Originally published August 11, 2016. This article covers the 2017 model-year announcement; prices and colors below are historical, not current offers.
Honda expanded its Pioneer lineup for 2017 with two new Deluxe versions of the Pioneer 700 and an automatic shifting mode for the compact Pioneer 500. The updates gave buyers more control over the transmission while adding trim and suspension improvements to these utility-focused side-by-sides.
What Changed for the 2017 Honda Pioneer 700?
The new Pioneer 700 Deluxe and Pioneer 700-4 Deluxe added electric power steering, aluminum wheels, painted suspension springs and painted body panels. A dash-mounted switch let drivers select automatic or manual shifting. In manual mode, the steering-column paddles selected gears; in automatic mode, the paddles could temporarily override the transmission’s shift points. Honda also updated the bumper, fascia and graphics across the Pioneer 700 lineup.
The Pioneer 700-4 retained Honda’s QuickFlip rear seats, which fold into the cargo bed when they are not needed. That arrangement lets an owner switch between two-, three- and four-person seating configurations. For a later hands-on assessment, read our Honda Pioneer 700-4 review.
2017 Pioneer 700 Colors and Original MSRPs
| Model | 2017 colors | Original MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| Pioneer 700 | Red | $10,499 |
| Pioneer 700 Deluxe | Honda Phantom Camo, Blue | $11,899 |
| Pioneer 700-4 | Red | $12,099 |
| Pioneer 700-4 Deluxe | Honda Phantom Camo, Silver Metallic | $13,499 |
Honda announced fall 2016 availability for all four models. These figures are the MSRPs given at the 2017 model launch and should not be used as current pricing.
What Changed for the 2017 Honda Pioneer 500?
The 2017 Pioneer 500 gained a selectable fully automatic shift mode alongside its manual electric-shift mode. Drivers could use the dash-mounted switch to choose between the two, and the steering-column paddles remained available for manual shifts or an override while driving in automatic mode. Honda also fitted dual-rate suspension springs, intended to improve ride comfort while resisting bottoming.
At approximately 50 inches wide, the Pioneer 500 was aimed at restricted-width trails and buyers who wanted a compact utility UTV. Its small footprint also made transport in some full-size pickup beds possible, subject to the truck’s dimensions and payload limits. Read our Pioneer 500 review for driving impressions.
The announced 2017 colors were Red, Green and Honda Phantom Camo. The original MSRP was $8,999, or $9,599 for Honda Phantom Camo, with availability planned for fall 2016.
Where the Pioneer Lineup Went Next
For today’s lineup, see our 2027 Honda Pioneer 700 and 520 guide. If you are choosing between the midsize model and Honda’s larger utility UTV, our Pioneer 700 vs. Pioneer 1000 comparison explains the differences in size, work capacity and transmission design.
