The 2018 Honda Pioneer 500 is Honda’s entry level utility vehicle.

The 2018 Honda Pioneer 500 is the same as the 2017 version which was updated from the previous model. Priced at $8,999, this entry level Honda utility vehicle is powered by a 475cc liquid cooled, single cylinder four-stroke engine with electronic fuel injection. This two-seater is only 50″ wide, making many trails accessible, and fits in a full-sized pickup’s bed. The Pioneer 500 features selectable 2WD/4WD and a five-speed automatic transmission with a manual mode with paddle shifters and the automatic mode. Switching between modes can be done on the fly. Other key specifications include:

• Front and rear independent double-wishbone suspensions
• 5.9″ of front and rear suspension travel
• 8.5″ of ground clearance
• 24″ tires
• Hydraulic disc brakes
• 1,000 lbs towing capacity
• 450 lbs rear rack capacity
• Low doors with safety nets

The Honda Pioneer is available in Red or Olive, or for in Honda Phantom Camo for an additional $600.

The following are highlights from several different reviews of the 2018 Honda Pioneer 500. The reviews are fairly consistent with the general view that the Honda Pioneer 500 is a nicely priced small UTV that is good for the trail and doing smaller size chores around the farm, ranch or work site. The ability to switch between manual and automatic transmission modes and the performance of the transmission are the favorite feature. The engine size is appropriate and peppy enough. The clever door latch system and handling are other well-liked features. The main negative is that the ride can be harsh and the vehicle could use slightly more suspension travel or better shocks.

World-of-ATVs.com Honda Pioneer 500 Review

• Manual transmission mode gives the vehicle an edge
• Good for trails and chores around the farm or ranch
• “Pioneer 500 represents the best bang for the buck…” in its class
• Requires less maintenance than most machines
• Sporty feel for recreation and capabilities for utility use
• Reports by some owners:  Too noisy, harsh ride and lacks a fully locking front differential

Dirtywheelsmag.com – Tested mostly on trails made for quads. Tested 2017 version which is the same as the 2018.

• Peppy engine
• Clever door latch system opens doors and folds back safety nets at the same time
• Nimble handling and crisp steering
• Increased suspension travel could improve ride
• “Trail pace that will out-pace the suspension”
• Comfortable cabin

MrTruck.com

• Like the door and net latch system
• Power steering and fulling locking front differential would have been nice
• Like the paddle shifters and the versatility of the automatic and manual modes
• Better down hill control with the manual shifting
• Gas and brake pedals are far enough apart unlike other UTVs
• Like the lack of center console that can get in the way of your legs
• 50″ width provides more trail access
• Not as much wheel travel as my ATVs
• Great emergency brake
• Like roll cage for when carrying kids
• Simple design with crankshafts going directly to drive shafts