Hey everyone! So, you're eyeing the 2022 Honda Pilot and trying to figure out which trim level is the perfect fit for you. It really comes down to two of the top dogs: the 2022 Honda Pilot Touring and the 2022 Honda Pilot Elite. Both are fantastic choices, offering a premium SUV experience, but they do have some key differences that might just sway your decision. We're going to dive deep into what makes each one tick, helping you decide if you need those extra bells and whistles that the Elite brings to the table, or if the Touring already has everything you could possibly want. Let's get into it, guys!

2022 Honda Pilot Touring: The Well-Rounded Contender

First up, let's talk about the 2022 Honda Pilot Touring. This trim is designed for those who appreciate a solid blend of luxury, technology, and practicality. It's the sweet spot for many families looking for a capable and comfortable ride without breaking the bank on the absolute top tier. When you step into the Touring, you're immediately greeted by a spacious and well-appointed cabin. We're talking about leather-trimmed seats that feel super comfortable on those longer drives, heated front seats to keep you toasty when it's chilly out, and a power-adjustable driver's seat with memory functions – how cool is that? No more fiddling to find your perfect driving position every single time! The second-row captain's chairs are a huge plus, making it easier for folks in the back to get in and out, and giving everyone a bit more personal space. Plus, the panoramic moonroof is standard on the Touring, which really opens up the cabin and makes it feel even more airy and inviting. It's perfect for stargazing or just enjoying a sunny day.

On the tech front, the Touring doesn't skimp. You get an 8-inch touchscreen display that's super intuitive to use, complete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. This means your favorite music, navigation apps, and podcasts are right there on the big screen, seamlessly connected to your smartphone. It also comes with a premium audio system that sounds awesome, making your commute or road trips way more enjoyable. For convenience, there's a hands-free power tailgate – super handy when your hands are full of groceries or gear. And let's not forget about safety. The Touring trim includes the Honda Sensing suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies as standard. This means you've got things like Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist System, and Collision Mitigation Braking System working to keep you and your loved ones safe. Honestly, for a lot of people, the Touring trim hits that perfect balance of premium features and value. It’s got all the essentials and then some, making it a really strong contender.

2022 Honda Pilot Elite: Reaching for the Pinnacle

Now, let's shift gears and talk about the 2022 Honda Pilot Elite. This is where Honda pulls out all the stops, offering the most luxurious and feature-packed version of the Pilot. If you're someone who loves having the absolute best and doesn't mind paying a bit extra for those premium touches, the Elite is definitely worth a close look. The most immediate upgrade you'll notice is the interior. While the Touring is already great, the Elite takes it up a notch with perforated leather-trimmed seats that feel even more luxurious. But the real showstopper? Ventilated front seats. Guys, this is a game-changer, especially if you live in a warmer climate or tend to get a bit warm on longer drives. It’s pure bliss! The Elite also upgrades the driver's seat memory to include two different driver profiles, which is super convenient if you share the car with someone else and have vastly different driving positions. The second-row captain's chairs are still there, offering that same great comfort and accessibility, but the overall feel of the Elite's cabin is just a step above. Think of it as the Touring trim's already impressive interior, but with a few extra layers of polish and comfort.

When it comes to technology and convenience, the Elite builds upon the Touring's already strong offerings. While the 8-inch touchscreen is the same, the Elite includes a built-in navigation system with voice recognition, which is a nice step up from relying solely on your phone's apps, though both work great. The audio system gets an upgrade too, boasting more speakers for an even more immersive sound experience. But perhaps the most significant tech upgrade for many will be the wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. No more fumbling with cords to connect your phone – just hop in, and your phone connects automatically. It’s a small thing, but it adds so much to the daily driving experience. You also get a heated steering wheel, which is a fantastic little luxury on cold mornings. And for those who appreciate the finer details, the Elite trim often comes with unique interior accents and badging that subtly announce its top-tier status. It’s the little things that add up to a truly premium feel. The Elite is for the discerning driver who wants every possible comfort and convenience feature that Honda offers in the Pilot.

Key Differences: What Sets Them Apart?

