If one believes Honda, the Pilot is its most rugged SUV, ever since it first debuted in 2002. With the new 2023 Pilot teasers making consumers sit up and notice, it’s time to take a look at the history of this SUV, to understand what the new version brings to the table. A mid-size crossover SUV, the Pilot is also the largest SUV by Honda, sharing its platform with the Acura MDX. With a monocoque construct riding on an independent suspension, the Pilot superseded the CR-V and the Passport (a rebadged Isuzu Rodeo), finally letting the Japanese company play in the big leagues of SUVs.
It seems, after three generations of decent sales, Honda is all set to introduce the Pilot in its wildest avatar yet, given it now comes with serious off-road chops in the form of the TrailSport edition.
For now, Honda is keeping most details under wraps, as it throws out scraps of information now and then teasing the audience with some details. Given that Honda sold more than 143,000 Pilot SUVs in 2021, it seems the future is bright for the Pilot. Especially in its brand-new avatar. Here’s what we know about the 2023 Honda Pilot till now…
Honda Is Keeping The New Pilot Under Wraps
2023 might just see the Honda Pilot in its fourth and best generation yet as Honda confirms it will come riding on a powerful new V6 and an even more rigid frame for better handling. The TrailSport edition will also boast all-terrain tires, skid plates, and an off-road-tuned suspension system, giving Honda’s largest SUV some serious off-roading abilities.
More details about the crossover are still hazy as of now, but the teaser pictures of the camouflaged 2023 Honda Pilot TrailSport variant hint at a way more rugged avatar, in more than just looks.
Engine and power specs are under wraps for now, although Honda did confirm a new V6 engine. The current model for comparison’s sake comes powered by a 280-horsepower V6, so aiming for more than 300 is not a far-fetched dream. To keep up with the competition of the likes of the Ford Bronco and the Jeep Grand Cherokee, we expect to see a turbocharger in there as well, even if the Pilot remains a traditional front-wheel-drive.
That said; much like every automaker out there, Honda too has hinted how it wants to switch to electric, and we may see hybrid versions of the Pilot as well, given that it’s ultimately an SUV and needs its gas chops to go the miles.
Honda Pilot Is Likely To Be A Reasonable Buy
2023 will see a redesigned Honda Pilot with updated everything, to also better match the rest of the model in Honda’s current line-up, including the smaller CR-V, and the Civic compact sedan and hatchback. The actual debut is likely to happen in the fall of 2022, and go on sale in early 2023.
Although the Honda Pilot is likely to have an update on almost everything, prices are likely to be around what the current models cost. The outgoing model starts at about $40,000 with higher-end trims topping $50,000.
We’d expect the familiar EX, EX-L, and Touring trims to repeat on the new Honda Pilot as well, and given the dimensions match the outgoing model, three-row seating is likely to be the norm. Of course, with everything new, we expect a spanking new interior with even better and more upscale materials, a new and higher-tech infotainment system, and digital gauge clusters.
The Honda Pilot TrailSport Look Fairly Capable & Buff
Initially, Honda teased fans with a camouflaged version of the TrailSport from afar, as the car posed in the mountains, seemingly announcing its intention to take on the bad roads. Newer photos now reveal a few more details, showing off a larger grille, squared headlights, and a new bright blue cobalt color that makes the Pilot look rather dashing.
The TrailSport debuted on the outgoing Honda Pilot, and also featured on the smaller Honda Passport. It’s likely to have major and minor suspension tweaks, and Honda confirms it will wear all-terrain tires and skid plates. A more sophisticated all-wheel drive system will also help the Honda Pilot TrailSport ride with more confidence on the roads less traveled.
Early reviews suggest the Pilot TrailSport makes for a capable driver on somewhat tougher terrain, but Honda admits, it’s not a rock crawler or an off-road specialist. It’s simply an SUV that can drive smoothly on less-than-ideal roads, making it the perfect family SUV. With additional safety and driver assist features like hill descent control, the 2023 Honda Pilot makes for a fairly good choice, given the price, the looks, and the yet-to-be-announced features. It was always a popular SUV, more so since Honda introduced the TrailSport. So, the 2023 Honda Pilot is likely to be its best version of itself, yet.
Source: Honda