Honda has a fairly modern SUV lineup with the CR-V being the most recent model to be redesigned. The new-generation CR-V entered the market two years ago and is by far the best-selling model in the lineup as well as one of the most popular offerings in the compact SUV segment.
The new-generation mid-size Honda Pilot hit the market in its current form in 2016 about the same time as the entry-level Honda HR-V was introduced to North America. Both get subtle improvements this year but nothing necessarily noteworthy, and along with the CR-V they form a lineup that puts the emphasis on comfort, versatility, and fuel economy.
Those three elements are Honda’s calling card. The Japanese automaker may not have as many sport utility vehicles in its lineup as Nissan or Toyota, but 2019 Honda SUVs are all among the best-selling in their class which more than makes up for it.
Let’s take a closer look at each model in the 2019 Honda SUV lineup.
2019 Honda HR-V
Starting Price: $23,100
Starting Price with AWD: $25,400
Cargo Space : 657 liters
Seats : 5
Standard engine: 1.8-liter four-cylinder
Standard gearbox: CVT automatic
The 2019 Honda HR-V has been around for a while, and yet its competitors have never really caught up to its fuel economy numbers or its versatility. The HR-V remains one of the most efficient subcompact SUVs in its segment while also being one of the most spacious.
It’s a bit short on the fun factor, however. Those wanting a sportier experience will want to check out the Mazda CX-3 or Hyundai Kona. You will also want to compare it to the Nissan Qashqai if space, comfort and efficiency are important factors for you. Nevertheless, the HR-V is among the best in its class even if it’s just not that much fun to drive.
2019 Honda CR-V
Starting Price: $27,290
Starting Price with AWD: $30,090
Cargo Space: 1,110 liters (1,065 in the Touring model)
Seats: 5
Standard engine: 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
Standard gearbox: CVT automatic
You will have trouble finding a more comfortable or spacious compact SUV. The 2019 Honda CR-V is modern in every way, quiet, and refined. It has a ton of space and only a handful of models like the Nissan Rogue, Subaru Forester or Volkswagen Tiguan can compete in terms of cargo volume.
It has a powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine that provides remarkable fuel economy. The only real problem with the CR-V can also be found in the HR-V and Pilot.
It’s not exactly a sporty vehicle, and those wanting a somewhat dynamic vehicle will find that the engine tends to be loud when you push it and the CVT gearbox is not tuned for any kind of spirited driving.
If that’s what you are looking for, the Mazda CX-5, VW Tiguan, Hyundai Tucson or Kia Sportage may be better options. That said, when it comes to space and comfort, the CR-V has the upper hand.
2019 Honda Pilot
Starting Price: $41,090
AWD Standard
Cargo Space Behind Third Row: 524 liters
Cargo Space: 1,583 liters
Seats: 7 or 8
Standard engine: 3.5-liter V6
Standard gearbox: Six-speed automatic
Optional gearbox: Nine-speed automatic
The Honda Pilot does one thing very well, and that’s comfort. That’s all we’ve been talking about in this article, and ultimately that’s what defines the Honda lineup and the Pilot even more so. It’s not short on space either, and overall it provides a pleasant and relaxed drive that you’ll enjoy if you’re not looking for sharp handling.
All Pilots are on the pricey side, but the top-of-the-line Touring model is the only one that doesn’t really provide enough value to justify the cost. AWD is standard across the lineup, and the EX and EX-L versions offer the best bang for your buck. There’s also a lot of space even when all three rows are in place, so families will certainly appreciate the Pilot’s versatility. Seven or eight seats can be had in the Pilot which remains a competitive offering for this year at least.
That said, you’ll still want to test drive the Volkswagen Atlas, Nissan Pathfinder, Mazda CX-9, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Subaru Ascent.
