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Are Honda Pilots V-6 or v8?

The Honda Pilot is equipped with a V-6 engine, not a V8. The Pilot's engine is a 3.5-liter V-6 that produces up to 280 horsepower, depending on the model year and trim level. This powerful yet efficient V-6 engine has been the standard powertrain for the Honda Pilot since its introduction in 2003.


Detailed Overview of the Honda Pilot's Engine


The Honda Pilot is a midsize SUV that has been in production since the 2003 model year. Throughout its history, the Pilot has been powered by a V-6 engine, rather than a larger V8 configuration. This V-6 engine has provided the Pilot with a good balance of power, fuel efficiency, and drivability.


The specific engine specifications for the Honda Pilot are as follows:



  • Engine displacement: 3.5 liters

  • Engine type: V-6

  • Horsepower range: 250-280 hp, depending on model year and trim level

  • Torque range: 262-262 lb-ft, depending on model year and trim level

  • Transmission: 6-speed automatic or 9-speed automatic, depending on model year


The Honda Pilot's V-6 engine has been praised for its smooth power delivery, good fuel economy, and reliability. This engine has been a key component of the Pilot's success as a family-friendly, three-row SUV.


Why Honda Chose a V-6 Engine for the Pilot


Honda's decision to equip the Pilot with a V-6 engine rather than a V8 was likely driven by several factors:



  • Fuel efficiency: V-6 engines generally offer better fuel economy than larger V8 engines, which is an important consideration for many SUV buyers.

  • Power and performance: The Pilot's V-6 engine provides ample power and acceleration for a midsize SUV, without the higher fuel consumption of a V8.

  • Cost and complexity: V-6 engines are typically less expensive to produce and maintain than V8 engines, which helps keep the Pilot's price competitive.

  • Alignment with Honda's brand identity: Honda is known for producing efficient, reliable, and practical vehicles, which aligns well with the V-6 powertrain in the Pilot.


Overall, the Honda Pilot's V-6 engine has proven to be a well-suited and successful powertrain choice for this popular midsize SUV.

How long do Honda Pilot engines last?


Do Honda Pilots last a long time? Yes, with proper care, a Honda Pilot can last up to 200,000 miles, and in some cases even longer, reaching close to 300,000 miles for owners who are very meticulous with their care.



Does any Honda have a V8 engine?


The Only V8 Honda Produces Doesn't Exist In a Car
The Japanese brand does produce a V8 engine, but it's not for any road car. Instead, it's for a boat. The Honda BF350 is made for boats 25 feet or longer, and it produces 350 horsepower at 5,500 rpm.



Is Honda Odyssey a V8?


A proven, V-6 engine and 10-speed automatic transmission deliver faithful performance with class-competitive efficiency, while impressive—for a minivan—ride and handling inspire confidence and relay a feeling of solid design and build quality.



Which Honda has a V6 engine?


Ridgeline is powered by a direct-injection V-6—a 3.5-liter, aluminum-alloy, single-overhead camshaft, 24-valve i-VTEC engine featuring Honda's advanced Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) system.



Is the Honda Pilot a V-6 or V8?


The Pilot is equipped with a V-6 engine capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds.



What is the most common problem with the Honda Pilot?


Common 2021 Honda Pilot Problems

  • Forward Collision Avoidance: False alarms; Sensor issues; Software glitches; adaptive cruise control.
  • Electrical System: Auto stop-start system failure; Infotainment system errors; Battery issues; Sensor and Warning light issues; Electrical Component Failures; Crackling Sounds.



What is the Honda Pilot equivalent to?


Cars similar to 2025 Honda Pilot. The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade are the same crossover with different skins, both featuring standout styling, upscale finishes, and big cabins, and they're the current class benchmarks in just about every way.



What year was a bad year for Honda Pilot?


Honda Pilot Model Years With the Most Problems
When looking at Honda's recorded owner complaints per model year, 2003, 2005, and 2016 stand out as the most problematic.



What are the disadvantages of the Honda Pilot?


One of the big disadvantages of the Honda Pilot is the lack of hybrid trim options. With such a large SUV, the fuel efficiency ratings aren't great, though they are competitive with other gasoline-powered SUVs. The 2023 AWD Pilot has a fuel efficiency rating of 21 combined city/highway mpg.



What is Honda's strongest engine?


The 3.5L V6 is assisted by three electric motors, which in the top-spec NSX Type S make a combined 600 horsepower. Without electrical assistance, the engine still churns out 520 horsepower, making it by far the most powerful Honda engine ever built.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.