2025 Honda Pilot Towing Capacity: Power, Practicality, and Real-World Confidence
The 2025 Honda Pilot has become more than just a family SUV—it’s a capable, confident hauler designed for drivers who want weekend freedom without giving up daily comfort. Whether you’re pulling a camper, a small boat, or simply loading up for a cross-country road trip, knowing the 2025 Honda Pilot towing capacity helps you make informed decisions about power, performance, and safety.
For 2025, Honda keeps the formula balanced: smooth V6 power, strong structural engineering, and advanced towing tech that rivals many truck-based SUVs—while keeping the cabin refined and family-friendly.
Key Takeaways
- Maximum Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) with AWD; 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with 2WD.
- Engine: 3.5-L V6 producing 285 hp and 262 lb-ft torque.
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic with available Tow Mode.
- Fuel Economy: 19–27 MPG combined depending on drivetrain and trim.
- Top Trim for Towing: TrailSport AWD—full tow rating plus rugged suspension and skid plates.
Engine and Performance Overview
Under the hood, every 2025 Honda Pilot comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine—an updated design emphasizing both smoothness and strength. It generates 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, managed through a 10-speed automatic transmission that feels polished during highway cruising and firm when climbing grades with a trailer (Official Honda Specifications).
Drivers can toggle through multiple drive modes—Normal, ECON, Snow, Tow, and Sport—each optimizing throttle and transmission behavior for specific needs. Tow Mode in particular enhances shift timing, cooling performance, and throttle response to deliver stable pulling power when you’ve got extra weight behind you.
Honda’s i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system remains a standout. It automatically transfers torque to the rear wheels when slip is detected, and on higher trims, it even manages left-right torque distribution for better cornering traction when towing.
Fuel Efficiency and Real-World Performance
Despite its capability, the Pilot continues to perform efficiently. Based on official EPA estimates, the 2025 model returns:
- 2WD models: 19 MPG city / 27 MPG highway / 22 MPG combined (≈ 12.4 L/100 km).
- AWD models: 19 MPG city / 25 MPG highway / 21 MPG combined (≈ 13.1 L/100 km).
- TrailSport AWD: 18 MPG city / 23 MPG highway / 20 MPG combined (≈ 14.1 L/100 km).
For a three-row SUV capable of towing 5,000 lbs, these figures place it among the more fuel-balanced options in its class. The 18.5-gallon tank provides over 400 miles of highway range, meaning fewer fuel stops when towing across states.
For a deeper look at how the Pilot’s efficiency compares across trims, visit our detailed guide on 2025 Honda Pilot Gas Mileage.
Honda Pilot Towing Capacity by Drivetrain
| Drivetrain | Towing Capacity | Suitable Loads |
| 2WD | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) | Small campers, utility trailers |
| AWD | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) | Mid-size boats, dual-axle campers, ATVs |
The numbers tell a clear story: if you frequently tow, the AWD upgrade isn’t just optional—it’s essential. The added traction and cooling capability make long uphill drives or wet-road towing much safer.
Towing Features and Safety Systems
Honda didn’t just give the Pilot stronger ratings; it engineered the SUV for stable and secure towing. Highlights include:
- Integrated Tow Mode: Adjusts transmission logic and throttle for load stability.
- Trailer Stability Assist: Actively reduces trailer sway through selective braking.
- Hill Start Assist & Hill Descent Control: Keeps the vehicle composed on inclines.
- Multi-View Camera System: Helps align trailer couplings with ease.
- Heavy-Duty Cooling Components: Maintain performance on long hauls.
These systems work quietly in the background, helping less-experienced towers feel confident from the first mile.
Cargo and Interior Versatility
Even before attaching a trailer, the Pilot offers impressive interior utility. Behind the third row, there’s 21.8 cu ft of cargo volume—plenty for weekly errands or luggage. Folding the third row expands space to roughly 60 cu ft, and dropping both rear rows opens an enormous 111.8 cu ft of flat cargo floor.
For those curious about cabin space, wheelbase, or passenger comfort details, check out our full 2025 Honda Pilot Dimensions Ultimate Guide for an in-depth look at exterior and interior measurements.
| Configuration | Cargo Volume |
| All rows up | 21.8 cu ft |
| 3rd row folded | ~60 cu ft |
| All rows folded | 111.8 cu ft |
Families often appreciate how the Pilot’s second-row seats slide forward even with child seats installed, easing third-row access. Cabin noise isolation also remains a strong point—ideal when you’re towing and want to keep conversation or music clear.
