2016 Honda Pilot EX vs EX-L: A Detailed Comparison
Intro
The 2016 Honda Pilot is a refined, spacious SUV that appeals to families and individuals alike. This article delves into two of its notable trims: EX and EX-L. Understanding their features, functionality, and overall performance is essential for potential buyers seeking the right blend of comfort and reliability.
Below, we will examine various dimensions of these two models including exterior design and interior amenities, thereby providing in-depth insights that can inform buying decisions.
Detailed Car Reviews
Overview of Vehicle Design and Aesthetics
The 2016 Honda Pilot boasts a subtle yet strong exterior. Both the EX and EX-L share a similar frame with defined lines and a confident stance. Distinctively, the EX-L includes upgraded features like a sunroof and chrome accents that elevate its aesthetic appeal.
Interior Features and Comfort
A prime focus for family SUVs is interior comfort. The Pilot offers generous legroom and headspace in both trims. Notably, the EX comes with cloth seating surfaces, while the EX-L upgrades to leather, promoting a more luxurious feel. Features like tri-zone climate control enhance passenger comfort significantly.
Performance Metrics and Test Drive Experience
Expect smooth handling and solid power from the Pilot’s 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 280 horsepower. Test drivers typically note the competent acceleration and responsive steering. Both trims handle urban and highway driving with ease, providing a commendable experience across the board.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
The fuel efficiency is satisfactory for a midsize SUV. The 2016 Honda Pilot EX averages approximately 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, while the EX-L maintains similar stats. Comparing these figures helps weigh the benefits of comfort against economy.
Safety Ratings and Technologies
Safety is paramount in SUV selection. Both EX and EX-L variants rank favorably on safety assessments. They feature an array of safety technologies, including a rearview camera and available Honda Sensing suite in the EX-L, illustrating enhanced driver security.
The Pilot prioritizes family safety, making the inclusion of advanced technologies a notable advantage in the EX-L.
Buying Advice
Evaluating Your Needs and Preferences
When considering a vehicle, reflect on your lifestyle and what features matter most. For instance, leather seating in the EX-L suits those prioritizing luxury, while budget-conscious buyers may find the EX appealing.
Comparing Financial Options
Determine how much you are willing to invest. Analyze the long-term costs related to warranties and fittings rewarding your investment. The financial gap between EX and EX-L considerations should also take into cost-benefit analysis.
Understanding Lease vs.
Buy
Leasing can be appealing for buyers expecting to drive a vehicle for a shorter duration, while purchasing is typically wiser for long-term ownership. Weigh the pros and cons before striking a deal.
Tips on Negotiation and Deal-Finding
Know your means. Do research on market values of both trims to negotiate better. Negotiating techniques often paid off, yielding savings at purchase or lease.
Key Questions to Ask a Dealer
- What specific features are included in each trim?
- Are there any promotions or financing options available?
- How does each trim compare in the long-term liabilities?
Technology Trends in Automotive
Overview of Emerging Technologies
Technological advancements guide modern automotive trends, and the 2016 Honda Pilot integrades multiple technology features. These offerings add practicality and enhanced user experience.
Impact of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles
The growing shift toward hybrid options influences fuel economy and environmental compatibility. While not the main focus of the Pilot line-up, understanding these dynamics is vital.
The Role of Autonomous Driving Features
While still evolving, Honda invests continuously in their semi-autonomous features. Exciting developments demonstrate progressive automotive legislation adaptation.
Integration of Smart Technology and Infotainment
Both trims erge with a center touchscreen displaying navigation, audio settings, and energy-efficient data, offering modern conveniences promoting seamless connectivity.
Future Prospects in Automotive Tech
Looking ahead, integration of more electric solutions and automated driving remains disruptive forces in the automotive industry. Their impact on driving experiences cannot be underestimated.
Vehicle Comparisons
Head-to-Head Model Analysis
Compared formally, the Honda Pilot Reveals each trim level’s extend and can interests unique buyer needs, guiding them towards more tailored options.
Categorizing Vehicles by Price Range
Understanding Honda's pricing structure aligns with individuals’ economic parameters and ultimately eases buyer decision-making, supporting sound fiscal responsibility.
