Mid-life update for the three-year-old SUV introduces a new grille, updated wheels, and potentially a hybrid power option. 10 hours ago by Chris Chilton Honda is currently testing a lightly camouflaged Pilot SUV on roads in the U.S. The prototype features camo on its bumpers and a more robust grille. A first-ever hybrid powertrain is anticipated for model year 2028. Honda’s fourth-generation Pilot was launched in late 2022, making it relatively new. However, with sales declining in 2025 and criticism regarding its design and interior quality, the timing is appropriate for some enhancements. Also: New Prelude Achieves 0-62 in 7.2 Seconds with Launch Control, Yet Still Falls Short Against Civic Spy photographers have captured images of Honda’s largest SUV for the U.S. market undergoing tests, heavily disguised at the front. What’s Concealed Under the Camo? The disguise covers the front and rear bumpers but is most pronounced on the grille, which appears to be larger and more off-road oriented in the updated Pilot. Baldauf There are no modifications to the lights visible at this time, but we expect the LED light signatures to have minor changes for production, while the overall shape of the light units remains unchanged. This prototype features wheels that seem different from those available on Honda’s configurator. Looking through the windows, the interior likely showcases a larger, potentially standard digital instrument cluster across all models. The infotainment screen also seems poised for an upgrade, possibly a 12-inch or larger display, aligning it more closely with what competitors have been providing. Honda has yet to unveil its MY26 Pilot, so it is possible that we are seeing this version. However, it’s more likely that Honda will postpone these updates until MY27, introducing them in the summer or fall of 2026. What Will Power It? Regardless, we may need to wait a bit longer for the significant change heading for the Pilot: hybrid power. Currently, the SUV is available with a single engine, a 285 hp (289 PS) 3.5-liter V6 that propels either the front or all four wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission. Many competitors already offer hybrid engine options that provide better fuel efficiency. Honda has acknowledged plans to introduce a new hybrid engine by the latter part of this decade aimed at enhancing performance, economy, and towing capabilities for its larger vehicles. The Pilot certainly qualifies as one of those larger models, though it remains uncertain whether the existing Pilot will adopt hybrid power or if we will need to wait for the fifth-generation SUV. However, it seems unlikely that Honda can wait until 2028 or 2029 to electrify this model. Related: Government Investigates Honda and Acura Engine Failures Following a Spike in Complaints One expectation from the facelifted version of the current Pilot is the continued availability of the off-road-themed TrailSport variant, as buyers appear to be increasingly interested in SUVs that resemble and perform like traditional off-road vehicles. Baldauf

Mid-life update for the three-year-old SUV introduces a new grille, updated wheels, and potentially a hybrid power option. 10 hours ago by Chris Chilton Honda is currently testing a lightly camouflaged Pilot SUV on roads in the U.S. The prototype features camo on its bumpers and a more robust grille. A first-ever hybrid powertrain is anticipated for model year 2028. Honda’s fourth-generation Pilot was launched in late 2022, making it relatively new. However, with sales declining in 2025 and criticism regarding its design and interior quality, the timing is appropriate for some enhancements. Also: New Prelude Achieves 0-62 in 7.2 Seconds with Launch Control, Yet Still Falls Short Against Civic Spy photographers have captured images of Honda’s largest SUV for the U.S. market undergoing tests, heavily disguised at the front. What’s Concealed Under the Camo? The disguise covers the front and rear bumpers but is most pronounced on the grille, which appears to be larger and more off-road oriented in the updated Pilot. Baldauf There are no modifications to the lights visible at this time, but we expect the LED light signatures to have minor changes for production, while the overall shape of the light units remains unchanged. This prototype features wheels that seem different from those available on Honda’s configurator. Looking through the windows, the interior likely showcases a larger, potentially standard digital instrument cluster across all models. The infotainment screen also seems poised for an upgrade, possibly a 12-inch or larger display, aligning it more closely with what competitors have been providing. Honda has yet to unveil its MY26 Pilot, so it is possible that we are seeing this version. However, it’s more likely that Honda will postpone these updates until MY27, introducing them in the summer or fall of 2026. What Will Power It? Regardless, we may need to wait a bit longer for the significant change heading for the Pilot: hybrid power. Currently, the SUV is available with a single engine, a 285 hp (289 PS) 3.5-liter V6 that propels either the front or all four wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission. Many competitors already offer hybrid engine options that provide better fuel efficiency. Honda has acknowledged plans to introduce a new hybrid engine by the latter part of this decade aimed at enhancing performance, economy, and towing capabilities for its larger vehicles. The Pilot certainly qualifies as one of those larger models, though it remains uncertain whether the existing Pilot will adopt hybrid power or if we will need to wait for the fifth-generation SUV. However, it seems unlikely that Honda can wait until 2028 or 2029 to electrify this model. Related: Government Investigates Honda and Acura Engine Failures Following a Spike in Complaints One expectation from the facelifted version of the current Pilot is the continued availability of the off-road-themed TrailSport variant, as buyers appear to be increasingly interested in SUVs that resemble and perform like traditional off-road vehicles. Baldauf

