Is it a minivan in disguise or is it truly an SUV? This question has plagued the Honda Pilot for many years. With the redesigned 2023 model on the way, we already see something much different in this popular three-row SUV. The new Pilot might resemble the Ridgeline more than the Odyssey going into the next generation. Where will this new model fit in the market?

This new Pilot fits better in its class

The Honda Pilot has always looked a little like a large jelly bean driving down the road. This style never kept owners away with the Pilot delivering 16 percent more models in 2021 than the previous year, despite chip shortages. Even so, the new shape of the 2023 model gives it a more aggressive and rugged appearance.

Will the 2023 Honda Pilot be redesigned?

Yes, 2023 brings a new design for this Honda SUV. According to Automotive News, the new Pilot shares a similar shape and stature to the Ridgeline, especially when you look from the A-pillar forward. The addition of the TrailSport trim from 2022 gave this SUV a more adventurous feeling. Going forward, this TrailSport model will become a larger part of the Honda theme in this new SUV.

The Pilot is going premium

Moving into the next generation for the Honda Pilot brings the new global light-truck platform already in use for the 2022 Acura MDX. This could mean the new Pilot has a longer dash-to-axle ratio with a longer hood and a more premium design in the cabin than what we’ve seen in previous versions.

Will the 2023 Pilot be a hybrid?

Although expectations for the new Honda Pilot SUV included an optional hybrid version, these expectations have been quelled for the moment. Top Electric SUV tells us that Honda will take its time to electrify the Pilot. We likely won’t see a hybrid model for the 2023 version, but we could find it in future models of this three-row crossover.

Expect the same powertrain for this Honda SUV

Until a hybrid version of the Pilot is offered, expect Honda to continue forward with the tried and true powertrain. This means the 2023 Honda Pilot SUV includes a 3.5-liter V6 engine attached to a nine-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain returns 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This is an efficient and effective powertrain that can tow up to 3,500 pounds and offers 20 city/27 hwy mpg in FWD models. AWD versions give you 19 city/26 hwy mpg and can tow up to 5,000 pounds.

When can you buy a 2023 Honda Pilot?

Honda doesn’t intend to delay the release of the 2023 model of the Pilot SUV. The next generation model should be available in the fall of 2022 as a 2023 model.

Where does the Pilot fit?

The new version of the Honda Pilot should fit right into the three-row midsize SUV class. This SUV brings new style elements and tech to add modern flair and a more rugged appearance. While we still have some questions left unanswered, it’s easy to see some of the improvements made to this popular family-sized SUV.

Next, take a look at the upcoming Toyota Tacoma Electric, or watch the 2023 Honda Pilot in the video below:

This article was updated on 7/24/2022.