The next generation of Honda’s popular mid-size SUV is on the way. We expect to see all kinds of novelties and notable improvements over the previous generation. Of course, we will see things like a new design, new interior, more tech features, and similar things. Also, we expect that base models will continue with a familiar 3.5-liter V6 engine. On the other hand, we also expect some sort of electrification and most reports speculate about the 2023 Honda Pilot EV. At this point, the officials are still quiet about Pilot’s electrification.
However, if we consider Honda’s latest plans to skip hybridization, this makes perfect sense. Base models will carry on with traditional gasoline engines, while the EV version would come for less conservative buyers. This model would be notably more expensive, but we also expect significantly better performance. Most likely, the EV model won’t be ready for the initial launch, nor the first couple of production years. On the other hand, the gasoline model is expected later this year.
2023 Honda Pilot EV Powertrain
Of course, the most interesting aspect of the 2023 Honda Pilot EV would be its powertrain. At this point, it’s still early to talk about details but we may presume that the Japanese manufacturer will rely on GM’s Ultium technology in this case. We presume that base models would come with an RWD setup, while the AWD version would be offered too. The base model could easily come with the same setup as the new Cadillac Lyriq, which features a max output of 340 horsepower and offers an all-electric range of around 300 miles.
On the other hand, standard models would continue with the good-old 3.5-liter V6, which would probably feature around 295 horsepower. We also count on a new 10-speed automatic transmission, the same one that’s used in the new Acura MDX.
2023 Honda Pilot EV Design
Other than the powertrain, the 2023 Honda Pilot EV shouldn’t be much different compared to the standard model. Therefore, you may count on all the benefits that are about to come from this redesign. The new Pilot will share most of its parts with the recently redesigned MDX. This means it will become bigger, with 2.8 more inches in wheelbase and bigger overall dimensions.
Of course, we count on improvements in various aspects, including the suspension setup. The current model is easy to drive and feels pretty smooth, though it isn’t particularly engaging to drive. We presume this could change with the new-generation model.
Exterior
Naturally, this redesign will bring a completely new styling. At this point, the test mule still wears a camouflage, so we can’t discuss details. On the other hand, we may presume that the front end will take a lot of inspiration from the recently updated Ridgeline and offer a bolder and more aggressive look.
The overall shape won’t change much, despite the bigger dimensions. You may count on a typical SUV shape, with a long wagon-like body that will ensure plenty of space on the inside.
Details about the 2023 Honda Pilot EV are still unknown but we presume that this version will come with a couple of exclusive styling details, in order to accentuate its all-electric nature.
Interior
The 2023 Honda Pilot EV interior shouldn’t look significantly different compared to the gasoline version. The upcoming redesign will bring a completely new cabin, with a more attractive dashboard design, nicer materials, and better build quality. Of course, we count on new tech features, such as a massive infotainment screen and a digital instrument cluster. The EV model would, of course, come with few differences, particularly in terms of instrumentalization and similar things.
On the other hand, the overall layout should look pretty much the same. We count on a spacious cabin with three rows of seats and a generous cargo area. The front and second-row seats should be very spacious, while the third row will probably be typically tight for the same. We expect that the Pilot will once again offer one of the largest cargo areas in the segment.
2023 Honda Pilot EV Release Date and Price
At this point, we are pretty sure that the 2023 Honda Pilot EV won’t be ready for the initial launch of the new generation. Once it arrives, we presume that the starting price could go around 50.000 dollars.