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The '''[[Honda]] Pilot''' is [[Honda]]'s second SUV fully built and designed by [[Honda]]. The [[Honda]] Pilot is built in Alliston, Ontario, Canada and Lincoln, Alabama. [[Honda]]'s initial SUV offering for many years was the [[Honda Passport]], which was a rebadged [[Isuzu Rodeo]]. Where the [[Honda Passport|Passport]] was truck-based, the Pilot shares underpinnings and the powertrain with the [[Acura MDX]], which has a lineage which can be traced to the [[Honda Odyssey]] minivan (itself based on the global light truck chassis). The Pilot’s unibody construction, however, is fortified with integrated perimeter frame rails, which helps it withstand light off-road use.
[[Image:Pilot9-32.jpg|thumb|450px|right|2009 '''[[Honda]] Pilot''']]
The '''[[Honda]] Pilot''' is the second SUV fully built and designed by [[Honda]]. The [[Honda]] Pilot is built in Alliston, Ontario, Canada and Lincoln, Alabama. [[Honda]]'s initial [[SUV]] offering for many years was the [[Honda Passport]], which was a rebadged [[Isuzu Rodeo]]. Where the [[Honda Passport|Passport]] was truck-based, the Pilot shares underpinnings and the powertrain with the [[Acura MDX]], which has a lineage tracing back to the [[Honda Odyssey]] minivan (itself based on the global light truck chassis). The Pilot’s unibody construction, however, is fortified with integrated perimeter frame rails, which helps it withstand light off-road use.


The Pilot was designed to fill a large American demand for SUVs. Prior to the introduction of the Pilot, [[Honda]] only had the smaller [[Honda CR-V|CR-V]] based on the [[Honda Civic|Civic]] platform, and the aforementioned [[Honda Passport|Passport]]. However, the [[Honda CR-V|CR-V]] lacked in features many American consumers looked for in an SUV, which are overall size, passenger space, and towing capacity. The Pilot is at most designed to withstand light duty off roading. The Pilot has been a best-seller for [[Honda]], with [[Honda]] selling over 100,000 Pilots in 2004, an increase of almost 20% over 2003. The Pilot is exclusively sold in North America, while Japan and Australia get its relative, the [[Honda]] MDX instead.
The Pilot was designed to fill a large American demand for SUVs. Prior to the introduction of the Pilot, [[Honda]] only had the smaller [[Honda CR-V|CR-V]] based on the [[Honda Civic|Civic]] platform, and the aforementioned [[Honda Passport|Passport]]. However, the [[Honda CR-V|CR-V]] lacked in features many American consumers looked for in an SUV, which are overall size, passenger space, and towing capacity. The Pilot is at most designed to withstand light duty off roading. The Pilot has been a best-seller for [[Honda]] and is exclusively sold in North America, while Japan and Australia get its relative, the [[Honda]] [[Acura MDX|MDX]] instead.


See Wikicars' comprehensive '''[[Honda Pilot Review]]'''.
See Wikicars' comprehensive '''[[Honda Pilot Review]]'''.
[[Image:pilot1.jpg|frame|2006 '''[[Honda]] Pilot''']]


==Recent Changes==
For 2006, the [[Honda]] Pilot got new front and rear fascias, a redesigned interior, and various standard safety features.


