Honda’s biggest SUV has just been redesigned for the 2023 model year and it brings a lot of important upgrades. Of course, the most notable is the new, boxier and more aggressive styling, as well as a much nicer interior and other improvements. Normally, we would expect no bigger changes for the second production year but it looks like the Japanese manufacturer prepares some form of electrification for the second production year. We are talking about the 2024 Honda Pilot Hybrid, which would be the first-ever Pilot with an electrified powertrain.
At this point, details about the new hybrid powertrain are still unavailable. While some sources speculate about a classic, self-charging hybrid setup, others suggest a more capable plug-in hybrid design. In any case, we presume that the rest of the design wouldn’t be much different compared to the standard version.
We presume that the 2024 Honda Pilot Hybrid could arrive already in the second half of 2023.
2024 Honda Pilot Hybrid Powertrain
Of course, the most interesting feature of the 2024 Honda Pilot Hybrid would be its powertrain. At this point, we don’t have details but various sources suggest different setups. Some of them suggest a classic, self-charging setup, which would utilize Honda’s new technology that includes two electric motors and a gasoline engine. What’s interesting about this design is that the vehicle is mostly powered by electric motors. On the other hand, the gasoline unit works as a power generator most of the time and sends power to the wheels only at higher speeds or on the heavy throttle.
Other reports suggest a plug-in hybrid setup. In this case, the system would probably be based on a turbo-four engine, though exact details are still unavailable. We presume that the system would be tuned to around 300 horsepower. A decently-sized battery would also ensure a respectable range in the EV mode.
On the other hand, standard models will continue in the same way, with a familiar 3.5-liter V6 engine that puts out 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. Also, there is a new 10-speed automatic transmission, which works better than the old 9-speed unit. Besides strong performance, the system offers a high level of refinement as well. The average fuel economy goes around 23 mpg combined, which is typical for a mid-size SUV segment.
2024 Honda Pilot Hybrid Design
Other than the new powertrain, we don’t believe that the 2024 Honda Pilot Hybrid could feature bigger changes, especially not in terms of the overall design. Therefore, we expect to see the same design that was introduced with the last-years overhaul, which has brought a lot of improvements. The new model features a longer wheelbase and bigger overall dimensions, which reflects in more interior space. Also, there is a new styling, much bolder and SUVish than before, so we could say that the new generation looks way more attractive.
Also, there is the new off-road-oriented version, which will arrive as the 2024 Honda Pilot TrailSport. Although not exactly a 4Runner, this version offers a couple of off-road upgrades compared to standard Pilots. There are things like a 1.1-inch suspension lift, upgraded AWD system, three skid plates, TrailWatch camera etc. Also, this version comes with a couple of exlusive styling details, such as a different grille, wheels, unique color options etc.
Interior
The same thing is with the interior design, where we count on a familiar cabin layout, which now looks more elegant than before. Traditionally, the build quality is very good, while the materials are also much nicer. We particularly like the new dashboard design. It combines modern and retro elements, making this SUV look very nice from the inside.
The overall quality is very good but we think that Honda could have don’t more in terms of tech features. Base models come with a small 7-inch infotainment screen, while higher trim levels come with a 9-inch unit. For comparison, rivals like Kia Telluride come standard with a 12.3-inch touchscreen.
On the other hand, the new Pilot once again impresses with space, practicality and functionality. Thanks to the 2.8-inch longer wheelbase, there is more legroom for the passengers. The front seats are spacious, massive and supportive, while the second row also offers excellent comfort. The third row is tighter but still quite functional.
The Pilot comes with lots of small storage compartments and a pretty impressive cargo area. You may count on about 22.4 cubic feet behind the second row, while the overall cargo volume goes all away up to 113.7 cubic feet. With these numbers, the new Pilot once again sits at the top of the class.
2024 Honda Pilot Hybrid Release Date and Price
We presume that the 2024 Honda Pilot Hybrid could arrive already in the second half of the year. At this point, it is still early to talk about the price, though we expect it will be a little bit higher compared to the standard gasoline versions, which start at around 39.000 dollars.
