The current generation of Honda’s mid-size crossover has been around since 2016 and despite the age, it’s still among the best models in the class, it will receive a complete overhaul. Known for its smooth ride and high level of comfort, the popular mid-size SUV will now get even better. The test mule has already been spotted on the road and despite it still wearing camouflage, it looks like it’s in the final stage of development. Therefore, we expect that the 2023 Honda Pilot will hit the market already in the second half of the year.
We expect to see a pretty big number of changes. First of all, the new generation will get a new platform. It will get new, more muscular styling, and also become bigger, with a longer wheelbase. Of course, we are about to see novelties in various other aspects as well, starting from the new interior design, more tech features and other kinds of upgrades.
2023 Honda Pilot Design
One of the first things that come to mind about this redesign is the platform. Here, things are pretty easy to predict. The 2023 Honda Pilot will share most of its parts with the recently redesigned Acura MDX. The two models have always been in tight connection and such a trend will carry on. Therefore, the Pilot will benefit from all the novelties that came with the new MDX.
Although the overall layout will be essentially the same, there are all kinds of upgrades to come. For example, the new suspension setup should provide an even smoother ride, while we also count on some improvements regarding handling and overall driving experience. Furthermore, the new 2023 Honda Pilot should save some weight.
Exterior
As we already mentioned, the new generation has already been spotted on the road. Although it still wears camouflage, we can see that a lot of changes are coming. One of them will be in terms of size. The new model will be bigger in all aspects. Just like the new MDX, it will gain 2.8 inches in wheelbase, which guarantees more space on the inside. Changes in other dimensions are expected too.
Furthermore, we are about to see a completely new styling as well. Of course, the overall SUV layout will remain, but the 2023 Honda Pilot will feature a much bolder and more muscular appearance. Of course, the most prominent part of the vehicle will be the front end, which is expected to adopt the same design language as the recently-updated Ridgeline. This will make the new Pilot way more attractive compared to the current generation, which looks a little bit bland.
Interior
Naturally, big things are expected on the inside as well. As we already mentioned, the new Pilot will feature a bigger size than its predecessor, so we have no doubt it will offer more space on the inside. The current model is decent in this aspect, but some rivals offer more space, especially in the third row. On the hand, the current cargo area is already impressive, so things could only become even better.
Besides more space, the 2023 Honda Pilot interior will also come with a completely new design. At this point, we don’t know the details, but we are pretty sure we are about to see modern aesthetics, along with improved build quality, as well as a full load of tech features.
2023 Honda Pilot Engines
Under the hoof, the 2023 Honda Pilot will continue with the same 3.5-liter V6, which will get a slight power upgrade. Just like in the new MDX, it will feature a max output of 290 horsepower. On the other hand, a big novelty will be a new 10-speed automatic transmission, which should improve ride quality even more and also positively affect fuel economy.
At this point, there is no word about electrification but we presume such a powertrain could arrive sometime during the production cycle. On the other hand, some sources speculate about the possibility to see a performance version, maybe even with the Type R badge. Such a version would probably come with the turbocharged V6, which puts out around 355 horsepower. The officials are still quiet on this matter.
2023 Honda Pilot Release Date and Price
As we already mentioned, the 2023 Honda Pilot is in the final stage of development and we believe that sales will start sometime in the second half of the year. We expect that base versions will cost around 35.000 dollars. Models like Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander will remain key competitors.
Love the Pilot. Had a 2013 Pilot until recently.