2026 Honda Pilot Shopping Guide
2026 Honda Pilot shopping guide
Let’s find your Pilot.
Three rows for your people. Room for the weekend. And a few choices worth getting to know before you buy.
Compare the trims, try the seating layouts and find the features that fit your family at Ide Honda.
Start with your people.
Need eight seats, or prefer captain’s chairs? Try the second row and the path to the third before choosing a trim.
Choose what you will use.
Trail equipment, camera views, a heated steering wheel. The right trim starts with your priorities.
Bring your everyday stuff.
A stroller. Sports bags. The child seats. Seeing how they fit can answer more than a list of measurements.
A closer look
See the Pilot in action.
Take a look around with Honda’s Pilot design video, then compare the features below and come try them for yourself.
Official Honda video featured on Honda’s 2026 Pilot page. Equipment and accessories shown vary. Watch on YouTube
Start with the differences
Six trims. Your family’s priorities.
The engine and three-row layout are shared. The seating arrangement, off-road equipment and extra comforts are where the choices get interesting.
All starting MSRPs shown are for AWD models.
Sport AWD
$44,495Starting MSRP1 · AWD
Start with the essentials.
- Eight seats; fixed second-row center seat
- Heated front seats and remote start
- 12.3-inch touchscreen; Google built-in
- Power tailgate; 20-inch wheels
Worth a look when you want three rows and the standard technology.
EX-L AWD
$46,795Starting MSRP1 · AWD
Make the everyday details easier.
- Stowable second-row center seat
- Leather-trimmed seating; driver memory
- Wireless charging and CabinTalk
- Parking sensors; 18-inch wheels
A useful place to start if flexible seating and daily convenience lead your list.
TrailSport
$50,595Starting MSRP1 · AWD
Add the trail hardware.
- Seven seats; heated captain’s chairs
- All-terrain tires; off-road suspension
- Skid plates; integrated Class III hitch
- TrailWatch; heated steering wheel
Start here if you will use the off-road equipment and prefer a seven-seat layout.
Touring
$51,295Starting MSRP1 · AWD
Bring more along for the drive.
- Eight seats; stowable center seat
- Panoramic moonroof; multi-view cameras
- 12-speaker Bose audio
- Hands-free tailgate; Walk Away Close
Compare with EX-L if a moonroof, camera views and upgraded audio matter to you.
Elite
$53,695Starting MSRP1 · AWD
Add comfort for more seasons.
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Heated steering wheel and rear outboard seats
- Head-up display; rain-sensing wipers
- Perforated leather-trimmed seating
Take a closer look if the comforts you use from the driver’s seat are a priority.
Black Edition
$55,195Starting MSRP1 · AWD
Elite features. A different look.
- Elite’s comfort and technology features
- 20-inch gloss-black alloy wheels
- Black exterior accents
- Red stitching; Black Edition seat logos
Choose this when you want Elite equipment with Black Edition styling.
What about Touring Blackout?
Touring Blackout starts at $52,495 MSRP1. It adds 20-inch black wheels, black lug nuts and gloss-black emblems to Touring. It keeps Touring’s equipment level; Elite and Black Edition add the extra comfort features listed above.
All MSRPs exclude tax, license, registration, $1,595 destination charge, options and accessories. Dealer prices may vary. Premium colors cost extra. See pricing notes.
Compare to find your perfect Pilot.
Choose any two trims. All selections below use AWD pricing and ratings. Every trim includes the V6, 10-speed automatic, 12.3-inch touchscreen and Honda Sensing®.
| What changes | EX-L AWD | Touring |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP¹ (AWD) | $46,795 | $51,295 |
| Seating capacity | 8 | 8 |
| Second-row layout | Stowable center seat | Stowable center seat |
| Seating material | Leather-trimmed with fabric accents | Leather-trimmed |
| Wheels and tires | 18-inch alloys; all-season tires | 20-inch alloys; all-season tires |
| Front seats | Heated; driver memory | Heated; driver memory |
| Heated steering wheel | Not standard | Not standard |
| Heated second row | Not standard | Not standard |
| Panoramic moonroof | Not standard | Standard |
| Camera views | Rearview camera; front/rear parking sensors | Multi-view with TrailWatch; parking sensors |
| Audio | 9 speakers | Bose: 12 speakers |
| Tailgate | Power | Hands-free access; Walk Away Close |
| Wireless phone charger / CabinTalk | Standard | Standard |
| Head-up display | Not standard | Not standard |
| Off-road hardware | Standard suspension; 7.3-inch clearance | Standard suspension; 7.3-inch clearance |
| EPA city / highway / combined MPG² | 19 / 25 / 21 | 19 / 25 / 21 |
Comparing EX-L AWD and Touring.
Interactive selection requires JavaScript. The table shows EX-L AWD and Touring; all trim highlights are listed above. View Honda’s full comparison.
