SPIED: 2019 Honda Pilot facelift spotted – eight-seat SUV to get new Insight’s dual-motor hybrid system?

The third-generation Honda Pilot SUV first broke cover four years ago at the Chicago Auto Show, and this set of spy photos is a clear sign that the facelifted version of the eight-seater SUV is on the horizon.

By the looks of things, the facelift will most likely carry the company’s new corporate face. This includes the new multi-reflector LED headlights as per the HR-V facelift, new front grille, redesigned front and rear bumpers as well as a revised rear section. The big news, however, is that it may be fitted with Honda’s new third-generation dual-motor hybrid system as seen on the upcoming Insight.

Not much of its application on the Pilot is known, but the 2019 Insight will get a 1.5 litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine that’s paired with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack. Honda says the sedan will deliver class-leading power and an anticipated US EPA fuel economy combined rating of 21.3 km per litre (similar to other compact hybrid offerings).

If anything, expect the hybrid system on the Pilot to provide additional firepower to the standard 3.5 litre petrol V6, which makes 280 hp and 355 Nm of torque. It features cylinder deactivation and start/stop technology and has all-wheel drive as standard. Transmission-wise, a six-speed auto is standard, but a nine-speed auto is reserved for higher-specced variants.

Elsewhere, the Pilot rides on 18-inch wheels as standard, and this is upgradable to 20-inch items. Other features include multi-angle reverse camera, Honda LaneWatch, rear seat entertainment system and panoramic roof. There are also captain seats and Honda Sensing safety suite on more expensive variants.

The refreshed Pilot is expected to be launched later this year. What do you think of Honda’s flagship SUV?

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