The 2017 Honda Pilot AWD with the 3.5L V6 gets 22 MPG combined. To be clear, nobody is buying this Pilot for Prius-like efficiency, they’re buying it for its cavernous interior, family-friendly features, and the all-weather confidence that comes with all-wheel drive. The 22 MPG is simply what you get with those priorities.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down that 22 MPG figure further, estimating 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects the Pilot’s weight and the six-speed automatic transmission’s performance at low speeds. The engine has plenty of power, but it’s sometimes reluctant to downshift. The highway figure is more respectable, aided by Honda’s Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), which allows the engine to run on fewer cylinders under light loads. Keeping your speed down on the open road will definitely help you achieve that 26 MPG.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,000 for the 2017 Honda Pilot AWD 3.5L 6-cyl. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price. Of course, your actual fuel cost will vary depending on your driving habits, fuel prices in your area, and the type of fuel you use. The Pilot is designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline, so there’s no need to spend extra on premium. Consider this $2,000 figure a benchmark for whether your driving style is helping or hurting your fuel economy.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a good starting point, real-world fuel economy often differs. Many Pilot owners report averaging around 20-23 MPG in mixed driving conditions. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and heavy loads will all negatively impact fuel economy. Conversely, smooth acceleration, consistent highway cruising, and proper tire inflation can help you get closer to the EPA estimates. Checking PILOT MPG across all years in owner forums is a valuable process.

How it compares

The 2017 Pilot’s fuel economy sits squarely in the middle of its competitive set. A 2017 Toyota Highlander AWD with its 3.5L V6 achieves a similar 21 MPG combined. The Ford Explorer with its 2.3L EcoBoost turbo-four is slightly better, at an EPA-estimated 22 MPG combined with AWD. However, if maximum fuel economy is your top priority, consider a Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, which delivers superior MPG as a plug-in hybrid minivan, although you would sacrifice the Pilot’s traditional SUV design. These comparisons are critical for families weighing fuel costs alongside practicality. For more information about fuel costs, view all Honda fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Pilot’s V6 engine is known for its responsiveness, so drivers may rely too frequently on heavy acceleration. Avoid jackrabbit starts and maintain a steady speed. Smooth, gradual acceleration will make a big difference.

Tire pressure plays a large role. Ensure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure (usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb). Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance and hurt fuel economy.

The Honda Pilot has a fairly aerodynamic design for a three-row SUV, but anything you add to the roof will dramatically increase drag and reduce fuel economy. Remove roof racks or cargo carriers when they’re not in use.

Regular maintenance is critical for optimal fuel economy. Keep your engine properly tuned, and ensure that your air filter is clean. A clogged air filter restricts airflow and makes the engine work harder, wasting fuel.

Honda’s VCM system is most effective on the highway at a steady speed. Try to maintain a consistent cruising speed and avoid frequent acceleration and deceleration, as this will help the system operate more efficiently and maximize your MPG.