Like the [[Acura MDX|MDX]], the Pilot is propelled by an aluminum alloy 3.5 L [[Overhead Camshafts|SOHC]], 24-valve VTEC [[V6]] engine. The engine is rated at 240 hp and 242 ft·lbf of torque, and mated to a five-speed automatic, which, as tested by Sunny Kar, results in a 0-60 mph time of 7.2 seconds and 1/4 mile sprint of 14.6 seconds. For the 2005 model, the power was increased to 255 hp, 250 ft·lbf of torque and includes a Drive by Wire (DBW) Throttle System. The Pilot weighs in at a little over 4,400 lb. Also, like the [[Acura MDX|MDX]], the Pilot rides on struts up front with a coil-spring, multilink arrangement at the rear designed to allow a flat load floor. It also has the [[Acura MDX|MDX]]’s wide track — 66.3 in at the front and 66.5 in at the rear. The Pilot has a 4,500 lb boat/3,500 lb trailer towing capability.
===Recent Changes===
*For 2009, Honda introduces the second generation Pilot.<ref>[http://www.jbcarpages.com/honda/pilot/2009/ 2009 Honda Pilot Review]</ref> Remaining an 8 seater, the new pilot grows in size. Motivation now comes from an upgraded variant of Honda's 3.5-liter i-VTEC V6 which pumps out 250 hp and 253 lbs-ft of torque (6 hp and 13 lbs-ft more than before). The engine also features a new version of Honda’s Variable Cylinder Management technology, allowing it to utilize all 6 cylinders for power or 4 or 3 pots for economy. This means that although larger and more powerful, the new pilot can still churn out at least 2 mpg better fuel consumption.<ref>[http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2008/04/2009-honda-pilot-official-details-and.html 2009 Honda Pilot Official Details]</ref>


==Styles and Major Options==
<gallery>
The Pilot is available in both two wheel drive and four wheel drive in the '''LX''' trima nd the '''EX''' trim.
Image:Pilot9-03.jpg
Image:Pilot9-31.jpg
Image:Pilot9-21.jpg
Image:Pilot9-28.jpg
</gallery>


===Specs===
For 2006, the [[Honda]] Pilot got new front and rear fascias, an updated interior, and various standard safety features.<ref>[http://www.jbcarpages.com/honda/pilot/2006/ 2006 Honda Pilot Review]</ref>
 
Like the [[Acura MDX|MDX]], the Pilot is propelled by an aluminum alloy 3.5 L [[Overhead Camshafts|SOHC]], 24-valve VTEC [[V6]] engine. The engine is rated at 250 [[HP|hp]] and 253 ft·lbf of torque, and mated to a five-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]]. The Pilot weighs in at a little over 4,300 lb with front-wheel-drive and 4,600 lb with all-wheel-drive. Also, like the [[Acura MDX|MDX]], the Pilot rides on struts up front with a coil-spring, multi-link arrangement at the rear designed to allow a flat load floor. The Pilot has a 3,500 lb trailer towing capability.
 
===Styles and Major Options===
The Pilot is available in both two wheel drive and four wheel drive in '''LX''','''EX''', '''EX-L''', and '''Touring''' trims.
 
====Specs====
'''2WD LX'''
'''2WD LX'''
* 244-hp, 3.5-liter, 24-valve SOHC i-VTEC® [[V6]] engine
* 250-[[HP|hp]], 3.5-liter, 24-valve [[Overhead Camshafts|SOHC]] i-VTEC® [[V6]] engine
* 5-speed automatic transmission with Grade Logic Control System
* 5-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] transmission with Grade Logic Control System
* Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM™)
* Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM™)
* [[4-Wheel Disc Brakes|4-wheel disc brakes]] with [[Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)|anti-lock braking system (ABS)]] and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)
* [[4-wheel disc brakes]] with [[Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)|anti-lock braking system (ABS)]] and Electronic Brake Distribution ([[Electronic Brake-Force Distribution|EBD]])
* Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
* Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
* Dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags (SRS) with weight and position sensors
* Dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags (SRS) with weight and position sensors
Line 28: Line 38:
* [[Remote Keyless Entry|Remote entry]]
* [[Remote Keyless Entry|Remote entry]]
* Active Control Engine Mount system (ACM)
* Active Control Engine Mount system (ACM)
* Drive-by-Wire Throttle System™
* [[drive-by-wire throttle|Drive-by-Wire]] Throttle System™
* Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
* Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
* Direct ignition system with Immobilizer
* Direct ignition system with Immobilizer
* Unit-body construction
* Unit-body construction
* MacPherson strut front suspension
* MacPherson strut front suspension
* Painted 16" alloy wheels
* 19" alloy wheels
* Driver's and front passenger's seat belt reminder
* Driver's and front passenger's seat belt reminder
* Three-row [[Side Curtain Airbags|side curtain airbags]] with rollover sensor
* Three-row [[Side Curtain Airbags|side curtain airbags]] with rollover sensor
Line 45: Line 55:
* Maintenance minder system
* Maintenance minder system


