2026 Honda Pilot Exterior Refresh: Larger Grille and Redesigned Scuff Plates

Honda has updated the exterior design of the 2026 Pilot with a larger grille and redesigned scuff plates. The changes focus on visual impact and rugged styling, giving the three-row SUV a stronger road presence. The refresh includes technology upgrades, improved cabin refinement, and revised driving dynamics across all five trim levels.

The 2026 Pilot arrives at Canadian dealerships early in 2026, bringing these styling changes alongside standard all-wheel drive, a 3.5 L V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, and Honda's torque-vectoring i-VTM4 all-wheel drive system.

Redesigned Front Fascia with Larger Grille

The 2026 Pilot's front fascia features a larger grille. The grille treatment varies by trim level, with each receiving specific finishes.

Sport and EX-L trims feature a black grille with a gloss black surround, while Touring and Black Edition models receive a gloss black grille. The TrailSport variant has a grey grille that reinforces its off-road focus. This differentiation helps buyers identify trim levels at a glance while maintaining a cohesive design language across the lineup.

The larger grille proportions give the Pilot a more substantial appearance from the front. The redesigned front end works with the Pilot's existing body lines to create a more integrated look that emphasizes width and stability.

More Pronounced Scuff Plates Front and Rear

Honda has redesigned both front and rear scuff plates for 2026, making them more pronounced and visually distinct. The scuff plates receive different finishes depending on trim level: silver on EX-L, TrailSport, and Touring models, and black on Sport and Black Edition variants.

The TrailSport trim receives an exclusive rear scuff plate design with what Honda describes as a "robust off-road ready style." The TrailSport's rear PILOT logo also gains orange trim that matches its TrailSport badges, creating visual differentiation from other trims.

These scuff plate updates serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. They help protect the vehicle's lower body panels from minor impacts and abrasion. For families in Quebec who use their Pilot for winter recreation or cottage trips on unpaved roads, these details add capability without compromising the SUV's refined appearance.

Additional Exterior Updates Across the Lineup

Beyond the grille and scuff plates, the 2026 Pilot receives several other exterior updates. Roof rails are now standard across all trim levels, including EX-L, which previously lacked this feature. This change increases the Pilot's versatility for families who need to transport kayaks, cargo boxes, or winter sports equipment.

Touring and Black Edition trims feature newly styled 20-inch wheels. The Touring rides on machine-finished Shark Grey alloy wheels with black lug nuts, while the Black Edition receives Berlina Black alloy wheels with black lug nuts.

Two new exterior colours join the palette for 2026: Solar Silver Metallic (available across all trims) and Ash Green Metallic (exclusive to TrailSport). The Ash Green Metallic colour is now available on all Honda TrailSport models, creating visual consistency across Honda's adventure-focused lineup. This colour replaces Diffused Sky Pearl on the TrailSport trim.

At a Glance: 2026 Pilot Exterior Changes

How the Exterior Refresh Fits the Broader 2026 Update

The exterior styling changes complement interior and technology upgrades for 2026. Every Pilot now features a 12.3-inch touchscreen (37% larger than the previous model year) and a 10.2-inch digital driver display (43% larger). Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, Google built-in, and wi-fi hotspot capability bring the Pilot's technology suite up to current expectations.

The cabin is quieter for 2026 thanks to semi-tempered door glass, door insulators, a new hood insulator, and other sound-absorbing technologies. Honda reports noise reduction of 2–3 dB in key frequencies, which translates to a more comfortable environment for passengers on longer drives through Quebec or across provincial borders.

Driving dynamics receive attention through a retuned electric power steering system that provides increased steering feel and precision. The on-centre weight has been increased for more stable highway cruising with less driver input needed, while maintaining responsive feedback on winding roads.

The Pilot's 3.5 L V6 engine remains unchanged, delivering 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque through a 10-speed automatic transmission. The i-VTM4 all-wheel drive system is standard across all trims in Canada, with the ability to send up to 70% of engine torque to the rear axle and distribute 100% of that torque to either rear wheel for improved cornering and traction.

Learn More at Lallier Honda Hull

The 2026 Honda Pilot's exterior refresh gives the three-row SUV a stronger visual presence through its larger grille and redesigned scuff plates. These changes work alongside interior technology upgrades, improved cabin refinement, and revised driving dynamics.

To see how the 2026 Pilot's updated styling and features fit your needs, visit Lallier Honda Hull in Hull. The refreshed Pilot will arrive at Canadian dealerships early in 2026, and the team at Lallier Honda Hull can provide information about trim levels, availability, and how the Pilot's capabilities align with your driving requirements in the Outaouais region.