The Downshift, a daily roundup of today’s leading headlines from the automotive sector and car culture, assembled by The Drive’s editorial staff. Each article includes a brief summary and a link to the original piece for those who wish to explore further.
Here’s what’s on the agenda for Wednesday, September 23, 2026:
🚙 Currently, Honda’s largest SUV is the Pilot. However, in this competitive landscape, there’s always a justification for expansion, and it is reported that the manufacturer is in the initial planning phases of an SUV that surpasses the Pilot, featuring a spacious three-row seating arrangement, designed to compete against the popular Toyota Grand Highlander. The only catch is that it would take some time before Honda can launch it; the company is reportedly aiming for a 2032 debut. [Automotive News]
🛠️ Speaking of the Grand Highlander, its upscale counterpart, the Lexus TX, along with the smaller RX, is undergoing a recall due to front-steering knuckles that, surprisingly, weren’t forged properly. This oversight results in brittleness, increasing the risk of breaking under significant stress. The recall affects only 617 vehicles, but this marks another occasion where Toyota’s major three-row SUVs have faced recalls for aluminum components not made to specification, as the Grand Highlander and TX encountered similar issues earlier this year with their rear-axle carriers, linked to the same supplier. [Autoblog]
👊 Subaru is set to unveil two “limited-production” models of WRX and BRZ sports cars at Boxerfest, its annual fan gathering in Pennsylvania, this weekend. [Subaru]
📖 BMW will commence bookings for the i3 sedan on September 29—that’s Tuesday—at 6 p.m. Eastern, a couple of weeks ahead of schedule. [BMW Blog]
🔋 Volkswagen is reportedly selling more electric vehicles in Germany than gasoline-powered ones, putting some of its domestic factories that focus on traditional models, like the Golf and Tiguan, in challenging situations. [Automobilwoche via InsideEVs]
📹 Rivian will issue an over-the-air software update to its vehicles to resolve an issue where notifications could obstruct the rearview camera display. Just under 100,000 units of the R1 series and R2 are impacted by the recall—essentially every vehicle Rivian has sold so far, though it’s a simple fix without needing a visit to a dealer. [Reuters]
🔌 Typically, we don’t report on most new car introductions in China, but Geely’s latest Galaxy E5 SUV deserves attention, as it boasts the fastest-charging battery technology globally, capable of increasing from 10% to 70% in four minutes, or from 10% to 97% in less than nine minutes. That’s quite impressive, especially since many EV owners don’t fully charge their batteries to maintain long-term performance. [Reuters]
🤖 Mercedes-Benz is strengthening its collaboration with British autonomous driving technology firm Wayve to embed the company’s system into its vehicles over the next couple of years, potentially enhancing their urban and highway self-driving capabilities. [Wayve]
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**Honda Gears Up to Challenge Grand Highlander with New Larger Pilot Variant: TDS**
In a strategic initiative to bolster its presence in the competitive midsize SUV arena, Honda is preparing to introduce a larger variant of its successful Pilot model, termed the Pilot TDS (Three-Row SUV). This updated model is geared towards directly competing with rivals like the Toyota Grand Highlander, which has successfully captured the attention of families in search of roomy and adaptable vehicles.
**Market Overview**
The midsize SUV category has witnessed a notable increase in interest as buyers place a higher value on space, comfort, and modern features in their vehicles. The Grand Highlander has carved out a specific market share by offering a mix of practicality and advanced technology, prompting Honda to counter with an enhanced Pilot that aims to deliver similar, if not superior, benefits.
**Design and Specifications**
The forthcoming Honda Pilot TDS is expected to showcase a more muscular and assertive design, aligning with current automotive trends while preserving Honda’s iconic design elements. The augmented dimensions will provide more interior space, comfortably seating up to eight passengers. This growth in size is expected to boost cargo capacity, making the Pilot TDS an attractive choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
**Engine Performance and Powertrains**
Beneath its exterior, the Pilot TDS is anticipated to feature an array of powertrain options, including a turbocharged four-cylinder and a powerful V6 engine, catering to diverse consumer preferences for both performance and fuel efficiency. Honda’s dedication to enhancing fuel economy while ensuring a spirited driving experience will be a key focus in the Pilot TDS’s development.
**Tech Innovations and Features**
Honda is known for incorporating state-of-the-art technology in its vehicles, and the Pilot TDS will uphold this tradition. Expect innovative infotainment systems, featuring a large touchscreen interface, smartphone integration, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies designed to boost safety and convenience. Features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring are likely to be standard or available options.
**Interior Comfort and Flexibility**
The interior of the Pilot TDS is expected to prioritize comfort and flexibility, incorporating high-quality materials and intelligent design details. Configurable seating layouts and generous legroom will address family requirements, while additional storage solutions will improve day-to-day usability. The inclusion of sophisticated climate control systems and soundproofing will further enhance the overall driving experience.
**Final Thoughts**
As Honda moves closer to launching the larger Pilot TDS, it is evident that the manufacturer is dedicated to staying relevant in the ever-changing midsize SUV sector. By catering to the demands of contemporary families and incorporating advanced technologies, the Pilot TDS sets out to compete with the Toyota Grand Highlander and other prominent contenders in the market. With its blend of space, performance, and features, the new Pilot model is geared for a strong impact upon its introduction.