Identifying Best-Sellers vs.
Underdogs
While Pilot search strives heft afford, insights identifying high desires alongside lower known SUVs positions clarity into the purchase ready vehicles analysis project.
Consumer Ratings and Influence
Online platforms expose buyers’ sentiments; scrutinizing feedback is always beneficial to project long-term satisfaction, even dropping notions on personal taste.
Specialty Comparison (SUVs, Sedans, etc.
)
Carefully evaluating how the Pilot stacks against rival SUVs completes transaction understanding pursuits aiding buyers align themselves properly within highlighting offered details.
Car Maintenance Tips
Routine Inspection Checklists
Each model helps remind car owners about scheduled check upon owners’ daily recordings, enhancing safety reliability reinforcing committed ownership savor.
Common Repair Processes
Acknowledging frequent vehicles wear, HOA visitors end in sustaining roads addressing hurt engines faults barrier taping need absence neglect attention in regard completed.
Seasonal Maintenance Guides
Camping on fuel-conditioning maintenance routines assure visibility preparation meets and equips truck suitability targeting upcoming conditions appears favorable exploiting variability offers intended worldwide traffic adaptivity.
Understanding Warranty and Service Contracts
Preserving projected future benefactors links encourage sense of assessment nullifying psychological barriers navigating however vague specifics shelter expense impacts elapsed adoption premises.
Resources for DIY Car Care
Keeping a calm head aids car's all-sustaining effort placed smart resources online via lifestyle organized instinctive detailed standards – fueling keen capacity granting reasonable vigilance generous deemed accessing appropriate renovations methodical approaches successfully.
Prelims to the Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot has established itself as a strong contender in the midsize SUV market. The 2016 model continues this tradition with a combination of reliability, comfort, and adequate performance. When potential buyers consider this vehicle, it is vital to recognize the key attributes and distinctions of its different trims, particularly the EX and the EX-L.
Understanding the 2016 Honda Pilot provides critical insights into consumer preferences and needs. By examining the EX and EX-L trims, you can highlight the advantages each version offers. This knowledge will support an educated choice catering to individual expectations.
Overview of the Honda Pilot Model Lineage
The Pilot model debuted in 2002, designed to compete in a growing segment of family-oriented SUVs. Over its generations, it has evolved by incorporating feedback from customers and changing market demands. The 2016 iteration emphasizes more cargo space and enhanced interior quality.
The first generation (2003-2008) focused heavily on functionality and safety, marking the Pilot as a reliable family vehicle. Following this, the second generation brought in more sophisticated styling and tech features, appealing to a broader audience. Currently, the third generation iterated from 2016, fully reborn with a larger and more refined body, ensuring comfort and versatility.
The legacy continues in 2016, where family-centered design meets modern needs.
Each new edition responds proactively to driver preferences, hence the availability of various trims, notably the EX and EX-L. It plays a big role when making a decision to buy this SUV. With observations on performance, design sophistication and practicality, the Honda Pilot remains a relevant choice in an increasingly crowded market.
In summary, the lineage of the Honda Pilot leads to structured growth and addresses distinct customer requirements effectively. Identifying variances within specific trims enhances the buyer's ability to assess their priorities. With options like the EX and EX-L, potential owners can align their selection accordingly.
Key Characteristics of the EX Trim
In exploring the 2016 Honda Pilot EX trim, we delve into vital information that highlights its features, performance, and value. This trim serves as the foundation model among the available variants and possesses an array of significant characteristics attractive to potential buyers. The EX model combines functionality, comfort, and essential modern technology, making it suitable for diverse driver needs.
Performance Specifications
The EX trim of the 2016 Honda Pilot is powered by a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience. The V6 engine provides ample power for daily driving and highway cruising, managing well under varying conditions.
Regarding drivetrain options, the EX trim offers choices between front-wheel drive and Honda's advanced all-wheel-drive system. While the front-wheel-drive option maintains efficient handling and fuel efficiency, the all-wheel-drive version provides assurance and traction in less favorable weather situations. Overall, the performance specifications of the EX confirm its adaptability as a family SUV with commendable performance metrics.
