Automotive
Honda may be preparing to go bigger with its three-row SUV lineup. According to Automotive News, the automaker is considering a larger flagship SUV that would sit above the current Pilot and more directly challenge roomy family haulers such as the Ford Explorer and Toyota Grand Highlander. The potential new model is reportedly being targeted for a 2032 launch, giving Honda an opportunity to expand into a part of the market where buyers increasingly expect generous third-row space, sizable cargo capacity and the sort of road presence typically associated with larger SUVs.
Details remain thin at this point, and Honda has not announced specifications, dimensions, production plans or even a name for the prospective vehicle. Still, the idea makes plenty of sense within Honda’s current lineup. The Pilot already serves as the brand’s primary three-row family SUV, but a model positioned above it could give Honda more room to compete with rivals offering multiple large crossover choices. It could also allow the Pilot to remain focused on its current mission rather than simply growing larger with each new generation.
A hybrid powertrain would appear to be a natural fit, although that has not been confirmed for the rumored 2032 model. Honda has made it clear that hybrids will play a much larger role in its North American strategy over the next several years. The company plans to introduce 15 next-generation hybrid models globally by the end of its fiscal year ending March 31, 2030, with North America serving as one of the key markets. Honda has also confirmed plans for D-segment and larger hybrid vehicles in North America beginning in 2029, suggesting the company is already developing electrified hardware suited for heavier and more capable vehicles.
That next wave of larger Honda hybrids should bring more than improved fuel economy. Honda has been developing a new large-vehicle hybrid system intended to deliver strong acceleration, higher towing capability and improved efficiency, including technology centered around a newly developed V6 engine. The automaker is also working on an electric all-wheel-drive system and says its next-generation hybrid technology is being engineered for more than a 10% improvement in fuel economy while reducing system costs by more than 30% compared with its 2023-era hybrid hardware. Those developments could provide the technical foundation for several future Honda and Acura SUVs.
A larger SUV above the Pilot would ultimately fill a noticeable gap for Honda, especially as Toyota continues to offer everything from the Highlander and Grand Highlander to the truck-based Sequoia. There is still a long road between an internal product plan and a vehicle reaching dealerships, particularly with a reported 2032 arrival, so plenty could change along the way. Even so, Honda’s confirmed investment in larger hybrids makes the possibility especially interesting. If the project moves forward, Honda could eventually have a considerably broader family SUV lineup, with the Pilot serving the heart of the market and a new flagship taking care of shoppers who simply need more space, capability and presence.
Lloyd Tobias is a seasoned automotive journalist and passionate enthusiast with over 15 years of experience immersed in the world of cars. Whether it’s exploring the latest advancements in automotive technology or keeping a close pulse on breaking industry news, Lloyd brings a sharp perspective and a deep appreciation for all things automotive. His writing blends technical insight with real-world enthusiasm, making his contributions both informative and engaging for readers who share his love for the drive. When he’s not behind the keyboard or under the hood, Lloyd enjoys test driving the newest models and staying ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving automotive landscape.
