Hey guys, let's dive into the 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD SUV. If you're in the market for a reliable, family-friendly, and feature-packed three-row SUV, the Pilot has always been a strong contender, and the 2017 model year really solidified its position. We're going to break down what makes this specific trim, the Touring, such a sweet spot for many families. From its robust performance to its comfortable interior and all the tech goodies, stick around as we explore why the 2017 Pilot Touring AWD is still a great option for your next ride.

Performance and Drivetrain: Conquer Any Road with Confidence

When we talk about the 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD SUV, one of the first things that comes to mind is its solid performance, especially with the all-wheel-drive system. This SUV is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that pumps out a respectable 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission (a nice upgrade for this model year), it delivers smooth power delivery and decent acceleration, even when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. What really shines, though, is the Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4) AWD system. This isn't your average AWD; it actively distributes torque not just between the front and rear axles but also between the left and right rear wheels. What does that mean for you, the driver? It translates to superior traction and stability, especially in slippery conditions like rain, snow, or even light off-road situations. Whether you're navigating a snowy commute or heading to the campsite, the i-VTM4 system gives you that extra confidence. Plus, the Pilot offers different terrain modes (Normal, Mud, Sand, Snow) that you can easily select, further optimizing the AWD system for the conditions. Fuel economy is also pretty competitive for its class, with the AWD models EPA-estimated at around 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. While it's not a sports car, the 2017 Pilot Touring AWD strikes a fantastic balance between power, efficiency, and most importantly, all-weather capability, making it a truly versatile family vehicle.

Interior Comfort and Features: A Premium Experience for Everyone

Stepping inside the 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD SUV, you immediately notice the focus on comfort and premium features, especially in the Touring trim. Honda really stepped up their game here to compete with the luxury brands. The cabin is remarkably spacious, offering ample legroom and headroom for all three rows. Adults can actually fit comfortably in the second row, and even the third row is more usable than in many competitors, making it a genuine people-mover. The seats are upholstered in soft, perforated leather, providing a luxurious feel, and the front seats are both heated and ventilated – a real lifesaver during those hot summer days or chilly mornings. The driver's seat also boasts a 10-way power adjustment, including lumbar support, so you can find that perfect driving position. For the second-row passengers, Honda included captain's chairs in the Touring trim, which enhances comfort and makes access to the third row even easier. These captain's chairs also come with heating, which is a fantastic perk for those in the second row. The dashboard layout is clean, modern, and intuitive, with high-quality materials used throughout. You'll find plenty of soft-touch surfaces, giving the cabin a decidedly upscale ambiance. Storage solutions are abundant, with numerous cup holders, door pockets, and a generously sized center console. The tri-zone automatic climate control ensures everyone stays comfortable, regardless of where they're sitting. For entertainment, the Touring trim comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen Display Audio interface that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless integration of your smartphone for navigation, music, and calls. There's also a premium audio system that sounds fantastic. Overall, the interior of the 2017 Pilot Touring AWD is designed to make every journey a pleasure, whether it's a quick trip to the grocery store or a long road trip across the country.

