Is the Honda Pilot V4 or V-6?
Answer: The Honda Pilot uses a V6 engine, not a V4.
The Pilot's current lineup in the United States relies on Honda's 3.5-liter V6 paired with a multi-speed automatic transmission. There is no four-cylinder (V4) engine option offered for the Pilot in North America as of the latest model year. Honda has explored hybrid technology on various models, but a V4 version of the Pilot is not part of current official offerings.
Current powertrain configuration
Key facts about the Pilot's engine today
- Engine type: 3.5-liter V6 (i-VTEC) powering all current Pilot models in the U.S.
- Transmission: automatic transmission paired with the V6 (gearings vary by model year)
- Market scope: U.S. and most North American markets do not offer a four-cylinder Pilot variant
In practice, buyers looking for fuel economy or a four-cylinder setup will not find a V4 in the Pilot lineup; the V6 remains the standard and only engine choice for the Pilot in North America today.
Performance and efficiency considerations
With the V6, the Pilot offers strong mid-range power and towing capability, which aligns with its three-row SUV positioning. Fuel economy tends to be lower than comparable four-cylinder crossovers, and actual figures vary by model year, drivetrain, and trim level.
Historical and market context
The Honda Pilot has consistently used a V6 since its introduction in 2003. Across its generations, Honda has kept the V6 configuration for this three-row SUV, prioritizing power and capability over adopting a four-cylinder option for this model in the U.S. market.
Regional availability and future prospects
In North America, the Pilot remains V6-only. While Honda has pursued hybrid or alternative powertrain strategies on some models, there has been no official indication that a V4 Pilot is planned for the U.S. market as of 2025.
Key milestones by generation
- First generation (2003–2008): 3.5-liter V6 with automatic transmission
- Second generation (2009–2015): refined 3.5-liter V6 with updated electronics and transmissions
- Current third generation (2016–present): continued use of the 3.5-liter V6 with ongoing improvements in efficiency and drivability
For buyers seeking alternatives with four-cylinder powertrains, Honda offers other models in its SUV lineup, but the Pilot itself has not offered a V4 option in the U.S. market.
Summary
The Honda Pilot is powered by a V6 engine, not a V4. Across its current generation and historical iterations in North America, Honda has kept the Pilot exclusively V6, emphasizing towing and on-road performance suitable for a family-focused three-row SUV. If a four-cylinder configuration is a priority, prospective buyers should consider other models in Honda’s lineup or different configurations outside the Pilot family.