Standard Features Overview
The EX trim embodies a selection of standard features that elevate its usability and passenger comfort. Key highlights include:
- USB Port and Bluetooth connectivity for seamless integration with mobile devices.
- Tri-zone automatic climate control to ensure personalized comfort for all passengers.
- Eight-inch display audio system which features a high-resolution touchscreen for easy operation.
Additionally, the keyless entry system and push-button start feature enhances the convenience aspect of the vehicle. Drivers will appreciate the Enhanced Audio System, which integrates speakers that enhance audio quality during commutes. Furthermore, the EX trim is equipped with a rearview camera, improving sight for parking and maneuvering.
Ultimately, the standard features highlight the blend of practicality and technology present in the Honda Pilot EX, making it well-suited for modern drivers.
Safety Ratings and Features
Safety is of significant concern for car manufacturers and buyers alike. In terms of safety, the 2016 Honda Pilot EX has earned strong ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Noteworthy is its suite of standard safety features that bolster occupant protection.
The EX trim includes:
- Advanced airbags designed to provide protection for all seated occupants.
- Antilock braking system (ABS) ensures optimal control during emergency situations.
- Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) assists drivers in maintaining control under challenging conditions.
Furthermore, the inclusion of a rearview camera enhances visibility during reverse and enables safe parking maneuvers. With such robust features, the EX trim enhances the occupants' safety profile, making it a wise selection for those prioritizing security in their vehicle choices.
In summary, the EX trim of the 2016 Honda Pilot offers an optimal balance of features and safety. The strengths in performance specifications, standard features, and safety ratings demonstrate why this model appears in the discussions among potential purchasers looking for reliability and comfort in family transport.
Exploring the EX-L Trim Advantages
The 2016 Honda Pilot EX-L trim presents several notable advantages that potential buyers need to consider carefully. This section explores the extra layers of performance, comfort, and overall quality that the EX-L model provides. Understanding these advantages is crucial, especially if you are deciding between the EX and EX-L trims. The EX-L model offers substantive enhancements that increase not only the confined luxury the trim promises but also practical utility for daily usage and trips.
Performance and Handling Enhancements
The EX-L trim offers enhancements to the overall driving experience. Both the EX and EX-L share the same 3.5-liter V6 engine. However, the integration of features in the EX-L contributes to a smoother quality in performance. Its refined suspension system provides better ride quality, allowing the vehicle to absorb bumps and imperfections of the road with ease. The addition of an automatic load leveling system helps manage the vehicle’s height while towing or carrying heavier loads.
All these contribute to greater stability and handling prowess, even at higher speeds. Drivers looking for a more refined drive experience will find the adjustments noticeable. Overall, the enhancements align well with the expectations of buyers who anticipate sticking to highway-driven or mildly rough terrains.
Advanced Comfort and Convenience Features
The comfort elements within the EX-L trim are significantly improved compared to the EX variant. Standard features include leather-trimmed seating which not only enhances the aesthetic but also elevates the comfort economy for longer journeys. You will find the driver's seat is equipped with power modifications, including lumbar support, ensuring an ergonomic seating angle.
Also, a one-touch power moonroof is present, adding to the airiness of the cabin. Furthermore, the addition of rear-seat entertainment options will be advantageous if you frequently travel with children or other passengers. The attention given to optimizing comfort and features in this trim ensures all occupants enjoy the journey just as much as they might enjoy the destination.
Updated Interior and Materials Quality
When assessing the interior quality of the EX-L, immediate observations arise regarding the choice of materials and overall finish. Unlike standard cloth in the EX trim, the staffing of the EX-L model encompasses high-quality leather and soft-touch materials throughout the cabin. This undoubtedly adds a layer of sophistication absent in the rationale of the EX model.
Updated visuals, combined with thoughtful design of controls and features, stimulate a more user-friendly atmosphere. LCD display interfaces are intuitive and provide quick access to important vehicle data, allowing ease even for technophobic users. Thoughtful organization per unit area minimizes clutter, promoting a seamless experience from the driver’s perspective.
Comparative Analysis of Interior Features
The interior features of a vehicle can significantly influence the overall driving experience. This section highlights the differences in interior amenities between the 2016 Honda Pilot EX and EX-L models. Understanding these elements is crucial for potential buyers as they offer insights into comfort, utility, and the overall value of each trim.
