For years, pickup trucks have been locked in an arms race—bigger bodies, taller hoods, heavier frames, and tailgates that feel more like staircases. In the middle of all that excess, the Ford Maverick has quietly done the opposite. And now, that contrarian approach has earned the industry’s highest praise: the Ford Maverick is MotorTrend’s 2026 Truck of the Year.

 

It’s a milestone moment not just for Ford, but for compact trucks as a whole.

 

A Compact Truck That Makes Sense Again

 

The Maverick’s appeal has always been refreshingly simple. You can reach into the bed without climbing. You don’t need a running start to load gear. It fits in garages, parking spaces, and everyday life. Normal-sized humans can use it comfortably—and that alone feels revolutionary in today’s truck market.

 

Introduced in 2022, the Maverick nearly took the title back then, losing out only to the groundbreaking Rivian R1T. Four years and nearly half a million sales later, Ford has returned with a comprehensively updated Maverick for 2026—one that’s smarter, tougher, and more fun than ever.

 

Why MotorTrend Picked the Maverick

 

MotorTrend evaluates Truck of the Year contenders across six core criteria: performance of intended function, engineering excellence, advancement in design, efficiency, value, and safety. Over two weeks of intensive testing, the Maverick stood out against a field of new and revised competitors.

 

Performance That Punches Above Its Size

 

For 2026, the Maverick gains trailering tech previously reserved for full-size trucks. A new 13.2-inch Sync 4 touchscreen enables features like Pro Trailer Hitch Assist and Pro Trailer Backup Assist, making towing and reversing small trailers far easier—exactly the kind Maverick owners are most likely to use.

 

Whether hauling Sea-Doos, loading up 700 pounds of cargo, or navigating light off-road trails, the Maverick proved it can still “do truck stuff” without pretending to be something it’s not.

 

Fun Is Part of the Formula

 

The Maverick doesn’t just work—it entertains. The street-focused Lobo model adds playful performance with a twin-clutch rear axle and drift-friendly drive modes, while even the hybrid versions can kick up a little gravel-side fun. Reviewers consistently praised how eager and engaging the Maverick feels behind the wheel, a rarity in the truck world.

 

Smart Engineering in a Small Package

 

One of the Maverick’s greatest strengths is packaging. Despite being significantly smaller than midsize trucks like the Toyota Tacoma, it offers more rear-seat head- and legroom and nearly 90% of a Tacoma short bed’s capacity—all in a footprint that’s easier to live with and far more affordable.

 

Ford’s engineering work also enabled the hybrid AWD Maverick to tow up to 4,000 pounds with the available 4K Tow Package, thanks to upgraded cooling and drivetrain enhancements. Thoughtful touches—like the truck remembering your preferred drive mode—reinforce that Ford understands real truck use.

 

Subtle Design, Big Improvements

 

The 2026 refresh doesn’t shout, but it refines. Updated grilles and trim help better differentiate trims while strengthening the Maverick’s family resemblance to larger Ford trucks. Inside, clever use of textures, colors, and patterns makes hard plastics feel upscale, while the new digital instrument cluster adds modern flair (even if opinions on it were mixed).

 

The Lobo’s monochrome styling, black roof, and street-truck stance bring fresh personality to the lineup, proving compact doesn’t have to mean boring.

 

Efficiency and Value Still Lead the Class

 

Efficiency remains a Maverick calling card. Hybrid models deliver up to 42 mpg city, making them the most fuel-efficient gas-powered pickups on sale. Even turbocharged EcoBoost models achieve impressive highway numbers for a truck.

 

Value is equally strong. For 2026, pricing adjustments make the Maverick even more accessible, with entry-level models undercutting the average new vehicle price by thousands. Even fully loaded, the Maverick remains far cheaper to buy and operate than traditional pickups—a key reason it resonates with real-world buyers.

 

The Right Truck at the Right Time

 

When Ford first launched the Maverick, it wasn’t clear whether American buyers would embrace a truly compact, crossover-based pickup. The sales numbers answered that question decisively. The 2026 update builds on that success with meaningful improvements rather than unnecessary bloat.

