22 MPG combined is an acceptable figure for the 2022 Honda Pilot AWD 3.5L 6-cyl; it’s unlikely to deter families from buying this popular three-row SUV. Pilot buyers prioritize space, reliability, and Honda’s reputation for quality. While more fuel-efficient choices exist, the Pilot offers a blend of practicality and capability that keeps it selling well.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2022 Honda Pilot AWD at 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving that families often face, running errands, taking kids to school, and navigating suburban streets. The 26 MPG highway rating is achievable on long road trips, if you maintain reasonable speeds and avoid rapid acceleration. The Pilot’s 9-speed automatic transmission helps optimize fuel economy at higher speeds, keeping the engine at its most efficient. Fuel economy will vary based on driving style, traffic, and load. A fully loaded Pilot will naturally see a drop in fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Honda Pilot AWD 3.5L 6-cyl to be $2,000. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes national average fuel prices. This is just an estimate; individual driving habits and gas prices can significantly change fuel costs. Expect to exceed $2,000 with mostly city driving or aggressive driving. You might spend less with mostly highway driving and fuel-efficient techniques. Explore all Honda fuel economy data to see how the Pilot compares against other models.

Real-world expectations

Real-world fuel economy often differs from EPA estimates. Some drivers report figures slightly below the EPA combined estimate, especially in areas with heavy traffic or hills. However, some owners report achieving or exceeding the highway MPG rating on long trips. Tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and accessories like roof racks can also change fuel consumption. The Pilot has an “Econ” mode that alters the throttle response and transmission mapping to prioritize fuel efficiency. Using this mode can improve gas mileage, especially in city driving. Explore PILOT MPG across all years to see how fuel economy has changed.

How it compares

The 2022 Honda Pilot’s fuel economy is roughly in the middle of the three-row SUV segment. The Toyota Highlander AWD, with its 3.5L V6 engine, gets a slightly better 23 MPG combined. The Ford Explorer with its 2.3L EcoBoost engine gets 24 MPG combined in RWD form. The Kia Telluride, a direct competitor, gets a similar 21 MPG combined with its V6 engine and AWD. While seemingly small, these differences can add up. Buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency might also cross-shop the hybrid Highlander or smaller, more fuel-efficient SUVs with optional third-row seating, like the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. However, those vehicles may compromise on interior space or towing capacity, which are key considerations for Pilot buyers.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid accelerating and braking aggressively. The Pilot’s 3.5L V6 responds well to smooth inputs. Rapid acceleration and hard braking waste fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side door.

Remove unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo increases fuel consumption. Remove any items you don’t need and avoid using a roof rack unless you’re using it. The added drag from a roof rack can significantly impact gas mileage.

Use the “Econ” mode when driving in city traffic or during periods of moderate driving. This mode adjusts throttle response and transmission mapping to prioritize fuel efficiency, improving MPG.

Consider limiting AWD use during ideal conditions. The Pilot’s AWD system enhances traction in slippery conditions, but when driving on dry pavement, the fuel savings of disabling it can minimize fuel consumption. (Note: On some Honda models the AWD system is always engaged.)