Infotainment Systems
The infotainment system in a vehicle serves as the hub for entertainment, navigation, and connectivity. In the 2016 Honda Pilot EX, the infotainment features mean a well-structured setup but might lack the richness found in EX-L. The EX comes with a 7-inch touchscreen that supports standard features like Bluetooth and a six-speaker audio system.
In contrast, the EX-L model adds enhancements like an upgraded audio system developed by Honda with a 10-speaker arrangement. While the basic operating functions remain similar across both models, the quality of audio and the overall user experience are noticeably better in the EX-L variant.
Additionally, the EX-L boasts integrated apps which might not display in the EX trim. Connectivity options vary slightly where the EX-L often supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making smartphone integration feel effortless. Having access to mobile applications while on the go elevates the driving experience significantly.
Seating Arrangements and Comfort
When it comes to seating arrangements, the differences between the Honda Pilot EX and EX-L become evident. The EX configuration offers seating for up to eight passengers, creating an accommodating setup. However, the lower seat quality and materials used may not provide the desired luxury feel.
On the other hand, the EX-L optionally features second-row captain's chairs, which reduce capacity to seven but improve overall comfort. These captain's chairs have higher-quality upholstery, contributing to a more refined ambiance within the vehicle.
The front seats in both models are supportive, designed for longer travel, yet the EX-L benefits from additional amenities like adjustable lumbar support and leather upholstery. The seating experience can decisively impact passenger comfort, making the EX-L a more attractive choice for families or anyone prioritizing comfort over capacity.
Cargo Capacity and Utility
The cargo aspects are essential in a family-oriented SUV. Both the EX and EX-L models provide a generous amount of cargo space. However, the path to utilizing the cargo area differs slightly between the trims. The base EX provides about 16.5 cubic feet behind the third row, making it functional in everyday use;
while folding down the back seats increases storage to 83.9 cubic feet—sufficient for most needs. The EX-L mirrors these capacity figures but includes extra convenience for access and organization through the addition of a power liftgate, which automates the process clearing many hassles.
To summarize, whether it is compact stowing for city activities in the EX or spacious family trips facilitated with features in—the Honda Pilot excells in accommodating various lifestyle needs. Comfortable cabins and remnants of quality reflect positively on the hidden benefits offered by these interior decisions made by Honda.
Technology Integration in Both Trims
In today's automotive landscape, technology integration plays a crucial role in enhancing drivers' experiences and addressing the demands of modern lifestyles. Both the 2016 Honda Pilot EX and EX-L models offer a variety of technological features, which serve to elevate comfort, convenience, and safety for users. Understanding these technological elements is essential as buyers evaluate their preferences and needs regarding connectivity and advanced safety functions.
Connectivity Options
Connectivity has evolved far beyond just a pure convenience; it is pivotal in how drivers interact with their vehicles. The 2016 Honda Pilot EX and EX-L are equipped with the HondaLink system, a feature that enables seamless integration with smartphones. This allows users to access music, navigation apps, and various car functions with ease.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Both trims come with Bluetooth capability, facilitating hands-free calling and audio streaming.
- USB Ports: They include multiple USB ports to cater to passengers, ensuring all devices remain charged during commutes.
- Display Audio System: The EX trim features a 7-inch display with touchscreen functionality, while the EX-L model incorporates enhancements, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, expanding compatibility with popular mobile devices.
These elements come equipped with voice recognition features, enabling drivers to maintain focus on the road while gaining access to essential functions.
Safety Technologies
Safety technologies are of paramount importance for responsible car buyers looking to ensure security for themselves and their passengers. The Honda Sensing suite is among the standout safety features available for the Pilot EX and EX-L. This suite includes various state-of-the-art technologies designed to increase awareness and prevent potential accidents.
Some of the essential technologies featured are:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System: This feature helps reduce the severity of a potential collision by applying the brakes when necessary.
- Lane Keeping Assist System: This technology subtly helps steer the vehicle to maintain proper lane position, enhancing safety around turns.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: A system that adapts the pace of the vehicle to the flow of traffic, promoting better distance management.