'''4WD LX'''
'''[[Four Wheel Drive|4WD]] LX'''
''Adds to or replaces 2WD features:''
''Adds to or replaces 2WD features:''
* 244-hp, 3.5-liter, VTEC® [[V6]] Engine
* Variable Torque Management® 4-wheel-drive system (VTM-4®)
* Variable Torque Management® 4-wheel-drive system (VTM-4®)


[[Image:pilotsunroof.jpg|frame|[[Sunroof|Moonroof]] available on the '''Pilot EX-L''']]
===Pricing===
'''2WD EX'''
''Adds to or replaces 2WD LX features:''
* AM/FM/[[Satellite Radio|XM Ready®]]/[[In-Dash 6-Disc CD|6-disc in-dash CD]] changer audio system with 7 speakers, including subwoofer
* Projector beam halogen headlights with auto-off
* Synchronized automatic [[Climate Control|climate control]] system
* Machine-finished 16" alloy wheels
 
'''4WD EX'''
''Adds to or replaces 2WD LX features:''
* 244-hp, 3.5 liter, 24-valve SOHC VTEC® [[V6]] engine
* Variable Torque Management® 4-wheel-drive system (VTM-4®)
* Projector beam halogen headlights with auto-off
* Synchronized automatic [[Climate Control|climate control]] system
* Machine-finished 16" alloy wheels
 
'''2WD ''and'' 4WD EX-L'''
''Adds to EX features:''
* Power [[Sunroof|moonroof]] with tilt feature
* XM® [[Satellite Radio]]
* Rearview mirror with compass
* Ambient console lighting
* Heated power side mirrors
* Heated front seats
* Conversation mirror with sunglasses holder
 
'''2WD ''and'' 4WD EX-L and [[Honda]] Satellite-Linked [[Navigation System]]™'''
''Adds to EX-L features:''
* [[Honda]] Satellite-Linked [[Navigation System]]™ with Voice Recognition with off-road tracking and rearview camera
 
==Pricing==
<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
Line 92: Line 71:
</td>
</td>
<td>
<td>
4WD LX
[[Four Wheel Drive|4WD]] LX
</td>
</td>
<td>
<td>
Line 98: Line 77:
</td>
</td>
<td>
<td>
4WD EX
[[Four Wheel Drive|4WD]] EX
</td>
</td>
<td>
<td>
Line 104: Line 83:
</td>
</td>
<td>
<td>
4WD EX-L
[[Four Wheel Drive|4WD]] EX-L
</td>
</td>
<td>
<td>
2WD EX-L with [[Navigation System|Navigation]]
2WD Touring
</td>
</td>
<td>
<td>
4WD EX-L with [[Navigation System|Navigation]]
[[Four Wheel Drive|4WD]] Touring
</td>
</td>
</tr>
</tr>
Line 125: Line 104:
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
<td>
$26,995
$27,595
</td>
</td>
<td>
<td>
$28,195
$29,195
</td>
</td>
<td>
<td>
$29,545
$30,395
</td>
</td>
<td>
<td>
$30,745
$31,995
</td>
</td>
<td>
<td>
$31,845
$33,595
</td>
</td>
<td>
<td>
$33,045
$35,195
</td>
</td>
<td>
<td>
$34,045
$36,795
</td>
</td>
<td>
<td>
$35,245
$38,395
</td>
</td>
</tr>
</tr>
Line 156: Line 135:
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
<td>
$24,303
$25,011
</td>
</td>
<td>
<td>
$25,381
$26,457
</td>
</td>
<td>
<td>
$26,595
$27,541
</td>
</td>
<td>
<td>
$27,673
$28,987
</td>
</td>
<td>
<td>
$28,662
$30,433
</td>
</td>
<td>
<td>
$29,740
$31,878
</td>
</td>
<td>
<td>
$30,638
$33,324
</td>
</td>
<td>
<td>
$31,717
$34,770
</td>
</td>
</tr>
</tr>
</table>
</table>


