The Pilot's unibody construction and independent suspension are designed to provide handling similar to that of a car, and it has integrated perimeter frame rails to permit towing and light off-road use.

[7] The 2003 and 2004 model year Pilots featured the J35A4 engine, an all-aluminum 3.5L V6 SOHC with VTEC, producing 240 hp (179 kW) and 242 lb⋅ft (328 N⋅m) of torque.

With powertrain updates and the lack of VTM-4 the FWD version had improved fuel economy of 18-city/24-highway, an increase of +1/+2 mpg versus the 4WD.

Pilots with Honda's Variable Torque Management 4WD system (VTM-4) sent most power to the front wheels under normal driving conditions.

The Pilot can accommodate eight passengers in three rows configured as stadium seating[clarification needed] as a standard feature.

The third row can seat three, but the limited legroom makes it suitable only for small children or adults on short trips.

[11] In 2004, for the 2005 model year, Honda added tire pressure monitoring, electronic stability control, revised steering, and upgraded the airbags.

Changes to the exterior included a new fascia with a different grille insert and halogen projector headlights, and tail lights with clear lenses.

On the inside, side airbags were provided in the C pillar, the gauge cluster was updated and the center console featured chrome trim and redesigned storage compartments and cup holders.

This VCM tech proved to be problematic in some cases, which led to a class action lawsuit for Honda Motor Co.[12] In 2006, for the 2007 model year, Honda added Nimbus Gray Metallic, Dark Cherry Pearl, Aberdeen Green Metallic, and Formal Black as four new colors to all models.

The larger second generation Pilot was unveiled as a prototype in January 2008 at the North American International Auto Show, and was released for sale on May 22, 2008.

[16] In 2011, for the 2012 model year introduced a redesigned front fascia, new alloy wheels, and updates to the interior along with changes to the bumper.

[17] In 2012, for the 2013 model year included a standard rearview backup camera, i-MID central dashboard 8-inch LCD screen, USB connector, Bluetooth hands-free calling and wireless audio streaming, and tri-zone climate control.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found the Honda Pilot's driver death rate of 2 deaths per million registered among the ten lowest released in their report[19][20] *vehicle structure also rated "Poor" The third-generation 2016 Pilot debuted at the Chicago Auto Show in February 2015, and production began in May.

Newly available safety features include Honda's LaneWatch passenger-side mirror camera or Blind Spot Information (BSI) and rear Cross Traffic Monitor.

[29] Additional options, including Forward Collision Warning (FCW) with Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) with Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) and Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) are available as part of the Honda Sensing suite.

[30] Though overall dimensions are smaller, the interior becomes more spacious modelled after the Odyssey, and weight is down approximately 300 lb (140 kg) with noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) reduced.

The powertrain for the Pilot has remained unchanged, but Honda did revise the nine-speed transmission and start-stop system that are only found on the Touring and Elite trims.

The exterior featured new bumpers, grille, wheels, standard LED headlights, and revised tail lights.

The infotainment system is updated with the latest HondaLink software and it also features the CabinControl app (also found in the Odyssey).

Other changes to the 2022 model year Pilot include the 8-inch infotainment system and LED headlights becoming standard equipment and the introduction of a new Sonic Gray Pearl exterior paint color.

This generation of Pilot contends directly with Toyota’s 2023 Grand Highlander, becoming bigger in size while keeping the sleek body for reduced drag and weight.