2026 Honda Pilot: The Ideal Three-Row SUV for Family Vacations

May, June, July, and August are just around the corner, and with them comes the question on the minds of families in the Plateau or Rosemont neighborhoods: which vehicle can comfortably transport two adults, three children, luggage for two weeks, and cover 900 kilometers without any fuss inside? Honda offers several options, but one model that delivers is the 2026 Pilot. With its powerful V6 engine, three rows of seats, a full suite of technology, and an interior designed for long family road trips, it meets the needs of even the most demanding drivers.

The Pilot is one of the most sought-after three-row SUVs in Canada. Its reputation for reliability, versatility, and handling—more akin to a passenger vehicle than an SUV—make it a natural choice for families living near the Champlain Bridge, the Décarie Interchange, or Île des Sœurs who want to enjoy a worry-free vacation.

A 3.5-liter V6 for ultimate smoothness

All 2026 Pilot models share the same 3.5-liter, 24-valve, dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) V6 engine, producing 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and second-generation i-VTM4 all-wheel drive are standard. Towing capacity reaches 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs), allowing you to tow a boat or a small travel trailer for summer destinations.

Driving modes include Sport, Normal, Eco, Snow, Tow, Trail, and Sand, available on all trims except Sport. These settings adapt throttle response, steering feel, and transmission behavior for each driving situation, whether it's cruising around town, long drives on Highway 10 to the Eastern Townships, or navigating a bumpy road on the way to the campsite.

Three rows and up to eight seats

The 2026 Pilot can accommodate up to eight people in the second-row center-bench configuration, or seven with the optional captain's chairs. The second row folds 40/20/40 and features a one-touch tilt system, making access to the third row easy. The third row folds 60/40 and can be stored in the trunk using the In-Trunk system.

Legroom in the second row is generous, and adults can sit comfortably in the third row for short to medium-length trips. Heated front and second-row seats are standard, and some trims offer ventilated front seats for the increasingly intense heat waves in Montreal.

Long-Distance Travel Technology

The base Sport trim already includes a color touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a wireless charger, a 110V outlet, and Wi-Fi connectivity. Higher trims add Honda's navigation system, a rear-view display for passengers, USB ports in the second and third rows, and a more sophisticated audio system. The Honda Sensing suite of safety features is standard and includes adaptive cruise control with low-speed following, autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. For multi-hour trips on Highways 40 or 20, these features reduce driver fatigue and improve safety for the whole family.

Versions for every budget

The 2026 Pilot lineup includes five trims: Sport, EX-L, TrailSport, Touring, and Black Edition. The Sport trim offers a full complement of standard equipment for families looking for great value. The TrailSport trim adds off-road-tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, and recovery accessories. The Touring and Black Edition trims offer the highest levels of equipment and comfort, with ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system.

Go on vacation without compromise

A reliable, well-equipped, and enjoyable-to-drive three-row SUV remains the ideal vehicle for Montreal families who want to explore Quebec during the summer. The 2026 Pilot does this very well, offering you complete peace of mind. The Lallier Honda Montreal team is here to introduce you to the model during your next dealership visit. Even better, we invite you to take the wheel and experience the Pilot in more detail, helping you choose the version that best suits your needs. Come learn more and leave with all the answers you need before hitting the road for your vacation.