 

MotorTrend’s verdict says it all: the Maverick proves that a truck doesn’t need to be enormous to be excellent. By staying focused on usability, efficiency, and genuine fun, the Ford Maverick earns its place as 2026 MotorTrend Truck of the Year—and as one of the most important trucks on the road today.

Volkswagen’s iconic hot hatches are celebrating another major milestone. The Volkswagen Golf GTI and Golf R have both been named to Car and Driver magazine’s prestigious 2026 10Best Cars list—further cementing their reputations as benchmarks for performance, practicality, and everyday driving fun.

 

This latest recognition marks an incredible 20th appearance for the Golf GTI on the 10Best list, a testament to its enduring appeal and its role in creating the modern hot-hatch segment. The Golf R earns its fifth 10Best honor, continuing its rise as one of the most compelling all-weather performance cars on the market.

 

Why the GTI and Golf R Keep Winning

 

According to Car and Driver Editor-in-Chief Tony Quiroga, the latest updates played a key role in this year’s recognition:

 

“We’ve always loved the current Volkswagen GTI’s mix of value, practicality, performance, and personality, but it’s the interior improvements that Volkswagen made for 2026 that helped land it a spot on the 10Best list. And, the Golf R’s design looks and is practical, but under that conservative shape is a sports car that’ll rip to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds.”

 

Both models were refreshed for the 2025 model year with updated exterior and interior designs, upgraded infotainment systems, and an expanded suite of driver assistance features—changes that continue into 2026 and help keep the Golf lineup competitive and compelling.

 

Golf GTI: The Original Hot Hatch, Still Going Strong

 

Few cars can claim the legacy of the Golf GTI. For 2026, it remains available in S, SE, and Autobahn trims, delivering its signature balance of performance and usability at an accessible price point.

 

 

It’s a formula that has resonated with drivers for decades—and one that continues to win over new enthusiasts.

 

Golf R: Power, Precision, and Everyday Performance

 

The Golf R takes the GTI’s hot-hatch DNA and turns everything up a notch. Following its recent refresh, the Golf R now delivers 328 horsepower, up from 315, making it quicker and more capable than ever.

 

 

It’s a car that blends understated design with serious performance—perfect for drivers who want a true sports car feel without sacrificing daily usability.

 

A Win for Volkswagen—and Drivers

 

“Golf models have a special place in the hearts of drivers—they’re practical, but they also bring real joy behind the wheel,” said Kjell Gruner, President and CEO of Volkswagen of America. “The GTI created the hot-hatch legend, and the Golf R shows just how far that idea can go.”

 

The Car and Driver 10Best awards evaluate vehicles based on value, fun, and mission fulfillment, with more than 90 vehicles tested over two weeks for the 2026 list. To earn a spot, vehicles must be priced under $115,000 and available for sale in the U.S. by January 31, 2026—criteria the GTI and Golf R meet with room to spare.

 

Looking Ahead

 

With a combined 25 appearances on the 10Best list, the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Golf R continue to prove that great driving experiences don’t have to come at the expense of practicality or value. Whether you’re drawn to the playful spirit of the GTI or the blistering performance of the Golf R, Volkswagen’s hot hatches remain among the very best cars you can buy.

In a landmark moment for American performance cars, the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 has been named the 2026 U.S. Supercar of the Year by TopGear.com in its inaugural U.S. Car Awards. This accolade isn’t just another trophy — it’s a validation that American engineering can compete at the highest levels of global performance automotive culture.

 

A Supercar Built to Impress

 

The Corvette ZR1 represents the cutting edge of Chevrolet’s performance ambitions. Powered by a twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter LT7 V8, it delivers a staggering 1,064 horsepower and 828 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful V8 ever assembled in the U.S. by an American automaker.

 

When equipped with performance-focused aero and suspension packages — such as the ZTK Performance and Carbon Fiber Aero options — it generates over 1,200 pounds of downforce at speed, giving it race-car levels of grip while still remaining road-legal.

 

Why It Took the Top Spot

 

For the Supercar of the Year category, TopGear.com editors and testers pitted the ZR1 directly against performance rivals like the Ford Mustang GTD — and while both cars impressed, the ZR1’s lap times and sheer performance potential made it the clear victor. According to Top Gear Editor-in-Chief Jack Rix, the ZR1’s blend of power, speed, and engagement was “simply irresistible.”

