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Add Honda to the list of auto manufacturers taking advantage of the off-road frenzy in today’s car market. For 2022, Honda is introducing the Pilot TrailSport. A more rugged version of its popular SUV. This model will come standard with all-wheel drive and adds a suspension lift, for added capability. 

What is the Honda Pilot?

A 2016 Honda Pilot SUV featured at an auto show.
Honda Pilot | Roberto Machado Noa via Getty Images

The Honda Pilot is a three-row SUV that has been offered since 2002. According to MotorTrend, it shares its platform with the Acura MDX as well as the Honda Odyssey. It is currently the largest SUV offered by the brand, with seating for up to eight passengers. Additionally, the Pilot boasts up to 109 cubic feet of cargo space. Making it ideal for a number of different automotive roles.



Honda gives the Pilot a rugged trim, is it worth it?

While it’s unlikely that the Pilot TrailSport will be exploring the same trails as the Jeep Wrangler, it does offer some noteworthy features. When equipped with the TrailSport package, the Pilot will receive an extra 0.6-inches of ground clearance. Additionally, 18-inch black wheels are added with different tires.

There are also visual upgrades. These include TrailSport badging throughout the vehicle as well as more aggressive black cladding around the wheel wells.

The TrailSport package made its debut on the Honda Passport. Which is Honda’s smaller SUV. And it is not a surprise that Honda is capitalizing on the new moniker.

Who is the Honda Pilot TrailSport for?

The Honda Pilot TrailSport is ideal for those who need passenger space, but still want something that can handle some rugged terrain. Because the Honda Pilot boasts three rows of seating, its interior is highly configurable. 

Additionally, the Honda Pilot TrailSport comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, which makes 280 horsepower. This powertrain is complemented by the standard all-wheel drive system. Which means that navigating inclement weather can be done with added peace of mind.

Better yet, the Honda Pilot offers attractive safety features. Making it ideal to handle the family lifestyle. These safety features include things like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. Also notable is the presence of both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Both of which will allow drivers to connect their mobile devices to their Honda SUV.

Will there be more Honda TrailSport models?

A large Honda sign.
The Honda Brand | Kazuhiro Nogi via Getty Images

Honda has not specified which models will be receiving the TrailSport treatment. But with the Pilot and Passport receiving this package, one can speculate that more are on the way. It would not be surprising if vehicles like the Honda Ridgeline benefit from more off-road capability in the future.

This will give shoppers who want off-road capability from their vehicles more options to choose from. Whether they are shopping for a new SUV or a mid-size truck for sale.

Honda has a rich history of producing vehicles with off-road technology and features, combined with attractive packaging. The new Honda Pilot TrailSport is a reflection of that fact. And it is likely that these vehicles will continue to gain in their popularity.

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Writer - Trucks

Eric Boman

Eric Boman joined MotorBiscuit as an Autos Writer in 2022. He brings with him experience writing for companies such as Cox Automotive and HotCars. Eric’s enthusiasm for 4×4 vehicles, off-roading, and novelty exotics began at an early age and, after earning a B.A. in English from Pittsburg State University, Eric set out to merge his love for both writing and cars into a successful career as an automotive journalist. He is also working toward an MBA from Colorado State University.

In order to keep up with our dynamic industry and in a constant effort to stay current when it comes to automotive news, Eric follows the work of publications like Car and Driver and MotorTrend. A passion for world travel also gives voice to some of his unique coverage of European 4x4s. Though much of Eric’s inspiration comes from a drive to be outside in nature and embarking on off-road adventures, he also dreams of one day owning a classic car like the Trabant.

Eric is also Google Analytics Certified. Additionally, Eric is currently an active member of the Kansas City Social Symphony.