When Honda introduced the initial TrailSport variant on its fourth-generation Pilot back in 2023, while capable for light off-roading, the conservatively-designed crossover didn’t quite look the part aesthetically. The more rugged 2026 refresh addresses this issue nicely, along with standardizing some much-needed technology.
A larger, square gunmetal grille and massive silver-colored bumper cladding on the front immediately give the flagship some much-needed street cred. Similarly, the bigger remixed scuff guard on the rear and 18-inch Shark Grey aluminum wheels provide a tougher appearance. A trim-exclusive Ash Green Metallic paint now replaces the arguably too-bright-for-the-segment Diffused Sky Pearl.
The three-row mid-size SUV continues to offer a lot of space inside and makes for a great choice for road-trip adventures, though at present there is no middle bench seat available, so capacity remains capped at seven passengers. The new 12.3-inch Google built-in-powered touchscreen dwarfs the former nine-inch unit, and the 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, previously only included in the top Touring and Black Edition models, is now equipped across the lineup.
One of the gripes I had with the last TrailSport was that a 360-degree birds-eye view camera wasn’t an option, making parking the lengthy vehicle challenging at times—fortunately, this has been remedied. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported, and navigating the infotainment system is easier due to simplified menus, though I still feel Honda’s software is not as intuitive compared to many competitors.
Overall, the driving experience is slightly more refined thanks to the addition of semi-tempered door glass and extra sound deadening in the doors, under the hood, and elsewhere. Engineers have retuned the electronic power steering as well to deliver improved steering feedback.
Fortunately, the robust naturally-aspirated 3.5-litre V6, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, hasn’t been converted into a lower-displacement turbo. The 285-horsepower engine performs well and sounds great. The i-VTM4 all-wheel drive system skews on the sportier side, able to send up to 70 per cent torque to the rear axle. And of that, 100 per cent can be directed to either the left or right wheel depending on traction requirements. In short, handling in the corners is sharp, and understeer is in check.
Drivers have a number of modes to choose from to suit different conditions and use cases: Normal, Econ, Snow, Sport, Sand, and Trail. Having an economy setting is helpful during regular commuting as the six-cylinder mill isn’t particularly fuel-efficient: during my week of predominantly city driving, I was averaging 17.5 L/100 km.
Compared to the other grades, the TrailSport is the only one featuring a 25-millimetre suspension lift yielding extra ground clearance, and specialty stabilizer bars and spring/damper tuning to allow for the required articulation and comfort needed for operation in the backcountry. The same goes for the 265/60R18 Continental TerrainContact all-terrain tires and thick steel skid plates protecting the oil pan, transmission, and gas tank. Recovery points are integrated into the front plate, and a tow hitch is installed behind the full-size spare tire.
Representing a nice balance between family hauler and recreational weekend off-roader, the 2026 Honda Pilot TrailSport starts at MSRP $64,796.
Highlights:
MSRP: $64,796 (base)
Motor: 3.5-litre V6
Horsepower: 285 @ 6,100 rpm
Torque (lb-ft): 262 @ 5,000 rpm
Gearbox: 10-speed automatic
Layout: front engine, all-wheel drive
Fuel economy: 17.5 L/100 km mixed city/highway (observed)
