An all-new third-generation Honda Pilot could be coming as soon as this summer, hot on the heels of the 2016 HR-V that will hit the market this spring.
The announcement came during the final automaker press conference of the Detroit Auto Show this week, in which American Honda executive vice president John Mendel called the upcoming product for 2015 “Year of the Honda.”
Though few details were provided, Mendel did confirm that the Pilot would continue to be an 8-passenger SUV. Spy shots seen last year indicate that the large crossover will have LED lighting up front, with some sources claiming a 3.5L V6 capable of 310hp, up 60 from the current 250hp. However, a version of the newly-announced turbocharged VTEC four-cylinder is also possible. Also asserted is a CVT for the front-driven two-wheel-drive versions while the AWD variants get a 6-speed automatic.
Presumably, the Pilot will continue to share a platform with the Ridgeline unibody pickup, which was recently photographed undergoing testing in camouflage. Slated for model year 2016, it will follow the redesigned Pilot to market.
Mendel also mentioned “some more excitement on the passenger car side of our lineup this year as well” but declined to reveal anything more.
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