      Detroit automakers are facing repercussions from Canada as Ottawa reduces import quotas and reignites tensions over job losses.

      Following GM and Stellantis's decision to reduce production in Canada, the federal government has announced limits on the number of tariff-free vehicles these companies can import.

      This situation poses challenges for Detroit automakers, with both GM and Ford issuing warnings about the potential consequences for future investments in Canada, which might impact the country’s manufacturing sector.

      The Canadian government previously imposed its own retaliatory measures in response to U.S. tariffs on various American goods. However, it had provided exemptions for automakers, enabling them to import a specific number of vehicles without incurring duties. These exemptions required manufacturers to uphold jobs and investments in Canada to retain eligibility.

      Recent actions by GM and Stellantis have raised concerns with the government, suggesting they have not upheld their commitments. GM announced it will discontinue production of its BrightDrop electric vans in Ingersoll, Ontario, which is a significant loss in its electric vehicle presence in the country. Around the same period, Stellantis decided against building the next-generation Jeep Compass in Brampton, opting to move production to Illinois instead.

      While Ontario Premier Doug Ford has indicated Stellantis plans to replace the Compass with a different model, Canadian industry minister Melanie Joly suggested the company might face legal action due to the change in plans.

      In light of these developments, Canada has decided to cut GM’s remission quota by 24% and Stellantis’s by 50%, according to CTV News.

      The industry has expressed dissatisfaction with this situation. Brian Kingston, president of the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association, which represents GM, Ford, and Stellantis, criticized the government's timing, stating that the decision worsens their competitiveness in manufacturing. He remarked to The Globe and Mail that the current tariff regime, combined with the electric vehicle mandate and potential legal threats, makes it difficult to envision any new investments in Canada under these circumstances.