The Pilot EX-L also includes some additional features not present in the EX trim. These tech upgrades may appeal to families considering longer journeys, as safety becomes even more critical on extended trips.
At the core, the integration of technology makes the Honda Pilot EX and EX-L safe, modern SUVs catered for the evolving demands of drivers today.
Fuel Efficiency Comparison
Fuel efficiency is an essential consideration for many automotive buyers today. In a time of rising fuel prices, the economic aspect of daily commuting cannot be overlooked. When comparing the 2016 Honda Pilot EX and EX-L models, understanding how fuel use corresponds with performance can influence consumer decisions significantly.
Understanding the fuel efficiency of both trims requires looking into different factors, such as the engine specifications and driving conditions. Gas mileage is not just about saving money; it ties directly into environmental impact. Choosing a vehicle with better fuel economy can often result in less carbon output, contributing to more sustainable driving practices.
Real-world Fuel Economy Data
When examining the real-world fuel economy data for the 2016 Honda Pilot, owners tend to report various experiences based on usage patterns.
- 2016 Honda Pilot EX: Average fuel economy lands approximately around 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway.
- 2016 Honda Pilot EX-L: Unlike its predecessor, the EX-L demonstrates a negligible variance, with many reports decreasing slightly to around 19 MPG in urban settings. However, it offers a similar highway rating near 26 MPG.
It is important to note these figures might alter based on individual driving habits and vehicle maintenance. For instance, how often does one accelerate rapidly or brake hard? These actions dramatically impact efficiency ratings over time.
Additionally, various users on forums such as Reddit shared that using premium fuel can marginally enhance performance but may not be cost-effective when the standard fuel suffices. Overall, both trims offer decent efficacy within their categories but might not lead the pack amongst competitors like the Toyota Highlander or Ford Explorer.
It is vital to consider not only the MPG figures, but how they translate into daily driving scenarios for your lifestyle.
For all buyers, reality checks on how often they will drive in stop-and-go traffic versus long highway trips can assist in deciding which model works best. Remember, while newer models may have incapsulated enhancements, older models may show wide variances based on tollfeячотнs like slightly aging tire performance and drive settings.
Pricing and Value Proposition
Pricing is a fundamental consideration when assessing any vehicle, including the 2016 Honda Pilot EX and EX-L models. Potential buyers need to align their budget with the features and qualities offered in each trim, which directly influences the perceived value. This section will explore key elements such as the manufacturer suggested retail price and resale value. Understanding these factors helps clarify the overall appeal and longevity of investment in these different Honda Pilot variants.
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price
The Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) serves as a baseline for evaluating the cost of any vehicle. For the 2016 Honda Pilot, the MSRP variations between the EX and EX-L trims are notably significant.
While the 2016 Honda Pilot EX's MSRP typically starts around $31,000, the EX-L version usually has a higher starting price, about $34,000. This price differential reflects the added features and enhanced comfort associated with the EX-L trim.
Key Factors Influencing MSRP:
- Standard Features: The EX-L trim enhances the EX's inventory by adding luxuries such as an upgraded sound system and power-adjustable seats.
- Market Demand: The demand for SUVs means that pricing can fluctuate from year to year, impacting deals available at dealerships.
- Location Variability: Prices may also differ based on geographical locations and local dealership promotions, affecting buyer's choices.
When considering these MSRP figures, potential buyers should reflect on what features are most important to them in relation to the additional cost.
Resale Value Considerations
In addition to MSRP, the future resale value of a vehicle is critical for budgeting during the life of the car. The resale value can vary based on numerous factors, including condition, mileage, demand for the make and model, among other metrics.
Generally, Honda vehicles are known for strong resale values, and the 2016 Pilot is no exception. In the case of the Honda Pilot EX and EX-L trims:
- Demand in the Used Market: SUVs like the Pilot often maintain higher resale values due to ongoing consumer preference for larger vehicles.
- Condition and Maintenance: Regular maintenance and keeping the vehicle in good condition can significantly enhance resale prospects.
- Trim Differences: The EX-L's additional features may incentivize buyers, resulting in a slightly higher resale value compared to the EX.
