Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2026 Honda Pilot
Our scoring places the 2026 Honda Pilot at 8.2/10 overall, which translates to a Recommended rating for this suv. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.9/10, while Performance at 7.4/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. At 8.7/10, reliability is one of this suv's best cards — few vehicles in our database score higher on this dimension. The 8.9/10 safety score puts it near the top of the class on this dimension; the official trim-level results at nhtsa.gov are worth a final check.
Performance scores 7.4/10 — competent for everyday use. Acceleration and handling are adequate for commuting and highway driving, though enthusiasts will want to look at higher-rated alternatives. Tech rates a reasonable 7.7/10: the essentials are covered and well executed, but rivals at the same price often include more as standard.
Priced from $40,695–$50,433, 21 MPG, seating 7, the Honda Pilot sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. Value is where it presses its advantage — 8.0/10, meaning the feature set and quality outrun the asking price. As the current model year, it benefits from the latest updates and full manufacturer warranty coverage.
Our take: The 2026 Honda Pilot is a solid, well-rounded suv that covers the essentials without obvious deal-breakers. For most buyers in this segment, it's a safe, dependable choice.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2026 Honda Pilot ranks #29 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 99% of the segment. Its 8.2/10 overall score is 0.8 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $40,695 starting price is about 13% above the segment's median of $36,079.
$0 — 1 campaign on record; recall work is always free at franchised dealers
Insurance
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Pilot Year Should You Buy?
Across the Pilot model years we've scored, the 2026 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Proven long-term reliability — lower unplanned repair costs than class average
Top-tier safety scores across crash tests and driver-assistance tech
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Fuel economy at 21 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
NHTSA Recalls — 2026 Honda Pilot (1 on record)
The following recall campaign has been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle with our free VIN recall checker.
Suspension / Rear 01/07/2026 · 26V424000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2026 Pilot and Passport vehicles. The rear subframe bolts may have been tightened improperly.
Source: NHTSA recall database, fetched at page build time.
Own a 2026 Honda Pilot that's been repaired repeatedly for the same problem? It may qualify under your state's lemon law — run the free lemon law check →
Common Questions — 2026 Honda Pilot
Is the 2026 Honda Pilot reliable?
We rate the 2026 Honda Pilot's reliability 8.7/10 — one of the stronger records in its class. It has 1 NHTSA recall campaign on record for this model year (details in the recalls section above — repairs are free at dealers).
How many recalls does the 2026 Honda Pilot have?
1 NHTSA recall campaign matched this model and year as of our latest check. Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is the 2026 Honda Pilot worth buying?
It scores 8.2/10 overall, ranking #29 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 99% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2026 Honda Pilot cost?
The 2026 Honda Pilot starts at $40,695 and ranges up to $50,433 across trims (MSRP when new). At 21 MPG, expect roughly $2,500/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Pilot years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 12 Pilot model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (8.2/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
What problems does the 2026 Honda Pilot have?
The documented issues for the 2026 Honda Pilot are its NHTSA recall campaigns, which involve: Suspension (details in the recalls section above; repairs are free at dealers). For wear-and-tear patterns beyond recalls, owner forums are the best source — we only report what federal data documents.
Owner Essentials — Honda Pilot
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Similar SUV to Consider
Other suvs at a similar price point, ranked by Carivo score.
Representative photo — may show another model year
