Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD, a vehicle that’s been a staple for families and road trippers alike. When you're looking for a mid-size SUV that offers a blend of comfort, practicality, and capability, the Pilot often comes up in conversation. The 2017 model year brought some significant updates, making the Touring trim with All-Wheel Drive a particularly attractive option for those needing a reliable and versatile ride. We’re going to break down what makes this specific trim stand out, from its luxurious interior touches to its impressive performance on various terrains. If you're considering a used SUV that punches above its weight class, stick around as we explore the ins and outs of this capable machine. We'll cover everything from its spacious cabin and advanced tech features to its driving dynamics and what you can expect in terms of fuel efficiency and maintenance.

Why the 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD Stands Out

The 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD is more than just a family hauler; it's a sophisticated SUV designed to make every journey more enjoyable. For the 2017 model year, Honda gave the Pilot a significant makeover, and the Touring trim really shines with its premium amenities. When you step inside, you immediately notice the upgrade. Think leather-trimmed seats, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel – perfect for those chilly mornings or long drives. The second-row passengers aren't left out either, with heated captain's chairs and their own climate control zone, which is a lifesaver on family road trips. And for the tech-savvy folks, the 8-inch touchscreen display with HondaLink and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility keeps everyone connected and entertained. The Touring trim also boasts a premium audio system that will make your playlists sound amazing. Beyond the comfort and tech, the AWD system on the Touring model is a serious upgrade. It’s not just for snow; Honda's Intelligent Variable Torque Management (VTM-4) system distributes power between the front and rear wheels, and even side-to-side between the rear wheels, optimizing traction and handling in slippery conditions like rain or mud, and improving stability on winding roads. This makes the 2017 Pilot Touring AWD a confident performer in a variety of environments. Whether you're navigating city streets, tackling a snowy commute, or heading off the beaten path for a weekend adventure, this SUV is engineered to deliver a smooth, stable, and enjoyable ride. It’s this thoughtful combination of luxury, cutting-edge technology, and intelligent all-wheel-drive capability that truly sets the 2017 Pilot Touring AWD apart in a crowded segment.

Engine, Performance, and Drivetrain: What Powers the Pilot?

Under the hood, the 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD packs a punch with a robust 3.5-liter i-VTEC V6 engine. This powerhouse delivers a solid 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, which is more than enough grunt to get this three-row SUV moving, even when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. What’s really impressive is how smoothly this power is delivered, thanks to Honda's pairing of the engine with a six-speed automatic transmission. While some competitors were moving to eight or nine speeds, Honda's transmission in the 2017 model is known for its reliability and smooth shifts, making acceleration feel effortless and less intrusive. The Touring trim comes standard with Honda's Intelligent Variable Torque Management (VTM-4) All-Wheel Drive system. This isn't just your average AWD; VTM-4 is a sophisticated system that actively manages torque distribution to enhance traction and stability. In normal driving, it operates like a front-wheel-drive vehicle to save fuel, but when it detects slippage or when you’re accelerating, it can send power to the rear wheels. Even cooler, it can distribute torque between the left and right rear wheels, which is a game-changer for cornering and getting out of tricky situations, like slippery inclines or uneven terrain. This intelligent system provides a significant boost in confidence, especially during adverse weather conditions like heavy rain, snow, or ice. The ride itself is well-tuned, offering a comfortable and composed experience on the highway, while still managing body roll effectively when taking corners. Despite its size, the Pilot feels surprisingly agile, and the V6 engine provides ample power for merging onto the highway or overtaking slower vehicles. It’s a drivetrain that balances capability with refinement, making the 2017 Pilot Touring AWD a pleasure to drive in almost any scenario. You get the power you need, the traction you want, and the smooth delivery that makes long journeys fly by.

