of purchase had snap, crackle, and pop like pebbles hitting the windshield, left drivers door power window actuator replaced, fuel pump impeller replaced, additional wiring connections repaired, axle bushings replaced, front and back disc brake rotors resurfaced and pads replaced and trans fluid 3times flush at 35K. Dealer asked if I towed anything. I said no as there is no hitch on the vehicle. Very disappointed with the 2020 Honda Pilot. I expected more from Honda.

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MMC70 on February 20, 2024

GREAT vehicle!

Great vehicle. Really like everything about it. It has all the safety features a vehicle could have, making it safe to drive. It has just enough power and gets great gas mileage. It offers reliability with the Honda name. Comfortable with plenty of seating!

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Leddataliz on March 30, 2023

Don't Buy

A 2020 and already had to change the injectors and now it has a transmission transfer seal leak. I had a 2019 honda pilot wish I upgraded for this one when it stopped working due to problems with the injectors also. Will never do business with Honda again.

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Deagle10 on March 15, 2023

Not good enough

Coming off my 190,000 mile 2012 Honda Pilot that I had purchased new, I had high hopes for this SUV. It's ok. My major complaints are it shakes the wheel and "BRAKE" comes on whenever I'm on a curve with another vehicle coming from the other directions. We are both in our lane. In slippery conditions this can cause an accident. My other complaint is the popping/cracking noise. It did it first at 58,000 miles. They replaced the wiring harness under the dash and it went away......for 6 months. Now it's crackling/popping much worse, the radio goes dead and won't work again until the car is turned off and started again. I've read about this going back to at least 2016. I don't know how they can't get this right. I'll try a Toyota next. Honda quality over-rated.

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Robert on February 10, 2023

It is a juck

No radio x2brakes shake if you go down a big hill for a long time the car starts to shake at a slow speed before it shifts

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Wanda on December 2, 2022

Disappointed with Honda

Before buying the used 2020 Pilot (very low mileage, now i know why)I checked to see if there were any recalls on this car. I brought it from Carvana and they did not list any issues with the car. I was happy with the car for a couple of weeks then the crackling and popping sound started. The whole infotainment system gets messed up as well as the rear system. I wish I knew of this issue prior because I would not have gotten rid of my Odyssey. I'm so disappointed with Honda. They knew of this issue prior and keep building these cars this way. Ridiculous. I'm no longer a Honda fan. @honda @hondapilot @pilot

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George on November 19, 2022

Bad quality assurance

I had a 2020 pilot exl in pearl white for one and a half year then decided to sell it! The reason behind that is the quality assurance on the car body is bad and poor, on the passenger front door from inside where they weld the door with the glass frame man could see that place looking very bad, they should grind it after welding and not leaving the car go to the consumer in that bad shape. Every time I was opening that door I was thinking how fool me not seeing that at the time I purchased this car! This message to the Honda quality assurance LEARN QUALITY FROM THE GERMAN!

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Tech savvy on June 3, 2022

Don't go to bell Honda

Honda Pilot is the best suv. Bell Honda in Phoenix. Honda's worse dealership in the country. Honda Pilot gives me 25 miles per gallon city and state

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Judy on May 15, 2022

2020 Honda Pilot Review

I have always wanted a Honda Pilot and bought a 2020 model anticipating a great vehicle. It has been back to the shop SIX times for issues with the drivers side mirror. It is supposed to be a fancy automatic adjusting mirror, but instead self adjusts up beyond where I can see in it. The dealer's technicians have tried many things, but still claim they can't recreate what I am telling them I really don't know where to turn now.

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Cathleen V

Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.