The 2022 Honda Pilot is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, delivering about 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option across most trims.
In this model year, Honda sticks with a traditional V6 setup rather than introducing a hybrid option. The engine, known by its J35Y1 designation with i-VTEC and direct injection, provides solid everyday performance for family hauling and highway cruising. It’s paired exclusively with a 9-speed automatic transmission, and AWD is offered on most trims, including TrailSport, Touring, and Elite variants.
Engine and drivetrain overview
The 2022 Pilot continues to rely on Honda’s well-established 3.5-liter V6 powerplant. It features i-VTEC with direct injection to optimize both power output and efficiency across different driving conditions. The transmission is a 9-speed automatic, designed to deliver smooth gear changes and responsive acceleration when the SUV is loaded for trips or towing.
Key specifications for the engine and drivetrain are listed below.
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6 (J35Y1) with i-VTEC and direct injection
- Horsepower: 280 hp at around 6,000 rpm
- Peak torque: 262 lb-ft at around 4,700 rpm
- Transmission: 9-speed automatic
- Drive options: Front-wheel drive standard; all-wheel drive optional
- Towing capacity: Up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped
- Additional notes: Designed for smooth, capable everyday performance with confident highway passing power
In practice, this powertrain delivers capable acceleration for a three-row SUV and provides sufficient low-end grunt for highway merging and light towing. The combination of the V6’s broad torque curve and the nine-speed transmission generally results in a refined and predictable driving experience across most trim levels.
Performance and practicality
With the 2022 Pilot’s engine and 9-speed automatic, the SUV offers steady and dependable performance for family duties, including safe highway overtakes, stable cruising, and respectable towing when equipped. The availability of AWD helps with traction in adverse weather and on subtle off-road trails associated with TrailSport variants. Inside, the powertrain is tuned to prioritize a quiet cabin and smooth shifts to minimize road noise and vibration during daily use.
Fuel economy and maintenance considerations
Fuel economy varies by drivetrain and configuration, but the engine is engineered to balance power with efficiency for its class. Regular maintenance—such as timely oil changes, air-filter replacement, and keeping the 9-speed transmission fluid at the recommended intervals—helps preserve performance and reliability over the Pilot’s lifespan.
Summary
The 2022 Honda Pilot uses a proven 3.5-liter V6 engine with i-VTEC and direct injection, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. It offers 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, with front-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive available. This setup underpins the Pilot’s family-friendly practicality, towing capability up to 5,000 pounds, and comfortable highway performance.
Conclusion
For buyers curious about the engine, the 2022 Pilot’s powertrain remains a straightforward, capable choice that emphasizes smoothness, reliability, and versatility across the series’ trims. Whether family duty, road trips, or light towing, the engine and transmission pairing is designed to deliver predictable, comfortable performance.
Summary: The 2022 Honda Pilot is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 with i-VTEC and direct injection, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, delivering 280 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. FWD is standard, AWD is optional, and towing can reach up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.