What kind of engines do Honda Pilots have?
In brief, Honda Pilots have been powered exclusively by a 3.5-liter V6 engine across generations, with updates like i-VTEC, direct injection, and cylinder deactivation to boost efficiency. No turbocharged four-cylinders or alternative engine options have been offered in the U.S. market.
The Pilot’s engine history reflects Honda’s approach to balancing power, refinement, and practicality in a family SUV, evolving from the first generation’s 3.5L V6 to the current model’s advanced V6 with direct injection and variable cylinder management. This article breaks down what engines powered each generation and how technology changed over time.
Engine lineup by generation
First generation (2003–2008)
The original Honda Pilot was powered by a single engine option: a 3.5-liter V6 from Honda’s J35 family. This engine produced roughly 240–260 horsepower and about 250 lb-ft of torque, depending on year and trim. It was paired with a conventional automatic transmission and offered in both front- and all-wheel-drive configurations. There were no alternative engine choices in this generation for the U.S. market.
In short, the first-generation Pilot relied on a straightforward 3.5L V6, establishing the core powertrain for years to come.
Second generation (2009–2015)
The second-generation Pilot continued with the 3.5-liter V6 but introduced improvements aimed at efficiency. Through updates across the cycle, some trims featured Honda’s i-VTEC with cylinder deactivation (VCM) to improve highway fuel economy. Power remained in the mid- to upper-200s horsepower range, with torque generally in the 240–260 lb-ft neighborhood, and transmission options varied by year. This generation maintained a V6 backbone but refined it for better real-world efficiency and refinement.
The takeaway is that the Pilot stayed a V6 vehicle, with technology tweaks to boost efficiency without switching to a smaller turbocharged engine.
Third generation (2016–present)
The current generation marks a notable step forward with an updated 3.5-liter V6 that benefits from Honda’s Earth Dreams technology, including direct injection. It typically delivers about 280 horsepower and around 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission in most trims and available all-wheel drive. Cylinder deactivation remains part of the engine’s efficiency strategy on applicable models, helping to balance performance with fuel economy in highway cruising.
In summary, modern Pilots continue to rely on a refined 3.5L V6, with higher output and newer fuel-injection technology to enhance efficiency and smooth power delivery.
Summary
Across its history, the Honda Pilot has relied on a single core engine family—the 3.5-liter V6—mitigated over time by technology such as i-VTEC, direct injection, and cylinder deactivation to balance power and efficiency. There are no turbocharged four-cylinders or alternative engine options in the U.S. market Pilot lineup as of the latest models, underscoring Honda’s commitment to a consistent V6 powertrain across generations.
Does Honda Pilot have the same engine as Odyssey?
Engine Specs & Fuel Economy. The 2022 Honda Pilot and Odyssey share the same 3.5L V6 engine producing 280 horsepower. This potent powerhouse yields similar fuel economy figures in both models. The Pilot also offers Intelligent Variable Torque Management™ all-wheel drive (AWD) and has a higher maximum towing capacity.
Is the Honda Pilot a v4 or V-6?
V-6
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.
What is the common problem of Honda Pilots?
Many Honda Pilot owners have reported experiencing unsettling transmission issues. Symptoms often include rough shifting, hesitation during acceleration, unexpected jerking, or even complete transmission failure. These problems can often stem from software glitches, mechanical defects, or worn transmission components.
What engine does Honda Pilot use?
3.5 L J35Y8 V6
