Need help deciding between the Honda Pilot and Chevy Traverse? Our in-depth comparison covers design, features, performance, safety, pricing, and more to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Features
When it comes to buying a new SUV, one of the most important considerations is the overall design and features. Both the Honda Pilot and Chevy Traverse are contenders in this department, but they have some key differences.
Exterior Dimensions and Styling
At first glance, the Honda Pilot and Chevy Traverse may look similar in terms of exterior dimensions. Both SUVs boast a similar length and width, with the Pilot measuring in at 194.5 inches long and 78.6 inches wide, while the Traverse comes in at 204.3 inches long and 78.6 inches wide. However, the Traverse has a slightly higher roofline, giving it a more imposing presence on the road. When it comes to styling, both SUVs have a sleek and modern design, but the Pilot’s more angular lines and chrome accents give it a slightly more premium feel. The Traverse, on the other hand, has a more rounded and curved design that gives it a softer, more approachable look.
Interior Space and Comfort
Inside, both SUVs offer ample space for passengers and cargo. The Pilot has a seating capacity of up to eight people, depending on the trim level, while the Traverse can seat up to eight people across its three rows. In terms of comfort, both SUVs offer plenty of legroom and headroom, even in the third row. However, the Pilot’s seats are slightly more supportive and comfortable, making it a great option for long road trips.
Infotainment and Technology Features
When it comes to infotainment and technology features, both SUVs have a lot to offer. The Pilot comes standard with a 5-inch display screen, while the Traverse has a 7-inch screen. Both SUVs offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, as well as a range of safety features like forward collision warning and lane departure warning. However, the Traverse takes things to the next level with its available 8-inch screen and advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane centering. Additionally, the Traverse offers more USB ports and charging outlets, making it a great option for families who need to keep their devices charged on the go.
Performance and Handling
The driving experience is where the rubber meets the road, and in this regard, both the Honda Pilot and Chevy Traverse have a lot to offer. But how do they compare when it comes to performance and handling? Let’s dive in and find out.
Engine Options and Horsepower
When it comes to engine options, the Honda Pilot and Chevy Traverse take different approaches. The Pilot comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides smooth and quiet acceleration, making it perfect for daily driving. On the other hand, the Traverse comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. While both engines are capable, the Traverse’s engine feels more responsive and energetic, making it better suited for those who enjoy driving.
But what about fuel efficiency? The Pilot’s engine sips fuel at a rate of 22 mpg combined, while the Traverse’s engine achieves 21 mpg combined. Not a huge difference, but every little bit helps, right? One thing to note is that the Pilot’s engine can be paired with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), while the Traverse’s engine only comes with FWD. If you live in an area with rough weather conditions, the Pilot’s AWD option might be the better choice.
Transmission and Drivetrain Options
Both the Pilot and Traverse come with a six-speed automatic transmission, but that’s where the similarities end. The Pilot’s transmission is known for its smooth shifting and responsive acceleration, making it perfect for daily driving. The Traverse’s transmission, on the other hand, can feel a bit sluggish at times, especially when merging onto highways or climbing steep hills. However, the Traverse makes up for this with its advanced traction system, which helps the vehicle stay stable and composed, even in rough weather conditions.
Towing Capacity and Off-Road Capabilities
If you plan on towing a trailer or boat, the Traverse is the clear winner, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. The Pilot, on the other hand, maxes out at 3,500 pounds. However, if you plan on venturing off the beaten path, the Pilot’s AWD system and increased ground clearance make it the better choice. The Pilot can handle light off-roading, such as dirt trails and sandy beaches, with ease, while the Traverse is better suited for paved roads and light gravel trails.
In the end, the choice between the Pilot and Traverse comes down to your driving habits and needs. If you prioritize power and towing capacity, the Traverse is the way to go. But if you prefer a more fuel-efficient and off-road capable vehicle, the Pilot is the better choice.
Safety and Reliability
When it comes to safety and reliability, both Honda Pilot and Chevy Traverse are well-regarded in their respective classes. However, there are some key differences to consider when making your decision.
Crash Test Ratings and Safety Features
Both the Pilot and Traverse have impressive crash test ratings. The 2022 Honda Pilot received a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The 2022 Chevy Traverse also earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.
In terms of safety features, both vehicles offer a suite of advanced features, including forward collision warning, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. However, the Pilot offers more standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, whereas these features are optional on the Traverse.
Maintenance Costs and Repair History
When it comes to maintenance costs and repair history, the Honda Pilot has a slight edge. According to data from RepairPal, the average annual repair cost for a Honda Pilot is around $414, compared to $514 for the Chevy Traverse. Additionally, the Pilot has a slightly longer average time between repairs, at 12.3 months compared to 10.8 months for the Traverse.
It’s worth noting that both vehicles have a good reputation for reliability, with many owners reporting low maintenance costs and few mechanical issues. However, if you’re looking for the most reliable option, the Pilot might be the better choice.
Warranty Options and Durability
Both the Honda Pilot and Chevy Traverse offer comprehensive warranty packages, including a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. However, the Pilot’s warranty is slightly more comprehensive, with a longer corrosion perforation warranty (5-year unlimited mileage vs. 3-year/36,000-mile for the Traverse).
In terms of durability, both vehicles are built to last, with many owners reporting high mileage without major issues. However, the Pilot’s slightly more comprehensive warranty and lower maintenance costs give it a slight edge in this department.
Pricing and Value
When it comes to making a decision between the Honda Pilot and the Chevy Traverse, one of the most critical factors to consider is the pricing and value of each vehicle. After all, you want to make sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck, right? Let’s dive into the details and see how these two SUVs compare.
