2026 Honda Pilot Trim Comparison

Exploring the Different Trim Levels of the 2026 Honda Pilot: Your Complete Guide

If you're considering the 2026 Honda Pilot, understanding its various trim levels is essential to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle and needs. Each trim offers a unique combination of features, technology, and performance enhancements that cater to different preferences, from family comfort to rugged off-road capability. At Vatland Honda, located at 700 U.s. Rte, 1, Vero Beach, FL 32962, our team is ready to assist you in exploring the lineup and selecting the right Pilot trim. Feel free to reach out to us at (772) 299-9797 for personalized guidance.


Table of Contents


Overview of the 2026 Honda Pilot Trim Levels

The 2026 Honda Pilot is available in six distinct trims: Sport, EX-L, TrailSport, Touring, Elite, and Black Edition. These trims progressively build upon one another, offering escalating levels of luxury, technology, and performance. Whether you're driving around Vero Beach or heading out on an adventure to nearby Sebastian, each trim is designed to meet specific driver needs.

The base Sport trim introduces the robust foundation with a capable 285-horsepower V6 engine, front-wheel drive standard, and key features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Moving up to the EX-L, you gain leather-trimmed seats, wireless charging, and enhanced infotainment. The TrailSport trim caters to off-road enthusiasts with specialized suspension and all-terrain tires. The Touring trim elevates luxury with premium Bose audio, panoramic moonroof, and advanced navigation, while the Elite trim adds ventilated seats, a head-up display, and standard all-wheel drive. Finally, the Black Edition offers unique styling cues with gloss-black wheels and red interior accents, combining luxury with a bold aesthetic.

Each trim is carefully engineered to provide a seamless driving experience tailored to specific preferences, whether that’s family comfort, off-road capability, or premium technology.


In-Depth Look at Each 2026 Honda Pilot Trim Level

Sport: The Reliable Foundation

Starting at the Sport, the 2026 Honda Pilot offers a powerful 3.5-liter V6 producing 285 horsepower paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option, delivering flexibility for Florida’s varied weather conditions. Inside, you’ll find heated front seats, a 20-inch alloy wheel design, roof rails for extra cargo capacity, and Honda Sensing® safety technologies including Collision Mitigation Braking System™ and Lane Keeping Assist.

This trim suits families or drivers seeking a capable SUV with essential comforts and safety. Its fuel efficiency stands at an EPA-estimated 19 city / 27 highway mpg, making it well-suited for daily commutes around Vero Beach or weekend trips to Fort Pierce.

EX-L: Comfort and Convenience Upgrades

The EX-L trim builds on Sport’s strengths by adding wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, and a larger 9-inch touchscreen. Leather-trimmed seats introduce a more upscale feel, complemented by parking sensors and a power tailgate for easy cargo access.

This trim hits the sweet spot for buyers prioritizing enhanced interior comfort and tech without stepping into full luxury pricing. The EX-L maintains the same 285-horsepower V6 and fuel economy as Sport, with front-wheel drive standard and available all-wheel drive.

TrailSport: Off-Road Ready

Designed for adventure seekers, the TrailSport trim includes standard i-VTM4® all-wheel drive with Trail Torque Logic, off-road tuned suspension, and 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires. The Multi-View Camera System with TrailWatch™ offers a live feed of ground-level terrain, enhancing off-road confidence.

With a 5,000-pound towing capacity, the TrailSport is ideal for hauling boats or trailers to nearby nature preserves or beaches. Durable synthetic leather seats with orange stitching add rugged style, while the fuel economy adjusts slightly to 18 city / 20 highway mpg due to its enhanced capabilities.

Touring: Elevated Luxury and Technology

The Touring trim is tailored for those seeking premium comfort and tech. It features a panoramic moonroof, Bose premium 12-speaker audio system, Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™, and acoustic laminate glass that reduces outside noise. The hands-free access power tailgate adds convenience, while 20-inch alloy wheels complete the refined exterior.

Inside, the Touring provides a sophisticated cabin environment ideal for longer drives or family road trips. Fuel economy remains strong at 19 city / 27 highway mpg with front-wheel drive.

