The three-row SUV market is one of the most competitive out there for good reason. Countless drivers need these vehicles that seat up to eight and are flexible enough to adapt to any situation, whether that’s driving to work, going camping, or bringing the kids to football and cheerleading practice. The Honda Pilot competes in this field, providing proven performance, value, and reliability to drivers across the country.
As long-time Honda owners know, though, this automaker doesn’t rest on its achievements. The 2026 Honda Pilot was given a thorough redesign to help it stay one step ahead. With updates to the suspension, infotainment, cabin, body, and more, the Honda Pilot now delivers even more of what drivers want and need. Check out what’s new on the Pilot and how these additions work with a strong existing foundation to reinforce the Pilot’s status as a class leader.
A Better Driving Experience
When you’re potentially behind the wheel for hours at a time, sloppy driving manners are unacceptable. The Honda Pilot already had pleasing driving manners thanks to MacPherson front struts and a multi-link rear suspension. But the 2026 version is even more refined, making this SUV feel like a high-end commuter or road trip car.
Honda has kept the powertrain the same, meaning the same great pep from a 285-hp engine and 10-speed automatic transmission. However, the power steering system was refreshed, so it is smoother and more stable, requiring less driver input. The result is responsive feedback and precise yet natural movement, letting you sail along backroads or cruise down the highway with equal confidence. Meanwhile, improved sound damping significantly reduces ambient cabin noise, so you can better hear passengers or your favorite tunes.
Bigger Screens With More Standard Tech
One area where the Honda Pilot had admittedly fallen behind a bit is infotainment. A three-row SUV can support a lot in the tech department, and the 2026 Pilot capitalizes on this with substantial enhancements. Now, you’ll always be in control, and your passengers have access to everything they need, too.
Previous Honda Pilot editions had a seven-inch standard touchscreen and digital instrument cluster, with the option to upgrade the touchscreen to nine inches. The new layout blows this away with a universal 12.3-inch touchscreen and a 10.2-inch instrument display, giving drivers over 40% more space to scroll through onboard settings and view data. From there, Honda has made wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot standard, which were previously limited to select models. Standard Google built-in also debuts on the Pilot, granting owners onboard Google Maps navigation, personalized app downloads, and Google voice assistance.
Safety in the Honda Pilot already set a high bar, as it previously came with a dozen standard Honda Sensing driver assistance systems plus other active and passive aids. For 2026, the bar is now higher, as the Honda Pilot receives standard post-collision braking. This system continues emergency braking after an impact, reducing crash severity and damage. The Pilot Touring trim level also now has a 360-degree surround camera system for parking and low-speed driving.
Bold New Style and Functionality
It’s human nature to dream of bigger things, and the 2026 Honda Pilot brings this attitude to the forefront. The TrailSport is one of the most ruggedly capable Honda Pilot models, and Honda has adopted this rugged aesthetic to the entire lineup. The revamped front grille and scuff plates are now larger for an outgoing, confident appearance with unique styles for each trim. Several Pilot trim levels have new wheel designs that further emphasize this aspirational, adventurous spirit.
Furthermore, just like it boosted the tech loadout, Honda has added many more standard convenience features and exterior amenities to the 2026 Pilot. Check out some of the features you’ll find:
- All Honda Pilot models now come with a power liftgate for easy loading and unloading, and they also have standard roof rails to mount equipment, cargo containers, or luggage racks.
- Solar Silver Metallic, Smoke Blue Pearl, and Ash Green Metallic (TrailSport only) are gorgeous new color options to stand apart from other SUVs.
- The Pilot TrailSport now comes with heated rear outboard seats, and you can switch to a more luxurious adventure with brown leather upholstery with orange stitching.
- Multiple trim levels, such as Pilot Touring and Elite, now have more premium seat trim and interior accent materials to keep you comfy on endless journeys.
Building on a Phenomenal Three-Row SUV
So far, we’ve talked about all the exciting new stuff on the 2026 Honda Pilot. Plenty of components and features didn’t change, though, for a simple reason: they didn’t need to. Just like people who live and work in Central Alabama, Honda knows when to move forward and when to leave a good thing alone.
As such, the 2026 Pilot retains all the aspects that make it a versatile and reliable SUV. These include a 5,000-pound towing capacity for campers and trailers, plenty of legroom for passengers in all three rows, a torque-vectoring AWD system with up to seven selectable drive modes, and 87 cu.ft. of cargo space for your luggage. Enjoy standard premium amenities like heated front seats, all-LED exterior lighting, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and tri-zone automatic climate control. Or grab the Pilot TrailSport if you want off-roading equipment like a re-tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, and protective skid plates.
Techies can experience the latest infotainment and connectivity, including SiriusXM, HD Radio, wireless charging, and up to six USB ports. Meanwhile, audiophiles have a choice of two high-performance sound systems. There is even an in-car PA system on all trims, which makes it easy to communicate with passengers.
With six trim levels, you can easily find a Pilot that has the features you want and need while staying within your budget. Each comes with a strong warranty, roadside assistance, and some complimentary maintenance. The Honda Pilot is known to last 200,000 miles or more, so expect this machine to carry you through many years of errands, family vacations, and everything in between.
The 2026 Honda Pilot Is the Right Three-Row SUV for You
There was already a lot to love and appreciate about the Honda Pilot, which is why it is a fantastic choice from the three-row SUV segment. The new 2026 Honda Pilot is even better with its improved driving manners, appearance, technology, and creature comforts, making it the clear pick. Not only that, but the 2026 Pilot is assembled right here in Alabama, less than an hour from our dealership. You’ll get a proven three-row SUV and support your fellow Yellowhammer Staters in the process.
Test drive the 2026 Honda Pilot at Edwards Honda of Birmingham and see why it’s the ideal vehicle for now and the long haul. As a family-owned dealership, we are dedicated to helping you find a high-quality, affordable vehicle that fits your life needs while providing the highest level of service. From deciding on the perfect Honda Pilot model to having it cared for by certified Honda technicians, we are here for you every step of the way. Visit us in person for assistance or use our website to view the latest Honda Pilot inventory, look at current vehicle specials and discounts, pre-apply for financing, and more.