Make the space work for you
An extra seat when you need it.
EX-L, Touring, Elite and Black Edition have an eight-seat layout with a removable second-row center seat. Store that center seat in the cargo-area compartment when you want a walk-through space between the outboard seats.
Sport also seats eight, with a fixed center seat. TrailSport seats seven, with two heated captain’s chairs. Touring Blackout shares Touring’s seating setup.
Bring your child seats when you visit. We can show you the adjustments and help you explore the layout you will use.
Keep the third row. Bring the bags.
Room for the rest of your day.
Honda lists 18.6 cubic feet of standard cargo space behind the third row. Fold the 60/40-split third row when you need more room, or fold both rear rows for larger loads.
Standard cargo volume behind the second row is 48.5 cubic feet. Behind the front seats it is 87.0 cubic feet on most trims, or 86.5 on Elite and Black Edition. Honda’s larger maximum figures use additional space and different configurations.
Every Pilot includes a power tailgate. Touring, Touring Blackout, Elite and Black Edition add hands-free access and Walk Away Close.
Cargo capacity varies by trim and seat position. Secure all cargo and follow the vehicle’s loading limits.
For life around Rochester
Winter is part of the plan.
School mornings, the drive to work, a weekend in the Finger Lakes. Heated front seats, remote engine start and Snow mode are included on every Pilot.
AWD is available on Sport and EX-L and standard on the other trims shown here. TrailSport, Elite and Black Edition add a heated steering wheel, a heated wiper zone and heated second-row seating.
Elite and Black Edition also bring ventilated front seats for the warmer months. Touring’s moonroof and Bose audio do not include those Elite comfort upgrades.
AWD and Snow mode do not replace appropriate tires or careful driving. Explore winter tire options or ask us about a setup for your driving.
Useful technology, already included
Your phone. Your music. Your way there.
Every 2026 Pilot gets the 12.3-inch touchscreen, Google built-in, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
EX-L and higher equipment levels add a wireless phone charger and CabinTalk, which sends your voice through the rear speakers. Touring and higher add a 12-speaker Bose audio system.
Bring your phone and a favorite playlist. We can walk you through the connections and let you hear the difference.
Compatible devices are required. Google built-in includes three years of data for in-vehicle apps; activation and service requirements apply. Hotspot and other connected services may require separate plans or subscriptions.
When your plans leave the pavement
What makes a TrailSport?
TrailSport pairs all-terrain tires with off-road suspension tuning, underbody skid plates and Trail Torque Logic. Its 8.3 inches of ground clearance is an inch more than the other trims.
It also includes an integrated Class III hitch, a panoramic moonroof, TrailWatch camera views and heated second-row captain’s chairs. The tradeoff to remember: seven seats, rather than eight.
Planning to tow? Properly equipped AWD Pilots are rated for up to 5,000 pounds; FWD models are rated for up to 3,500 pounds.3 We can help you check the equipment and limits for your trailer.
Towing requires appropriate equipment. Honda recommends premium unleaded when towing more than 3,500 pounds. Review the owner’s manual and loaded vehicle/trailer limits.
Support for the driver
Know what’s included—and what it does.
Honda Sensing is standard on every Pilot. It includes Collision Mitigation Braking, Road Departure Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, Lane Keeping Assist with Traffic Jam Assist, and Traffic Sign Recognition. Blind spot information and Cross Traffic Monitor are included, too.
EX-L and aboveFront and rear parking sensors and low-speed braking control.
TrailSport, Touring and aboveMulti-view cameras with TrailWatch for a closer look around the vehicle during low-speed maneuvering.
Driver-assistive systems have operating limits and do not replace attentive driving or checking your surroundings. Follow the owner’s manual; cameras cannot show every obstacle.
A few more answers before you decide
2026 Honda Pilot buying questions, answered.
From TrailSport versus Touring to the center seat, towing and everyday comfort. Choose a topic, then open a question for a closer look.
Choose your Pilot5 questions
What are the 2026 Pilot trim levels?
The six main trims are Sport, EX-L, TrailSport, Touring, Elite and Black Edition. Honda also offers Touring Blackout, a Touring with a factory-installed appearance package. Our trim comparison includes all seven choices, with AWD prices shown together.
What does EX-L add over Sport?
EX-L adds leather-trimmed seating, driver memory, a stowable second-row center seat, a wireless phone charger and CabinTalk. Front/rear parking sensors and heated mirrors are included, too. It also changes from Sport’s 20-inch wheels to 18-inch wheels. Compare the equipment you would use every day.
Should I compare TrailSport or Touring?
Start with your seating needs and driving plans. TrailSport seats seven and focuses on off-road capability. Touring seats eight and adds Bose audio and a hands-free tailgate. Both have a panoramic moonroof and a multi-view camera system. Touring is not a TrailSport with more equipment.
