What To Know
- The Buick Envision, on the other hand, delivers an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway with FWD.
- The Honda Pilot and Buick Envision come equipped with a range of advanced technology features to keep you entertained and connected on the road.
- The Honda Pilot has a starting price of $36,850 for the base LX trim, while the Buick Envision starts at $33,995 for the Preferred trim.
In the realm of midsize SUVs, two contenders stand out: the Honda Pilot and the Buick Envision. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of space, comfort, and performance, making them popular choices among families and adventure enthusiasts. However, discerning buyers often find themselves torn between these two exceptional SUVs. This comprehensive comparison aims to shed light on their key differences and help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Powertrain: A Clash of Titans
Under the hood, the Honda Pilot boasts a potent 3.5-liter V6 engine that unleashes 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain delivers a smooth and responsive driving experience, effortlessly tackling city commutes and highway cruising alike. The Pilot’s 9-speed automatic transmission ensures seamless gear shifts and optimal fuel efficiency.
In contrast, the Buick Envision offers two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder and a turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder. The former produces 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the latter generates 252 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Both engines are paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. While the Envision’s engines provide adequate power, they may fall short of the Pilot’s muscular V6 in terms of overall performance and towing capacity.
Fuel Efficiency: A Battle of Wits
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Honda Pilot and Buick Envision exhibit comparable figures. The Pilot achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive (FWD). Opting for all-wheel drive (AWD) slightly reduces these numbers to 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
The Buick Envision, on the other hand, delivers an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway with FWD. AWD models see a slight decrease to 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. While the Envision boasts marginally better fuel economy, the difference is likely negligible for most drivers.
Interior Space and Comfort: Room to Roam
Both the Honda Pilot and Buick Envision offer spacious and well-appointed interiors. The Pilot provides ample seating for up to eight passengers, with generous legroom and headroom in all three rows. Its versatile second-row seats can be configured to accommodate child safety seats or folded down to create a flat cargo area.
The Buick Envision, while slightly smaller than the Pilot, still offers comfortable seating for five adults. Its front seats are supportive and offer ample adjustability, while the rear seats provide decent legroom and headroom. The Envision’s cargo space is respectable, but it falls short of the Pilot’s cavernous cargo hold.
Technology and Infotainment: Keeping You Connected
The Honda Pilot and Buick Envision come equipped with a range of advanced technology features to keep you entertained and connected on the road. The Pilot’s infotainment system features an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a premium audio system. It also offers a suite of driver-assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.
The Buick Envision’s infotainment system revolves around a 10.2-inch touchscreen display. It boasts wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a Bose premium audio system, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. These include automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Safety and Reliability: A Commitment to Peace of Mind
Both the Honda Pilot and Buick Envision have earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). They come standard with a range of airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control.
In terms of reliability, the Honda Pilot has a slight edge over the Buick Envision. J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study consistently ranks Honda among the most reliable brands, while Buick’s reliability ratings are generally average.
Price and Value: Weighing the Scales
The Honda Pilot has a starting price of $36,850 for the base LX trim, while the Buick Envision starts at $33,995 for the Preferred trim. As you move up the trim levels, the prices increase accordingly.
When comparing similarly equipped models, the Honda Pilot typically commands a slightly higher price tag than the Buick Envision. However, the Pilot offers more standard features and a more spacious interior, which may justify the additional cost for some buyers.
The Verdict: A Matter of Personal Preference
Ultimately, the choice between the Honda Pilot and the Buick Envision boils down to personal preferences and priorities. If you prioritize performance, interior space, and overall value, the Honda Pilot is an excellent choice. However, if you’re looking for a more compact and fuel-efficient SUV with a luxurious interior and a lower price tag, the Buick Envision is worth considering.
Beyond the Comparison: Additional Considerations
1. Towing Capacity: If you frequently tow heavy loads, the Honda Pilot’s superior towing capacity of 5,000 pounds (when properly equipped) gives it a clear advantage over the Buick Envision‘s 3,500-pound towing capacity.
2. Off-Road Capability: While both SUVs are primarily designed for on-road driving, the Honda Pilot offers slightly better off-road capability thanks to its standard all-wheel drive system and higher ground clearance.
3. Brand Reputation: Honda has a long-standing reputation for reliability, durability, and excellent customer service. Buick, on the other hand, has been improving its reputation in recent years, but it still lags behind Honda in terms of brand perception.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
A: The Honda Pilot boasts a more powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine compared to the Buick Envision‘s turbocharged 4-cylinder engines.
Q: Which SUV offers better fuel efficiency?
A: The Buick Envision has marginally better fuel economy than the Honda Pilot, but the difference is negligible for most drivers.
Q: Which SUV has more cargo space?
A: The Honda Pilot offers more cargo space than the Buick Envision, making it a better choice for families and those who frequently transport large items.
Q: Which SUV has a more spacious interior?
A: The Honda Pilot has a more spacious interior than the Buick Envision, with ample seating for up to eight passengers and generous legroom and headroom in all three rows.
Q: Which SUV has a better infotainment system?
A: The Buick Envision features a larger 10.2-inch touchscreen display and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, while the Honda Pilot has an 8-inch touchscreen and wired smartphone integration.
Q: Which SUV is more reliable?
A: The Honda Pilot has a slight edge over the Buick Envision in terms of reliability, according to J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study.