How Honda Made The 2026 Pilot a Much Better SUV To Drive

Off the hop, the most noticeable change comes up front—where the Pilot adopts a more upright grille structure, revised bumper intakes, and gains larger skid plates. Collectively lending the SUV a more rugged aesthetic, bringing it somewhat more in line with the Passport.

Besides a slightly revised rear skid plate and the inclusion of roof rails as a standard feature, the rest of the sheet metal remains fundamentally unchanged. New 20-inch wheel designs and three fresh exterior colors, including Solar Silver Metallic, Smoke Blue Pearl, and the TrailSport-exclusive Ash Green Metallic, round out the exterior changes.

Stepping inside, the most welcome update is the fully digitized cockpit, which now standardizes a 10.2-inch instrument cluster paired with a larger 12.3-inch central touchscreen, replacing the outgoing, smaller 7- or 9-inch units. This new infotainment system runs an updated, cleaner interface that incorporates Google built-in functionality, 5G Wi-Fi connectivity, and wireless smartphone integration.

Across the six-trim lineup—Sport, EX-L, Touring, TrailSport, Elite, and Black Edition—every Pilot now includes this dual-screen setup and a power tailgate as standard equipment. Beyond the tech, Honda has worked on refining the package, adding semi-tempered door glass, extra insulation in the doors and hood, and other sound-dampening materials.

The automaker claims a reduction of 2–3 dB in critical frequency ranges, which should translate to a noticeably quieter, calmer cabin experience during highway travel.

Under the hood, the Pilot remains non-electrified for the time being, utilizing the familiar 3.5-liter V6 engine making 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, managed by a 10-speed automatic transmission. The i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system remains optional on the Sport and EX-L trims and standard on the Touring, TrailSport, Elite, and Black Edition.

Of particular interest to those who appreciate road feel is the retuned electric power steering system, which Honda claims will provide improved stability during straight-line cruising and deliver smoother, more natural feedback to the driver.

The off-road-oriented TrailSport trim maintains its unique hardware offering, including a raised suspension and all-terrain tires, but it now adds heated rear outboard seats and an optional brown leather interior with orange contrast stitching. The top shelf Elite receives ultra-suede accents with diamond stitching.

The 2026 Honda Pilot is scheduled to arrive at dealerships across the United States next month, with the full pricing structure to be revealed closer to market release.

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