2022 Honda Pilot: Reports, Changes, Price

The family-sized, three-row Honda Pilot SUV was completely revamped for the 2016 model year and received the mid-cycle update for the 2019 season. The 2021 version made a 9-speed automatic transmission and dual-zone climate control standard and introduced a new Special Edition trim level. There are contradicting reports about the next 2022 Honda Pilot version and possible redesign.

Previous Honda Pilot iterations spent six or seven model years on the roads before the full redesign. Reports circulating about the possible arrival of the all-new Pilot for the 2022 season but any proof hasn’t yet appeared to support that claim. The prototype version hasn’t also been spotted to give us insight into the progress of the eventually all-new Honda Pilot. Honda hasn’t also commented on the new-generation Pilot yet. With no prototype on the roads yet and with the ongoing pandemic, the all-new, fourth-generation Pilot is more likely for the 2023 model year.

In contrast to the reports suggesting the all-new 2022 Pilot, some sources claim that the next Pilot will stay the third-generation version for another model year with possible induction of the hybrid powertrain as the most significant upgrade. The new model year should also bring more standard equipment and additional options.

2022 Honda Pilot: Design

Based on what we know so far, the 2022 Honda Pilot should stay in the current generation and return with no significant styling or structural upgrades. Honda should again offer a new special edition version and introduce new wheel and color options.

The mid-size Pilot received the facelift for the 2019 model year with the installed new-version grille and Acura-like headlights. The model has a conventionally shaped profile with subtly sculpted fenders and highlighted character line.

The rear is also conventionally styled with the sculpted tailgate and nicely accentuated taillights.

Interior, Equipment:

The 2022 Honda Pilot should return with the same in-cab design with some changes in the equipment availability and with several new options. Honda might introduce a new special edition version with several unique in-cab details.

The mid-size Pilot has well-used in-cab space and many practical features. The first two rows are roomy and the rearmost is a bit narrow. The cargo capacity is up to 83.9 cubic feet while the cargo volume with all seats up is 16.5 cubes.

The Pilot has also good and easy to configure driving potion. The control arrangement is also simple and easy-to-use.

At the equipment level, the family-sized Pilot SUV offers also a long list of standard features. The base model should go on sale with dual-zone climate control, automatic LED headlights, seven speakers, but could switch to a larger center display. The model will also get an array of active safety systems by default. The safety suite includes systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping system, automatic high-beams, forward collision warning, etc.

Skipping the base trim will bring heated front seats, tri-zone climate control, blind-spot monitoring, keyless entry and more.

The mid-range version will introduce leather upholstery, a power liftgate, sunroof, etc. The top-grade versions will add features such as wireless charging, heated rear seats, navigation, rear-seat entertainment, ventilated front seats, etc.

2022 Honda Pilot: Performance

Powering the 2022 Honda Pilot should remain a familiar 3.5-liter V-6 engine. The engine makes 280 hp and torque of 262 lb-ft. The 8-speed automatic transmission will be standard across the range. All trims except two will offer both, two- and all-wheel drive options.

At the efficiency level, the front-wheel-drive 2022 Pilot should return 20 mpg city and 27 highways. The all-wheel-drive version should score around 19 mpg city and 26 highways.

Honda promised to electrify its SUV and truck lineup and the next Pilot could introduce a more efficient hybrid version. The eventual Honda Pilot Hybrid should use a similar setup as the brand’s current hybrid models. The system should include a V-6 combustion engine or smaller turbocharged unit mixed with electric motors.  The model could also adopt a similar setup as the Acura MDX Hybrid.

2022 Honda Pilot: Release, Price

The 2022 Honda Pilot should reach dealers in late 2021. The base model should be available from about $32, 500. With more equipment and upscale features loaded, the price will instantly go over $40, 000.

The competitors of the Honda Pilot include the Ford Explorer, Chevy Traverse, Toyota Highlander, etc.