The 2018 Honda Pilot uses a nine-speed automatic transmission (9AT) paired with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. It is not a CVT.
In 2018, Honda retained a traditional, torque-converter automatic transmission for the Pilot’s 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering smooth shifts and solid highway performance while offering all-wheel-drive capability on higher trims for better traction in various conditions.
Transmission type and configuration
The 9-speed automatic in the 2018 Pilot is a conventional automatic with electronic controls and a torque converter, designed to work with Honda's V6 engine across different trim levels.
- 9-speed automatic transmission (9AT) with a torque converter
- Available with front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD)
- G-Shift control to optimize shift points for smooth and efficient power delivery
- Grade Logic Control to manage downshifts on inclines and improve control on hills
- Improved smoothness and efficiency compared with older six-speed designs
Before listing the core characteristics of the 9AT in the Pilot, note these key points about the transmission setup:
Overall, the 9AT aims to balance everyday practicality with highway efficiency, regardless of whether the Pilot is configured for FWD or AWD.
Drive configurations and AWD details
In the 2018 Pilot, AWD is available on select trims and pairs with Honda’s i-VTM4 system to distribute torque for better traction in adverse conditions.
- Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard on most trims
- All-wheel drive (AWD) is available on higher trims and integrates with i-VTM4 for improved stability
Before detailing the drive configurations, here are the primary drivetrain options for 2018 Pilot models:
In AWD models, the 9AT remains the transmission, while the system helps optimize traction across varying road conditions.
Summary
The 2018 Honda Pilot runs on a nine-speed automatic transmission (9AT) with a torque converter, available with either FWD or AWD, not a CVT. This setup works with the 3.5-liter V6 to provide smooth shifts and reliable performance for family SUV duty.