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty – the actual differences that will help you make that final call between the 2022 Honda Pilot Touring and the 2022 Honda Pilot Elite. While both are fantastic SUVs, the Elite aims to provide a more elevated experience in a few key areas. The most significant distinction, as we touched upon, lies in the seating comfort. The Elite offers those amazing ventilated front seats, which are a lifesaver in hot weather and a true luxury feature. The Touring only has heated front seats. Additionally, the Elite gets the heated steering wheel, a welcome addition for those frosty mornings. Another subtle but appreciated upgrade in the Elite is the wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the Touring gets wired versions, the Elite's wireless capability offers seamless integration, meaning you don't have to plug in your phone every time you get in the car. It's a small convenience that makes a big difference in daily use. The Elite also typically includes a more robust navigation system as standard, which can be handy for those who frequently travel to unfamiliar areas and prefer a dedicated, integrated GPS.

Beyond comfort and connectivity, there are other minor distinctions. The Elite might feature slightly more upscale interior trim elements or even unique badging to signify its top-tier status. The audio system in the Elite is also usually a step up, often featuring more speakers for a richer sound. Both trims come with the excellent Honda Sensing safety suite, which is fantastic, but the Elite might bundle in a few additional safety or convenience features depending on the specific package or model year nuances. However, the core driving experience, the powerful V6 engine, and the overall functionality of the Pilot remain consistent across both the Touring and Elite trims. The choice really boils down to whether those specific luxury and convenience upgrades offered by the Elite are worth the additional investment for you. Think about your daily commute, your typical passengers, and what features truly enhance your driving pleasure. If ventilated seats, wireless phone integration, and a heated steering wheel are must-haves, then the Elite is likely your winner. If the Touring's already impressive list of features satisfies your needs, you'll be getting a fantastic SUV at a slightly more accessible price point. It's all about prioritizing what matters most to you.

Performance and Drivetrain: Consistency is Key

When it comes to how these two incredible SUVs perform on the road, the good news is that the 2022 Honda Pilot Touring and the 2022 Honda Pilot Elite are pretty much on equal footing. Honda decided to keep things consistent where it matters most, ensuring that both top trims offer a smooth, capable, and confident driving experience. Under the hood of both the Touring and Elite models, you'll find the same robust and proven 3.5-liter i-VTEC V6 engine. This powerhouse delivers a healthy 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, which is more than enough oomph to get this sizable SUV moving with ease, whether you're merging onto the highway, tackling steep hills, or carrying a full load of passengers and cargo. This engine is paired with a smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission. Honda's 9-speed auto is well-tuned, providing seamless gear changes that contribute to both a refined ride and good fuel efficiency. It’s a really well-integrated powertrain that makes the Pilot feel responsive and refined, not sluggish like some larger SUVs can.

Both the Touring and Elite trims come standard with Honda's intelligent all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, known as i-VTM4 (Intelligent Variable Torque Management). This is a big deal, guys! This advanced AWD system doesn't just send power to the rear wheels when slip is detected; it actively distributes torque between the left and right rear wheels. This means improved traction and stability in slippery conditions, whether you're dealing with rain, snow, or even just loose gravel. It also enhances handling and cornering on dry pavement, making the Pilot feel more agile and planted than you might expect for its size. So, whether you're braving a winter storm or just navigating your daily commute, the i-VTM4 system provides an extra layer of confidence and security. The suspension system is also tuned for comfort, soaking up road imperfections nicely, and the steering is precise and well-weighted, making the Pilot surprisingly easy to maneuver, even in tight parking lots. Essentially, whether you choose the Touring or the Elite, you're getting the same fantastic performance package. The engine, transmission, and AWD system are identical, ensuring that your driving experience will be equally capable and enjoyable, regardless of which of these top-tier Pilots you bring home.

Fuel Efficiency: Similar, But Not Identical

When you're investing in a three-row SUV like the 2022 Honda Pilot Touring or the 2022 Honda Pilot Elite, fuel efficiency is definitely a factor to consider. The good news is that Honda has done a commendable job of making the Pilot relatively efficient for its class, especially with that V6 engine and 9-speed automatic transmission. However, there's a slight, albeit minor, difference between the Touring and Elite trims, primarily due to the weight and potentially slightly different tire setups or aerodynamic considerations between the two. Generally speaking, for the 2022 model year, the 2022 Honda Pilot Touring and 2022 Honda Pilot Elite models equipped with the i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system are rated by the EPA at around 19 MPG city and 26 MPG highway, for a combined 22 MPG. This is a very respectable figure for a vehicle of this size and capability. It means you can take those family road trips without stopping for gas too often, and your daily commute won't be a constant drain on your wallet. It's important to note that these are EPA estimates, and your actual mileage may vary based on driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and how you load up your Pilot. If you're looking at a front-wheel-drive version (though AWD is more common on these higher trims), you might see a slight bump of 1 MPG in the city and on the highway, but for the Touring and Elite, AWD is the standard and preferred setup for most buyers due to its enhanced capabilities.

