2024 Jeep Wrangler vs 2025 Honda Pilot

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler maintained its iconic rugged appearance, characterized by a burly, body-on-frame design. Despite the variety of powertrains and off-road systems, the Wrangler's look remained consistent across models. Notable changes included a redesigned grille, first seen on the 2023 Wrangler Rubicon, which was shorter and wider to improve airflow. The integration of the antenna into the windshield was a clever update, preventing it from snagging on branches during off-road adventures. Additionally, the Wrangler offered ten new wheel designs and various roof options, including soft-top, hard top, and power-retractable sunroof configurations. The ability to fold down the windshield and remove doors added to its adventurous spirit.

In contrast, the 2025 Honda Pilot, particularly in the Black Edition trim, featured a sleek, urban design with black wheels and blacked-out exterior trim. Inside, the cabin was adorned with black leather seats accented by red perforations and stitching, creating a sophisticated yet sporty atmosphere. The Pilot's design aimed for a rugged look, especially in the TrailSport trim, but the Black Edition was more suited for suburban environments. While the interior boasted quality materials and thoughtful design, the digital displays appeared dated compared to competitors, lacking a significant "wow factor." Despite this, the Pilot's practicality and comfort made it a strong contender for family use.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler offered a range of engines, including a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, a plug-in hybrid version with 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, a 3.6-litre V6 with 285 horsepower, and a powerful 6.4-litre V8 producing 470 horsepower. Various transfer cases provided different off-road capabilities, with the Rubicon trim featuring the Rock-Trac system. The 4xe PHEV model was particularly impressive, offering 35 kilometres of all-electric range. The Wrangler's solid axles provided excellent articulation, and the addition of sound deadening improved cabin quietness. A factory-installed WARN winch was available on Rubicon models, enhancing its off-road prowess.

The 2025 Honda Pilot was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It could tow up to 2,268 kilograms and featured multiple driving modes, including Normal, Econ, Snow, Tow, Sport, Trail, and Sand. The Pilot's AWD system offered torque vectoring and up to 21 centimetres of ground clearance in the TrailSport trim. While the V6 provided good acceleration, the transmission occasionally felt slow to downshift. Fuel economy was less impressive, with city driving averaging 15.9 litres per 100 kilometres. The Pilot's handling was predictable, though an adaptive-damping suspension would have improved ride quality.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler saw an upgrade in towing capacity, now able to tow 2,268 kilograms with specific configurations. Inside, it offered heated seats and a heated steering wheel, with new 12-way power adjustable front seats. The 4xe model included a 30-amp Power Box, allowing for the use of various accessories. Despite these features, ventilated seats were not available.

The 2025 Honda Pilot excelled in form and function, with three rows of comfortable seating and thoughtful storage solutions. The Black Edition's front row had a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat, but the passenger seat lacked similar adjustability. The second row was spacious, with removable centre sections for easy access to the third row. The Pilot offered a hands-free power tailgate and up to 3,219 litres of cargo space with seats folded. Features like a remote engine start and triple-zone climate control added to its family-friendly appeal.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Uconnect5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was faster and more user-friendly, with Off-Road Pages providing detailed data. New features included a wireless hotspot and dual Bluetooth phone pairing.

The 2025 Honda Pilot's technology appeared dated, with a 10.2-inch digital gauge panel and a 9-inch touchscreen. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. However, the voice recognition system was inconsistent, and the wireless phone charging pad was not well-designed. The CabinTalk feature allowed communication with rear passengers, but overall, the technology met only basic expectations.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler introduced first- and second-row side-curtain airbags. It included forward collision warning, with optional blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. The 2023 model received mixed safety ratings, but improvements were expected with the new airbags.

The 2025 Honda Pilot came with comprehensive Honda Sensing safety features, including forward-collision warning, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. However, the adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist had some performance issues. The Pilot earned high safety ratings, with the IIHS naming it a Top Safety Pick+ and the NHTSA awarding it five stars.