The 2026 Honda Pilot returns as one of the most practical, tech-packed three-row family SUVs on the market — here's every spec, trim, and feature you need before you shop. If you're shopping a three-row SUV in 2026, the Honda Pilot deserves a serious look. It's the most family-friendly Honda ever built, with eight-passenger seating, a rugged TrailSport trim, standard V6 power, and the kind of reliability that made Honda famous. For 2026, the Pilot carries forward its 2023 redesign with refined trim packaging, upgraded infotainment, and sharper safety tech.

What Engine Does The 2026 Honda Pilot Have?

Every 2026 Pilot uses Honda's proven 3.5-liter V6 paired to a 10-speed automatic. No turbos, no hybrid compromises — just smooth, linear power.

• Engine: 3.5L naturally aspirated V6
• Horsepower: 285 hp
• Torque: 262 lb-ft
• Transmission: 10-speed automatic
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive standard, i-VTM4 AWD available
• Towing capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs (AWD models)

What Are The 2026 Honda Pilot Trims?

Honda offers the Pilot in six trims, each with a clear personality.

• Sport: Value leader, 8-passenger seating, 18-inch wheels
• EX-L: Leather, power tailgate, heated seats
• TrailSport: Off-road tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, steel skid plates
• Touring: Panoramic roof, hands-free tailgate, wireless charging
• Elite: Ventilated front seats, heated second-row, head-up display
• Black Edition: Blacked-out styling, premium interior touches

How Much Interior And Cargo Space Does The Pilot Have?

The 2026 Pilot is one of the roomiest three-row SUVs in its class, with class-leading cargo volume behind the third row and a removable second-row middle seat on most trims.

• Seating: 7 or 8 passengers
• Cargo (behind 3rd row): 22.4 cu ft
• Cargo (behind 2nd row): 48.5 cu ft
• Max cargo: 87 cu ft
• Third-row legroom: 32.5 inches (best-in-class feel)

Is The 2026 Honda Pilot Safe?

Honda Sensing is standard across the lineup, and the Pilot continues to earn top marks from the IIHS.

• Standard: Collision Mitigation Braking, Road Departure Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise, Lane Keep Assist
• Available: Blind-Spot Monitor, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Front/Rear Parking Sensors
• Expected rating: IIHS Top Safety Pick+

Is The Pilot TrailSport A Real Off-Roader?

Yes — and it's the most legit off-road Pilot Honda has ever built. The TrailSport comes with a lifted suspension, steel skid plates, all-terrain tires, and i-VTM4 torque vectoring AWD with a TrailWatch camera system.

The Verdict

The 2026 Honda Pilot isn't flashy, but it's the SUV that just works. It swallows car seats, dogs, hockey bags, and Costco runs without complaint, tows 5,000 pounds when needed, and returns Honda's legendary long-term reliability. For families comparing the Toyota Grand Highlander, Kia Telluride, and Chevy Traverse, the Pilot is the practical, no-drama pick.

If you are interested in learning more or thinking of buying your own, feel free to check out our Safford Honda of Glen Burnie Pilot inventory.