to me pils give a "sharper taste than pale, on the grainy side, and depending on the brew, can exhibit some sulfur characteristics.
I't's this grain that imho gives a lot of the character onf Pilsners and American Lagers, and a few other beers and helps define the style of these beers.
I would love to taste a Triple side by side same recipe, one with Pale, the other with pils.