Yes. Honda Pilots sold in the United States use a V-6 engine—the 3.5-liter V6 is the standard powerplant in recent generations.
What this means: The Pilot’s current generation centers on a traditional V6 paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, delivering strong everyday and towing performance. While other Honda models offer alternative powertrains such as hybrids, the Pilot’s U.S. lineup has remained V6-focused for its gasoline-powered version, with regional differences noted outside the United States.
Current powertrain and performance
The core question is whether the Pilot still relies on a V6 and how it performs. Here's a breakdown of the authoritative specs for the latest US model year.
- The engine is a 3.5-liter V6 (VTEC) delivering about 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.
- Transmission is a 9-speed automatic; front-wheel drive is standard, all-wheel drive is available on most trims.
- Fuel economy varies by configuration (FWD vs. AWD) and drivetrain; typical real-world efficiency sits in the mid-20s mpg combined for many setups.
- Towing capacity with proper equipment is up to about 5,000 pounds, depending on trim and configuration.
In short, the current Honda Pilot continues to rely on a V6 engine as its core powertrain, a defining characteristic of the model in its latest generation.
Past generations and international variants
Historical engine options
Historically, U.S. Pilots have used a V6 engine since the model’s introduction. A four-cylinder or alternative gasoline powertrain has not been offered in the U.S. Pilot lineup for the main production years.
- Early and mid-generation Pilots typically used the 3.5-liter V6 with updates over time.
- In the current third generation (introduced around 2016), the 3.5-liter V6 with direct injection and a 9-speed automatic has been the standard powertrain; AWD is optional and trims vary in capability.
Internationally, Honda has experimented with different configurations in some markets, including hybrid variants in other models; however, the U.S. Pilot lineup has remained V6-focused for its gasoline powertrain in recent years.
Hybrids and future powertrains
There is ongoing discussion about electrification across the auto industry, but as of 2025, the Pilot does not offer a U.S.-market hybrid powertrain. Honda's broader electrification strategy has brought hybrids to models like the CR-V and Accord, with future Pilot variants potentially aligning with that strategy in some markets.
- Currently, no U.S.-market Pilot hybrid powertrain is offered.
- Some global markets may see different powertrain options, including hybrids, though these are not part of the standard U.S. lineup.
Note: Always check the exact configuration for a given model year and region, as Honda updates powertrains and trims periodically.
Summary
The essential takeaway is straightforward: the Honda Pilot’s latest-generation powertrain is built around a V6 engine—the 3.5-liter V6 with a 9-speed automatic transmission. This configuration remains the core gasoline option in the United States, with no widely available four-cylinder or hybrid version for the U.S. market in the current lineup.
Summary: In its current form, the Honda Pilot is powered by a V6 engine, delivering reliable power for family driving and towing, with no standard non-V6 or hybrid option in the U.S. market as of today.