The Honda Pilot uses a V6 engine, not a V4. In the United States, the Pilot’s standard powertrain is a 3.5-liter V6 paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, with all-wheel-drive options available. There is no factory V4 variant offered for the Pilot.
That said, the Pilot is a three-row SUV designed for family duty, cargo capacity, and highway comfort. Honda has historically favored the smooth, capable performance of a V6 for this model, rather than a four-cylinder in a V configuration. The term “V4” is not used in Honda’s Pilot lineup, and no production version of the Pilot has a V4 engine.
Engine and powertrain snapshot
Here's a concise overview of the Pilot’s current powertrain configuration and what buyers typically see in stores and on the road.
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6 from Honda’s i-VTEC family, used across most trims.
- Transmission: 9-speed automatic transmission broadly paired with the V6.
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive is standard on base models; all-wheel drive is available as an option on most trims.
- V4 option: No factory V4 engine option exists in the Pilot lineup in the U.S.
In short, the Pilot’s powertrain remains V6-focused, aligning with its role as a spacious, capable family SUV rather than a compact, four-cylinder offering.
Context: why the V4 question comes up
Some readers encounter references to “V4” in discussions of automotive engines, but in mainstream production vehicles today, the Pilot does not use such a configuration. The label “V4” is rarely used for modern engines and is not applicable to Honda’s Pilot lineup. For buyers, the practical takeaway is clear: when shopping Pilot models, you’re looking at a V6 powerplant, not a V4.
Summary: The Honda Pilot is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 in its current U.S. lineup, with a 9-speed automatic and optional all-wheel drive. There is no V4 engine configuration offered for the Pilot. This aligns with the vehicle’s design as a roomy, versatile, family-friendly SUV that values torque, smoothness, and practicality over a four-cylinder V-shaped alternative.