Honda’s three-row midsize Pilot has always been a family-friendly workhorse, but for 2026, it gets a bold new look and technological upgrades. It also leans further into the brand’s mission to “ruggedify” its lineup.
As part of that focus, the refreshed Pilot (particularly its TrailSport trim) offers competent off-road capability, enabling it to tackle the trails while still shining as a daily driver. In other words, if you have been searching for a three-row midsize SUV that can do it all, then taking a look at the latest Honda Pilot for sale would be a wise idea.
Stronger, Bolder Styling
The first thing you will notice about the latest version of the Honda Pilot is that its appearance is more aggressive than in previous models. This is thanks, in part, to its redesigned front fascia that features a larger, squarer grille and a blockier lower bumper with a two-tone inset. As a result, the SUV looks tougher and more athletic.
Additionally, LED headlights and optional black accents sharpen the design, while new wheel options (such as the 20-inch Shark Gray alloys that are available on higher trims) fill out the fenders just right. To go along with this, the TrailSport trim gets unique styling cues, including a gray-accented grille and orange contrast stitching on the interior to give it a decisively go-anywhere attitude.
Adventure-Ready Capability
Speaking of the TrailSport trim, it’s here where the latest Pilot’s off-road chops really come to life. The brand defines its TrailSport line as adventure-inspired, and every model with this trim receives enhanced all-terrain capabilities, including an off-road-tuned suspension, increased ground clearance, underbody protection, and all-terrain tires. In addition to the 2026 Pilot, the TrailSport trim is available on this year’s Passport, Ridgeline, and CR-V Hybrid models.
Regarding the 2026 Pilot TrailSport in particular, it adds a one-inch suspension lift for increased ground clearance, steel skid plates to protect the engine and fuel tank, and a Class III trailer hitch. It also gets a specialized seven-mode all-wheel drive system that includes Snow, Tow, Sport, Trail, and Sand drive modes, as well as a Trail mode and a Trail Watch forward-facing camera with a washer to keep your view clear when tackling muddier trails. Even the tires are tougher on the TrailSport, as it is equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels and all-terrain tires.
The interior of the TrailSport trim is ready for adventure as well, swapping the second-row bench seat for two heated captain’s chairs and styling it with water-resistant black synthetic leather upholstery with bold orange contrast stitching, along with heavy-duty all-weather floor mats to help catch dirt and mud. There are also small touches, such as the heated wiper zone (which is essential when facing snow and ice) and a one-touch panoramic moonroof.
Powerful V6 Performance
Under the hood, the 2026 Pilot offers its tried-and-tested 3.5L V6 engine, which produces up to 285 hp. That engine is paired with a ten-speed automatic, and while it comes standard as a front-wheel drive, you can opt for the all-wheel drive system mentioned earlier. Of course, that system comes standard on the TrailSport trim, furthering its position as the go-to choice when adventure is on your bucket list.
Taking a closer look at the i-VTM4 all-wheel drive system with Trail Torque Logic, it is worth noting that the system’s focus is on enhancing stability when faced with terrain that is muddy, wet, or icy. Essentially, it includes a pair of clutch packs (which are stacks of friction plates that transfer torque between wheels or axles) that can be engaged separately. As a result, torque can be sent to each rear wheel independently, ensuring support is applied where it is needed most.
Beyond the all-wheel drive system, the latest Honda Pilot delivers a smooth drive with plenty of low-end torque for passing and towing, and the ten-speed automatic offers seamless shifting and responsive handling as you travel from one location to the next. Plus, the upgraded suspension improves passenger comfort regardless of bumps in the road, while improved noise suppression makes it easier to engage in conversations or simply enjoy the latest episode of your podcast without needing to raise the volume when traveling in congested areas.
Finally, the 2026 Honda Pilot can easily tow the family camper or boat on the weekends, thanks to its 5,000-lb towing capacity when equipped with an all-wheel drivetrain. And if you opt for a front-wheel-drive Pilot instead, you can still enjoy a 3,500-lb towing capacity, which is more than enough for most drivers.
Tech & Comfort Upgrades
Not only is the 2026 Honda Pilot tougher, but it’s also smarter. This is thanks to the fact that each trim level offers a 12.3-inch touchscreen display and a 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster. Plus, you can seamlessly connect a compatible phone to the infotainment system to access Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, along with integrated Google apps. There’s also a 5G Wi-Fi hotspot available, which is key if you need to fire off a few last-minute emails before hitting the trails.
Safety and convenience have been beefed up as well, including a standard Post-Collision Braking System that helps bring the vehicle to a stop after an accident. This system is added to the already long list of driver assistance features onboard, such as systems that alert you before a potential crash and offer braking and steering support when needed, as well as systems that assist with transitioning from one lane to the next and help keep your vehicle centered in its lane. Additionally, a hands-free tailgate is now standard across all trim levels, making loading and unloading easier than ever.
There are also many creature comforts that make the ride more enjoyable, such as tri-zone automatic climate control, the CabinTalk in-car intercom, ambient lighting, and much more. Plus, you will find that the 2026 Pilot offers ample space for you and your passengers, as well as generous cargo space for hauling outdoor gear, groceries, or luggage. Even better? There is hidden storage under the cargo floor for muddy gear, valuables, or whatever else you might need to keep tucked away.
A New Era of Honda Ruggedness
The Honda Pilot’s 2026 refresh is part of the brand’s ongoing push to offer more rugged, adventure-ready versions of its SUVs and trucks. This focus is particularly evident when exploring the TrailSport trim, with its all-terrain tires, underbody protection, impressive towing capabilities, and the i-VTM4 all-wheel drive system, but it can also be seen in aesthetic elements, such as its boxier fascia.
Of course, it also helps that the Pilot is equipped with a potent V6 engine that delivers the power you need to tackle a wide range of tasks. It is worth noting, however, that despite the brand’s focus on ruggedization, the Pilot is still, at heart, a family-friendly SUV that offers a smooth, composed ride at highway speeds, plenty of space for passengers and cargo, and smart technology and safety features that boost engagement and confidence mile after mile.
Ultimately, it is a bold and capable SUV that can help you and your family reach your destination with ease, whether that means tackling higher elevations and rocky trails or simply dropping the kids off at school.