Base Model Prices and Trim Levels
The base model prices of the Honda Pilot and the Chevy Traverse are relatively comparable, with the Pilot starting at around $32,000 and the Traverse starting at around $30,000. However, as you move up the trim levels, the prices start to diverge. The Pilot offers five trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, EX-L Navi, and Elite, with the top-of-the-line Elite trim coming in at around $43,000. The Traverse, on the other hand, offers six trim levels: L, LS, LT Cloth, LT Leather, RS, and High Country, with the High Country trim topping out at around $43,000 as well.
Fuel Economy and Running Costs
When it comes to fuel economy, the Honda Pilot and the Chevy Traverse are both relatively efficient, especially considering their size and capabilities. The Pilot gets an estimated 22 mpg combined, with 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The Traverse gets an estimated 23 mpg combined, with 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. As for running costs, both vehicles have relatively low maintenance costs, with the Pilot averaging around $300 per year and the Traverse averaging around $350 per year.
Resale Value and Total Cost of Ownership
So, what about resale value and total cost of ownership? According to Kelley Blue Book, the Honda Pilot has a higher resale value than the Chevy Traverse, with the Pilot retaining around 55% of its original price after five years, compared to around 45% for the Traverse. Additionally, the Pilot’s lower maintenance costs and fuel economy make it a more cost-effective option over the long haul. According to Edmunds, the total cost of ownership for the Pilot over five years is around $43,000, compared to around $47,000 for the Traverse. That’s a difference of around $4,000, which can add up quickly!
Interior Comfort and Amenities
When it comes to interior comfort and amenities, both the Honda Pilot and Chevy Traverse are designed to provide a pleasant driving experience for passengers. But how do they stack up against each other?
Seating Capacity and Configuration
The Honda Pilot can accommodate up to eight passengers, with plenty of room for adults in the front and second rows. The third row is best suited for children, but it’s still a great option for families who need extra seating. The Pilot’s seating configuration is also highly versatile, with 60/40-split second-row seats and 50/50-split third-row seats that can be easily folded and rearranged to accommodate different passenger and cargo configurations.
In contrast, the Chevy Traverse offers seating for up to eight passengers as well, but its third row is slightly more spacious than the Pilot’s. The Traverse also features a more innovative seating system, with second-row captain’s chairs that can be slid fore and aft to provide more legroom or cargo space. However, the Traverse’s third-row seats are more difficult to fold and stow away than the Pilot’s.
Cargo Space and Storage Options
When it comes to cargo space, the Chevy Traverse has a clear advantage. With all seats in place, the Traverse offers 23 cubic feet of cargo space, compared to the Pilot’s 16.5 cubic feet. The Traverse also features a larger maximum cargo capacity, with up to 98.2 cubic feet of space available when the second- and third-row seats are folded. The Pilot, on the other hand, maxes out at 83.9 cubic feet of cargo space.
However, the Pilot makes up for its smaller cargo area with more creative storage solutions. The Pilot features a large center console with multiple storage compartments, as well as a variety of clever storage bins and cubbies throughout the cabin.
Advanced Comfort Features and Options
Both the Honda Pilot and Chevy Traverse offer a range of advanced comfort features and options to enhance the driving experience. The Pilot features available amenities like heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic sunroof. The Traverse, on the other hand, offers its own set of premium amenities, including heated and ventilated front seats, a power tilt-sliding sunroof, and a 120-volt power outlet.
One area where the Pilot stands out is in its noise reduction technology. The Pilot features an Active Noise Cancellation system, which uses microphones and speakers to actively cancel out road noise and create a quieter cabin environment. The Traverse, on the other hand, relies on more traditional sound insulation methods to reduce noise levels.
Driving Experience and Dynamics
When it comes to driving a vehicle, the experience can make all the difference. It’s not just about getting from point A to point B, but about how you feel during that journey. Both the Honda Pilot and Chevy Traverse are designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable ride, but how do they stack up against each other?
Acceleration and Braking Performance
Let’s talk about power. The Honda Pilot comes equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower, while the Chevy Traverse boasts a 3.6-liter V6 engine that churns out 310 horsepower. That’s a significant difference, and one that will be noticeable when merging onto a busy highway or climbing steep inclines. But it’s not all about brute force – the Traverse also features a more advanced 9-speed automatic transmission, which provides smoother shifting and better fuel economy. The Pilot, on the other hand, makes do with a 6-speed automatic. When it comes to braking, both vehicles feature advanced systems with features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist, but the Traverse’s larger brakes provide more stopping power.
Suspension and Handling Characteristics
Now, let’s talk about how these SUVs handle the road. The Honda Pilot features a more traditional suspension setup, with a double-wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This provides a smooth ride and decent handling, but it can feel a bit uncertain when pushed hard. The Chevy Traverse, on the other hand, boasts a more advanced suspension system with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a five-link rear suspension. This provides better body control and more precise handling, making it a more confidence-inspiring drive.
Noise Level and Driving Refinement
Finally, let’s talk about the little things that make a big difference. The Honda Pilot is known for its quiet and refined interior, with ample sound insulation and active noise cancellation. It’s a great place to be, whether you’re cruising down the highway or stuck in rush-hour traffic. The Chevy Traverse, on the other hand, can be a bit more raucous, with more road noise and engine rumble making its way into the cabin. However, it’s still a comfortable and pleasant place to be, with plenty of amenities and features to keep you happy.