Interior Comfort and Space: A Sanctuary on Wheels

When you're talking about the 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD, the interior is where it truly excels, especially for families. Honda designers really focused on creating a spacious, comfortable, and upscale environment, and the Touring trim is the pinnacle of that effort. Right off the bat, you’ll appreciate the generous passenger space across all three rows. The first and second rows offer ample legroom and headroom, ensuring that even adults can ride comfortably on extended trips. The second row features captain's chairs, which are a huge upgrade over a bench seat for many families. They provide individual comfort, easier access to the third row, and often include armrests, making them feel more premium. Plus, the fact that they’re heated in the Touring model is a fantastic perk for cooler climates. Getting into the third row is also made easier thanks to the sliding second-row seats. While the third row is best suited for children or occasional use by adults on shorter trips, it’s still more accommodating than in many competing SUVs of this era. Cargo space is another strong suit. With all the seats up, you have a respectable amount of room for groceries or gear. Fold down the third row, and you unlock a cavernous cargo area perfect for large shopping trips, sports equipment, or luggage for a family vacation. Folding the second-row captain's chairs further expands the space, transforming the Pilot into a true cargo hauler. Beyond the sheer space, the quality of materials in the Touring trim is a significant step up. You’ll find soft-touch surfaces, premium leather upholstery, and thoughtful touches throughout the cabin. The layout is intuitive, with controls placed within easy reach of the driver. Amenities like the three-zone automatic climate control ensure that everyone can stay comfortable, regardless of where they’re sitting. It’s this combination of generous passenger and cargo volume, comfortable seating, and high-quality materials that makes the 2017 Pilot Touring AWD such an excellent choice for anyone who frequently carries passengers or needs flexible storage for their lifestyle. It really feels like a comfortable and well-appointed mobile living room.

Technology and Infotainment: Staying Connected on the Go

In the 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD, staying connected and entertained is a breeze, thanks to a suite of advanced technology features designed for convenience and enjoyment. The centerpiece is the 8-inch electrostatic touchscreen display located prominently on the dashboard. This screen serves as the command center for your infotainment, navigation, and vehicle settings. For 2017, Honda introduced Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility on the Touring trim, a massive leap forward in smartphone integration. This means you can seamlessly connect your compatible smartphone to access your favorite apps, make calls, send texts, get directions, and play music through the car's interface, all while keeping your phone safely stowed away. The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System is also integrated, providing clear and accurate turn-by-turn directions, often with helpful 3D map views and points of interest. Another standout feature is the premium audio system. The Touring trim typically comes with a 10-speaker system that delivers crisp highs, rich mids, and deep bass, turning your commute into a concert hall experience. Beyond entertainment, the Pilot Touring is equipped with practical tech like multiple USB ports (both for charging and data connection), HDMI input, and a 12-volt power outlet to keep all your devices powered up. For the rear passengers, there’s often a Blu-ray/DVD player with a high-resolution screen (usually mounted overhead), accompanied by wireless headphones, making long trips a lot more peaceful for the driver. Other convenient tech includes keyless ignition, push-button start, and smart entry with walk away auto lock, adding to the premium feel and ease of use. The Multi-Angle Rearview Camera is standard, providing different viewing perspectives to make parking and reversing much safer. The 2017 Pilot Touring AWD really packs a technological punch, ensuring that both the driver and passengers have access to the latest features for a connected, informed, and enjoyable journey.

