The biggest SUV from Honda gets the rugged TrailSport trim for 2026.
Friend of the site Connie Peters reviews the 2026 Honda Pilot TrailSport. Take a look at the video or transcript below to see what she thinks.
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A transcript, summarized by AI and edited by a staffer, is below.
[Image: YouTube Video Thumbnail]
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Summary
The transcript reviews the 2026 Honda Pilot TrailSport, Honda's largest SUV and a three-row midsize SUV positioned against vehicles such as the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade. For 2026, the Pilot receives several updates, including a redesigned grille, larger displays, and Trail Sport-specific equipment.
Exterior and TrailSport equipment
The 2026 Pilot TrailSport gets a more squared-off, rugged-looking grille. The TrailSport sits around the middle of the Pilot lineup, with higher trims varying between Canada and the U.S. The TrailSport is distinguished by its increased ride height, 18-inch wheels, all-terrain tires and off-road-tuned suspension. The reviewed vehicle is finished in Ash Green Metallic, a color identified as specific to the Trail Sport.
Other TrailSport features include roof rails, a panoramic sunroof, orange exterior and interior accents, TrailSport badging and a towing package. The power liftgate is standard across the Pilot range.
Powertrain and capability
The Pilot uses a 3.5-liter V6 producing 285 horsepower, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The reviewer considers the power output adequate for highway and family driving, as well as occasional dirt-road use.
In Canada, Pilot models are all-wheel drive, while the U.S. market offers front-wheel drive on the base model. The all-wheel-drive Pilot can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The TrailSport also includes features intended for light off-road driving, including Trail mode and hill-descent control.
Cargo and third-row space
A major strength highlighted in the transcript is the Pilot's interior space. With the third row folded, there is substantial cargo room, including a rubberized cargo mat, underfloor storage, a 12-volt outlet and a full-size spare tire.
The second-row seats can tilt and slide, making access to the third row easier and allowing a child seat to remain installed. The reviewer is particularly impressed with the third row, describing it as surprisingly spacious. The Pilot's relatively boxy shape provides useful headroom, while third-row passengers get USB-C charging ports, air vents, cupholders and sizable windows.
Second-row and cabin features
Unlike many Pilot configurations that use a second-row bench, the TrailSport uses captain's chairs. The second row includes heated seats, climate controls, USB-C ports and a 115-volt household outlet. Window shades and a panoramic sunroof add to the family-oriented functionality.
The TrailSport's interior theme is marked by orange stitching, embroidery and other orange accents, which appear throughout the cabin.
Technology
For 2026, both the infotainment screen and digital driver display are larger. The reviewer praises the seamless operation of wireless Apple CarPlay.
Other technology includes Google built-in, providing Google Assistant and Google Maps while retaining wireless CarPlay compatibility. The cabin also has a wireless phone charging pad, multiple USB-C ports, memory seating for two, tri-zone climate control and a heated steering wheel.
Pricing and overall impressions
The reviewer views the Pilot as a spacious, practical family SUV that provides considerable cargo capacity without sacrificing third-row usability. The TrailSport adds a more rugged character and equipment while retaining the Pilot's emphasis on family transportation.
The transcript gives a starting price of just about $44,00. The reviewed Trail Sport costs approximately $52,000.
Bottom line: The transcript portrays the 2026 Pilot TrailSport as a three-row SUV that combines family-friendly space and technology with modest off-road capability. Its biggest selling points in the review are the roomy third row, generous cargo capacity, TrailSport equipment, towing capability and practical interior, while the 2026 updates give it a slightly more rugged appearance and improved infotainment displays.