2026 Honda Pilot Elite

Entry 011 in the Garage. The old friend: a naturally aspirated V6 that sings, a real automatic, and steering from the era your parents drove. Buy-it-once machinery.

Verdict // 2026 Honda Pilot Elite

7.5/ 10

The field watch of three-row SUVs.

Capability8.0
Daily livability8.0
Value7.0
Character6.0
Feel7.0

The Good

  • NA V6 that SINGS, paired to a real automatic
  • Buttons, knobs, and sound ergonomics throughout
  • Wide-opening doors and a perfect car seat angle
  • Presentable, dignified, built to last decades
  • Observed MPG matched EPA exactly

The Bad

  • Push-button PRNDL, a decade of frustration
  • Ultrasuede in a family hauler is a mistake
  • Cruz stroller needs finagling behind row three
  • Second row heated but not ventilated

Read the full review and scorecard.