No. The Honda Pilot does not use a CVT; it employs a traditional automatic transmission, currently a 9-speed automatic (9AT) with a torque converter in recent models.
Transmission history of the Honda Pilot
Here's how the gearbox has evolved across generations and why the Pilot stands apart from some other Honda models.
- First two generations (2003–2015) used a conventional 5-speed automatic transmission (5AT) paired with the V6 engine.
- Current generation (2016–present) shifted to a 9-speed automatic transmission (9AT) to improve acceleration, refinement, and efficiency, with all-wheel-drive availability.
In summary, Honda has never offered a CVT in the Pilot. The shift from 5-speed automatics to the 9-speed automatic reflects a focus on smoother gearing for the V6 and better towing capability.
Why this matters for buyers
For buyers, the absence of a CVT means conventional automatic behavior, with distinct shift steps and power delivery from the 3.5-liter V6. This can influence driving feel, towing performance, and reliability perceptions compared with CVT-equipped Honda crossovers like the CR-V or HR-V.
CVT-equipped Honda models for comparison
Honda’s CR-V and HR-V commonly use CVTs, which offer different efficiency characteristics and drive feel compared with the Pilot’s 9AT. Always verify the transmission type for the exact model year and trim you’re considering.
Summary
The Honda Pilot does not have a CVT. Across its history, the Pilot has relied on conventional automatics: a 5-speed automatic in the early generations and a 9-speed automatic in the current generation. If you’re specifically seeking a CVT, you’ll find it in other Honda models rather than in the Pilot.