The 2024 Honda Pilot Hybrid is one of the most anticipated models of the upcoming season. The company is about to introduce an all-new SUV, and the new drivetrain is a part of the big redesign. We’ve been waiting for a long time. The fresh Pilot will be ready to compete at the highest stages. A hybrid engine is probably the key upgrade that will make it rival the Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer with the same type of powerplant.
Even the base configuration is going to draw attention since the 2024 Pilot is under a complete overhaul. The current version dates back from 2015. Then, the SUV made a stunning impact to the market and we can say Pilot was the most popular model in the three-row segment. Nevertheless, the lack of upgrades in future years leaves room to competition. Toyota opened the door to hybrid three-row SUVs. Nowadays, there are more such configurations.
The 2024 Honda Pilot Hybrid is finally happening. We expected it sooner. The first reason is the popularity of the vehicle. Then, the Japanese company knows to recognize a good investment. And third – prototypes were already spotted some while ago. All in all, a hybrid setup for the 2024 season is shunless.
2024 Honda Pilot Hybrid Spy Photos and Release Date
Let’s start with known things about the 2024 Honda Pilot Hybrid. Unfortunately, there are no official statements. Everything we have are old spy photos showing a test mule with a PHEV system. The clue is an opening above the front wheel, where the charging plug goes into. It gave us hope a couple of years ago that the mid-size SUV is getting a hybrid version. But, with all the things happening around the world, the automotive industry was slowed down. That is why the hybrid version of the Pilot is not available yet.
Now, there are a few reasons to believe the new configuration will be available in 2024. First, a big redesign is coming. Part of it should be an addition of a hybrid engine to improve the overall image. Since the company already tested it, the SUV is probably also coming with the PHEV system as well.
2024 Honda Pilot Hybrid Trailsport Package
The company also announced a new trim level for the upcoming 2024 Honda Pilot Hybrid. That will be the Trailsport, with something totally different than all the stuff we saw before. The Japanese carmaker is entering the off-road market and we’ll see how this package can compete with Toyota 4Runner, Ford Bronco, or Jeep Wrangler. But, enthusiasm is present, both in the company and among fans.
The trim level became available for the outgoing SUV. But, with the new generation coming, we expect even more from Trailsport. Still, suspension setup and damping system will be tuned to survive all the off-road challenges. It is interesting to see how it works with the hybrid engine. It is one of the toughest challenges for engineers. Electric batteries can improve the mileage and total power outputs, but in toughest conditions, engines with internal combustion perform way better.
Specifications, Gas Mileage
Under the hood of the Pilot SUV is a 3.5-liter V6 engine. We expect Honda to carry over its most reliable unit, although it needs a lot of improvements. The drivetrain can produce 290 hp and 270 lb-ft after the last revisit. To make it more capable, electric units will improve those numbers on the 2024 Honda Pilot Hybrid. The horsepower rating won’t go too far. Expect it around 320-330 hp. That is where the competition settles.
Anyway, there is an idea that Honda might hybridize a smaller engine. Plus, turbochargers could help it gain extra power. Type R is also possible. We’ve heard rumors about Acura MDX Type S with the PHEV configuration. However, this didn’t happen and the premium version of the Honda Pilot SUV received a turbocharged system on its performance-oriented package. The new system might be designated for the Pilot Hybrid.
2024 Honda Pilot Hybrid Price
After the redesign, the price of the SUV will jump. Expect the base version around $40,000. The cost of the 2024 Honda Pilot Hybrid will depend on the type of system it deploys and the starting trim level. It won’t be available with the entry-level package, that is for sure. In total, the hybrid system should be available for about $5,000 above the starting price for the regular model. We mentioned Type R. In this case, the MSRP won’t be under $50k. The Trailsport is a $5,000 upgrade available for any type of drivetrain.
The Honda Pilot is going to compete with Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander hybrid SUVs. It is a surprise why the company was waiting for so long, especially having a perfect configuration available in the premium segment for Acura MDX. That system could be one of the solutions for the new 2024 Honda Pilot Hybrid.