Elite: The Top-Tier Experience

The Elite trim represents the apex of the Pilot lineup with standard i-VTM4 all-wheel drive, ventilated and heated front seats, heated second-row captain's chairs, and a head-up display that projects driving information onto the windshield. A larger 10.2-inch driver information interface keeps critical data front and center, while LED door trim lighting enhances cabin ambiance.

Elite is perfect for drivers in Vero Beach and surrounding communities who desire the utmost in luxury and technology along with superior traction and control. Its fuel efficiency is rated at 19 city / 21 highway mpg.

Black Edition: Bold Styling Meets Luxury

The Black Edition combines all Elite features with striking visual enhancements such as 20-inch gloss-black alloy wheels, black exterior trim accents, red interior stitching, and red ambient LED lighting. This trim is for those who want their SUV to stand out with a sportier, more aggressive look without compromising on comfort or tech.


Ordering the Honda Pilot Trim Levels: From Base to Premium

Understanding the trim hierarchy helps buyers navigate options efficiently:

  • Sport: Entry-level, solid performance, and essential features.
  • EX-L: Adds leather, wireless charging, and enhanced infotainment.
  • TrailSport: Specialized off-road capabilities for rugged terrain.
  • Touring: Focuses on luxury and tech with premium audio and navigation.
  • Elite: Highest luxury and tech with AWD standard and advanced displays.
  • Black Edition: Elite features plus distinctive blacked-out styling and ambient lighting.

Comparing the Elite and Touring Trims: Which One Fits You?

Choosing between Touring and Elite depends on your priorities:

Touring is ideal if you want a luxurious ride with premium audio, panoramic moonroof, and advanced navigation without the highest price. It includes important convenience features like hands-free power tailgate and acoustic glass, making it a well-rounded choice for everyday driving around Vero Beach.

Elite takes it further by adding standard all-wheel drive, ventilated front seats, a sophisticated head-up display, and heated second-row seats. These features enhance comfort during hot Florida summers and chilly nights, making it perfect for drivers who want the ultimate in technology and luxury.

If you frequently travel through variable weather or desire the latest driver-assistance tech, Elite is the top-tier choice. Touring remains an excellent value for those who prioritize luxury but want to manage cost.


Understanding the Honda Trim Levels Across Models

Honda’s trim levels generally follow a consistent progression across their lineup, including LX (base), Sport, EX, EX-L, Touring, and Elite. Specialty trims like TrailSport address specific use cases such as off-roading, while performance-focused models like Type R and Si target enthusiasts.

For example, the Pilot’s trims mirror this structure, helping buyers familiar with Honda’s system understand what features to expect as they move up. Models like the CR-V and Accord also use this hierarchy with slight variations. Recognizing these patterns helps shoppers make informed decisions when comparing models or evaluating upgrade paths.


The Pinnacle: What Makes the Honda Elite Trim the Highest Level

The Elite trim stands out as Honda’s most luxurious offering within the Pilot lineup and across many of its SUVs and minivans. It combines advanced comfort features like ventilated and heated seating, a panoramic sunroof, and a head-up display with practical advantages such as standard all-wheel drive and advanced driver-assist technologies.

For families and professionals in Vero Beach who demand the highest standards of performance, safety, and luxury, the Elite trim delivers an unmatched driving experience. Its refined interior materials, state-of-the-art technology, and enhanced safety systems make it the definitive choice for those seeking the best Honda has to offer.


Experience the 2026 Honda Pilot in Vero Beach

Selecting the right trim level is crucial to enjoying your new Honda Pilot fully. At Vatland Honda, conveniently located at 700 U.s. Rte, 1, Vero Beach, FL 32962, we invite you to explore our extensive inventory of the 2026 Honda Pilot trims. Our knowledgeable team is ready to provide personalized assistance and arrange test drives so you can experience each trim’s unique qualities firsthand.

Call us anytime at (772) 299-9797 to schedule your visit or to ask any questions about the 2026 Pilot trim levels. Discover the perfect Honda Pilot that fits your lifestyle and enjoy the reliability and innovation Honda is known for in Vero Beach and beyond.