So your family has outgrown the sedan and it’s time to graduate to an SUV. The Honda CR-V and Honda Pilot are two, outstanding choices when it comes to this type of vehicle. But which SUV will meet all of your family’s needs? While they have plenty of similarities, such as reliability, comfort, safety, and innovative technology, these SUVs also have a lot of differences. Let Vern Eide Honda Sioux City compare the 2021 Honda Pilot vs. 2021 Honda CR-V to help make your decision a little easier.
All 2021 Honda CR-V trim levels come standard with a 1.5-liter, turbocharged engine capable of 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. Whether you select two-wheel drive (2WD) or available, all-wheel drive (AWD), CR-V can tow up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped. For increased fuel efficiency and power, the first-ever CR-V Hybrid powertrain can achieve up to 212 total system horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque.
Every 2021 Honda Pilot carries a 3.5-liter, V-6 engine which makes 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. When properly equipped, a Pilot with 2WD can tow up to 3,500 pounds, while AWD models have a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. The 2021 Pilot also has Intelligent Traction Management (EX and above) which features a Snow driving mode for 2WD models and Snow, Mud, and Sand modes for AWD.
One of the 2021 CR-V’s most attractive characteristics is its fuel efficiency. Standard 2WD models get an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway, and 30 mpg combined*. But even with AWD, the Honda CR-V still makes an impressive 27 city mpg / 32 highway mpg / 29 combined mpg*. The CR-V Hybrid takes efficiency to another level with 40 city / 35 highway / 38 combined* estimated ratings.
Despite its much bigger size, the 2021 Pilot with 2WD and 9-speed automatic transmission still manages solid EPA-estimated ratings of 20 mpg in the city, 27 mpg on the highway, and 23 mpg combined*, while AWD models get 19 city mpg / 26 highway mpg / 22 combined mpg*.
Although the CR-V is considered a compact crossover, it still has a ton of legroom and its cargo area is among the most spacious in its class thanks to an Easy Fold-Down 60/40 Split Rear Seatback. Here are the interior dimensions on a base model CR-V:
The three-row Pilot is classified as a midsize SUV and its spacious interior is perfect for hauling kids, cargo, or both. Depending on the trim level, you can outfit the interior with perforated, heated second-row captain’s chairs. Here are the interior dimensions on a base model Pilot:
Even the 2021 CR-V LX base model is loaded with standard features like 17-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, auto high-beam headlights, automatic climate control, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, USB audio interface, Pandora® compatibility, remote entry system, power side mirrors, and the Honda Sensing® suite of safety features and driver-assist technologies. Other available features on the 2021 CR-V include:
The 2021 Pilot LX base model comes jam-packed with features such as 18-inch alloy wheels, rear privacy glass, push button start, capless fuel filler, LED daytime running lights, auto high-beam headlights, tri-zone automatic climate control system, heated front seats, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, and Honda Sensing®. Other available features on the 2021 Pilot include:
Every 2021 CR-V comes standard equipped with a multi-angle rearview camera, Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), and the Honda Sensing® suite. The Honda Sensing package includes Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), and Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS). Honda’s available, Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System™ provides extra traction in snowy/icy conditions, as well as dry road scenarios like climbing hills and cornering. For added peace of mind, the 2021 Honda CR-V has also earned a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)*.
The 2021 Honda Pilot received a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from the NHTSA* and every trim level carries safety features like a multi-angle rearview camera, Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), and the Honda Sensing suite of safety features and driver-assist technologies. Additionally, any Pilot can be equipped with the available, Intelligent Variable Torque Management™ (i-VTM4®) AWD System to improve vehicle handling and stability during loss of traction.
Whether you buy a CR-V or Pilot, both of these Honda SUVs have modern styling, refined interiors, tons of standard features, and available all-wheel drive (AWD) on every trim level. Ultimately, it will depend on your family’s size and vehicle needs. The 2021 CR-V’s impressive fuel economy ratings and compact size make it a terrific option for daily commuters and smaller families. If you require an SUV with more interior space, horsepower, and towing capabilities, the 2021 Pilot is your pick. For more information on these two SUVs stop into Vern Eide Honda Sioux City for a test drive or call our sales department now at (712) 587-9140 for more information.