The Honda Pilot is certainly not a small vehicle, but its dimensions clearly prevent it from competing with models such as the GMC Yukon or Ford Expedition. According to several sources, the Japanese automaker is currently working on a project called Pilot XXL that could address the situation. However, the brand would not be targeting the American giants directly, but rather larger midsize models such as the Toyota Grand Highlander.
Honda has yet to make any official announcement, but based on what we know so far, the project would involve a vehicle approximately 20 centimetres longer than the Pilot. The goal would be to offer three rows of seating and, more importantly, additional cargo space for larger families.
A Hybrid Powertrain
Rumours suggest that this new, larger vehicle could benefit from Honda’s upcoming generation of V6-based powertrains. We know that this type of powertrain will be intended for the brand’s larger SUVs. It would therefore make sense for a vehicle such as the Pilot XXL to benefit from it.
An Acura Twin
It also appears that Honda may not be the only brand to benefit from a new, larger model, as Acura, the group’s luxury division, could also use the same platform to offer an SUV that is even larger than the popular MDX.
Patience…
The less exciting part of this news has to do with timing. Even though the automaker has yet to issue any official statement, rumours suggest that this new Pilot XXL SUV will not arrive for several years. In fact, reports are pointing to a launch sometime in 2032.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
