The Honda Pilot offers a very powerful SUV package with independent rear suspension and a strong unibody design. The Pilot is a full sized SUV seating up to 8 passengers and is offered in front wheel drive but any serious off road fanatic will definitely upgrade to the all wheel drive option. There are many different trim levels for the Pilot, the top of the line being the Touring model which initiates some very nice luxury features that really make the Pilot a powerful and rich experience for drivers on the inside and out. The LX model boasts power seats, rear lift gate upgrades and even a moon roof.
The standard models do have many features including remote entry, automatic windows and door locks and of course a telescoping tilting drivers wheel. The Pilot comes standard with a 250 horsepower 3.5 Liter V-6 engine that is well equipped to power this full sized SUV. There are some engine upgrade options for those drivers looking for even more power. With folding second and third seats and power adapters built in the Pilot really make great use of its interior design and ample space.
The Range
Bodystyle: Crossover SUV
Engines: 3.5L V-6
Transmissions: 5-speed automatic
Models: LX FWD/AWD, EX FWD/AWD, EX-L FWD/AWD, EX-L with Navi FWD/AWD, EX-L with Navi and Rear Entertainment System, Touring FWD/AWD, Touring with Navi FWD/AWD, Touring with Navi and Rear Entertainment System FWD/AWD
What's New
The all-new second generation Pilot made its debut in 2009 and remains unchanged for the 2011 model year save for expanded availability of Honda's satellite-linked navigation system on the EX-L model.
Exterior
All Pilot models come with auto on/off halogen headlights, splashguards and rear privacy glass. EX and Touring models receive roof rails, alloy wheels, fog lights, body colored door handles and side mirrors with turn signal duplicators.
Interior
Ergonomics are generally good, except for the button crazy center console. Storage options and interior volume are impressive (87 cubic-feet with second and third rows folded). Rear seat entertainment is optional on all models.
Performance & Handling
Pilot offers one powertrain: a 250-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 linked to a 5-speed automatic transmission (which is non-competitive against a field of mostly 6-speeds). Front and all-wheel drive configurations are available for all models. Unibody construction and independent suspension means the Pilot offers a commendable, sure-footed driving experience. The maximum towing capacity of 4500 pounds for the AWD version is only fair.
Safety
Three point seat belts are standard for all passengers as is traction/stability control. Outboard passengers have side curtain airbags, while the driver and front passenger have dual stage front and front side airbags.
EPA Fuel Economy
FWD: 17 mpg city/23 mpg highway
AWD: 16 mpg city/22 mpg highway
You'll Like
- Car like handling
- Huge interior
- Multiple storage options
You Won't Like
- One powertrain available
- Limited towing capacity
Sum Up
Benchmark of a competitive field
If You Like This Vehicle
- Chevrolet Traverse
- Ford Flex
- Hyundai Veracruz
- Mazda CX-9
- Toyota Highlander