Yes. The Honda Pilot’s core powertrain for most U.S. models is a 3.5-liter V6 engine, paired with a multi-speed automatic transmission. While gear counts and drivetrain options have evolved over the years, the V6 remains the defining engine for most Pilots.
Powertrain overview
The Pilot’s backbone is Honda’s 3.5-liter V6 engine. It typically produces around 280–285 horsepower and about 262 lb-ft of torque, depending on model year and market. The engine is paired with a modern automatic transmission—nine- or ten-speed, depending on the year—and is offered with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6 (J35 family)
- Power output: approximately 280–285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: nine- or ten-speed automatic, model-year dependent
- Drivetrain: front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD)
- Fuel economy: varies by drivetrain and trim, generally in the mid-teens city to low-20s highway
Across most Pilots sold in North America, the vehicle is powered by a V6 engine with a contemporary automatic transmission rather than a turbocharged four-cylinder or a hybrid setup.
Recent changes and model-year notes
Honda has refined the Pilot’s powertrain over generations to balance performance, efficiency, and capability. Here are some high-level notes by era and model year.
- 2009–2015: 3.5-liter V6 paired with a multi-speed automatic; available with FWD or AWD
- 2016–2021: continued 3.5L V6 with updated transmissions and efficiency improvements
- 2022 onward: redesigned Pilot retains the V6 core with updated chassis, tech, and driveline options
- 2023–2024: focus on safety and infotainment upgrades; no widespread shift to a non-V6 powertrain in North America
In sum, the engine remains a V6 across these model years, with changes concentrated in transmission tuning and drivetrain options rather than a move away from the V6.
Are there any alternative powertrains?
As of 2026 model year in North America, Honda has not offered a factory-hibrid or turbo-four variant of the Pilot in the primary market. The Pilot continues to be powered by the 3.5-liter V6 with choices of FWD or AWD and an automatic transmission. Regional variations can occur, so buyers should check the exact specs for their area and model year.
Bottom line
Yes—the Honda Pilot is a V-6-powered SUV. Its 3.5-liter V6 has been the standard engine across generations, paired with a modern automatic transmission and available with either FWD or AWD. There is no widely available non-V6 option in the current North American lineup.
Summary: The Honda Pilot is built around a 3.5-liter V6 engine, offering around 280–285 horsepower with a nine- or ten-speed automatic transmission and FWD/AWD choices. As of 2026, there isn’t a widely available turbo-four or hybrid Pilot in North America; the V6 remains the defining powertrain.