Safety Features: Peace of Mind for the Whole Family

When it comes to family vehicles, safety is paramount, and the 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD doesn't disappoint. Honda has a strong reputation for safety, and this generation of the Pilot was designed with protection in mind, earning top safety ratings from major testing agencies. Standard safety equipment includes a comprehensive set of airbags, including front, side-curtain, and knee airbags, designed to protect occupants in various impact scenarios. The Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure is a key element, engineered to absorb and dissipate crash energy more effectively, reducing the force transferred to the passenger cabin. For the Touring trim, Honda often bundles a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems that further enhance safety and help prevent accidents. These can include features like Forward Collision Warning (FCW), which alerts the driver if it detects a potential frontal collision, and Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), which can automatically apply the brakes if a collision is deemed imminent. Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) are also typically included, helping to keep the vehicle centered in its lane, especially on longer highway drives. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is another valuable feature, allowing you to maintain a set speed and following distance from the vehicle ahead, reducing driver fatigue in traffic. The Blind Spot Information System (BSI) with Cross Traffic Monitor is also a lifesaver, alerting you to vehicles in your blind spots and warning you of approaching traffic when backing out of a parking spot. The standard Multi-Angle Rearview Camera provides clear visibility behind the vehicle, while parking sensors can offer audible alerts to assist with maneuvering in tight spaces. These advanced safety technologies work together to provide an extra layer of awareness and protection, giving you and your passengers greater peace of mind on every drive. The 2017 Pilot Touring AWD is a vehicle that prioritizes your well-being.

Driving Experience and Fuel Economy: Comfort Meets Efficiency

Driving the 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD is a remarkably refined experience, especially for a vehicle of its size. The combination of the smooth V6 engine, the well-tuned suspension, and the intelligent AWD system creates a ride that is both comfortable and confident. On the highway, the Pilot is exceptionally quiet, with road and wind noise effectively muted, making for a relaxing environment for long journeys. The suspension soaks up bumps and imperfections in the road with ease, providing a plush ride without feeling overly soft or floaty. While it’s not a sports car, the steering is precise enough, and the AWD system provides excellent grip, giving you a sense of stability even when navigating winding roads or dealing with inclement weather. The V6 engine offers ample power for merging and overtaking, and the six-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, ensuring that acceleration is linear and unobtrusive. For those who need to tow, the Pilot is capable of towing up to 3,500 pounds with front-wheel drive and up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with the AWD system, making it suitable for pulling a small trailer or recreational equipment. Now, let's talk fuel economy. For a three-row, V6-powered SUV with AWD, the 2017 Pilot is quite competitive. The EPA estimated fuel economy for the Touring AWD model is around 18 MPG city and 26 MPG highway, for a combined rating of about 21 MPG. While this might not be groundbreaking by today's standards, it's respectable for its class and powertrain. The AWD system is designed to operate efficiently, only engaging power to the rear wheels when needed, which helps conserve fuel during normal driving conditions. Honda's engineering prowess is evident here, balancing capability and efficiency in a way that appeals to the practical needs of SUV buyers. The overall driving experience is one of competence, comfort, and quiet cruising, making the 2017 Pilot Touring AWD a solid choice for daily commutes and extended road trips alike. It's a vehicle that makes you feel secure and relaxed behind the wheel.

Conclusion: Is the 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD the Right SUV for You?

So, guys, after diving deep into the 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD, it's clear that this SUV offers a compelling package for families and anyone seeking a versatile, comfortable, and well-equipped vehicle. The Touring trim really ups the ante with its luxurious touches, advanced infotainment, and comprehensive safety features, making it a standout option in the mid-size SUV segment. The robust V6 engine paired with the intelligent AWD system provides confident performance in various conditions, while the spacious and refined interior ensures that every journey is a pleasant one. From the heated captain's chairs in the second row to the user-friendly tech interface with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Honda clearly thought about the needs of modern drivers and passengers. The ample cargo space adds to its practicality, making it ready for everything from weekly grocery runs to epic family vacations. While it might not be the most exciting vehicle to drive in terms of raw sportiness, its strengths lie in its dependability, comfort, practicality, and overall refinement. If you're in the market for a used SUV that delivers a premium experience without the brand-new price tag, the 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD is definitely worth a serious look. It strikes an excellent balance between luxury, technology, safety, and everyday usability, cementing its reputation as a top-tier family vehicle. It’s a smart buy for those who prioritize a smooth ride, a quiet cabin, and the peace of mind that comes with Honda’s reputation for quality and reliability. It’s a winner, folks!