 

This isn’t just track bragging rights — it’s recognition from one of the most respected voices in automotive journalism, known for unbiased and thorough testing.

 

American Performance

 

This award marks more than just a win for Chevrolet — it’s a moment of pride for American automotive engineering. Traditionally, discussions of supercars have been dominated by European marques like Ferrari, McLaren, and Porsche. The ZR1’s accolade reshapes expectations, showing that a U.S.-built machine can stand toe-to-toe with the world’s best.

 

And since this was the first-ever U.S.-focused awards from Top Gear, it sets a benchmark for future American high-performance vehicles to chase.

 

Corvette’s Growing Legacy

 

The ZR1’s recognition comes amid a broader surge in performance acclaim for Chevrolet and GM:

 

 

This latest honor further cements the Corvette’s evolution from its muscle car roots into a true global performance contender.

As part of its milestone 85th anniversary, the Jeep® brand continues to honor its legendary past while looking boldly toward the future. The latest reveal in this historic celebration is the Jeep Wrangler Whitecap, the second exclusive model in Jeep’s yearlong Twelve 4 Twelve series—an ambitious rollout of 12 special-edition Wrangler models, each designed to spotlight the brand’s unmatched off-road heritage.

 

Unveiled on December 12, 2025, in Auburn Hills, Michigan, the Wrangler Whitecap arrives as a striking blend of classic inspiration and modern capability.

 

Heritage That Stands Out

 

The Wrangler Whitecap draws direct inspiration from the iconic CJ-Universal, particularly its legendary Arctic White top—a look that became synonymous with individuality, freedom, and adventure. Jeep has reimagined that timeless design for today’s Wrangler, delivering a bold, two-tone appearance that instantly turns heads both on and off the trail.

 

Available exclusively on Sahara and Rubicon trims, the Whitecap proudly carries Jeep’s heritage forward while standing out as a true statement model.

 

Following the November debut of the 2026 Jeep Wrangler Moab 392, the Whitecap continues the momentum of the Twelve 4 Twelve celebration, proving that Jeep’s legacy is as powerful today as it was 85 years ago.

 

A Statement from Jeep Leadership

 

“The Jeep Wrangler Whitecap is more than a special edition, it’s a statement,” said Bob Broderdorf, CEO of the Jeep brand. “It honors Jeep brand heritage while introducing a striking two-tone look that turns heads on any trail. Just like every model in the Twelve 4 Twelve series, Whitecap is designed to stand out—a true tip of the hat to the brand’s legendary legacy.”

 

Legendary Capability Meets Modern Technology

 

Built on the proven foundations of the Wrangler Sahara and Rubicon, the Whitecap delivers the advanced technology and legendary Jeep 4×4 capability drivers expect. Power comes from a choice of the 2.0L turbo engine or the 3.6L engine, paired with Jeep’s brand-exclusive Selec-Trac part-time or full-time transfer cases—ensuring confidence and control across virtually any terrain.

 

This is a Wrangler designed not just to look bold, but to perform without compromise.

 

Exclusive Whitecap Design Features

 

The Wrangler Whitecap stands apart with heritage-inspired design elements, including:

 

 

Each detail reinforces the Whitecap’s unmistakable presence while celebrating Jeep’s rich design history.

 

A Legacy That Keeps Moving Forward

 

For nearly 85 years, Jeep has defined what it means to explore without limits. The Wrangler Whitecap is more than a commemorative model—it’s a celebration of freedom, authenticity, and the adventurous spirit that continues to drive the Jeep brand forward.

 

With ten more exclusive Wrangler models still to come in the Twelve 4 Twelve series, the Wrangler Whitecap sets the tone for an unforgettable anniversary year—one built on heritage, individuality, and the relentless pursuit of adventure.

If you tuned into the 2025 Las Vegas Grand Prix™, you probably expected to see carbon-fiber rockets blazing down the Strip at impossible speeds. What you might not have expected was that one of the weekend’s most unforgettable sights wouldn’t be a race car at all—but a bubble-gum-pink Cadillac built almost entirely out of LEGO® bricks. Yes, really.