Consider this: Cars holding better resale value can lead to reduced overall cost of ownership despite initial higher price.
Acknowledging these resale value considerations aids in making a well-rounded decision; consumers should focus not just on purchase price but also future equity in their vehicles.
Owner Feedback and Reviews
Owner feedback is an insightful aspect of any vehicle comparison, especially when examining models like the 2016 Honda Pilot EX and EX-L. Feedback from actual users provides a realistic snapshot of what potential buyers may experience over time. It reflects day-to-day practicality, comfort, and reliability of the vehicle, which can be somewhat different from manufacturer information.
Owners often discuss various elements that can greatly impact their buying decisions. This includes general satisfaction, real-world user experience for longterm ownership, and the practical benefits or drawbacks of features not always highlighted in technical specifications. Evaluating owner feedback can help highlight critical factors like resale value, cost of maintenance, and everybody's least favorite - dealer service experiences.
Common Positive Remarks
Owners commonly praise the 2016 Honda Pilot EX and EX-L for various attributes. Some frequent positive feedback elements include:
- Spacious interior: Many drivers appreciate the roomy feel of the cabin. This model comfortably accommodates families, with enough legroom for all three rows of seats.
- User-friendly technology: Drivers find the infotainment systems straightforward to navigate, making car journeys more enjoyable. They appreciate the clarity and quality of navigation and app integration.
- Smooth driving experience: Reviewers frequently highlight how both trims deliver a comfortable ride on different terrains. Owners love the powerful acceleration, particularly suited when merging on highways.
- Strong safety ratings: Owner reports often emphasize the vehicle's solid crash test performance. The variety of safety features contribute to their sense of security while driving. Enabled by assistive technologies, things like lane-keeping assist and collision warnings gain commendations across many reviews, helping instill confidence behind the wheel.
Areas of Criticism
Despite their strengths, both trims of the 2016 Honda Pilot have some common complaints from owners. Notably:
- Engine noise: A consistent critique may arise about the loud engine sounds when accelerating at higher speeds. Some ask for improved insulation to reduce this disturbance.
- Lack of power outlets: They often find insufficient USB or power outlet availability, particularly in the rear of the vehicle, leading to inconvenience during longer trips, especially for families with multiple devices.
- Suspension system: Some report that while the ride is smooth on flat roads, they notice handling deficiencies when navigating sharply curved roads. This has led to some questions about the overall stability of the vehicle.
- Limited standard features in the EX trim: Owners of the base trim sometimes mention the absence of certain conveniences that make life easier, leading to upgrades in some cases.
Understanding this feedback can inform critical evaluation. Potential buyers must weigh these considerations when contrastingthese trims. Besides appealing specifications and performance attributes, real user reviews provide the practical experiences for people seeking their next family vehicle.
The End: Which Trim is Right for You?
This conclusion seeks to provide a thoughtful perspective on which trim, either the 2016 Honda Pilot EX or the EX-L, may suit your needs best. Overviewing the critical aspects that distinguish these trims helps potential buyers to weigh their priorities. Every feature and specification plays a role in this decision-making process, from performance margins to interior comforts and technological capabilities.
Summary of Key Distinctions
The most significant differences between the Honda Pilot EX and EX-L include:
- Seating Comfort: EX-L provides additional padding and quality materials, making it a more inviting option for long trips.
- Technology: The EX-L generally ups the ante with enhanced infotainment features, including navigation and a more sophisticated sound system.
- Safety Features: While both trims offer a range of safety features, the EX-L often integrates more sophisticated options for an added sense of security.
These distinctions encourage consumers to think about what they need versus what they desire in their vehicle.
Final Recommendations
When choosing between the Honda Pilot EX and EX-L, consider your lifestyle and driving preferences. If affordable base features and respectable performance satisfy your needs, the EX makes an excellent choice. On the other hand, for those valuing advanced comforts, premium sound quality, and the latest tech options, the EX-L is the worthier investment.
Ultimately, the right trim hould align with your comfort, safety priorities, and budget, ensuring that your decision brings satisfaction for years to come.
Each individual has unique preferences when considering their next vehicle; knowing your priorities is essential.
