2024 Chevrolet Trax vs 2025 Honda Pilot

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax underwent a significant transformation, shedding its previous image for a more modern and stylish design. It was longer, lower, and wider, drawing inspiration from the midsize Chevy Blazer. The new Trax featured a bold grille, distinctive body lines, and a more commanding presence compared to its predecessor. Base models came with 17-inch steel wheels, while higher trims offered 18-inch and 19-inch aluminum options. The interior, though entry-level, had a sleek design with a freestanding touchscreen and unique air vents, offering a fresh look despite its plastic materials.

In contrast, the 2025 Honda Pilot Black Edition boasted a rugged yet sophisticated appearance. It featured black wheels, blacked-out trim, and red accents inside, creating a unique aesthetic. The Pilot aimed for a more rugged look since its 2023 redesign, with the TrailSport trim enhancing off-road capabilities. Inside, the Pilot offered quality materials and thoughtful design, though its digital displays appeared dated. The Black Edition's custom look was more suited for suburban environments, providing a comfortable and stylish ride for families.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax was powered by a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. Despite a decrease in power from the previous model, it offered improved acceleration, with minimal turbo lag and a responsive feel. The Trax was front-wheel drive only, with a six-speed automatic transmission. Its handling was more car-like, providing a stable and nimble driving experience, though it still exhibited some body roll. Active noise cancellation enhanced cabin quietness, despite some tire noise.

The 2025 Honda Pilot featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It offered multiple driving modes and could tow up to 5,000 pounds. The Pilot's AWD system included torque vectoring and hill descent control, enhancing its off-road capabilities. While the V6 provided good acceleration, the transmission occasionally hesitated. Fuel economy was a concern, with city driving yielding 17.8 mpg. The Pilot's handling was predictable, though an adaptive-damping suspension could improve ride quality.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax offered increased rear-seat legroom, though headroom decreased slightly. It provided a car-like driving position with excellent visibility. Cargo space increased to 25.6 cubic feet with seats up and 54.1 cubic feet with seats down, surpassing some rivals. The Trax's interior was comfortable for its price range, though snug in some areas.

The 2025 Honda Pilot excelled in form and function, with three rows of comfortable seating and thoughtful storage solutions. The Black Edition's front passenger seat lacked adjustability, but overall comfort was high. The second row was spacious, with removable sections for flexibility. The third row accommodated adults for short trips. Cargo space was generous, with 18.6 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 86.5 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax featured significant tech upgrades, including an 8-inch or 11-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and optional wireless charging. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though some controls favored the driver. The digital instrument cluster was modern and easy to read, with multiple USB ports available.

The 2025 Honda Pilot's technology appeared dated, with a 10.2-inch digital gauge panel and a 9-inch touchscreen. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but connectivity issues arose. The voice recognition system was inconsistent, and the audio system was adequate but not exceptional. The Pilot included features like CabinTalk for communication and a small head-up display.

The 2024 Chevrolet Trax came with standard safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and forward collision warning. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. The Teen Driver system provided additional safety measures for young drivers.

The 2025 Honda Pilot was equipped with Honda Sensing safety features, including forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Black Edition added parking sensors and a multi-view camera system. The Pilot earned high safety ratings, with a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and a five-star rating from NHTSA.