 

A Showstopper in Pink

 

Amid the neon flare of Vegas and the roar of F1 engines, a life-size 1950s Cadillac Fleetwood convertible—constructed from more than 418,000 LEGO pieces—rolled onto the scene and instantly hijacked the cameras. Escorted by two futuristic Cadillac CELESTIQ ultra-luxury sedans, the LEGO Cadillac offered an irresistible contrast: retro Americana crafted in miniature bricks alongside Cadillac’s cutting-edge vision of 21st-century luxury.

 

And the pièce de résistance? When the top three drivers finished their race, this was the car that whisked them away to the podium. A once-in-a-lifetime celebration deserves a once-in-a-lifetime ride.

 

A Build as Ambitious as Vegas Itself

 

The project was a massive undertaking. Over 17 master builders, engineers, and designers from the LEGO Group spent nearly 4,000 hours constructing the vibrant pink convertible. The final creation tipped the scales at well over 4,500 pounds and stretched more than 16 feet long.

 

Despite looking like a giant toy, the car is fully functional, capable of hitting speeds over 15 mph—enough to cruise comfortably with a driver and three passengers. That’s right: this isn’t just an art piece. It’s a drivable work of engineering imagination.

 

A Tribute to a Post-War Icon

 

The design pays loving homage to the classic 1950s Cadillac Fleetwood convertible, a symbol of post-war optimism and luxury. Known for its sweeping lines, dramatic tailfins, and hand-crafted details, the Fleetwood was a cultural icon long before being reborn in LEGO form.

 

Cadillac leaned into this nostalgic-meets-modern theme throughout Grand Prix weekend. While the LEGO vehicle captured fans’ attention trackside, Cadillac introduced spectators and VIP guests to the CELESTIQ, showcasing its ultra-luxury electric craftsmanship through an exclusive boutique experience in a nearby hotel.

 

Cadillac’s Future Was Impossible to Ignore

 

Just down the Strip, Cadillac made sure its presence was unmistakable. The exterior of the Sphere® lit up with bold, dynamic visuals celebrating Cadillac’s upcoming entry into Formula 1. With the brand officially joining the grid in 2026, the LEGO Cadillac served as both a look back at Cadillac’s legendary past and a playful teaser for its high-performance future.

Today marks a major moment for fans of performance and heritage: Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) has officially unveiled the GR GT — its first true modern-era flagship supercar developed under the GR banner.

 

A Legacy Reborn

 

With the GR GT, Toyota isn’t just launching a new car — it’s continuing a legacy. The GR GT is presented as the heir to iconic predecessors such as the Toyota 2000GT and the Lexus LFA.

 

TGR describes the unveiling as part of “Shikinen Sengu,” a concept of renewal — preserving and passing down car-making craftsmanship while embracing new technologies.

 

The GR GT is the product of a collaboration between veteran engineers (some who worked on the LFA) and a new generation of developers, along with direct input from professional and in-house drivers.

 

Performance with Purpose — A Road-Legal Race Car

 

At its heart, the GR GT is built not just to look the part — but to feel like a racing machine on the street. TGR outlines three core design pillars that underpin the car:

 

 

Under the hood: a newly developed 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, working together with a hybrid motor system. TGR’s “target values” for the prototype deliver over 650 PS (about 641 horsepower) and more than 850 Nm of torque. Power goes to the rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission and a rear transaxle layout.

 

Bottom line: the GR GT aims to deliver the visceral thrill of a race car — while remaining usable on public roads.

 

More Than Just a Showpiece

 

The GR GT isn’t alone. At the reveal, TGR also presented a race-ready sibling: the GR GT3. This model shares much of its DNA with the GR GT, but in GT3-spec trim, built for competition under FIA GT3 regulations.

 

Thus, Toyota is giving fans not just a supercar — but a full performance line-up: a road-legal halo car plus a customer-ready race car, united by the same philosophy and engineering.

