Honda Pioneer 700 Review: Top Speed, Specs & Pricing for 2024

The Honda Pioneer 700 is one of the most versatile and rugged side-by-side UTVs under $12,000. Introduced in 2015, the Pioneer 700 has proven itself as a jack-of-all-trades recreation and utility vehicle ready to take on trails, jobs, or adventures.

In this in-depth Pioneer 700 review, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Honda’s two-seat UTV.

• Key specs and capacity details
• Real world top speed testing
• Available trim levels and pricing
• How the engine, transmission, and handling perform
• Upgrades and accessories that improve utility
• How it compares against competitors like the Polaris Sportsman 570 and Can-Am Outlander 570
• Feedback from Pioneer 700 owners on reliability and capability
• And much more to help you decide if the Pioneer 700 is the right side-by-side for your needs…

Overview of the Honda Pioneer 700

The Honda Pioneer 700 slots in the recreational-utility UTV class, engineered for both trail riding and taking on medium-duty jobs.

It’s powered by Honda’s proven 675cc single-cylinder engine first introduced on their Big Red ATV model. This smooth and torquey powerplant provides plenty of grunt for recreational trails or tackling tough tasks around the property.

While it’s not the fastest or most powerful side-by-side in its price range, the Pioneer 700 hits the sweet spot for those needing a versatile machine with ample cargo capacity.

And of course, it comes with Honda’s legendary reputation for reliability and durability. Many owners praise these UTVs for clocking trouble-free miles year after year.

Key Specs and Capacity Details of the Pioneer 700 Lineup:

• Seating Capacity: 2 passengers
• Engine: 675cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder
• Transmission: Automatic CVT
• Payload Capacity: 1,000 lbs
• Towing Capacity: 1,500 lbs
• Ground Clearance: 10.7 inches (for Deluxe models)
• Starting MSRP: $10,399

Over its production run, Honda has made incremental improvements to power, comfort, and convenience. But the core Pioneer DNA remains focused on versatility, cargo ability, ease of handling, and Honda reliability.

Additional Features for the 2023 Model:

• Revised power steering system.
• More storage with a bigger glovebox.
• Added storage cubby on the dash.
• Bigger cup holders in the doors to accommodate a tumbler.
• Stronger boots on the drive shafts.

Now let’s take a deeper look at each aspect of this capable UTV…

Honda Pioneer 700 Engine And Performance

At the heart of the Pioneer 700 lies a proven 675cc 4-stroke single-cylinder engine first introduced on Honda’s venerable Big Red ATV model.

It’s engineered for smooth power delivery and torquey performance to take on any task or trail. Here are the key engine specs and details:

• Displacement: 675cc
• Horsepower: 36 hp
• Torque: 42 lb-ft
• Cooling: Liquid-cooled
• Fuel Delivery: Fuel injection
• Starting: Electric push button

This muscular single-cyl provides ample low-end torque right off idle. It really hits its stride in the mid-range as the power band climbs.

The engine screams all the way up to a 8,500 rpm redline if you keep your foot down. But it’s most comfortable cruising trails and tackling tasks between 3,000 to 6,000 rpm.

A conveniently located push button electric starter fires the engine to life with the quick press of a button. No pull cords to wrestle with here!

Throttle response feels smooth and linear thanks to the programmable fuel injection system. Drivers praise the predictable throttle control both at low speed and while riding at pace.

The Pioneer 700 is equipped with an automotive-style three-speed automatic gearbox with a hydraulic torque converter designed and built by Honda. This system provides on-demand smooth gear ratio changes to match engine rpm and vehicle speed.

There’s no manual shifting needed. Just push the gas pedal and go. The clutch engages predictably to get you moving without hesitation or lurching.

While competitive UTVs in this class rely on belts, Honda designed the Pioneer transmission around a sophisticated centrifugal clutch system for improved durability and longevity.

This is the same clutch design used in their proven automatic ATV transmissions. And it pays dividends in smooth delivery of power to the wheels while minimizing belt wear.

