Honda’s three-row SUV has just been redesigned. The new generation brings improvements in many aspects, starting from a bolder and more attractive look, nicer interior and more modern features. Therefore, we have no doubt that the new model will continue to be one of the major players in the segment. However, it looks like the Japanese carmaker wants more than that. Namely, the company needs something to attract new buyers and as things aren’t going that fast with the electrification, the logical solution is to offer more performance variants. Therefore, rumors suggest more models with the well-known “Type R” badge, and this even refers to a family hauler such as the Pilot. From what we can hear, such a model could come already in the second production year, as the 2024 Honda Pilot Type R.
Without a doubt, that version would come with all kinds of upgrades. Just like in other Type R models, we expect to see a big powertrain upgrade, along with other mechanical enhancements. Of course, we would also expect to see a lot of exclusive styling details, which would accentuate the model’s high-performance character.
2024 Honda Pilot Type R Powertrain
Of course, one of the most important upgrades would be under the hood. The new generation continued with a familiar 3.5-liter V6, with a minor 5-hp power increase compared to the previous generation. The new model puts out around 285 horsepower and while that’s plenty enough power for a family SUV, we would expect more from something with the Type R badge.
Therefore, it’s no wonder that the 2024 Honda Pilot Type R has been rumored with a new engine. Most likely, that would be a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6, which already powers the Acura MDX Type S, with a max output of 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. We presume that the high-performance Pilot would feature a similar amount of power.
Other sources go even further and suggest a plug-in hybrid setup. However, the problem is that Honda still doesn’t have a proper powertrain of this kind in its portfolio, so the turbo V6 sounds way more likely.
Also, we expect to see this engine coupled with a 10-speed automatic transmission, while the company’s well-known SH-AWD system should also be a part of the standard equipment.
2024 Honda Pilot Type R Design
Besides a more capable powertrain, we would expect the 2024 Honda Pilot Type R to come with many other enhancements and would include the rest of the mechanics as well. Of course, we are talking about the chassis and suspension setup. We would expect to see some sporty suspension components, while this version would probably feature lower ground clearance compared to the standard model. We count on some chassis reinforcements, as well as on bigger brakes.
Besides various mechanical upgrades, we also expect the 2024 Honda Pilot Type R to come with several exclusive styling details, starting from the new body kit, which would include more aggressive bumpers and similar things. We would also expect to see a new grille design, as well as bigger wheels with lower-profile tires. Exclusive color options are another thing that sounds quite likely.
Interior
Although a performance SUV, the 2024 Honda Pilot Type R will still remain a practical family hauler. Still, we expect to see all kinds of exclusive interior details, starting from Type R’s recognizable red color scheme. A sporty steering wheel is also expected, just like things like aluminum pedals and other exclusive materials. Still, the overall cabin design should remain the same, with the same dashboard design, same screens, and other tech features.
Still, the overall layout will remain the same. So, the Pilot Type R will also feature a three-row seating configuration, with two rows that accommodated adults with ease and a third row that’s also quite functional. We presume that this version would feature sportier front seats with better side support. Of course, we would see the same, very generous cargo area.
Naturally, we also count on lots of tech features on the list of standard equipment. Some of the highlights should be goodies like a 9.0-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, etc. We also count on lots of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, etc.
2024 Honda Pilot Type R Release Date and Price
The 2024 Honda Pilot Type R is still just a rumor, so we can’t trust those reports that suggest its arrival already by the end of this year. If it arrives, we have no doubt it will be the most expensive model in the lineup. Some sources estimate the starting price of around 55.000 dollars.