Honda Pilot vs CR-V MPG: The Ultimate Showdown for Eco-Friendly Drivers. Who Will Come Out on Top?
What To Know
- Deciding between the Honda Pilot and the Honda CR-V can be a tough choice, especially if fuel efficiency is a top priority.
- Several factors contribute to the difference in fuel economy between the Pilot and the CR-V.
- In urban environments with frequent stops and starts, the CR-V’s smaller engine and better stop-start technology can provide better fuel economy compared to the Pilot.
Deciding between the Honda Pilot and the Honda CR-V can be a tough choice, especially if fuel efficiency is a top priority. Both SUVs offer excellent reliability, safety features, and comfortable interiors, but their fuel economy figures differ significantly. This blog post will delve into the fuel efficiency of both vehicles, helping you understand which one is the better choice for your needs.
Understanding the Fuel Efficiency Differences
The Honda Pilot and CR-V are both popular choices for families and individuals seeking a spacious and reliable SUV. However, they cater to different needs and offer varying fuel economy figures.
- Honda Pilot: This three-row SUV is known for its spacious interior and impressive towing capacity. However, its larger size and powerful engine come at a cost in fuel efficiency. The Pilot achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined.
- Honda CR-V: This compact SUV offers a more fuel-efficient option. Its smaller size and more efficient engine result in better fuel economy. The CR-V achieves an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, and 31 mpg combined.
Factors Affecting Fuel Economy
Several factors contribute to the difference in fuel economy between the Pilot and the CR-V:
- Engine Size: The Pilot boasts a 3.5-liter V6 engine, while the CR-V is equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The smaller engine in the CR-V contributes to its better fuel efficiency.
- Weight: The Pilot, being a larger SUV, is significantly heavier than the CR-V. This added weight requires more power to move, impacting fuel economy.
- Aerodynamics: The CR-V’s more aerodynamic design helps reduce drag, improving fuel efficiency.
- Driving Habits: Your driving habits, including acceleration, braking, and speed, can also affect your fuel economy.
Real-World Fuel Economy
While the EPA estimates provide a good starting point, real-world fuel economy can vary depending on your driving conditions. Factors like traffic, weather, and terrain can impact your fuel consumption.
- City Driving: In urban environments with frequent stops and starts, the CR-V’s smaller engine and better stop-start technology can provide better fuel economy compared to the Pilot.
- Highway Driving: On long highway trips, the Pilot’s larger fuel tank can be advantageous, minimizing the need for frequent refueling. However, the CR-V’s superior aerodynamic design can still result in better fuel efficiency.
Fuel Economy Technologies
Both the Pilot and CR-V incorporate fuel-saving technologies to enhance their efficiency:
- Variable Cylinder Management (VCM): The Pilot’s V6 engine uses VCM to deactivate cylinders when not needed, improving fuel economy during cruising.
- Eco Assist System: The CR-V features an Eco Assist system that provides feedback on your driving habits and encourages fuel-efficient driving.
- Stop-Start System: Both vehicles feature a stop-start system that automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a stop, reducing fuel consumption.
Choosing the Right SUV for Your Needs
When deciding between the Honda Pilot and the CR-V, consider your priorities:
- Space: If you need a three-row SUV with ample cargo space, the Pilot is the clear winner.
- Fuel Efficiency: If fuel economy is your top concern, the CR-V’s smaller size and more efficient engine make it the better choice.
- Towing Capacity: The Pilot offers a higher towing capacity compared to the CR-V.
- Price: The CR-V is generally more affordable than the Pilot.
Fuel Efficiency is Just One Factor
While fuel economy is an important consideration, it’s not the only factor to consider when choosing an SUV. Other factors such as safety features, interior comfort, and technology features should also be taken into account.
Making the Right Choice
Ultimately, the best SUV for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, the Honda CR-V is the more economical choice. However, if you require more space, towing capacity, or a more powerful engine, the Honda Pilot might be a better fit.
Popular Questions
Q: Is the Honda Pilot really that much less fuel-efficient than the CR-V?
A: Yes, the Pilot’s fuel economy is significantly lower than the CR-V’s due to its larger size, heavier weight, and more powerful engine.
Q: Can I improve the fuel economy of my Honda Pilot?
A: You can improve your Pilot’s fuel economy by practicing fuel-efficient driving habits, such as avoiding aggressive acceleration and braking, maintaining proper tire pressure, and minimizing the use of accessories like air conditioning.
Q: Is the Honda CR-V the most fuel-efficient SUV in its class?
A: While the CR-V offers excellent fuel economy, other compact SUVs in its class may offer slightly better figures.
Q: Does the Honda Pilot‘s fuel economy improve with the hybrid model?
A: Yes, the Honda Pilot’s fuel economy improves significantly with the hybrid model. The Pilot Sport Hybrid achieves an EPA-estimated 27 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, and 31 mpg combined.
Q: What is the average fuel cost per mile for the Honda Pilot and CR-V?
A: The average fuel cost per mile for the Honda Pilot is around $0.18, while the average for the CR-V is around $0.13. These figures can vary depending on fuel prices and your driving habits.