2026 Honda Pilot Price vs Hyundai Palisade: Which is Better?
Honda has comprehensively updated its three-row SUV for the new model year, bringing a tougher look and better tech. However, these changes come at a steep cost. The 2026 Honda Pilot price vs Hyundai Palisade comparison just got a lot more interesting, as the new Pilot’s starting price has jumped significantly, making it one of the most expensive options in its class.
Sticker Shock: A $2,000 Price Hike
The 2026 Honda Pilot now starts at $42,195 for the base Sport 2WD model. That is a nearly $2,000 increase over the previous year. While the car has received solid updates, this new price point puts it in a difficult position when compared to its main rivals.
2026 Honda Pilot Pricing Breakdown
- Sport 2WD: $42,195
- Sport AWD: $44,295
- EX-L AWD: $46,595
- TrailSport AWD: $50,395
- Touring AWD: $51,095
- Elite AWD: $53,495
- Black Edition AWD: $54,995
(Note: Prices exclude a $1,495 destination charge.)
How It Compares to the Competition
When you look at the numbers, the Pilot is starting to look pricey. Almost every key competitor offers a lower starting MSRP.
The 2026 Honda Pilot price vs Hyundai Palisade gap is nearly $3,000. For that extra money, you might expect superior efficiency, but the Pilot still lacks a hybrid powertrain option—a glaring omission in 2026.
What Do You Get for the Extra Money?
Honda hasn’t just raised the price for nothing. The 2026 Pilot includes several key improvements:
- Rugged Design: A larger grille and new wheels give it a tougher stance.
- Better Tech: A standard 12.3-inch touchscreen and 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster are now included across the range.
- Wireless Connectivity: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are wireless on all trims.
- Refined Driving: Retuned electric power steering for better precision.
The Verdict
While the updates are welcome, the 2026 Honda Pilot is a tough sell on paper. It offers solid performance from its 285-hp V6, but without a hybrid option or a competitive base price, it struggles to stand out. Right now, the Hyundai Palisade looks like the smarter buy for value-conscious families.
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