Destination Charge on all trims: $670


==Gas Mileage==
===Gas Mileage===
The new 2WD models are equipped with a standard Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system that combines Pilot muscle with added efficiency. VCM is designed to boost mileage and economy without sacrificing power when and where you need it. While under light engine load conditions, the VCM system deactivates the three rear cylinders. This pioneering technology lets you go longer between fill-ups and enables an EPA highway rating of 24 MPG. Happy trails.
The new 2WD models are equipped with a standard Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system that combines Pilot muscle with added efficiency. VCM is designed to boost mileage and economy without sacrificing power when and where you need it. While under light engine load conditions, the VCM system deactivates the three rear cylinders. This pioneering technology lets you go longer between fill-ups and enables an EPA highway rating of 24 MPG. Happy trails.


The 2WD gats an EPA estimated 18/24 MPG and the 4WD gets an estimated 17/22 MPG.[http://fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm]
The 2WD gats an EPA estimated 17/23 MPG and the [[Four Wheel Drive|4WD]] gets an estimated 16/22 MPG.[http://fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm]
 
===Reliability===
The [[Honda]] Pilot comes with a 3 year/36,000 miles Limited Warranty and a 5 year/60,000 miles Limited Powertrain Warranty. Ordinary maintainance or adjustments, parts subject to normal wear and replacement, and certain items are excluded.


==Reliability==
The Pilot ranks '''first''' overall in reviews of popular mid-size SUVs on [http://www.autos.com/autos/suvs/midsize_suvs/reviews Autos.com].
The [[Honda]] Pilot comes with a 3 year/36,000 miles Limited Warranty and a 5 year/60,000 miles Limited Powertrain Warranty. Ordinary maintainence or adjustments, parts subject to normal wear and replacement, and certain items are excluded.


The Pilot ranks '''''' overall in reviews of popular mid-size SUVs on [http://www.autos.com/autos/suvs/midsize_suvs/reviews Autos.com].
*'''RECALL ALERT:''' On December 23, 2010, Honda issued a recall alert affecting 10,823 MY2011 Honda Pilot and Accord V6s improperly tightened bolts that attach the front dampers to the suspension, possibly resulting in a failure in the front suspension. In addition, the spindle nuts may be loose as well, and both issues could cause a loss of steering. According to ''USA Today'', the newest problem is due to a malfunction in the software that controls the machines that tighten bolts at the factory. Dealers will inspect and replace the damper bolts and spindle nuts if necessary free of charge, and owners can expect to be notified as soon as December 23, 2010. This recall is filed under NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 10V640000. [http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/23/report-honda-recalling-10-800-accord-and-pilot-models-over-pote/]


==Safety==
===Safety===
As evidence of [[Honda]]'s dedication to safety, the Pilot has received a 5-star rating in frontal- and side-impact testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Additional safety features have been added this year, including three-row [[Side Curtain Airbags|side curtain airbags]] with rollover sensor and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®) with [[Traction Control|traction control]]. Plus, Pilot models with the [[Navigation System|navigation system]] feature a standard rearview camera that helps you watch for obstacles when you select the reverse gear.
As evidence of [[Honda]]'s dedication to safety, the Pilot has received a 5-star rating in frontal- and side-impact testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Additional safety features have been added this year, including three-row [[Side Curtain Airbags|side curtain airbags]] with rollover sensor and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®) with [[Traction Control|traction control]]. Plus, Pilot models with the [[Navigation System|navigation system]] feature a standard rearview camera that helps you watch for obstacles when you select the reverse gear.


