Honda is considering a new three-row flagship SUV that would sit above the Pilot, according to a report from Automotive News. Known internally as Pilot XXL, the larger crossover is targeted to enter production in early 2032 and would stretch the current Pilot’s length by eight inches.

That added length would move Honda into the full-size three-row SUV segment, positioning the future model against vehicles such as the Toyota Sequoia, Nissan Armada and Jeep Wagoneer. The larger Honda could also be relevant to shoppers considering the Ford Expedition or Chevrolet Tahoe, although buyers in those nameplate families are typically highly brand loyal.

Honda Pilot XXL platform and timing

The Pilot XXL is expected to share its platform with a forthcoming full-size Acura SUV. Acura’s version is scheduled to begin production in late 2029, while the Honda-badged model would arrive later, with production targeted for early 2032.

Honda has not announced a final name, exterior design, interior layout or production specification for the larger SUV. The Pilot XXL designation is an internal project name rather than a confirmed retail name.

Potential V6 hybrid powertrain

Honda’s upcoming V6 hybrid system is the likely powertrain candidate for the new flagship SUV. Honda announced last fall that it was developing the system for future large hybrid vehicles, but the automaker has not released output, fuel-economy, battery or towing figures.

Using that powertrain would give Honda a hybrid entry in a segment that includes large SUVs built around substantial passenger and cargo capacity. However, the available information does not confirm whether the system will be standard, optional or exclusive to the Pilot XXL.

What the larger Honda would mean

The Pilot XXL would give Honda a presence above its current three-row crossover and extend the brand into full-size SUV territory. The eight-inch increase over the standard Pilot suggests a larger footprint, although Honda has not provided dimensions beyond that projected length difference.

The project remains under development, and its early-2032 production target leaves considerable time for the vehicle’s specifications, technology and market positioning to change. For now, the reported Acura flagship is expected to lead the shared-platform program into production in late 2029, followed by the Honda version around early 2032.