One downside is that the transmission does not provide engine braking when going downhill. However, it’s worth noting that the 2023 model of the Honda Pioneer 700 uses hydraulic discs all around, which are more than up to the task of bringing the machine to a stop.

But the upside is this gearbox has proven to be one of the most trouble-free and durable transmission designs in the side-by-side market. Owners regularly report getting thousands of miles without any issues.

Honda Pioneer 700 Top Speed

Side-by-side shoppers always want to know the real world top speed they can expect.

In stock form on level ground, most owners report the Honda Pioneer 700 tops out at 55-63 mph depending on conditions and load.

But how fast can you really go in the Pioneer 700? Here’s a look at top speed testing from reviewers:

UTV Guide tested a 2016 Pioneer 700 EPS and clocked a top speed of 62 mph in stock form. This shows the performance you can expect on flat ground when unloaded. In a long term review, UTV Driver reported hitting 58 mph on flat dirt roads over 20 miles of testing their stock 2017 Pioneer 700 EPS. SideBySideStuff saw 52-55 mph top speeds in real world testing of a mostly stock 2021 Pioneer 700 with just a muffler and air intake added. So while the 675cc engine is capable of propelling the Pioneer to 60+ mph, your actual top speed will depend on conditions:

• Adding cargo or accessories will bring top speed down due to increased weight. Drop of 2-3 mph is common when loaded near capacity.
• Off-road terrain, hills, mud, and wind resistance also impede top speed. Don’t expect to hit the same speeds on trails as a paved road.
• Aftermarket upgrades like exhaust, programmer, lift kit, and bigger tires can help recover some lost top speed from added weight. While not the fastest UTV in its class, the Pioneer provides ample speed for enjoyable recreational trail riding. And there’s always room to boost speed with mods.

Honda Pioneer 700 Acceleration And Handling

While top speed runs are fun, acceleration and handling are what really matter when riding trails or working the UTV. Here’s a look at how the Pioneer 700 performs:

• Throttle Response: Feels linear and smooth thanks to the refined fuel injection system. Power is easy to modulate whether creeping along slowly or running flat out.
• Low-end Torque: Right off idle is excellent thanks to the torquey 675cc engine. Great for tractoring up hills or helping spin bigger tires out of mud holes.
• Mid-range Pull: This is where the Honda engine really shines, providing a surge of acceleration when you need it between 30-50 mph.
• Handling: Feels planted and controlled at speed thanks to the dual A-arm independent front suspension. The standard EPS system reduces steering effort while improving responsiveness.
• Ride Comfort: Is compliant over bumps but some testers report the suspension feels somewhat undersprung for bigger riders or when loaded near capacity. Upgrade shocks improve handling.
• Braking: Is solid to bring the machine under control. All four wheels have hydraulic disc brakes. ABS is not available.
• Transmission: The Pioneer 700 is equipped with an automotive-style three-speed automatic gearbox with a hydraulic torque converter.

While it gives up some speed and thrills compared to sportier rivals, the Pioneer 700 provides well-rounded capabilities for recreational and utility use.

Honda Pioneer 700 Trim Levels And Prices

Honda offers the Pioneer 700 in two trim levels:

Honda Pioneer 700

This base model starts at an MSRP of $10,399. Key features include:

• Engine: 675cc
• Transmission: Automotive-style three-speed automatic gearbox with a hydraulic torque converter
• Seating Capacity: 2 passengers
• Payload Capacity: 1000 lbs
• Towing Capacity: 1500 lbs
• Cargo Bed: Steel cargo bed with tilt dump ability
• Wheels: Steel wheels
• Shocks: 5-way preload adjustable shocks
• Colors: Olive, Black

Honda Pioneer 700 Deluxe

This upgraded trim has an MSRP starting at $11,799. It adds popular options like:

• Power Steering: Electric Power Steering
• Wheels: Cast aluminum wheels
• Cargo Bed: Dual-level cargo bed
• Cab Fairing and Roof
• Body Panels: Painted body panels
• Extra Interior Storage
• Colors: Red, Reactor Blue

Pricing can vary by dealer. Always check current pricing offers in your area to get the best deal.

