The Texas Truck Rodeo isn’t just any event. It’s a battleground where the best off-roaders show what they’re made of. This year, set against the rugged backdrop of Eagle’s Canyon Raceway, we took the 2025 Honda Pilot TrailSport (AWD) through its paces. And after testing its grit, we’ve got one thing to say—this SUV deserves a spot on your adventure wishlist.
First Impressions: Beauty Beyond the Trail
Let’s start with a quick nod to the color. The 2025 Pilot TrailSport in its diffused sky blue pearl paint is an absolute head-turner. Sure, aesthetics aren’t everything in the off-road world, but there’s something about a vehicle that looks even better when covered in dust. The rugged yet stylish look of the Pilot TrailSport is not just skin-deep; it screams adventure while maintaining a certain elegance that makes it a pleasure to own.
This isn’t just a “dress-up” SUV either. The TrailSport trim means business, with a 1-inch lift over the standard Pilot to handle those tougher terrains. It’s not the highest clearance out there, but the factory lift and TrailSport-exclusive wheels and tires give it a confident stance and improved capability when it’s time to leave the pavement.
Under the Hood: A Proven Powerhouse
When it comes to adventure, what’s under the hood is crucial. The Pilot TrailSport comes equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, churning out a solid 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. And the best part? It’s a naturally aspirated V6. No turbos, no lag—just pure, instant power. This setup keeps things simple, reliable, and refreshingly old school.
The engine is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission that works seamlessly with Honda’s i-VTM4 all-wheel drive system. The power delivery is smooth, almost linear, making it easy to navigate trails or pick up speed when needed. However, all that power comes with a bit of a trade-off—fuel consumption. The V6 does enjoy a good sip of fuel, making it thirstier than some of its turbocharged or hybrid competitors. And while a hybrid system would complement the Pilot TrailSport’s adventurous nature, there’s something to be said about the simplicity and reliability of this powertrain.
Tires That Do It All: On and Off-Road Prowess
Down to the wheels and tires—this is where the TrailSport trim shines. The SUV comes with exclusive 18-inch wheels wrapped in 265/60 Continental TerrainContact all-terrain tires. They look aggressive, and their performance matches the look. The thick spokes of the wheels give the Pilot a beefy, ready-for-action feel, and the tires are the jack-of-all-trades you’d want on an adventure vehicle.
These tires are designed to be as effective on paved roads as they are off-road. With a durable lip protecting the tire from curbing (a thoughtful touch for urban explorers), they offer an excellent balance between comfort and grip. Whether you’re cruising down city streets or tackling loose gravel trails, the Pilot TrailSport’s tires provide a smooth ride and ample traction when it matters.
An Intelligent AWD System
Perhaps the most notable feature is the i-VTM4 all-wheel drive system. This is no ordinary AWD. It actively distributes power between the front and rear, and even between the left and right wheels, depending on your driving needs. Imagine making a tight right-hand turn: the system pushes more power to the left wheels while easing up on the right, helping you glide around the corner. The experience is seamless, making the SUV feel planted and responsive.
Even when you’re not on the trails, the system constantly adapts to your driving, giving an “active” feel that translates into confidence, whether on wet pavement or loose dirt.
Comfort Meets Capability: A Balance of Tech and Practicality
Inside, the Pilot TrailSport continues to impress. Adventure-ready storage is everywhere. Hidden compartments let you tuck away gear securely, and the reversible cargo floor allows you to throw in muddy boots or wet gear without a second thought. Even better? There’s a full-size spare tire on hand for those “just in case” moments.
Speaking of messy adventures, Honda has you covered with rubber floor mats designed to handle dirt and grime while looking great. Whether you’re loading up camping gear or getting in with wet shoes, the hard-plastic platform by the third row makes cleanup easy. And when it comes to seating, even the third row is spacious and comfortable—an often-overlooked aspect in many SUVs. With USB-C charging and plenty of cup holders, every passenger rides in comfort, ready for the next adventure.
A Camera System Built for Exploration
One of the standout tech features is the Trail Watch camera system. Activated by a simple button on the wiper stalk, this camera system is more than just a gimmick. From a front-facing camera to wheel cameras showing tire placement, the system makes it easy to navigate tricky trails. You can see the 360° view, monitor obstacles, and even keep an eye on your exact path, all in real-time.
This feature is so good that it’s hard not to wonder why Honda hasn’t included it across all its TrailSport and SUV models. It enhances confidence on tight trails and makes the Pilot TrailSport that much more user-friendly for off-road beginners and veterans alike.
Trail-Tested, Family-Approved
If there’s one thing that stood out during our time with the Pilot TrailSport, it’s how secure and capable it feels in all conditions. While driving through Texas, we found ourselves caught in a sudden downpour—just one cloud dumping rain as only Texas weather can. And yet, there was no sense of unease. The Pilot TrailSport handled the muddy, unpaved roads with ease, keeping the drive fun and safe. For a vehicle built for adventure, it instills a comforting level of security for family outings, whether on a weekend trip or a cross-country journey.
Final Thoughts: A Well-Rounded Adventure SUV
The 2025 Honda Pilot TrailSport is an all-around capable, fun, and reliable SUV that seamlessly blends comfort and adventure. Whether you’re navigating your daily commute, hitting the trails, or taking a long road trip, this SUV is ready to perform. With its combination of a tried-and-true V6 engine, intelligent AWD system, and a host of tech and storage features, the Pilot TrailSport is more than just a weekend warrior—it’s an everyday adventure machine.
If you’re looking for an SUV that’s comfortable for the family, yet rugged enough to conquer the road less traveled, the 2025 Honda Pilot TrailSport could be your perfect match. Find your perfect trail, switch to Trail Mode, and let the adventure begin.
Legend/Footnote: The Texas Truck Rodeo is an exclusive annual media event organized by the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA). This event brings together automotive journalists, manufacturers, and experts to evaluate and test the latest trucks and SUVs on challenging terrains, providing in-depth insights into vehicle performance and features in real-world conditions.