Technology and Infotainment: Stay Connected and Entertained on the Go

The 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD SUV is packed with technology designed to keep you connected, informed, and entertained. Honda understands that in today's world, infotainment and driver-assist features are crucial, and they delivered with the Touring trim. The centerpiece is the 8-inch electrostatic touchscreen Display Audio system. This unit is your gateway to a world of connectivity, featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Guys, this is a game-changer! It mirrors your smartphone interface directly onto the car's screen, giving you easy access to navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze, your music library, messaging, and phone calls, all through familiar interfaces. It's much safer and more convenient than fumbling with your phone. Beyond smartphone integration, the system also includes Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, streaming audio, an auxiliary input jack, and multiple USB ports scattered throughout the cabin – seriously, there are enough for everyone to charge their devices. For those longer trips, the Touring trim also includes a Blu-ray/DVD rear entertainment system with a 9-inch screen and HDMI input. This is an absolute lifesaver for keeping the kids occupied on road trips. Imagine the peace and quiet! The audio system itself is a premium 540-watt, 10-speaker setup, delivering rich and immersive sound. But the tech doesn't stop there. The 2017 Pilot Touring AWD is also equipped with Honda's suite of driver-assistive technologies, often referred to as Honda Sensing. This suite includes Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), which can automatically apply brake pressure if it detects an impending forward collision, Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM), which helps steer the vehicle back into its lane if it drifts off the road, Forward Collision Warning (FCW), and Lane Departure Warning (LDW). Additionally, you get Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), which allows you to set a desired speed and following distance, and the system will automatically adjust your speed to maintain that distance from the vehicle ahead. This makes highway driving much less stressful. The Touring trim also features Blind Spot Information System (BSI) with Cross Traffic Monitor, which alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots and warns you of approaching traffic when backing out of a parking space. With all these advanced features, the 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD SUV ensures you and your passengers are not only entertained but also safer on every 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 SUV doesn't disappoint. Honda has a stellar reputation for safety, and this Pilot model is built with that in mind, incorporating a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features. First off, it earned excellent crash test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, which is always a great starting point. The body structure is designed with Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body-structure that helps distribute frontal crash energy more evenly, improving occupant protection. Standard safety equipment includes a full array of airbags, including front, front side, and side curtain airbags for all three rows. Anti-lock disc brakes, stability control, and traction control are also standard, helping you maintain control in challenging driving situations. What really elevates the safety quotient on the Touring trim is the inclusion of Honda Sensing. As we touched upon earlier, this suite of advanced driver-assist technologies provides an extra layer of protection and can help prevent accidents before they happen. The Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) and Forward Collision Warning (FCW) work together to alert you to potential front-end collisions and can even apply the brakes if necessary. The Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM) are invaluable for keeping you within your lane, especially on long highway drives where fatigue can set in. The Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) isn't just about convenience; it also contributes to safety by helping maintain a safe following distance. Furthermore, the Blind Spot Information System (BSI) with Cross Traffic Monitor is a crucial feature for changing lanes and backing out of parking spots, significantly reducing the risk of side-swipe accidents. The rearview camera with multiple angles is also standard, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces much easier and safer. With all these advanced safety systems working in harmony, the 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD SUV provides exceptional peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike, making it a truly trustworthy choice for families.

Practicality and Cargo Space: Ready for Adventure

Let's talk practicality, guys, because that's what the 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD SUV is all about. If you're a family on the go, you need space, flexibility, and the ability to haul gear for everything from soccer practice to weekend getaways. Honda really nailed it with the Pilot's design. With the second and third rows in their upright positions, you still get a respectable 16.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. That's enough for groceries, sports equipment, or luggage for a short trip. But here's where the Pilot truly shines: fold down the third row, and that cargo space expands dramatically to 46.8 cubic feet. Need even more room? Fold down both the second and third rows, and you unlock a cavernous 83.9 cubic feet of total cargo volume. This is plenty of space to haul large items like furniture, camping gear, or even help a friend move. The cargo area is well-shaped and relatively flat once the seats are folded, making it easy to load and unload. The liftgate is power-operated on the Touring trim, which is a nice convenience when your hands are full. For added practicality, the Pilot offers a hidden underfloor storage compartment, perfect for stashing valuables or keeping emergency supplies out of sight. Beyond the cargo area, the cabin itself is designed for family life. The second-row captain's chairs in the Touring trim make it incredibly easy for passengers to access the third row, and they offer a more premium feel than a bench seat. There are numerous cup holders and storage bins throughout the cabin, ensuring everyone has a place for their drinks and personal items. The vehicle also boasts a respectable towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, which is more than enough to tow a small boat, a couple of jet skis, or a utility trailer. This makes the 2017 Pilot Touring AWD a capable vehicle not just for daily commuting but also for recreational activities. Its combination of spacious cargo holds, flexible seating configurations, and towing prowess makes it an incredibly versatile and practical choice for active families.

Conclusion: Still a Top Pick for Families

In conclusion, the 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD SUV remains a compelling option for families seeking a well-rounded, reliable, and feature-rich three-row SUV. Its blend of capable performance with the intelligent AWD system, a comfortable and upscale interior loaded with premium features, cutting-edge technology for connectivity and safety, and impressive practicality with ample cargo space and towing capacity, all contribute to its enduring appeal. While newer models have come out, the 2017 Pilot Touring AWD offers a fantastic value proposition, especially on the used market. It strikes a near-perfect balance between everyday usability and the ability to handle adventures, ensuring everyone on board is comfortable, safe, and entertained. If you're looking for a family hauler that checks all the boxes without breaking the bank, the 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD is definitely worth a serious look. It's a testament to Honda's engineering and commitment to building vehicles that truly serve the needs of modern families.