TrailSport: Built for Adventure and Heavy Loads
Among the 2025 lineup, the TrailSport trim stands out for its rugged engineering. It combines the full 5,000-lb (2,268 kg) towing rating with all-terrain tires, increased ground clearance, skid plates, and off-road-tuned suspension. Honda calibrated the dampers and stabilizer bars specifically for uneven terrain and moderate off-road trails.
TrailSport also benefits from an enhanced all-wheel-drive torque management system, meaning you can pull a trailer confidently across gravel paths or wet boat ramps—without wheel slip or drama.
Technology, Comfort, and Driver Assistance
Every 2025 Pilot comes equipped with Honda Sensing®, an advanced suite of safety and driver-assist features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking. These technologies remain fully functional even while towing, maintaining safe spacing and stability.
Inside, the Pilot retains a premium feel: soft-touch surfaces, available leather upholstery, tri-zone climate control, and an intuitive 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. The system’s real-time traffic updates can even help plan routes that avoid steep grades or heavy trailer restrictions.
Quick Overview Table
| Specification | 2025 Honda Pilot |
| Engine & Transmission | 3.5-L V6 / 10-speed automatic |
| Power / Torque | 285 hp / 262 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain Options | 2WD or AWD (i-VTM4) |
| Fuel Economy | 19–27 MPG (6.7–8.7 L/100 km) |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 – 5,000 lbs (1,588 – 2,268 kg) |
| Seating | 7 – 8 passengers |
| Cargo Space | Up to 111.8 cu ft |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 18.5 gal (70 L) |
| Key Highlights | Tow Mode, TrailSport capability, Honda Sensing® |
Comparison with Competitors
In the midsize three-row SUV segment, the Pilot’s 5,000-lb rating competes directly with models like the Toyota Highlander and Kia Telluride. However, the Pilot distinguishes itself with a broader combination of comfort, fuel efficiency, and real-world handling. The Highlander’s turbo-four delivers higher torque but feels busier under load, while the Pilot’s naturally aspirated V6 maintains steady, linear pulling power.
Real-World Towing Impressions
Owners who’ve towed with the 2024 model—and early 2025 deliveries—report steady performance even at full capacity. Thanks to the Pilot’s long wheelbase and advanced AWD logic, sway and pitch are minimal when the trailer is balanced correctly.
When properly equipped with the Honda Trailer Hitch and Harness, acceleration remains consistent and braking predictable, especially under the guidance of Trailer Stability Assist.
For most families, that translates to genuine peace of mind—whether towing a pop-up camper to the mountains or a pair of jet skis to the coast.
Conclusion: Balanced Strength for Every Journey
The 2025 Honda Pilot strikes a rare balance between family comfort and functional capability. Its V6 powertrain, refined interior, and 5,000-lb towing limit prove that you don’t need a full-size truck to enjoy serious hauling strength.
From daily commutes to mountain adventures, the Pilot delivers confident performance with Honda reliability and safety assurance. For anyone seeking a three-row SUV that tows effortlessly and lives comfortably, the 2025 Honda Pilot stands as a dependable, well-rounded choice.
Discover expert car tips, towing guides, and vehicle insights at CarFact.online.
FAQs : 2025 Honda Pilot Towing Capacity
Q.How much can the 2025 Honda Pilot tow?
With the i-VTM4 AWD system, the 2025 Pilot can tow up to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg). Front-wheel-drive models are rated for 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg).
Q.Which trims have the full 5,000-lb capacity?
AWD versions of the EX-L, Touring, TrailSport, Elite, and Black Edition all support the maximum tow rating when equipped with the proper accessories.
Q.Does the 2025 Pilot include a towing package?
A Class III Trailer Hitch, wiring harness, and transmission cooler are available as part of Honda’s accessory package. They’re required to achieve the full tow rating.
Q.What is Tow Mode, and how does it work?
Tow Mode modifies throttle response, transmission shifts, and engine cooling to ensure smoother performance while hauling heavy loads or driving on grades.
Q.Is the Pilot good for long-distance towing?
Yes. Its fuel economy, comfort, and stability make it ideal for extended hauls, while features like adaptive cruise and noise insulation reduce fatigue.
Still exploring? Check out more Honda towing guides and comparisons in our Honda category for expert insights.