Is Honda Pilot v4 or V-6?
The Honda Pilot uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine; there is no V4 option in the U.S. market.
Across its generations, the Pilot has consistently paired a V6 with modern transmissions to support its three-row, family-friendly design. This article explains the engine setup, confirms there is no factory V4 Pilot, and outlines what buyers should know when shopping for a V6-powered SUV.
Engine options across generations
Here is a quick snapshot of the engine configuration by generation to illustrate how the Pilot has been powered over time.
- 2003–2008: 3.5-liter V6 powerplant (the Pilot’s original engine).
- 2009–2015: 3.5-liter V6 with refinements and updated drivetrains.
- 2016–present: 3.5-liter V6 continues to power the Pilot, with ongoing tuning and transmission updates.
Conclusion: Across all generations, the Pilot has always used a V6 engine, and there has never been a factory V4 option offered in the U.S. market.
Current model specifics
In the latest generation, the Pilot remains a V6-powered three-row SUV. It pairs the 3.5-liter V6 with a modern automatic transmission and offers AWD or FWD configurations depending on trim. For buyers comparing Honda SUVs, the Pilot’s V6 setup is a distinguishing feature versus four-cylinder options in smaller Honda models.
Fuel economy and performance notes
Fuel economy and performance vary by trim level and drivetrain, but expect competitive power for a family-sized SUV with the 3.5L V6 and modern transmission. AWD typically reduces highway fuel economy slightly compared with FWD.
Summary
The Honda Pilot is powered by a V6 engine, not a V4, and has remained so across generations. If you need a four-cylinder option, consider other Honda SUVs such as the CR-V or HR-V, while the Pilot emphasizes V6 power and three-row practicality.