Mid-life update for the three-year-old SUV introduces a new grille, updated wheels, and potentially a hybrid power option. 10 hours ago by Chris Chilton Honda is currently testing a lightly camouflaged Pilot SUV on roads in the U.S. The prototype features camo on its bumpers and a more robust grille. A first-ever hybrid powertrain is anticipated for model year 2028. Honda’s fourth-generation Pilot was launched in late 2022, making it relatively new. However, with sales declining in 2025 and criticism regarding its design and interior quality, the timing is appropriate for some enhancements. Also: New Prelude Achieves 0-62 in 7.2 Seconds with Launch Control, Yet Still Falls Short Against Civic Spy photographers have captured images of Honda’s largest SUV for the U.S. market undergoing tests, heavily disguised at the front. What’s Concealed Under the Camo? The disguise covers the front and rear bumpers but is most pronounced on the grille, which appears to be larger and more off-road oriented in the updated Pilot. Baldauf There are no modifications to the lights visible at this time, but we expect the LED light signatures to have minor changes for production, while the overall shape of the light units remains unchanged. This prototype features wheels that seem different from those available on Honda’s configurator. Looking through the windows, the interior likely showcases a larger, potentially standard digital instrument cluster across all models. The infotainment screen also seems poised for an upgrade, possibly a 12-inch or larger display, aligning it more closely with what competitors have been providing. Honda has yet to unveil its MY26 Pilot, so it is possible that we are seeing this version. However, it’s more likely that Honda will postpone these updates until MY27, introducing them in the summer or fall of 2026. What Will Power It? Regardless, we may need to wait a bit longer for the significant change heading for the Pilot: hybrid power. Currently, the SUV is available with a single engine, a 285 hp (289 PS) 3.5-liter V6 that propels either the front or all four wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission. Many competitors already offer hybrid engine options that provide better fuel efficiency. Honda has acknowledged plans to introduce a new hybrid engine by the latter part of this decade aimed at enhancing performance, economy, and towing capabilities for its larger vehicles. The Pilot certainly qualifies as one of those larger models, though it remains uncertain whether the existing Pilot will adopt hybrid power or if we will need to wait for the fifth-generation SUV. However, it seems unlikely that Honda can wait until 2028 or 2029 to electrify this model. Related: Government Investigates Honda and Acura Engine Failures Following a Spike in Complaints One expectation from the facelifted version of the current Pilot is the continued availability of the off-road-themed TrailSport variant, as buyers appear to be increasingly interested in SUVs that resemble and perform like traditional off-road vehicles. Baldauf Mid-life update for the three-year-old SUV introduces a new grille, updated wheels, and potentially a hybrid power option. 10 hours ago by Chris Chilton Honda is currently testing a lightly camouflaged Pilot SUV on roads in the U.S. The prototype features camo on its bumpers and a more robust grille. A first-ever hybrid powertrain is anticipated for model year 2028. Honda’s fourth-generation Pilot was launched in late 2022, making it relatively new. However, with sales declining in 2025 and criticism regarding its design and interior quality, the timing is appropriate for some enhancements. Also: New Prelude Achieves 0-62 in 7.2 Seconds with Launch Control, Yet Still Falls Short Against Civic Spy photographers have captured images of Honda’s largest SUV for the U.S. market undergoing tests, heavily disguised at the front. What’s Concealed Under the Camo? The disguise covers the front and rear bumpers but is most pronounced on the grille, which appears to be larger and more off-road oriented in the updated Pilot. Baldauf There are no modifications to the lights visible at this time, but we expect the LED light signatures to have minor changes for production, while the overall shape of the light units remains unchanged. This prototype features wheels that seem different from those available on Honda’s configurator. Looking through the windows, the interior likely showcases a larger, potentially standard digital instrument cluster across all models. The infotainment screen also seems poised for an upgrade, possibly a 12-inch