The subtle differences sometimes seen in fuel economy ratings between trims can often be attributed to factors like the weight of additional features. The Elite, with its more premium amenities, might be a tad heavier than the Touring. However, Honda engineers work hard to minimize these impacts. For the 2022 Pilot, the difference is negligible enough that most drivers won't notice it in their day-to-day usage. The key takeaway here is that both the Touring and Elite offer a very similar and competitive fuel economy for a large family SUV. You're not sacrificing significant efficiency for the added luxury of the Elite trim. So, while there might be a tenth of a MPG here or there according to official ratings, in the real world, expect them to perform almost identically at the pump. Focus more on the features that matter to you, as the fuel costs will be practically the same for both models.

Interior Space and Cargo: All About the Pilot

One of the biggest draws of the Honda Pilot, regardless of whether you're looking at the 2022 Honda Pilot Touring or the 2022 Honda Pilot Elite, is its impressive interior space and versatility. This is a family SUV through and through, designed to haul people and gear with ease. You get three rows of seating, and Honda has done a great job maximizing the passenger room. The first two rows offer generous legroom and headroom, making them comfortable for adults on longer journeys. The second-row captain's chairs in both the Touring and Elite are a particular highlight, offering a more premium feel and easier access to the third row compared to a bench seat. Even the third row is usable for adults on shorter trips, though it's typically best suited for children or teenagers for extended periods. But let's be honest, the real magic of an SUV like the Pilot is its ability to swallow cargo.

When it comes to cargo capacity, the 2022 Pilot shines. With all three rows in use, you've got a respectable amount of space behind the third row – about 16.5 cubic feet. That's enough for groceries, a few backpacks, or sports equipment. If you need more room, simply fold down the third-row seats. This opens up a much larger cargo area, offering around 46.0 cubic feet behind the second row. This is plenty of space for luggage for a family vacation, large shopping hauls, or even bulky items like bicycles (with the front wheel removed) or camping gear. And for those times when you really need to maximize your hauling capabilities, you can fold down both the second and third rows. This transforms the Pilot into a veritable cargo van, with a massive 83.9 cubic feet of storage space. This is enough room for furniture, large appliances, or all the gear you could possibly need for a big adventure. Both the Touring and Elite trims offer this same exceptional cargo versatility. The only minor difference might be the hands-free power tailgate on the Touring and Elite, which makes loading and unloading a bit easier when your hands are full. So, whether you're packing for a weekend getaway or helping a friend move, the Pilot's cavernous interior and flexible cargo configurations make it a highly practical choice. You won't be disappointed with the sheer amount of stuff you can fit inside this SUV!

Which One Should You Choose?

So, we've dissected the 2022 Honda Pilot Touring and the 2022 Honda Pilot Elite, and the big question remains: which one is right for you, guys? Honestly, it really boils down to your personal priorities and budget. The 2022 Honda Pilot Touring is an incredibly well-equipped SUV that offers a fantastic blend of luxury, technology, and practicality. It has comfortable leather seats, a great infotainment system with smartphone integration, a moonroof, and the full suite of Honda Sensing safety features. For a vast majority of buyers, the Touring trim provides everything they could possibly need and want in a family SUV. It delivers a premium experience without the top-tier price tag, making it an excellent value proposition.

On the other hand, the 2022 Honda Pilot Elite takes everything the Touring offers and dials it up a notch with some truly desirable luxury and convenience features. The ventilated front seats are a standout, especially in warmer climates, and the wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto is a fantastic quality-of-life upgrade. The heated steering wheel is a nice touch, and the enhanced audio and navigation systems add to the premium feel. If these specific features are high on your wish list and your budget allows for it, then the Elite is the way to go. It offers the pinnacle of Honda's Pilot offerings, providing an even more refined and comfortable experience. Think about it this way: if the Touring is a five-star hotel, the Elite is the presidential suite. Both are excellent, but one offers that extra level of pampering. Ultimately, test drive both if you can! See which one feels right for you. Consider what features you'll use every single day versus what's just a nice-to-have. Whichever you choose, you're getting a top-notch, reliable, and capable SUV in the 2022 Honda Pilot.