Honda has announced a string of updates to its popular three-row crossover, the Pilot, for the 2026 model year. The changes are comprehensive and involve everything from styling updates to more standard features, an updated infotainment system, and even enhanced steering feel.
This segment has become a lot more competitive recently, with Hyundai launching a new Palisade and Kia having unveiled a new, much more aggressive Telluride. Honda, likely sensing the pressure from these tough rivals, has decided the Pilot was in need of a thorough update, so here’s a closer look at the changes.
Related: 2025 Honda Pilot Vs. 2026 Acura MDX: 5 Key Differences
A Bolder Look and Improved Interior
2026 Honda Pilot Elite
The Pilot has never been the most excitingly styled vehicle in its class, so Honda has taken steps to address this. The 2026 model gains a larger grille and more noticeable front/rear scuff plates. Different trims get unique grille treatments, with glossy black on more premium models but a gray finish for the rugged TrailSport.Â
All trims get standard roof rails, while the TrailSport has orange trim for its PILOT logo at the back. On Touring, Elite, and Black Edition trims, there are new 20-inch wheels. Three new colors have also been added to the range: Solar Silver Metallic, Smoke Blue Pearl, and the TrailSport-exclusive Ash Green Metallic.
2026 Honda Pilot
Inside, Honda has managed to reduce noise levels thanks to semi-tempered door glass, door insulators, and a new hood insulator. Enclosed fender liners on the Touring and Elite trims further reduce road noise.Â
The materials have also taken a step up in quality. For the Touring, there are high-contrast seat accents and door panel stitching, along with new brown leather. Elite and Black Edition variants have diamond quilted Ultra Suede seat accents, and the TrailSport can also be had with a new brown leather interior. Honda isn’t known for offering much customization in its cars’ interiors, so the new materials and colors are welcome.
Related: Honda Just Dropped 2025 Pilot’s November Lease Deals Families Can’t Ignore
New Standard Features, Enhanced Steering… But Still no Hybrid
2026 Honda Pilot
All trim levels get new standard features. These items are now standard on the base Pilot:
- 12.3-inch touchscreen (37% larger than before)
- 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster (43% larger)
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- 5G Wi-Fi capability
- Power tailgate
- Post-collision braking
On the TrailSport, heated rear outboard seats are now standard, while the Touring gets a 360-degree surround-view camera.Â
The electric power steering system has been retuned to improve precision and steering feel, not something that’s typically given much attention in this segment. Honda also promises increased on-center weight that makes for more stable cruising, with fewer inputs required from the driver.
2026 Honda Pilot
What hasn’t changed is the engine, which remains a 3.5-liter V6 with 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. What’s missing is a hybrid option—many rivals now offer an efficient hybrid powertrain. All-wheel drive is available on all trims that don’t have it as standard, but the 10-speed automatic is common to all models. As before, the TrailSport offers slightly more ground clearance for mild off-roading jaunts.
“Even with a segment-leading vehicle like the Honda Pilot, our engineers never stop improving,” said Jessika Laudermilk, assistant vice president of Honda National Auto Sales. “From bold new styling and advanced technology to a more refined driving experience, the 2026 Pilot delivers meaningful upgrades inside and out—continuing to set the benchmark in the midsize three-row SUV category.”
Why It Matters
As mentioned, the Pilot finds itself in a segment brimming with talent. Besides the new Korean rivals we mentioned, the Mazda CX-90 and Toyota Grand Highlander are other excellent options. Unlike the Honda, these rivals are all available with hybrid power, leaving the Pilot in a rather vulnerable position. Honda is working on a next-generation V6 hybrid, but that’s not expected to get here before 2027.
Still, the extent of the changes made to the 2026 Pilot should keep it in contention when it starts arriving at dealerships next month. We’ll be keeping a close eye on pricing when it arrives, as the 2025 Pilot’s base price of $40,200 is already higher than many rivals.
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