or larger display, aligning it more closely with what competitors have been providing. Honda has yet to unveil its MY26 Pilot, so it is possible that we are seeing this version. However, it’s more likely that Honda will postpone these updates until MY27, introducing them in the summer or fall of 2026. What Will Power It? Regardless, we may need to wait a bit longer for the significant change heading for the Pilot: hybrid power. Currently, the SUV is available with a single engine, a 285 hp (289 PS) 3.5-liter V6 that propels either the front or all four wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission. Many competitors already offer hybrid engine options that provide better fuel efficiency. Honda has acknowledged plans to introduce a new hybrid engine by the latter part of this decade aimed at enhancing performance, economy, and towing capabilities for its larger vehicles. The Pilot certainly qualifies as one of those larger models, though it remains uncertain whether the existing Pilot will adopt hybrid power or if we will need to wait for the fifth-generation SUV. However, it seems unlikely that Honda can wait until 2028 or 2029 to electrify this model. Related: Government Investigates Honda and Acura Engine Failures Following a Spike in Complaints One expectation from the facelifted version of the current Pilot is the continued availability of the off-road-themed TrailSport variant, as buyers appear to be increasingly interested in SUVs that resemble and perform like traditional off-road vehicles. Baldauf Mid-life update for the three-year-old SUV introduces a new grille, updated wheels, and potentially a hybrid power option. 10 hours ago by Chris Chilton Honda is currently testing a lightly camouflaged Pilot SUV on roads in the U.S. The prototype features camo on its bumpers and a more robust grille. A first-ever hybrid powertrain is anticipated for model year 2028. Honda’s fourth-generation Pilot was launched in late 2022, making it relatively new. However, with sales declining in 2025 and criticism regarding its design and interior quality, the timing is appropriate for some enhancements. Also: New Prelude Achieves 0-62 in 7.2 Seconds with Launch Control, Yet Still Falls Short Against Civic Spy photographers have captured images of Honda’s largest SUV for the U.S. market undergoing tests, heavily disguised at the front. What’s Concealed Under the Camo? The disguise covers the front and rear bumpers but is most pronounced on the grille, which appears to be larger and more off-road oriented in the updated Pilot. Baldauf There are no modifications to the lights visible at this time, but we expect the LED light signatures to have minor changes for production, while the overall shape of the light units remains unchanged. This prototype features wheels that seem different from those available on Honda’s configurator. Looking through the windows, the interior likely showcases a larger, potentially standard digital instrument cluster across all models. The infotainment screen also seems poised for an upgrade, possibly a 12-inch or larger display, aligning it more closely with what competitors have been providing. Honda has yet to unveil its MY26 Pilot, so it is possible that we are seeing this version. However, it’s more likely that Honda will postpone these updates until MY27, introducing them in the summer or fall of 2026. What Will Power It? Regardless, we may need to wait a bit longer for the significant change heading for the Pilot: hybrid power. Currently, the SUV is available with a single engine, a 285 hp (289 PS) 3.5-liter V6 that propels either the front or all four wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission. Many competitors already offer hybrid engine options that provide better fuel efficiency. Honda has acknowledged plans to introduce a new hybrid engine by the latter part of this decade aimed at enhancing performance, economy, and towing capabilities for its larger vehicles. The Pilot certainly qualifies as one of those larger models, though it remains uncertain whether the existing Pilot will adopt hybrid power or if we will need to wait for the fifth-generation SUV. However, it seems unlikely that Honda can wait until 2028 or 2029 to electrify this model. Related: Government Investigates Honda and Acura Engine Failures Following a Spike in Complaints One expectation from the facelifted version of the current Pilot is the continued availability of the off-road-themed TrailSport variant, as buyers appear to be increasingly interested in SUVs that resemble and perform like traditional off-road vehicles. Baldauf

