Honda has unveiled the facelifted 2026 Pilot, a mid-cycle update to its three-row SUV sold primarily in North America. The refreshed model brings a stronger design, more premium cabin features, upgraded technology and enhancements to overall refinement and driving feel. Prices will be announced closer to launch.
What’s New in the 2026 Honda Pilot
The 2026 Pilot continues with six trims — Sport, EX-L, Touring, TrailSport, Elite and Black Edition — each receiving visual and functional improvements. The SUV now wears a redesigned front fascia with a larger grille and updated scuff plates in silver or black depending on variant. New 20-inch alloy wheels are offered on upper trims: Shark Gray machined alloys for the Elite and Berlina Black for the Black Edition.
The TrailSport variant gains exclusive off-road styling details. Honda has also added three new exterior colours: Solar Silver Metallic, Smoke Blue Pearl and Ash Green Metallic (TrailSport only). Standard features have improved as well, now including a power tailgate, roof rails and the Post-Collision Braking system.
Upgraded Cabin and Features
Inside, the 2026 Pilot gets a significantly more premium environment with improved materials, lower cabin noise and a major technology update. A new 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster—43 percent larger than before—and a new 12.3-inch ultra-wide touchscreen replace the previous units. Updated software ensures smoother operation and quicker input response.
Standard features now include Google built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and 5G Wi-Fi hotspot support. A 360-degree camera is now available from the Touring trim upward.
Noise insulation has been improved through new door insulators, hood insulation, semi-tempered door glass and additional sound-absorbing materials. Touring and Elite variants also receive enclosed fender liners for better road noise suppression.
Improved Driving Experience
Honda has retuned the electric power steering for more precise feedback and a more natural feel across all drive modes. On-centre steering weight has been increased to make highway driving more stable and relaxed.
Under the hood, the 2026 Pilot retains its 3.5-litre DOHC V6 engine developing 285hp and 262lb-ft (355Nm) of torque. The engine is paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission. Honda’s i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system is standard on TrailSport, Touring, Elite and Black Edition trims.
Drive modes include Normal, Econ, Snow, Sport and Tow, with Sand and Trail modes available on select versions.
Pricing and Rivals
The outgoing Honda Pilot starts at USD 41,695 (approx. Rs 36.9 lakh). While prices for the updated model are pending, Honda is unlikely to make significant changes due to strong competition from the Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade and Toyota Grand Highlander.