Honda is considering a larger three-row crossover positioned above the Pilot for production in 2032.
The proposed flagship would share its vehicle platform with a future large Acura three-row crossover.
Honda’s next-generation V6 hybrid architecture targets improved fuel economy, acceleration and electronic all-wheel drive.
Honda is considering something big to counter offers from several of its competitors. By adding a larger three-row crossover above the Pilot, it would finally give the automaker a new entry against vehicles such as the Ford Explorer, Toyota Grand Highlander, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, and others.
The proposed vehicle, identified in planning material as the “Pilot XXL,” is targeted for U.S. production in the first quarter of 2032, according to a person briefed on the plans. Honda has not confirmed the program publicly.
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At nearly eight inches (20 cm) longer than today’s Pilot, the vehicle would provide Honda with a more spacious family model without moving to traditional body-on-frame SUV construction. Forecast annual production exceeds 40,000 units.
The unnamed Honda would reportedly use the same platform as a future three-row Acura flagship. This Acura model, internally called the Acura XL, a possible counter to the Audi Q9, is scheduled to enter production in September 2029, with projected annual volume below 30,000 units.
Where Honda would manufacture either vehicle remains undetermined. The automaker is considering another North American assembly operation, which would become its eighth plant producing vehicles in the region.
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The potential flagship also slots perfectly in Honda’s increasing investment in hybrid technology. Honda has said it plans to introduce 15 next-generation hybrid models globally by March 2030, with North America serving as a primary market.
For larger vehicles, Honda is working on a hybrid system combining a new V6 engine with electric motors. A separate motor driving the rear axle would provide electronic all-wheel drive. The flexible architecture could serve vehicles including the Pilot, Passport, Odyssey, Ridgeline and Acura MDX as well as the new Pilot XXL.
The new hybrid V6 should provide fuel economy improvements exceeding 30% compared with current gasoline V6 models. The company is also seeking a 10% improvement in acceleration while retaining towing capability. The current V6 serving all of the mentioned vehicles produces 280-285 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque.
Demand for such large vehicles is a driving force behind the consideration. U.S. large-crossover sales reached a record 1,302,585 vehicles in 2025 and were 9.2% higher than in 2020, according to Automotive News Research & Data Center figures provided with the report.
For Honda retailers, such a vehicle could also provide an option for customers who’ve grown out of the Pilot, don’t want a minivan, and want to remain with the brand.
Source: Automotive News
