The Pilot is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine with i-VTEC and direct injection, delivering about 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive options.
Current engine specifications
Details about the engine that currently powers the Pilot, including design features, output, and drive configurations.
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6 i-VTEC with direct injection and cylinder deactivation (VCM)
- Output: approximately 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: 9-speed automatic
- Drivetrain options: front-wheel drive standard; all-wheel drive optional
- Technology: i-VTEC, Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) for improved efficiency on highway cruising
In configuration, the engine pairing provides strong mid-size SUV performance while offering cylinder management to boost efficiency when full power isn’t required.
Engine history across generations
Traces of the current powertrain extend through the Pilot’s lineage. Since its U.S. debut, the Pilot has primarily relied on a V6 engine family, with the 9-speed automatic becoming standard on more recent models. Over time, Honda refined this setup with direct injection and VCM, plus transmission improvements to balance power and efficiency.
- Earlier generations used the same family of 3.5-liter V6 engines with varying transmissions
- The current generation standardized the 3.5-liter V6 with i-VTEC and 9-speed automatic, plus AWD options
- There have been no widely offered alternative gasoline engines in the U.S. Pilot lineup in recent years
Ultimately, the Pilot’s engine narrative centers on evolution within the 3.5-liter V6 family, with refinements aimed at smoother power delivery and better fuel economy.
Notes on hybrids and markets
In the United States, the Pilot is not offered with a dedicated hybrid powertrain as of the latest model years. Some international markets have tested or offered alternative powertrains on related Honda models, but the U.S.-market Pilot remains a gasoline V6 with a 9-speed automatic. Future changes would be announced by Honda.
Summary
Summary: The Honda Pilot is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine with i-VTEC and direct injection, delivering about 280 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 9-speed automatic and available in FWD or AWD, this setup has defined the Pilot across generations, with continuous refinements to efficiency and drivability, including cylinder deactivation for highway cruising.