More Value, More Features: The 2026 Pilot Gets Even Better

Finding a capable, family-friendly SUV from a Honda dealer near Clarence has never been easier, thanks to the newly updated 2026 Honda Pilot. The three-row SUV delivers meaningful updates that elevate an already impressive nameplate. Honda proves the Pilot is a great option for those looking for a highly capable three-row SUV. 

Balancing space, durability, and all-weather handling, the 2026 Pilot evolves with smart technology, refined comfort, and trim-specific enhancements that broaden its appeal. Moreover, it embodies the reliability and versatility that have defined Honda for decades. Here’s a closer look at the Pilot’s updates in 2026 and why this stunning three-row SUV is worthy of a place in your driveway. 

The 2026 Pilot returns to the lineup with subtle yet effective styling updates that prove SUVs can be sleek, sophisticated, and rugged. At the front, the Pilot features a redesigned fascia centered by a larger grille that gives the SUV a commanding presence. Honda uses the grille to distinguish the trims: the Sport and EX-L have a black grille with a gloss-black surround, the TrailSport has a gray grille, and the Touring, Elite, and Black Edition have a gloss-black grille. 

The Pilot’s updated grille ties into several other notable updates that stretch from its exterior color palette to its wheels and roof. For example, Honda equips every trim with roof rails, complementing the Pilot’s more commanding, rugged aesthetic. Clarence drivers will also appreciate several new exterior colors, including Smoke Blue Pearl, Solar Silver Metallic, and the TrailSport-exclusive Ash Green Metallic. 

The 2026 Pilot continues to focus on features that improve everyday usability, making it even more versatile for Clarence drivers who want an SUV that’s sophisticated, engaging to drive, and functional. Honda responds to those needs with several meaningful updates. Beyond its versatile three-row layout, there’s always the question of accessibility. How do the seats configure to your needs, and how easy is it to access cargo? 

The 2026 Pilot returns to the lineup with a standard power tailgate, which gives drivers ample access to the SUV’s 87 cu.ft. of cargo space. Moreover, Honda maintains the Pilot’s interior versatility, offering seating for up to eight with a stowable center seat in the second row or seating for seven with captain’s chairs. 

The 2026 Pilot offers a significantly quieter ride than previous models, an upgrade that makes every drive more enjoyable and relaxing. Honda adds an all-new hood insulator, door insulators, semi-tempered door glass, and other sound-absorbing technologies to ensure a calm cabin ambience. Top-tier trims like the Pilot Touring and Pilot Elite are even quieter, thanks to enclosed fender liners.

Technology is one of the most exciting updates on the 2026 Pilot, which debuts with an even larger and more intuitive digital landscape. Appreciating the update starts with looking at the 2025 model, which features a seven-inch or nine-inch infotainment touchscreen and a seven-inch digital instrument cluster. 
The 2026 Pilot debuts with a 43% larger instrument cluster, measuring an impressive 10.2 inches, and a 37% larger touchscreen at 12.3 inches. The ultra-wide touchscreen is standard on every trim, adding outstanding value to the Pilot in 2026. Fortunately, the good news continues. 

Along with larger digital displays, the 2026 Pilot is equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 5G Wi-Fi hotspot, and Google built-in. The addition of Google built-in offers next-level convenience via Google Assistant, Google Maps, and the Google Play Store. These features work with the Pilot’s all-new software, designed to be more intuitive and keep you connected and entertained without compromising your focus on the road. 

Safety remains a cornerstone of the Honda brand, and the 2026 Pilot continues that tradition with expanded driver-assist tools. One of the most notable additions is Post-Collision Braking, now standard across the lineup. Post-Collision Braking automatically applies the brakes after a collision is detected, potentially reducing the severity of a secondary impact. It’s an added layer of reassurance for drivers navigating everything from busy intersections to winter conditions in Clarence. 

The technology complements the Pilot’s high-strength build, Honda’s exclusive Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure, and advanced airbag technology. It also works seamlessly with the Honda Sensing suite, another standard component in the Pilot’s trim family. The suite equips the SUV with a Collision Mitigation Braking System with Pedestrian Detection, Forward Collision Warning, a Lane Keeping Assist System, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Road Departure Mitigation with Lane Departure Warning. 

The 2026 Pilot proves that a three-row SUV can be agile, engaging, and responsive. Honda accomplishes this with the Pilot’s rigid platform and powerful 3.5L V6 engine, which pairs with a quick-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission to produce 285 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. Acceleration is smooth and responsive, adding confidence to every drive as you navigate Clarence and the surrounding areas. 

Honda builds on that handling with its available all-wheel drive system and the Pilot’s improved steering. The 2026 Pilot promises more confidence and composure, with steering adjustments that make it feel more precise and stable. As a result, drivers feel confident and in control in any situation, from cruising at highway speeds to maneuvering through rush-hour traffic. 

Excitement for the 2026 Pilot is palpable, thanks to many trim-specific updates that enhance the SUV’s value, styling, and overall packaging. Honda focuses its attention on the TrailSport, Touring, Elite, and Black Edition, ensuring the trims are distinctly styled and feature-rich to give drivers more of what they want. 

As the Pilot’s adventurer, the TrailSport sets out to prove that a rugged SUV can offer premium comfort on any terrain. Beyond its off-road-tuned suspension and trail-focused technologies, the TrailSport debuts with heated outboard seats, new orange exterior badging, and an updated rear scuff plate with a trim-exclusive design. It’s also available with a stunning brown leather interior, with perfectly contrasting orange stitching. 

The 2026 Pilot Touring builds on its penchant for opulence by adding more distinct styling elements and technologies. Honda differentiates the trim with 20-inch machine-finished wheels in Shark Gray, a distinct contrast to the black alloy wheels on the Touring Blackout. The mid-tier trim also gets a 360-degree surround view camera and upgraded interior upholstery, including the warm, brown leather available on the TrailSport. 

Moving up the lineup, the 2026 Pilot Elite blends premium luxury with innovative technologies, rolling off the production line with heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, and a head-up display. For 2026, the premium trim sits on 20-inch machine-finished Shark Gray wheels and has a stunning interior with Ultrasuede seat accents finished with diamond stitching. 

The top-tier Pilot Black Edition is as luxurious as it gets in the Pilot family, with exclusive exterior and interior details and every technology and convenience imaginable. For 2026, Honda keeps the Black Edition’s updates to a minimum by differentiating the trim with 20-inch wheels finished in Berlina Black.

With thoughtful updates to its styling, technology, and trim levels, the 2026 Pilot is an outstanding choice for drivers who want more than an ordinary SUV. From its quieter cabin and advanced technology to its refined performance and expanded trim offerings, the 2026 Pilot is built to meet the needs of Clarence drivers. We’re here to ensure as much, proudly serving as your trusted Honda dealer and automotive home away from home.