What does Elite add over Touring?
Elite adds ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, heated outboard second-row seats, a head-up display and rain-sensing wipers. Its perforated leather-trimmed seating includes quilted Ultrasuede® accents. Take a seat in each if the extra comfort features are a big part of your decision.
Is Touring Blackout the same as Black Edition?
They are different equipment levels. Touring Blackout adds black wheels, lug nuts and emblems to Touring. Black Edition builds on Elite, adding its own exterior details, gloss-black wheels, red stitching and seat logos. Choose the comfort features you want before choosing the appearance.
Seats, space and cargo5 questions
Does every Pilot seat eight?
TrailSport seats seven, with two second-row captain’s chairs and a three-seat third row. Sport, EX-L, Touring, Touring Blackout, Elite and Black Edition seat eight with all seats in place. If an eighth seating position matters, start with one of those trims.
Which trims have the stowable second-row center seat?
EX-L, Touring, Touring Blackout, Elite and Black Edition include a removable center seat that can be stored in the cargo-area compartment. Sport’s center seat is fixed. TrailSport has captain’s chairs. Ask us to demonstrate the center-seat storage and the path to the third row.
How much cargo space is there behind the third row?
Honda lists 18.6 cubic feet of standard cargo volume behind the third row. Its maximum measurements reach 21.8 or 22.4 cubic feet, depending on trim and configuration. Those are different measurements; bring your stroller or usual bags to check the space you will actually use.
Do the rear seats fold for larger loads?
Yes. The third row folds in a 60/40 split, and folding the second row opens up more cargo room. Honda’s standard capacity behind the front row is 87.0 cubic feet on Sport, EX-L, TrailSport and Touring, or 86.5 on Elite and Black Edition. Maximum figures use additional space and different seat positions.
Can I check my child seats and third-row access?
Please bring the child seats you use. Honda lists lower anchors in the second-row seating positions and one third-row position, with tether anchors in all rear seating positions. Actual fit depends on the child seat and arrangement. Follow both manufacturers’ instructions and try access with your usual setup.
Power, fuel and Rochester weather5 questions
What engine does the Pilot use? Is there a hybrid?
Every published U.S. 2026 Pilot uses a 285-horsepower, 3.5-liter gasoline V6 and a 10-speed automatic transmission. Honda does not list a hybrid Pilot in the 2026 lineup. Moving up a trim changes the equipment and, on TrailSport, the off-road setup; it does not add engine power.
Is all-wheel drive standard?
AWD is available on Sport and EX-L and standard on TrailSport, Touring, Touring Blackout, Elite and Black Edition. The i-VTM4 system can vary power delivery between the front and rear axles and between the rear wheels. Check the drivetrain on the particular vehicle you are considering.
What are the EPA fuel-economy ratings?
Sport and EX-L with front-wheel drive are rated at 19 city / 27 highway / 22 combined mpg. Most AWD models are rated at 19 / 25 / 21. TrailSport is rated at 18 / 23 / 20. These are 2026 EPA estimates for comparison; actual mileage varies.
Does the Pilot need premium fuel?
Regular unleaded is Honda’s recommended fuel for everyday driving. Honda recommends premium unleaded when towing more than 3,500 pounds. Review the owner’s manual and the loaded trailer weight with us when planning a towing setup.
Which features are useful for Rochester winters?
Heated front seats, remote engine start and Snow mode are included across the lineup. TrailSport, Elite and Black Edition add a heated steering wheel and heated second-row seating. AWD can help with traction, while appropriate tires and careful driving remain essential for winter conditions.
TrailSport and towing5 questions
What makes TrailSport different off pavement?
TrailSport adds all-terrain tires, off-road suspension tuning, skid plates, Trail Torque Logic and an integrated Class III hitch. Ground clearance is 8.3 inches, an inch more than other trims. Its TrailWatch camera views help you inspect nearby terrain; capability still depends on conditions and how the vehicle is used.
Is TrailWatch exclusive to TrailSport?
No. The 2026 multi-view camera system with TrailWatch is included on TrailSport, Touring, Touring Blackout, Elite and Black Edition. It offers front, side, rear and ground views for low-speed maneuvering. Cameras supplement checking your surroundings and cannot show every obstacle.
How much can a Pilot tow?
Honda lists up to 5,000 pounds for AWD models and up to 3,500 pounds for front-wheel-drive models when properly equipped. Required towing equipment and loading limits still apply. Tell us about the trailer, passengers and cargo so we can review the appropriate setup.
Does every trim come ready to tow?
TrailSport includes an integrated Class III hitch. Other trims require accessory towing equipment. A hitch alone does not confirm that every connection or accessory needed for your trailer is present. Ask us to verify the hitch, wiring, required equipment and applicable limits on the specific vehicle.