==Photos==
===Photos===
[[Image:pilot2.jpg|frame|When it's smooth sailing, VCM™ (2WD) kicks in]]
[[Image:pilot2.jpg|frame|When it's smooth sailing, VCM™ (2WD) kicks in]]
[[Image:pilot3.jpg|frame|The '''[[Honda]] Pilot''' is versatile with its 87.6-cu.-ft. interior cargo area]]
[[Image:pilot3.jpg|frame|The '''[[Honda]] Pilot''' is versatile with its 87.6-cu.-ft. interior cargo area]]


==Colors==
===Colors===
*  Amazon Green Metallic
*  Amazon Green Metallic
*  Desert Rock Metallic
*  Desert Rock Metallic
Nighthawk Black Pearl
Formal Black
*  Redrock Pearl
*  Redrock Pearl
*  Sage Brush Green
*  Sage Brush Green
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*  Billet Silver Metallic
*  Billet Silver Metallic


==Main Competitors==
===Main Competitors===
*  [[Ford Freestyle]]
*  [[Lexus RX350]]
*  [[Jeep Grand Cherokee]]
*  [[Jeep Grand Cherokee]]
*  [[Nissan Murano]]
*  [[Nissan Pathfinder]]
*  [[Nissan Pathfinder]]
*  [[Toyota 4Runner]]
*  [[Toyota 4Runner]]
*  [[Toyota Highlander]]
*  [[Toyota Highlander]]


==Hybrid Models==
==[[Hybrid Cars|Hybrid]] Models==
 
[[Honda]] has made no announcements on making a [[Hybrid Cars|hybrid]] version of the Pilot yet, but it is rumored.
 
 
==Unique Attributes==
 
 
==Resale Values==
==Resale Values==
 
<table border=1 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Pilot Model Year'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
2003
</td>
<td>
2004
</td>
<td>
2005
</td>
<td>
2006
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''Resale Values'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$20,800 - $23,425
</td>
<td>
$23,150 - $26,075
</td>
<td>
$25,250 - $29,400
</td>
<td>
$26,995 - $35,245
</td>
</tr>
</table>


==Criticisms==
==Criticisms==
 
A few noteworthy critiques from Joe Wiesenfelder of ''[http://www.cars.com cars.com]'' of the [[Honda]] Pilot:
* Lack of low-range gearing
* Short seat bottoms
* Nonstandard radio controls
* Occasional uncertainty in turns


==Generations==
==Generations==
===First Generation (2003- present)===
===First Generation (2003-2008)===
The [[Honda]] Pilot was an all-new model for 2003. It came in two trims (LX and EX) and was initially only available as a 4WD model.  
[[Image:pilot1.jpg|thumb|right|300px|2006 Honda Pilot]]
The [[Honda]] Pilot was an all-new model for 2003. It came in two trims (LX and EX) and was initially only available as a [[Four Wheel Drive|4WD]] model.


For 2006, the exterior is slightly updated to incorporate design cues from the [[Honda Ridgeline|Ridgeline]], while the interior gets a refreshening that includes new seat fabrics and a modified instrument panel design. Also, all trims of the Pilot include [[Side Curtain Airbags|side curtain airbags]] as standard equipment. In addition, in the 2006 model year, a 2WD becomes available.
For 2004 the Pilot recieved added features including standard heated seats and heated side mirrors on  EX-L models. Also the second row seats can now be adjusted fore and aft and third-row access has been improved.  


For 2005 the Pilot recieved added features including a standard sunroof and six-disc CD changer for EX-L models. Also the Pilot recieved a new steering wheel design and added exterior colors. Engine power is alo increased to 255 horsepower, a tire pressure monitoring system and an all electronic Drive By Wire Throttle System are also newly added standard features.


For 2006, the exterior is slightly updated to incorporate design cues from the [[Honda Ridgeline|Ridgeline]], while the interior gets a refreshening that includes new seat fabrics and a modified instrument panel design. Also, all trims of the Pilot include [[Side Curtain Airbags|side curtain airbags]] as standard equipment. In addition, in the 2006 model year, a 2WD becomes available.