In terms of value, the base Pioneer 700 trim packs in all the core capability you need for recreational and medium-duty use at an attractive sub-$11k starting price point.

But the Deluxe model adds several nice-to-have upgrades for comfort, convenience, and improved looks if you have the extra budget.

Below is a pricing chart showing MSRP changes by model year:

Year	Pioneer 700 Base MSRP	Pioneer 700 Deluxe MSRP
2015	$9,999	$11,699
2016	$9,999	$11,699
2017	$10,299	$11,999
2018	$10,399	$11,999
2019	$10,399	$11,999
2020	$10,399	$11,999
2021	$10,399	$11,999
2022	$10,399	$11,999
2023	$10,399	$13,399

Overall, Honda has kept the Pioneer 700 pricing very consistent over its lifespan with only minor increases. That underscores the value you get with this proven and capable side-by-side.

Honda Pioneer 700 Specs And Capacity

Whether you need a tough and versatile UTV for play or work, the Pioneer 700 delivers excellent utility for the price. Here are the key specs on capacity:

• Seating: 2 passengers
• Bed Dimensions: 38.7 x 54.5 x 11.9 inches
• Bed Capacity: 999 lbs
• Total Rack Capacity: 240 lbs
• Towing Capacity: 1500 lbs
• Ground Clearance: 10.5 inches
• Wheelbase: 76 inches
• Wet Weight: 1438 lbs
• Fuel Tank: 7.3 gallons

With nearly 1,000 pounds of carry capacity and a spacious dump bed, the Pioneer can comfortably haul gear, supplies, or tools on any job.

The standard 2″ hitch receiver also makes it easy to tow a small trailer up to 1,500 pounds gross weight.

Here is a handy specs comparison chart for the key capacity numbers between the Honda Pioneer 700 and two of its main competitors:

Specs	Honda Pioneer 700	Polaris Sportsman 570	Can-Am Outlander 570
Bed Capacity	1000 lbs	1000 lbs	600 lbs
Towing Capacity	1500 lbs	1500 lbs	1100 lbs
Ground Clearance	10.5 in	12 in	11 in
Wheelbase	76 in	81 in	83 in
Wet Weight	1438 lbs	1481 lbs	1334 lbs

Honda Pioneer 700 Features And Upgrades

The Pioneer 700 comes well equipped straight from the factory for recreational and medium-duty use. But owners can expand capability further with these popular accessories and upgrades:

• Windshields – Add a windshield to improve protection from the elements and trail debris.
• Roof – Get a solid or mesh roof for better protection from the sun, rain, and falling branches overhead.
• Audio – Add a Bluetooth sound bar or full audio system to crank the tunes while riding.
• Light Bars – Mount versatile LED light bars to illuminate the trails at night or brighten your working area.
• Winch – Equip a winch for greater utility tackling mud or moving heavy objects.
• Tires – Upgrade to larger, more aggressive tires for improved off-road traction and higher ground clearance.
• Shocks – Beef up the suspension with heavy-duty shocks better suited for hauling and riding with passengers.
• Power Steering – Add Honda’s excellent electric power steering for lighter low speed steering.

With a huge range of OEM and aftermarket accessories available, Pioneer 700 owners have plenty of options to customize their machine. The new features for the year of 2023 include added storage, tilt steering, beverage holders, pre-wired accessory connector, dash switch panel, in-bed outlet. The Forest version comes standard with a winch. The new instrument display features an LCD screen that’s twice the size of the previous unit with larger text so it’s easier to read.