Subaru has officially pulled the cover off the all-new, all-electric 2026 Subaru Trailseeker, and it’s clear the brand is pushing boldly into an electric, adventure-ready future. With 375 horsepower, standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and a starting price of $39,995, the Trailseeker arrives in early 2026 as one of the most compelling electric SUVs in its class.

 

Electric Power Meets Signature Subaru Capability

 

The Trailseeker isn’t just another EV—it’s the quickest production Subaru ever. With a 0–60 mph time of 4.4 seconds, it delivers instant, smooth power from its 74.7-kWh lithium-ion battery pack while maintaining the all-road confidence Subaru drivers expect.

 

The electric platform has allowed Subaru engineers to refine the beloved Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system with smarter, quicker responses. Acceleration sensors at both axles help the Trailseeker adapt traction in real time, enhancing stability when accelerating, braking, or carving through corners. With enhancements to torque distribution and regenerative braking, the Trailseeker brings a new level of precision to Subaru’s iconic AWD performance.

 

Range, Charging, and Real-World Usability

 

Subaru estimates approximately 280 miles of range on a single charge—enough for long weekends in the mountains or a full week of commuting.

 

Charging is straightforward thanks to the standard North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, unlocking access to more than 25,000 charging stations across the U.S. Using a 150-kW fast charger, the Trailseeker can go from low to 80% in as little as 28 minutes. A built-in battery preconditioning system keeps charging times fast even in cold weather.

 

Designed for Adventure—Inside and Out

 

Subaru gave the Trailseeker a distinct new EV identity with a six-star illuminated logo, redesigned headlamps, and bold wheel options in 18- or 20-inch sizes. The rear features a 3D SUBARU light signature that stands out day or night.

 

Dimensionally, the Trailseeker is larger than the Subaru Solterra, adding more cabin and cargo room. You’ll find 32.2 cubic feet of cargo space, comparable to the Outback, plus a 700-pound static-load roof rail capacity—ideal for rooftop tents and adventure gear. With 3,500 pounds of towing capability, this EV is built to go far beyond paved roads.

 

Inside, a bright, modern cabin centers around a massive 14-inch Subaru Multimedia System, the largest screen Subaru has ever offered. Soft-touch materials and metallic accents create a calming, horizontal interior profile, while the oversized center console offers practical everyday storage.

 

Three Trims, All Adventure-Ready

 

Trailseeker Premium — Starting at $39,995

 

The entry model comes well-equipped, including:

 

 

Standard safety includes Pre-Collision Braking, Traffic Jam Assist, Lane Departure Alert, Blind Spot Monitors, and more.

 

Trailseeker Limited — Starting at $43,995

 

Building on the Premium, the Limited adds:

 

 

Trailseeker Touring — Starting at $46,555

 

 

Colors and Availability

 

The Trailseeker will come in six standard colors—Brilliant Bronze Metallic, Crystal Black Silica, Crystal White Pearl, Magnetite Gray Metallic, Sapphire Blue Pearl—with Daybreak Blue Pearl available for an additional $395.

 

Built in Japan, the 2026 Subaru Trailseeker arrives at Subaru retailers early in 2026.

Hyundai is reigniting fan excitement for the world’s biggest football (soccer) stage. On December 2, 2025, the company announced the return of its beloved fan engagement program, “Be There With Hyundai,” unveiling a fresh, youth-centered twist for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 26™.

 

This year’s global campaign puts kids front and center. Through a vibrant art contest called “The Greatest Cheer,” Hyundai invites children to share their passion for football—and potentially have their artwork displayed on a world stage.

 

A Global Canvas for Young Football Fans

 

At the heart of the campaign is an inspiring creative challenge: children aged 5–12 from participating nations can submit drawings that capture their love for the game, their national pride, and their biggest cheer for their National Team.

 

What makes this contest extraordinary? One winning illustration from each country will be transformed into the official design for that nation’s team bus at the FIFA World Cup 26™.

 

Imagine seeing a child’s colorful artwork driving alongside superstars as they arrive at matches—that’s the magic Hyundai hopes to create.

 

Sungwon Jee, Senior Vice President and Global Chief Marketing Officer at Hyundai Motor Company, emphasized the campaign’s purpose: it’s about connecting children’s dreams with the players, forging an emotional bridge between young fans and the teams they cheer for.

