Is the Honda Pilot 4 or 6 cylinder?
The Honda Pilot is a midsize SUV that comes equipped with a 6-cylinder engine. Specifically, the Pilot features a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.
Detailed Overview of the Honda Pilot Engine
The Honda Pilot is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that has been a staple in the Pilot lineup since the model's introduction in 2003. This engine is known for its smooth power delivery and impressive fuel efficiency, especially when paired with Honda's advanced transmission technologies.
Some key details about the Honda Pilot's 6-cylinder engine:
- Displacement: 3.5 liters
- Configuration: V6
- Horsepower: 280 hp
- Torque: 262 lb-ft
- Transmission options: 6-speed automatic, 9-speed automatic
- Fuel economy (FWD): Up to 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway
- Fuel economy (AWD): Up to 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway
The Pilot's V6 engine provides ample power for everyday driving, towing, and hauling needs. It's a proven, reliable powertrain that has been a key part of the Pilot's appeal over the years.
Why the Honda Pilot Doesn't Offer a 4-Cylinder Option
Unlike some of its midsize SUV competitors, the Honda Pilot does not offer a 4-cylinder engine option. This is a deliberate design choice by Honda, as the brand believes the Pilot's target buyers prioritize power, capability, and interior space over maximum fuel efficiency.
The 6-cylinder engine provides a better balance of performance and efficiency for the Pilot's intended use as a family-oriented, three-row SUV. Opting for a smaller 4-cylinder would likely result in compromised towing capacity, acceleration, and overall driving dynamics that don't align with the Pilot's core attributes.
So in summary, the Honda Pilot is definitively a 6-cylinder SUV, with no 4-cylinder variant available. This powertrain choice reflects Honda's focus on delivering a capable, well-rounded midsize SUV for active families and adventurers.
Is a Honda Pilot a 4 or 6 cylinder?
The Pilot is equipped with a V-6 engine capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds.* That's enough muscle to pull a 24-foot camper, a trailer with two side-by-sides, or a 22-foot boat. The Pilot was engineered to create the best possible driving experience.
Which Honda has a 6 cylinder engine?
And amazing motorcycles in the world. And this one being the CBX. 1000 this has a sixcylinder 1cc engine it's absolutely bonkers.
What is the most common problem with the Honda Pilot?
The most common problem with the Honda Pilot is transmission failure, often caused by a faulty radiator that allows coolant to leak into the transmission fluid, leading to expensive damage. Other widespread issues include problems with the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system, which can cause unintended braking, and various electrical and infotainment system malfunctions.
This video discusses common problems in the second generation Honda Pilot, including airbag recalls and engine issues: 59sMJ100kYouTube · Sep 30, 2025
Transmission and cooling system
- Coolant-transmission fluid mixing: A radiator design flaw can cause coolant to leak into the transmission fluid, leading to transmission failure.
- Symptoms: Drivers report shuddering, jerking, and sudden loss of power, with failures often occurring between 120,000 and 150,000 miles.
- Solutions: Repairs are costly and can involve a full transmission replacement.
Electrical and computer systems
- Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system: Some models experience the VSA system applying the brakes without driver input, which can be dangerous. This is often traced to a faulty yaw sensor.
- Infotainment system: Issues like blank screens, malfunctioning wireless chargers, and inoperable backup cameras have been reported, particularly in newer models.
- Auto start/stop system: The engine's auto start/stop system has been reported to malfunction, sometimes failing to restart the engine.
This video highlights trending issues in the 2023-2025 Honda Pilot, including broken battery sensor wires: 1mBCauto_YouTube · Jan 30, 2025
Engine and emissions
- Engine issues: Some older models have had issues with engine sludge due to piston ring deterioration.
- Emissions system: Warning lights may indicate a problem with the fuel injectors or catalytic converter.
- Oil consumption: Some models have reported excessive oil consumption.
You can watch this video to learn what the owner wishes they knew before buying the Honda Pilot, including infotainment and engine issues: 58sAdventure Gear TVYouTube · Apr 9, 2022
Other problems
- Brake issues: Warped front brake rotors causing vibration and problems with the anti-lock braking system have been reported.
- Water intrusion: Some models have reported water leaks, particularly in the rear, which can cause electrical problems.
- Airbag recalls: Certain model years, especially the second generation (2009-2015), have been affected by airbag recalls.
Which Honda SUV has a V6?
Honda Crossovers & SUVs – Key Specifications
| Scroll right for more info → | 2026 Honda HR-V | 2026 Honda Passport |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0-Liter 4-Cylinder | 3.5-Liter V6 |
| Horsepower / Torque | 158 / 138 lb-ft | 285 / 262 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD | FWD or AWD |
| EPA-Estimated MPG** (city/hwy/combined) | Up to 26 / 32 / 28** | Up to 19 / 25 / 21** |