What Owners Are Saying About the Honda Pioneer 700

With over 8 years of proven performance in the field, there are plenty of reviews from Honda Pioneer 700 owners praising its abilities. Here’s a sampling of feedback:

“This side-by-side is an absolute workhorse. Use it almost daily for ranch work, hauling feed, fencing supplies, and pulling a trailer. Has plenty of power to get the job done and very reliable.”

“Rides great on the trails, very nimble handling. Has more than enough power to have fun. Tows my camping trailer with no problems. 1,200 miles so far with zero issues.”

“Carries my hunting and fishing gear with room to spare. The engine always starts right up, even when cold. Handles great in the timber and gets through mud and snow better than I expected.”

“Very stable at highway speeds towing my mower trailer. Easy for my teenage son to operate. Dump bed works flawlessly and carries a ton of mulch and rocks for landscaping our property.”

But it’s not all glowing praise. Here are a few common complaints from owners:

“Ride gets harsh with 2 people on board. Definitely recommend upgrading the shocks especially if you haul a lot of cargo.”

“No engine braking can make going downhill sketchy. Need to ride the brakes to keep from careening out of control.”

Stock tires limit its off-road capability. Swapped them out for a more aggressive tread after getting stuck too easily.”

“The EPS should really come standard. Makes low speed steering way lighter for trail riding.”

Overall though, owners agree the Pioneer 700 is a highly versatile machine thanks to its blend of cargo ability, Honda reliability, easy handling, and smooth power delivery.

Honda Pioneer 700 Reliability and Problems

Honda has staked its reputation on building famously reliable powersports vehicles. And by most accounts, the Pioneer 700 upholds that tradition with excellent durability and quality.

The vast majority of owners report trouble-free operation even after months or years of hard recreational and utility use. Just keep up with regular maintenance and the Pioneer will keep ticking for thousands of miles.

But they are machines with lots of moving parts, so issues do occasionally crop up. Here are a few common problems reported by owners:

• Faulty fuel pump – Pump failures were most common in earlier model year Pioneers. Replacing the pump resolves the issue.
• Leaking front differential – Seals wearing prematurely can lead to gear oil leaks. Reseal the differential to stop leaks.
• Early clutch wear – Aggressive riding and excessive slipping can accelerate belt wear. Adjust driving style and keep an eye on signs of slipping.
• CVT belt failures – Defective belts from a bad production batch prematurely failed around 200 miles. Honda issued a recall to replace belts.
• EPS sensor failures – Faulty steering position sensors can disable power steering assist. Replace failed sensors to restore operation.
• Suspension leaks – Front shocks and ball joints may leak over time. Replace seals and worn components.

Issues like these are par for the course with any machine seeing hard use over thousands of miles. Overall, the Pioneer 700 proves to be very reliable long term when properly maintained.

Honda Pioneer 700 Safety Recalls

Honda has issued safety recalls for the Pioneer 700:

2015-2016 Models

The parking brake bracket may crack, allowing the parking brake to fail. Honda dealers inspected and replaced brackets on affected models.

2018 Models

A supplier defect caused some CVT belts to fail around 200 miles. Honda recalled machines to replace belts.

Additional Recalls

There have been additional recalls for the Pioneer 700 due to potential loss of steering control. The VIN number range of affected vehicles for the Pioneer 700 is 1HFVE02**M4700031-M4700694.

Always be sure to perform any applicable recalls that Honda issues for your model to maintain safety and reliability. It’s recommended to check with your local Honda dealer or the official Honda website for the most up-to-date recall information.

Registered owners will be notified by mail when new recalls are announced. You can also check by entering your VIN on Honda’s recall lookup site.