Do I need TrailSport for Snow mode or a moonroof?
Snow mode is standard on every trim. A panoramic moonroof is included on TrailSport, Touring, Touring Blackout, Elite and Black Edition. Choose TrailSport because its seven-seat layout and off-road equipment suit your needs; several useful comfort and weather features are available elsewhere in the lineup.
Comfort and technology5 questions
Does every trim get the larger screen and wireless phone connections?
Yes. Every 2026 Pilot has a 12.3-inch center touchscreen, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Bring your compatible phone and we can demonstrate pairing, navigation and audio controls.
What is Google built-in, and are there subscription requirements?
Google built-in brings Google Maps and compatible Google Play apps into the vehicle’s system. Honda lists three years of unlimited data for in-vehicle apps with the 2026 Pilot. Account, activation and service requirements apply; hotspot and other connected services can have separate plans or charges.
Which trims include wireless charging and CabinTalk?
EX-L, TrailSport, Touring, Touring Blackout, Elite and Black Edition include both. Sport has wireless phone integration, but not a standard wireless charger or CabinTalk. CabinTalk sends your voice through the rear speakers, making conversation with the back rows easier. Charging requires a compatible device.
Which trims have heated rear seats and ventilated front seats?
TrailSport has heated second-row captain’s chairs. Elite and Black Edition have heated outboard second-row seats and ventilated front seats. Heated front seats are included on every trim. Touring and Touring Blackout do not include Elite’s ventilated front seats or heated steering wheel as standard equipment.
Where do Bose audio and a hands-free tailgate start?
Touring, Touring Blackout, Elite and Black Edition include the 12-speaker Bose system and a hands-free power tailgate with Walk Away Close. Sport, EX-L and TrailSport have a nine-speaker system and a power tailgate. Try the audio and tailgate controls as part of your visit.
Shopping with Ide Honda5 questions
Are the prices shown the final selling prices?
The figures are Honda starting MSRPs for AWD models, not individual vehicle quotes. They exclude the $1,595 destination charge, taxes, licensing, registration, options and accessories. Dealer prices may vary. Ask us for an itemized quote on the particular Pilot, including its equipment and any premium-color charge.
Can you check availability for a particular trim or color?
Yes. Send us a listing or stock number, or tell us which seating layout, trim and colors you prefer. We can check current availability and discuss incoming vehicles. An online listing can include an incoming vehicle, so contact us before making a special trip.
Can you help me compare buying and leasing?
Tell us about your usual mileage, how long you keep a vehicle and what matters to your budget. We can walk through available purchase and lease options, including payment terms, mileage allowances and amounts due. Programs and approval depend on the vehicle and credit requirements.
Can I trade in my current vehicle?
Yes. Start with our trade-value tool or contact us with the vehicle details. Final value depends on its condition and appraisal. Let us know if there is a loan payoff so we can explain how it fits into the transaction.
Can I try the seats and compare two trims before deciding?
That is a useful way to narrow the choice. Bring your stroller, bags or child seats, and tell us which features you want to try. Contact us below to arrange a visit and confirm availability. We will help you compare at your pace.
Answers reflect Honda’s published U.S. 2026 specifications. Confirm equipment on the individual vehicle. EPA estimates are for comparison; actual mileage varies. Sources: Honda specifications · Seating details · Towing guidance.
Let’s make it easy
Let’s find your family’s fit.
Tell us what you are looking for—or what you are still trying to figure out. We will help you compare trims, check availability and find a Pilot that makes sense for you.
We’d love to earn your business.
Prefer to talk? Call 585-586-2820
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Ide Honda · 875 Panorama Trail S · Rochester, NY 14625. Inventory may include incoming vehicles; contact us to confirm availability.
1 Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices shown are for AWD models and exclude tax, license, registration, $1,595 destination charge, options and accessories. Dealer prices may vary. Prices reflect Honda’s September 9, 2026 update; Touring Blackout is listed in Honda’s current trim comparison. Premium colors add $455 where applicable. Ask for the selling price and equipment of the individual vehicle.
2 Based on 2026 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary with driving, maintenance, conditions and other factors. FWD Sport/EX-L: 19 city / 27 highway / 22 combined MPG. AWD except TrailSport: 19 / 25 / 21. TrailSport: 18 / 23 / 20.
3 Maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds for properly equipped AWD models and 3,500 pounds for properly equipped FWD models. Accessory towing equipment and loading limits apply. TrailSport includes an integrated Class III hitch. See the owner’s manual and ask us to verify your setup.
Vehicle information checked October 28, 2026. Photos show selected trims and may include accessories. Colors, upholstery and equipment vary by vehicle. Confirm the specific vehicle’s features before purchase.
Honda pricing and EPA ratings · Honda trim comparison · Features by trim
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