==Worldwide==
==Worldwide==
 
It is sold as the Honda MR-V in the Middle East exclusively.


==Design quirks and oddities==
==Design quirks and oddities==
Only for the 2005 model year, and only for the 2005 Pilot EX-L with rear seat DVD player, many Honda Pilot owners complained about the cluttered center dash due to the fact that it had 3 CD slots. One for the CD player, one for the CD changer and one for the DVD player. This minor design odditie was resolved for the 2006 model year, when the pilots CD changer was integrated into the main radio system, eliminating the three CD slots and uncluttering the dash by only having one Disc insert slot for the CD changer and one for the DVD player.


==Awards==


==Awards==
*  The [[Honda]] Pilot wins the '''IntelliChoice''' "''Best Overall Value of the Year''" in the intermediate sport utility class
*  The Pilot won '''Edmunds.com''' "''Consumers' Most Wanted''" Award for 2005
*  The Pilot won ''Residual Value Award'' from '''ALG'''
*  '''NHTSA''' gives the [[Honda]] Pilot ''Five Stars for Safety''
*  The 2006 [[Honda]] Pilot won the ''Best in Class'' crossover award from '''Kiplinger's'''
* '''Car and Driver''' magazine's ''Best Large SUV'' for 2002 through 2007 (Been one of the Top Five Trucks evey year of production)
* '''AMI Auto World''' awarded the title of "''World Family Vehicle of the Year''" to the Pilot.
* '''Kelley Blue Book''' named the Pilot one of the "''Top 50 Most Popular Cars''"


==References==
<references />


==See also==
{{Honda}}
*  [[Ford Freestyle]]
*  [[Jeep Grand Cherokee]]
*  [[Nissan Pathfinder]]
*  [[Toyota Highlander]]


==External Links==
==External Links==
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* [http://www.hondanews.com/CatID2075 Honda News Articles regarding the Pilot]
* [http://www.hondanews.com/CatID2075 Honda News Articles regarding the Pilot]
* [http://www.honda.com Honda Motor Corporation]
* [http://www.honda.com Honda Motor Corporation]
* [http://www.autoguidewiki.com/Honda_Pilot_EX-L AutoGuideWiki.com]
* [http://www.jbcarpages.com/honda/pilot/ JB car pages: Honda Pilot]
* [http://estore.honda.com/ext_html/honda-pilot-accessories.htm Pilot Accessories - Official Site]
* [http://estore.honda.com/ext_html/honda-pilot-accessories.htm Pilot Accessories - Official Site]
This page uses content from Wikipedia; see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Pilot Honda Pilot], which includes these [http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Honda_Pilot&action=history contributors].
[[Category:Current Models]]

Latest revision as of 06:07, 24 December 2010

2009 Honda Pilot

The Honda Pilot is the second SUV fully built and designed by Honda. The Honda Pilot is built in Alliston, Ontario, Canada and Lincoln, Alabama. Honda's initial SUV offering for many years was the Honda Passport, which was a rebadged Isuzu Rodeo. Where the Passport was truck-based, the Pilot shares underpinnings and the powertrain with the Acura MDX, which has a lineage tracing back to the Honda Odyssey minivan (itself based on the global light truck chassis). The Pilot’s unibody construction, however, is fortified with integrated perimeter frame rails, which helps it withstand light off-road use.

The Pilot was designed to fill a large American demand for SUVs. Prior to the introduction of the Pilot, Honda only had the smaller CR-V based on the Civic platform, and the aforementioned Passport. However, the CR-V lacked in features many American consumers looked for in an SUV, which are overall size, passenger space, and towing capacity. The Pilot is at most designed to withstand light duty off roading. The Pilot has been a best-seller for Honda and is exclusively sold in North America, while Japan and Australia get its relative, the Honda MDX instead.

See Wikicars' comprehensive Honda Pilot Review.