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Honda's 2027 Pilot Aims to Compete Again with the Ford Explorer | Carscoops Honda's 2027 Pilot Aims to Compete Again with the Ford Explorer | Carscoops The three-year-old SUV receives a mid-life update featuring a new grille, revised wheels, and potentially hybrid power options. The most significant car news and reviews, no nonsense. Our complimentary daily newsletter delivers the important stories directly to you every weekday. In the past ten years, we've witnessed the revival of numerous car model names. As you may have observed, many of the new vehicles bear little resemblance to their namesake predecessors. Some instances are more striking than others (Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, Ford Maverick), but the question persists—why do manufacturers engage in this practice? As our Editor-in-Chief and video host Kyle Cheromcha details in the latest mini-documentary on The Drive’s YouTube channel, there's more to resurrecting car names than simply exploiting nostalgia for profit. The process of naming a car is highly intricate and involves numerous stakeholders. Leveraging an old name has significant appeal for automakers aiming to market their products across diverse cultures and markets. Moreover, nostalgia is indeed a powerful influence. Even if consumers are uncertain about why a name is familiar, something that sparks even a slight sense of recognition is more likely to trigger interest among potential buyers. Additionally, it allows manufacturers to ride the momentum of "Make Model Is Coming Back" headlines. More importantly, the risks associated with launching a completely new name with no established recognition are considerable. Do you remember the Acura ILX? Probably not, and neither does anyone else. In contrast, the Integra utilized the same concept (compact platform combined with luxury and an available manual transmission), and suddenly it garnered a tremendous amount of excitement. Ford has been particularly aggressive in reviving old model names. The popular Ford Maverick bears no resemblance to the Maverick from the 1970s. As for the Mustang Mach-E, would people have been nearly as enthusiastic about an electric crossover from Ford if it didn’t invoke one of the most recognizable sub-brands in the automotive world? So yes, unapologetic cash-grabbing plays a significant role. However, another major aspect is the intricate corporate environment surrounding car naming. Be sure to watch the video for a deeper exploration of the history and context behind the resurgence of these "zombie" car names. Visit The Drive’s YouTube channel for more videos like this and other automotive programming! The most significant car news and reviews, no nonsense. Our complimentary daily newsletter delivers the important stories directly to you every weekday. In the past ten years, we've witnessed the revival of numerous car model names. As you may have observed, many of the new vehicles bear little resemblance to their namesake predecessors. Some instances are more striking than others (Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, Ford Maverick), but the question persists—why do manufacturers engage in this practice? As our Editor-in-Chief and video host Kyle Cheromcha details in the latest mini-documentary on The Drive’s YouTube channel, there's more to resurrecting car names than simply exploiting nostalgia for profit. The process of naming a car is highly intricate and involves numerous stakeholders. Leveraging an old name has significant appeal for automakers aiming to market their products across diverse cultures and markets. Moreover, nostalgia is indeed a powerful influence. Even if consumers are uncertain about why a name is familiar, something that sparks even a slight sense of recognition is more likely to trigger interest among potential buyers. Additionally, it allows manufacturers to ride the momentum of "Make Model Is Coming Back" headlines. More importantly, the risks associated with launching a completely new name with no established recognition are considerable. Do you remember the Acura ILX? Probably not, and neither does anyone else. In contrast, the Integra utilized the same concept (compact platform combined with luxury and an available manual transmission), and suddenly it garnered a tremendous amount of excitement. Ford has been particularly aggressive in reviving old model names. The popular Ford Maverick bears no resemblance to the Maverick from the 1970s. As for the Mustang Mach-E, would people have been nearly as enthusiastic about an electric crossover from Ford if it didn’t invoke one of the most recognizable sub-brands in the automotive world? So yes, unapologetic cash-grabbing plays a significant role. However, another major aspect is the intricate corporate environment surrounding car naming. 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Mid-life update for the three-year-old SUV introduces a new grille, updated wheels, and potentially a hybrid power option. 10 hours ago by Chris Chilton Honda is currently testing a lightly camouflaged Pilot SUV on roads in the U.S. The prototype features camo on its bumpers and a more robust grille. A first-ever hybrid powertrain is anticipated for model year 2028. Honda’s fourth-generation Pilot was launched in late 2022, making it relatively new. However, with sales declining in 2025 and criticism regarding its design and interior quality, the timing is appropriate for some enhancements. Also: New Prelude Achieves 0-62 in 7.2 Seconds with Launch Control, Yet Still Falls Short Against Civic Spy photographers have captured images of Honda’s largest SUV for the U.S. market undergoing tests, heavily disguised at the front. What’s Concealed Under the Camo? The disguise covers the front and rear bumpers but is most pronounced on the grille, which appears to be larger and more off-road oriented in the updated Pilot. Baldauf There are no modifications to the lights visible at this time, but we expect the LED light signatures to have minor changes for production, while the overall shape of the light units remains unchanged. This prototype features wheels that seem different from those available on Honda’s configurator. Looking through the windows, the interior likely showcases a larger, potentially standard digital instrument cluster across all models. The infotainment screen also seems poised for an upgrade, possibly a 12-inch or larger display, aligning it more closely with what competitors have been providing. Honda has yet to unveil its MY26 Pilot, so it is possible that we are seeing this version. However, it’s more likely that Honda will postpone these updates until MY27, introducing them in the summer or fall of 2026. What Will Power It? Regardless, we may need to wait a bit longer for the significant change heading for the Pilot: hybrid power. Currently, the SUV is available with a single engine, a 285 hp (289 PS) 3.5-liter V6 that propels either the front or all four wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission. Many competitors already offer hybrid engine options that provide better fuel efficiency. Honda has acknowledged plans to introduce a new hybrid engine by the latter part of this decade aimed at enhancing performance, economy, and towing capabilities for its larger vehicles. The Pilot certainly qualifies as one of those larger models, though it remains uncertain whether the existing Pilot will adopt hybrid power or if we will need to wait for the fifth-generation SUV. However, it seems unlikely that Honda can wait until 2028 or 2029 to electrify this model. Related: Government Investigates Honda and Acura Engine Failures Following a Spike in Complaints One expectation from the facelifted version of the current Pilot is the continued availability of the off-road-themed TrailSport variant, as buyers appear to be increasingly interested in SUVs that resemble and perform like traditional off-road vehicles. Baldauf

Detroit automakers are facing consequences from Canada as Ottawa reduces import quotas and raises tensions over job losses across the border.