 

How “The Greatest Cheer” Contest Works

 

From December 2, 2025, to January 30, 2026, children can download the official drawing template from FIFA.com, let their creativity flow, and submit their scanned artwork via email to betherewithhyundai@fifa.org.

 

Each participating nation will have one winning young artist. And the prize? It’s nothing short of unforgettable.

 

Winners receive:

 

 

The tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will run from June 11 to July 19, 2026, making this an extraordinary global event for families from across the world.

 

Building Community and Creativity Through Football

 

“Be There With Hyundai” isn’t new—but its evolution reflects the company’s commitment to meaningful engagement.

 

Since its debut at the 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany™, the campaign traditionally invited fans to craft slogans for their National Teams. For 2026, Hyundai has shifted to its first-ever drawing contest, focusing on kids’ voices and visual storytelling.

 

The move aligns with Hyundai’s broader strategy:

 

 

By giving children a creative platform, Hyundai is not only celebrating their perspectives but also weaving their enthusiasm directly into the fabric of the tournament.

 

Uniting Families, Fans, and Football

 

Hyundai’s 2026 vision is simple yet powerful: celebrate the joy, creativity, and community spirit of the World Cup through the eyes of the youngest fans.

 

The campaign promises to deliver touching moments—families cheering together, kids seeing their artwork in motion, and National Teams inspired by messages from their nation’s youth. It’s a beautiful reminder that football isn’t just a sport—it’s a shared global language.

 

How to Participate

 

For full contest details, templates, and updates, families can visit FIFA.com or follow Hyundai Motor’s official social media channels.

 

As the world counts down to FIFA World Cup 26™, Hyundai is inviting kids everywhere to pick up a pencil, dream big, and send their greatest cheer to the players who inspire them.

Kia is about to make your daily drive a whole lot more cinematic.

 

In a bold new collaboration announced on November 10, 2025, Kia revealed a series of immersive display themes inspired by some of the most iconic worlds in entertainment—Disney, Pixar, Marvel, National Geographic, and Star Wars™. These themes are designed to transform Kia vehicles equipped with the Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) into vibrant, character-filled environments that delight drivers and passengers of all ages.

 

And yes—this is more than a simple wallpaper swap. It’s a full-on digital makeover.

 

Fandom Meets the Dashboard

 

Kia’s newest display themes pull from beloved franchises like The Lion King, Toy Story, The Avengers, and The Mandalorian. Whether you’re a lifelong Marvel superfan or want to share your childhood Disney favorites with your kids, these themes weave familiar characters and visual elements throughout the infotainment experience—from start-up animations to in-drive visuals and arrival screens.

 

The result? A personalized in-car environment that feels joyful, nostalgic, and unmistakably you.

 

A New Frontier for Customization

 

Kia has been steadily expanding its personalization features, but this collaboration represents its most ambitious leap yet.

 

“This collaboration with Disney represents a ground-breaking use of our digital and over-the-air systems to allow owners to customize not just the appearance, but the personality of their vehicles,” said Charles Ryu, Senior Vice President and Head of Kia’s Global Brand & CX Division.

 

These aren’t static decorations—they’re integrated, dynamic experiences that leverage Kia’s connected tech platform. Themes include distinctive artwork, curated color palettes, and unique display transitions designed to evoke the tone of each franchise.

 

Imagine opening your car to a sunrise over Pride Rock or navigating your journey alongside the cast of Toy Story—that’s the level of immersion Kia is aiming for.

 

Five Franchises, Dozens of Themes, Endless Possibilities

 

Here’s what Kia drivers can look forward to:

 

 

By the end of 2026, Kia expects to offer around 30 individual themes. The Star Wars™ collection will serve as the grand finale in the rollout sequence—so get ready for hyperspace-level flair in your ccNC display.

 

Where to Find the New Themes

 

All themes will be available through the Kia Connect Store, which is getting its own dedicated Disney section. This makes browsing, previewing, and downloading new themes simple and seamless.

 

Kia originally dipped into themed displays back in 2024 with its NBA-inspired EV9 options—but this Disney partnership marks a significant expansion, opening the door to an even broader audience of fans and families.