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Honda Pioneer 700 Vs. Polaris Sportsman 570

The Polaris Sportsman 570 is one of the Pioneer 700’s closest competitors in terms of pricing and capabilities. Here’s how they stack up:

• Price: The Sportsman 570 starts at a slightly lower MSRP around $9499. But pricing often evens out after haggling or offers from dealers.
• Engine: They use the same class of single-cylinder engine with similar horsepower. The Honda edges out the Polaris in torque production and mid-range power.
• Capabilities: Towing, payload, and ground clearance numbers are nearly identical. Both can take on the same jobs.
• Ride Quality and Handling: Ride quality and handling are comparable, with the Pioneer 700 feeling a bit more compliant and the Sportsman 570 a little wider in corners.
• Drive System: The Sportsman 570’s On-Demand all-wheel drive system works better overall than the Honda’s 2/4WD with locking front differential.
• Reliability and Durability: Reliability and durability tilt toward Honda’s side thanks to the proven Pioneer powerplant and transmission.

For shoppers weighing these two affordable, hard-working UTVs, it really comes down to brand loyalty and finding the best deal. You can’t go wrong with either machine. But at the end of the day, the Honda Pioneer 700 is tough to beat for its proven reliability reputation and owner satisfaction.

Honda Pioneer 700 Vs. Can-Am Outlander 570

Another close competitor to the Pioneer 700 is the Can-Am Outlander 570:

• Price: The Outlander 570 undercuts the Honda a bit on MSRP, starting around $8699. Price advantage goes to Can-Am.
• Engine: The Honda edges out the Can-Am’s 570cc Rotax engine in torque production, though they are evenly matched in horsepower.
• Capabilities: The Outlander 570 can’t carry or tow quite as much as the Pioneer 700. Payload is 600 lbs vs 1000 lbs for Honda.
• Ride Quality: Ride quality is close, but the Pioneer 700’s suspension handles lighter loads a little better.
• Drive System: The Can-Am uses a simpler on-command 2WD/4WD system compared to Honda’s 2WD/4WD with locking front differential.
• Features: Can-Am offers more premium features on higher Outlander trim levels that cost extra on the Pioneer.
• Durability: Long-term durability leans toward the Honda thanks to the proven tough Pioneer drivetrain.

The Outlander 570 beats the Pioneer on price while the Honda bests the Can-Am on cargo capacity and reliability reputation. Test drive them back-to-back when deciding.

Is The Honda Pioneer 700 Still A Good Buy In 2023?

After over eight years of production, the Pioneer 700 remains a relevant and competitive choice in the sub-$12k utility side-by-side market.

It lacks some of the speed, flash, and features of pricier sport-focused UTVs. But the Pioneer 700 still has all the all-around utility and Honda quality buyers need.

Improvements to styling, comfort, and convenience over the years keep it appealing as a recreational trail machine. Yet it retains the ruggedness and cargo ability that make it a proven workhorse.

For entry-level UTV buyers or those with tighter budgets, the Pioneer 700 should be on your shortlist if you want an affordable machine focused on versatility, reliability, and real-world usability.

Honda Pioneer 700 Review – The Bottom Line

The Honda Pioneer 700 delivers well-rounded capabilities few competitors can match under $12,000:

• Engine: A proven hot-rod ATV engine pumped up to 675cc power.
• Transmission: An automotive-style three-speed automatic gearbox with a hydraulic torque converter.
• Cargo and Towing Abilities: Huge 1,000 pound cargo and 1,500 pound towing abilities.
• Handling: Easy handling from the compliant independent front suspension.
• Comfort: All-day comfort for two courtesy of the roomy cab.
• Performance & Versatility: Trail-bossing or property-conquering performance & versatility.
• Reliability, Durability, Fit & Finish: Legendary Honda reliability, durability, fit & finish.

For side-by-side buyers seeking an extremely versatile UTV, it’s hard to beat the Pioneer 700’s unique combination of user-friendly operation, cargo-hauling brawn, and Honda’s hard-earned reputation for quality.

It remains one of the top all-around recreational and utility models for under $12k over eight years after its debut. And will continue satisfying owners well into the future. The new features for the year of 2023 include added storage, tilt steering, beverage holders, pre-wired accessory connector, dash switch panel, in-bed outlet. The Forest version comes standard with a winch. The new instrument display features an LCD screen that’s twice the size of the previous unit with larger text so it’s easier to read.