23 MPG combined is perfectly acceptable for the 2016 Honda Pilot 2WD 3.5L 6-cyl, and it should be. This isn’t a hybrid aiming for Prius-like numbers; it’s a family hauler designed to comfortably and reliably transport people and cargo, and to do so for many years. Buyers who choose this particular Pilot configuration prioritize space, practicality, and Honda’s reputation for dependability over ultimate fuel efficiency. They understand the trade-off: a spacious interior and proven powertrain in exchange for mid-pack fuel consumption.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2016 Honda Pilot 2WD 3.5L 6-cyl at 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The nine-speed automatic transmission (S9) largely contributes to the highway fuel economy, allowing the engine to cruise at lower RPMs when at speed, but city driving, with its stop-and-go traffic, is always the enemy of fuel economy. The 3.5L V6 is a known quantity, an engine with broad power delivery. While not the most technologically advanced engine on the market, its reliability and adequate power delivery are key to the Pilot’s mission: to deliver predictable performance for years to come. Drivers who spend most of their time in urban environments can expect to see numbers closer to 20 MPG, while those with longer commutes on open highways should be closer to the 27 MPG mark.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2016 Honda Pilot 2WD 3.5L 6-cyl is $1,900. This estimate is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city versus highway), and the price of gasoline in your area. Aggressive driving, extended idling, and consistent use of accessories like air conditioning can all reduce fuel economy and increase your annual fuel bill. Understanding the $1,900 figure in context of real-world driving is critical. It represents a baseline, a benchmark against which you can measure your own fuel consumption patterns.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides valuable estimates, real-world fuel economy often deviates from these figures. Terrain, driving style, and weather conditions all play a significant role. Owners of the 2016 Honda Pilot 2WD 3.5L 6-cyl report a range of MPG observations, typically falling within a few miles per gallon of the EPA estimates. A steady foot and highway-heavy driving can push numbers closer to 27 MPG, while frequent short trips and aggressive acceleration can bring the numbers down. The key is to drive smoothly and anticipate traffic flow, using the engine’s torque and the nine-speed transmission’s ability to optimize fuel efficiency.

How it compares

In the mid-size SUV segment, the 2016 Honda Pilot’s fuel economy is competitive, but not class-leading. For example, the Toyota Highlander 2WD with its 3.5L V6 achieves a similar 22 MPG combined. The Nissan Pathfinder, with its V6 engine, offers comparable fuel economy as well, hovering around 20 MPG city and 27 MPG highway. However, the Ford Explorer with its base 2.3L EcoBoost turbo four-cylinder is rated at 22 MPG combined, potentially offering a slight fuel economy advantage, but with a different driving experience. For buyers cross-shopping these vehicles, PILOT MPG across all years is a critical data point. The choice often comes down to priorities: space, comfort, reliability, and driving dynamics versus a small gain in fuel economy. The Pilot’s balanced approach makes it a popular choice, even without a hybrid powertrain or significantly better fuel economy numbers. You can find all Honda fuel economy data on our site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration can make a noticeable difference. The 3.5L V6 has plenty of torque, so there’s no need to aggressively push the accelerator pedal from a stop. Smooth, progressive acceleration allows the engine to operate more efficiently, reducing fuel consumption, especially in city driving situations.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate your tires to the pressure recommended on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. This simple maintenance task can improve fuel economy and extend the life of your tires.

Avoid excessive idling. Idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Restarting the engine consumes less fuel than idling for an extended period. This is particularly relevant in school pick-up lines and stop-and-go city traffic.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which reduces unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. By maintaining a steady speed, the engine operates more efficiently, resulting in better fuel economy. Be mindful of traffic conditions and be ready to disengage cruise control when necessary.

Reduce weight. Carrying unnecessary cargo adds weight to the vehicle, which reduces fuel economy. Remove any items from the trunk or cargo area that you don’t need. The lighter the vehicle, the less effort the engine needs to expend, and the better the fuel economy will be.