 

Driving Into an Imaginative Future

 

It’s clear that Kia sees personalization as a core part of its future. By blending cutting-edge software, connected services, and world-famous characters, Kia is reshaping what the in-car experience can be.

 

Whether you’re seeking nostalgia, adventure, or a touch of everyday magic, Kia’s new Disney-infused themes promise to make every drive feel like part of a story worth remembering.

Honda’s best-selling, family-friendly, adventure-ready three-row SUV is back—and it’s better in every way. With a bold design refresh, a dramatically upgraded tech suite, a quieter and more refined cabin, and improved steering for a more confident drive, the 2026 Honda Pilot is poised to remain a class leader in the midsize SUV segment.

 

Arriving at dealerships next month, the new Pilot blends rugged capability with premium comfort more seamlessly than ever. Here’s everything that’s new for 2026—and why this Pilot may be Honda’s most compelling family SUV yet.

 

A Fresh, More Aspirational Design

 

The 2026 Pilot makes an immediate impression thanks to its redesigned front fascia, larger grille, and enhanced scuff plates that amplify its rugged character. Depending on the trim, you’ll see new black, gloss-black, or gray grille treatments that further distinguish each model’s personality.

 

Three new exterior colors add even more excitement:

 

 

Wheel designs also get a major refresh. Touring and Elite trims now feature machine-finished Shark Gray 20-inch alloy wheels, while the Black Edition receives sinister Berlina Black wheels with matching lug nuts. Roof rails—previously limited to higher trims—are now standard across the entire lineup.

 

A Cabin Designed for Comfort, Quiet, and High-Tech Convenience

 

Inside, the Pilot’s cabin takes a big leap forward.

 

The centerpiece is an all-new 12.3-inch HD touchscreen, now 37% larger with smoother, faster performance thanks to Honda’s latest HMI software. It’s paired with a larger 10.2-inch Digital Instrument Cluster (+43%), making the driver’s view more modern and immersive.

 

Across all trims, drivers now enjoy:

 

 

Touring, Elite, and Black Edition trims take refinement even further with upgraded upholsteries, high-contrast stitching, and available brown leather options. The TrailSport model also now offers a brown leather interior with orange contrast stitching—plus heated second-row outboard seats for added winter comfort. And for 2026, a power tailgate is finally standard on every Pilot, making everyday loading and unloading much easier.

 

Improved Steering Feel and a More Confident Drive

 

Honda engineers retuned the Pilot’s electric power steering system to deliver:

 

 

The result is a midsize SUV that feels composed, responsive, and more enjoyable to drive—whether you’re commuting, road-tripping, or navigating winding backroads.

 

Strong Power, Real Capability

 

Every 2026 Pilot is powered by Honda’s proven 3.5-liter DOHC V6, delivering 285 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a smooth and responsive 10-speed automatic.

 

The available—and in some trims, standard—i-VTM4™ torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system continues to set benchmarks for capability. It can send:

 

 

This results in precise handling, improved cornering performance, and rock-solid traction in everything from snow to sand.

 

Drivers can choose from multiple drive modes, including:

 

 

All Pilots also come standard with Hill Descent Control.

 

TrailSport: Adventure Ready, Family Approved

 

For 2026, the Pilot TrailSport keeps its reputation as one of the most legitimate off-road SUVs in the segment—not just a styling package. It features:

 

 

New for this year, the TrailSport adds heated second-row seats and an available brown leather interior.

 

Upgraded Standard Safety Features

 

In addition to Honda’s robust ACE™ body structure and the full Honda Sensing® suite, the 2026 Pilot now includes Post-Collision Braking (PCB) on every trim. This system helps reduce secondary collisions by automatically applying the brakes after an initial impact.

 

Honda Sensing® includes:

 

 

The Pilot continues to earn top marks for safety, staying true to Honda’s “Safety for Everyone” philosophy.

 

Built in the USA, Built for Families

 

Designed in California, developed in Ohio, and built in Alabama, the Pilot continues Honda’s long-standing commitment to building products close to its customers. More than 2.5 million Pilots have been produced in Alabama since 2006, and the model consistently ranks among the most American-made vehicles in its class.