Honda is enhancing its AI offerings inside the cars by equipping vehicles with Google's new Gemini assistant. This new development replaces the old Google Assistant with an advanced conversational AI, which will allow drivers to use their hands-free and converse in natural language.This development is part of Honda's effort towards building a connected car, where automakers compete not only for hardware but also software features in cars. However, although the new assistant is more intelligent, it won't be available for all Honda owners. That is because this assistant is available only in models with Google's embedded infotainment platform, meaning several lower-priced variants are excluded from the rollout.About The AuthorJournalist and a writer with a strong interest in news, culture, technology, and human-interest stories. Passionate about making complex topics accessible and engaging.Google Gemini replaces Google Assistant in Honda vehiclesGemini differs from conventional voice assistants which depend on command-based communication as it is programmed for understanding more human-like conversation. For example, users can continue the discussion by asking more questions, switch topics and resume talking at any point without restarting the process.As Google claims, its AI assistant gains new experience in conversation learning about user preferences and complex demands all the time. The driver will not have to remember the precise commands but rather communicate with the device similarly to real people.According to Honda, the aim of the update is making daily driving more comfortable and less distracting.What can Gemini do inside the car?With the advent of this new AI assistant, different hands-free tasks will be carried out during a journey. It will range from briefing oneself about the latest happenings in town, recommending some nearby restaurants, planning for a weekend getaway, to even having discussions about work.With the ability of the assistant to understand human languages, there will be no need for repetition or precision in giving out commands. The most important thing is still to ensure that the attention of the driver is on the road, not on the infotainment system."With the introduction of this connected technology, Honda is ensuring our customers stay informed, connected and productive on the go," noted Jessika Laudermilk, Assistant Vice President of Honda National Auto Sales.More articles by AuthorTrending StoriesWhich Honda models support Google Gemini?The rollout is limited to Honda vehicles that already feature Google built-in. That means support varies significantly across the company's lineup.Currently, Google Gemini is available on:Honda Accord Touring Hybrid (2023 model year onwards)Civic Sport Touring Hybrid Sedan (2025 onwards)Civic Si Sedan (2025 onwards)Civic Sport Touring Hybrid Hatchback (2025 onwards)Honda Prologue EV (all trims)2026 Honda Pilot (all trims)2026 Honda Passport (all trims)2026 Honda CR-V Sport Touring Hybrid2026 Honda Prelude (all variants)The availability list shows that Honda is prioritising premium trims, hybrids and newer models rather than making the feature standard across its entire portfolio.Entry-level buyers miss outOne of the major issues with the launch strategy used by Honda is that there are numerous affordable versions that are still not able to use the AI feature.For instance, the Civic Sedan is available in five trims, but only the two highest trims - Civic Si and the Sport Touring Hybrid - offer Gemini feature due to the fact that Google built-in is absent in the other three versions.As for the American market, buyers will need to pay at least $31,495 and $32,395 for the Civic Si and Civic Sport Touring Hybrid trims respectively to get access to Gemini.The CR-V only offers the feature in its highest trim version Sport Touring Hybrid, while such popular vehicles as Ridgeline pickup truck and Odyssey minivan are unable to use Gemini.EVs and premium SUVs get wider supportThe implementation of the assistant has been far more generous towards the company's electric cars.The Honda Prologue electric SUV, for instance, features Google Gemini in all variants, despite having been discontinued recently. The same goes for the upcoming Honda Prelude hybrid sports coupe that should feature Gemini as a standard fitment irrespective of the model chosen.Furthermore, Honda has implemented Gemini in all variants of the 2026 Pilot and Passport SUVs.The approach indicates that the company sees Google Gemini as a premium feature while gradually expanding support across newer vehicle platforms.Honda keeps physical controls alongside new AIAs numerous manufacturers move the basic functionality of vehicles to touch screens, Honda keeps certain controls traditional even while adding increasingly complex software.Commonly used functions of cabins and driving controls continue to be controlled by traditional buttons and knobs and not through navigating through digital menus. This strategy is different from competitors who get rid of traditional controls for the sake of larger screens.It looks like Honda tries to take an intermediate way and integrate both conversational AI and traditional controls. With Gemini drivers can control a vehicle with the help of the latest software technology while at the same time controlling basic functions with traditional tools without having to use the infotainment screen exclusively.Since Gemini of Google is now available only for some Honda models, the strategy hints at a larger plan to develop driver's experience with the help of AI. If the deployment continues in the future, we may expect that other Honda models will receive it in future years. FAQsWhich Honda vehicles are compatible with Google Gemini?At the moment, Google Gemini is compatible with selected Honda models that have Google built-in. The models include certain models of the Accord, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, CR-V, and all types of the Honda Prologue, 2026 Pilot, 2026 Passport, and upcoming Prelude.What is capable of doing Google Gemini in Honda vehicles?Google Gemini is capable of letting you complete different tasks using natural language including looking for the closest restaurants, making plans, summarizing news stories, generating ideas, and performing actions in Honda vehicles that are supported.Why is Google Gemini unavailable in all Honda models?It is due to the fact that this feature is dependent upon Honda's Google built-in infotainment system, which is available only in selected models and high-end trims.Is the Google built-in system required to use Gemini on a Honda?Yes. Google Gemini is compatible with Hondas with Google built-in operating system only. Other cars that do not have this system will not be able to use the AI assistant, despite having phone integration capability.Can existing Honda owners get their hands on Google Gemini?Existing Honda owners can get Google Gemini through a software update in case they already have a Google built-in car. But those that lack the necessary system will not be able to use it through an update alone.end of article