Recent Changes

  • For 2009, Honda introduces the second generation Pilot.<ref>2009 Honda Pilot Review</ref> Remaining an 8 seater, the new pilot grows in size. Motivation now comes from an upgraded variant of Honda's 3.5-liter i-VTEC V6 which pumps out 250 hp and 253 lbs-ft of torque (6 hp and 13 lbs-ft more than before). The engine also features a new version of Honda’s Variable Cylinder Management technology, allowing it to utilize all 6 cylinders for power or 4 or 3 pots for economy. This means that although larger and more powerful, the new pilot can still churn out at least 2 mpg better fuel consumption.<ref>2009 Honda Pilot Official Details</ref>

For 2006, the Honda Pilot got new front and rear fascias, an updated interior, and various standard safety features.<ref>2006 Honda Pilot Review</ref>

Like the MDX, the Pilot is propelled by an aluminum alloy 3.5 L SOHC, 24-valve VTEC V6 engine. The engine is rated at 250 hp and 253 ft·lbf of torque, and mated to a five-speed automatic. The Pilot weighs in at a little over 4,300 lb with front-wheel-drive and 4,600 lb with all-wheel-drive. Also, like the MDX, the Pilot rides on struts up front with a coil-spring, multi-link arrangement at the rear designed to allow a flat load floor. The Pilot has a 3,500 lb trailer towing capability.

Styles and Major Options

The Pilot is available in both two wheel drive and four wheel drive in LX,EX, EX-L, and Touring trims.

Specs

2WD LX

  • 250-hp, 3.5-liter, 24-valve SOHC i-VTEC® V6 engine
  • 5-speed automatic transmission with Grade Logic Control System
  • Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM™)
  • 4-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock braking system (ABS) and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
  • Dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags (SRS) with weight and position sensors
  • Front side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS)
Error creating thumbnail: Unable to save thumbnail to destination
Rear Entertainment Center available on the Pilot EX-L
  • 60/40 split flat-folding second- and third-row bench seats
  • AM/FM/CD audio system with four speakers
  • Remote entry
  • Active Control Engine Mount system (ACM)
  • Drive-by-Wire Throttle System™
  • Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
  • Direct ignition system with Immobilizer
  • Unit-body construction
  • MacPherson strut front suspension
  • 19" alloy wheels
  • Driver's and front passenger's seat belt reminder
  • Three-row side curtain airbags with rollover sensor
  • Side-impact door beams
  • Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®) with traction control
  • Outboard Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) (2nd-row)
  • Body-colored body side molding
  • Projector beam halogen headlights
  • Front and rear air conditioning with air-filtration system
  • Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®)-on indicator
  • Maintenance minder system

4WD LX Adds to or replaces 2WD features:

  • Variable Torque Management® 4-wheel-drive system (VTM-4®)

Pricing

Trim

2WD LX

4WD LX

2WD EX

4WD EX

2WD EX-L

4WD EX-L

2WD Touring

4WD Touring

Price

MSRP

$27,595

$29,195

$30,395

$31,995

$33,595

$35,195

$36,795

$38,395

Invoice

$25,011

$26,457

$27,541

$28,987

$30,433

$31,878

$33,324

$34,770

Destination Charge on all trims: $670

Gas Mileage

The new 2WD models are equipped with a standard Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system that combines Pilot muscle with added efficiency. VCM is designed to boost mileage and economy without sacrificing power when and where you need it. While under light engine load conditions, the VCM system deactivates the three rear cylinders. This pioneering technology lets you go longer between fill-ups and enables an EPA highway rating of 24 MPG. Happy trails.

The 2WD gats an EPA estimated 17/23 MPG and the 4WD gets an estimated 16/22 MPG.[1]

Reliability

The Honda Pilot comes with a 3 year/36,000 miles Limited Warranty and a 5 year/60,000 miles Limited Powertrain Warranty. Ordinary maintainance or adjustments, parts subject to normal wear and replacement, and certain items are excluded.

The Pilot ranks first overall in reviews of popular mid-size SUVs on Autos.com.

