Honda launches a mid-cycle update for its flagship three-row SUV, which is available in international versions with seven and eight seats. The Honda Pilot 2026 Revealed
Honda Pilot 2026 Revealed: The Japanese carmaker’s direct competitor to the Hyundai Palisade, headed for India, the Honda Pilot, has undergone a makeover. The improved variant will be available for purchase in the United States as a MY2026 car in December.
Key Details of Honda Pilot 2026 Revealed
| Feature | 2026 Honda Pilot Highlights |
| Launch Timeline | December 2025 (USA) |
| Seating Layout | 7- or 8-seater (international models) |
| Exterior Updates | Boxier grille, upright bumper, new skid plates, Shark Gray & Berlina Black 20-inch alloys |
| Interior Upgrade | New 12.3-inch HD infotainment replacing 9-inch unit |
| Tech Features | Google built-in, 5G Wi-Fi hotspot |
| Engine | 3.5L NA V6 – 285 hp / 355 Nm |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD standard; AWD optional |
| NVH Enhancements | New hood liner, door insulation, semi-tempered glass |
| Estimated Price | $40,500–$55,000 (excl. fees) |
| India Launch? | Highly unlikely (LHD-only) |
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Overall, purists will enjoy the Honda Pilot’s traditional appearance. Similarly, there are even fewer design modifications in the interior. Honda has installed a new 12.3-inch HD infotainment system in place of the Pilot’s previous 9-inch HD touchscreen.
The design that Honda unveiled for its fourth generation in November 2022 is essentially carried over into the 2026 Pilot. The redesigned model has a tougher appearance thanks to boxier front grilles, a more upright front bumper, more noticeable skid plates and new 20-inch alloy wheels that come in Shark Grey and Berlina Black finishes.
The Honda Pilot is now quieter thanks to a new hood insulator, door insulators, semi-tempered door glass and other sound-absorbing technologies, which enhance comfort and provide a more elegant driving experience. A standard 3.5-litre naturally aspirated V6 engine with 285 horsepower and 355 Nm of torque continues to provide power.
A 10-speed automatic transmission that shifts power to the front wheels in the base setup is also standard. For improved traction on mud, snow and other difficult terrain, a mechanical all-wheel drive system will be an option.
There is little chance of an Indian launch because Honda exclusively produces the Pilot with left-hand drive. The company has announced intentions to introduce its forthcoming flagship electric SUV, the 0 SUV, later this decade, even if it would not be delivering the three-row ICE SUV to India.
Along with a bigger screen, the new infotainment system has Google built in, which makes it easier to access necessary services like Google Voice and Maps through native apps without pairing a smartphone. Additionally, it provides a 5G Wi-Fi hotspot feature, which allows residents to access the internet more quickly while on the go, unlike the previous unit.
The base version of the 2026 Honda Pilot is expected to cost approximately $40,500 (around 36 lakh rupees), while the top configuration is likely to cost around $55,000 (roughly 49 lakh rupees). Tax, license and registration fees and destination and handling expenses of about $1,500 (about 1.3 lakh rupees) would be additional.
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There is little chance of an Indian launch because Honda exclusively produces the Pilot with left-hand drive. The company has announced intentions to introduce its forthcoming flagship electric SUV, the 0 SUV, later this decade, even if it would not be delivering the three-row ICE SUV to India.
