The 2017 Honda Pilot EX-L represents a significant step up in the mid-size SUV segment, blending the practicality of three-row seating with a premium interior experience. While the base model provides reliable transportation, the EX-L trim targets buyers who desire enhanced comfort, superior materials, and a more refined feature set without venturing into the top-tier Touring territory. This specific model year is notable for striking a balance between value and luxury, offering technology and conveniences that were becoming standard in the competitive automotive market of 2017.
Design and Material Quality
Upon entering the cabin of a 2017 Honda Pilot EX-L, the first impression is one of sophistication and tactile quality. Unlike the vinyl finishes found in lower trims, the EX-L boasts soft-touch plastics and premium materials on the dashboard, center console, and doors. The interior color palette is more restrained and elegant, moving away from the brighter hues of the base model. Chrome accents are strategically placed on the window switches and around the shifter, adding a subtle touch of class that elevates the overall aesthetic.
Seating and Comfort
Seating comfort is a major highlight of the EX-L, featuring front bucket seats with dual-zone automatic climate control. The driver and front passenger seats are bolstered for better support during cornering, yet they remain comfortable for long highway drives thanks to ample cushioning and fabric upholstery that breathes well. The second-row bench seat provides generous legroom for adults, and the third row, while best suited for children or occasional use, is a significant improvement over the cramped quarters often found in competitors. The integration of the steering wheel-mounted audio controls further enhances the comfort by allowing the driver to manage music or calls without taking their hands off the wheel.
Technology and Infotainment
The EX-L trim bridges the gap between basic connectivity and high-tech functionality. The centerpiece of the cabin is the 7-inch navigation audio display, which integrates the HondaLink interface seamlessly. This system provides clear graphics and access to a variety of features, including Bluetooth connectivity for both hands-free calling and audio streaming. Drivers can pair their smartphones to access contacts and, depending on the region and specific model year, utilize streaming audio services directly through the dashboard screen.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Safety is a cornerstone of the Honda Pilot's identity, and the 2017 EX-L comes well-equipped to protect its occupants. The suite of Honda Sensing safety features is a standard inclusion, which was becoming a benchmark for the segment at the time. This suite encompasses Collision Mitigation Braking System, Road Departure Mitigation System, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Keeping Assist System. These technologies work together to provide an extra layer of security, helping the driver maintain control and awareness in various driving scenarios.
Performance and Practicality
Powering the 2017 Honda Pilot EX-L is a reliable 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower, mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain combination delivers confident acceleration and effortless passing, making highway merging a stress-free experience. The real-world fuel economy falls in the mid-teens for city driving and the low twenties on the highway, which is respectable for a vehicle of this size and capability. The handling is tuned for stability rather than sportiness, contributing to a smooth and composed ride that suits families.
Versatile Cargo Space
One of the strongest arguments for choosing a three-row SUV like the Pilot is its versatility, and the 2017 EX-L does not disappoint. With the second and third rows folded, the cargo bed expands to an impressive size, accommodating large items such as furniture, appliances, or camping gear. The rear seats fold in a 60/40 split, which adds flexibility for mixed-use scenarios. Accessing the third row is surprisingly easy, and the rear-facing seats provide enough headroom for adults on shorter trips, solidifying the vehicle's value as a true family hauler.
