Expect a larger Pilot with rugged features that are similar to the Ridgeline.
The next Honda Pilot has yet to be seen. Last time we saw a prototype that was still covered in black. Our spy team spotted a prototype cruising down the highway in a camo wrap. This gave us our best glimpse at the next-generation model.
The main takeaway from Honda is that it will give its SUV a little more aggression. Although the camo wrap hides many details it is easy to see the mesh grille. This bold design is very similar to Honda’s current Ridgeline pickup trucks, but it’s not the only change. The entire Pilot’s front clip is longer than the current model, and adopts a more robust style. The Pilot’s headlights are shorter and higher, mounted high up with small driving lamps and corner vents that face down.
The new Pilot SUV will look very similar from the side. Camo wrap is effective at hiding details. However, a closer look shows that the new Pilot will have a rising beltline and slight up-kink in the rear glass. Although the wheelbase appears longer, rumors suggest that the next-gen Pilot will be riding on the global light truck platform of the automaker. This is the same platform as the Acura MDX. The rear is camouflaged, but we expect to see symmetrical styling cues and slim taillights.
We have yet to hear or see anything about the interior of the Pilot. We expect Honda to keep offering the 3.5-liter V6 engine, although there are no plans for a new powertrain. The current model has 280 horsepower and a 9-speed auto transmission. The possibility exists that the gearbox could be upgraded to a 10-speed automatic transmission, and a plug in hybrid version borrowing from the accord two-motor system is possible.
Although we haven’t seen any prototypes publicly, we expect to see one in the public eye later this year. This would make the Honda Pilot 2023 model.