The Differences Between the 2015 Honda Pilot and 2016 Honda Pilot Redesign

The 2016 Honda Pilot redesign was unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show this February, and we immediately had drivers asking us what the differences were between the 2015 Honda Pilot and the 2016 Pilot’s changes. We can’t know all of the changes until we hit the 2016 Pilot’s release date, but we have a quick overview of the updates we know are coming to Honda’s eight-passenger, three-row SUV.

Exterior Changes

While we have always been fans of the Pilot’s unique look and feel, we also know that it has led some drivers to make assumptions about the vehicle being low-tech or low-comfort when it’s clear from looking at the features and capabilities of the 2015 model that Honda’s SUV is anything but.

The 2016 Pilot redesign will be a bit more true to form for the crossover, giving it a softer and high-tailed appearance that puts it closer to the CR-V than older Pilot models. Chrome touches give the Pilot another level of class, and it looks like the aerodynamic sculpt also helped Honda’s SUV shed some weight—it’s down nearly 300 pounds from the 2015 model.

The All-new Earth Dreams 3.5L V6 Engine

We don’t have the power output of the new 3.5L i-VTEC direct-injection engine yet, but we do know that the 2015 Pilot’s power output from its 3.5L engine was 250 hp and 253 lb-ft of torque.

We do know that variable cylinder management will still be in effect on the engine, and some models will be equipped with Honda’s idle stop technology to help reduce fuel consumption while idling. The 2016 Pilot redesign will keep the option of front- or all-wheel drive on the SUV, though the old transmission is out for your choice of either a six-speed automatic or a nine-speed automatic.

Honda has yet to release fuel economy numbers on the new engine, however the 2015 Honda Pilot 2WD earned an EPA-estimated 25 highway mpg*. Considering that the 2016 model may be lighter, we expect good things.

New Features

The standard and available features of the 2015 Pilot were some of the best in its class, including amenities like:

• Bluetooth HandsFreeLink for Phone and Audio
• Honda’s i-MID Infotainment System with 8-inch Touchscreen
• Rearview Camera System with Guidelines

But the 2016 Pilot changes look like Honda has really outdone itself, giving drivers access to interior features like second-row captain’s chairs, heated second-row seating, heated and ventilated front seats, as well as the Honda Sensing suite of safety and driver assistance tech that includes:

• Honda LaneWatch
• Lane Departure Warning
• Forward Collision Warning
• Lane Keeping Assist
• Rear Cross Traffic Monitor

Test Drive a Pilot Today

If you need to have your SUV now, we have the 2015 Honda Pilot in stock and ready to drive off the lot in five different trim levels, just contact us for a test drive. If you’re patient enough to wait for the summer for the 2016 Honda Pilot redesign release date, we still encourage you to test drive the current model to get a rough idea of what to expect from Honda’s SUV.

*Based on 2015 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.