The Elite is a bit expensive for a vehicle in the non-premium mid-size segment, but the standard high-quality interior pairs with high levels of standard features to bridge the gap into the luxury territory of the Acura MDX. Ventilated front seats and heated rear seats are now standard, as is a heated steering wheel, but the second-row captain’s chairs mean the Pilot loses some of the practicality afforded by eight seats and the enhanced cargo volume. The Elite is only available with all-wheel drive, and the lone transmission available is the nine-speed automatic.