  • RECALL ALERT: On December 23, 2010, Honda issued a recall alert affecting 10,823 MY2011 Honda Pilot and Accord V6s improperly tightened bolts that attach the front dampers to the suspension, possibly resulting in a failure in the front suspension. In addition, the spindle nuts may be loose as well, and both issues could cause a loss of steering. According to USA Today, the newest problem is due to a malfunction in the software that controls the machines that tighten bolts at the factory. Dealers will inspect and replace the damper bolts and spindle nuts if necessary free of charge, and owners can expect to be notified as soon as December 23, 2010. This recall is filed under NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 10V640000. [2]

Safety

As evidence of Honda's dedication to safety, the Pilot has received a 5-star rating in frontal- and side-impact testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Additional safety features have been added this year, including three-row side curtain airbags with rollover sensor and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®) with traction control. Plus, Pilot models with the navigation system feature a standard rearview camera that helps you watch for obstacles when you select the reverse gear.

Photos

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When it's smooth sailing, VCM™ (2WD) kicks in
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The Honda Pilot is versatile with its 87.6-cu.-ft. interior cargo area

Colors

  • Amazon Green Metallic
  • Desert Rock Metallic
  • Formal Black
  • Redrock Pearl
  • Sage Brush Green
  • Steel Blue Metallic
  • Taffeta White
  • Billet Silver Metallic

Main Competitors

Hybrid Models

Honda has made no announcements on making a hybrid version of the Pilot yet, but it is rumored.

Resale Values

Pilot Model Year

2003

2004

2005

2006

Resale Values

$20,800 - $23,425

$23,150 - $26,075

$25,250 - $29,400

$26,995 - $35,245

Criticisms

A few noteworthy critiques from Joe Wiesenfelder of cars.com of the Honda Pilot:

  • Lack of low-range gearing
  • Short seat bottoms
  • Nonstandard radio controls
  • Occasional uncertainty in turns

Generations

First Generation (2003-2008)

2006 Honda Pilot

The Honda Pilot was an all-new model for 2003. It came in two trims (LX and EX) and was initially only available as a 4WD model.

For 2004 the Pilot recieved added features including standard heated seats and heated side mirrors on EX-L models. Also the second row seats can now be adjusted fore and aft and third-row access has been improved.

For 2005 the Pilot recieved added features including a standard sunroof and six-disc CD changer for EX-L models. Also the Pilot recieved a new steering wheel design and added exterior colors. Engine power is alo increased to 255 horsepower, a tire pressure monitoring system and an all electronic Drive By Wire Throttle System are also newly added standard features.

For 2006, the exterior is slightly updated to incorporate design cues from the Ridgeline, while the interior gets a refreshening that includes new seat fabrics and a modified instrument panel design. Also, all trims of the Pilot include side curtain airbags as standard equipment. In addition, in the 2006 model year, a 2WD becomes available.

Worldwide

It is sold as the Honda MR-V in the Middle East exclusively.

Design quirks and oddities

Only for the 2005 model year, and only for the 2005 Pilot EX-L with rear seat DVD player, many Honda Pilot owners complained about the cluttered center dash due to the fact that it had 3 CD slots. One for the CD player, one for the CD changer and one for the DVD player. This minor design odditie was resolved for the 2006 model year, when the pilots CD changer was integrated into the main radio system, eliminating the three CD slots and uncluttering the dash by only having one Disc insert slot for the CD changer and one for the DVD player.

Awards

  • The Honda Pilot wins the IntelliChoice "Best Overall Value of the Year" in the intermediate sport utility class
  • The Pilot won Edmunds.com "Consumers' Most Wanted" Award for 2005
  • The Pilot won Residual Value Award from ALG
  • NHTSA gives the Honda Pilot Five Stars for Safety
  • The 2006 Honda Pilot won the Best in Class crossover award from Kiplinger's
  • Car and Driver magazine's Best Large SUV for 2002 through 2007 (Been one of the Top Five Trucks evey year of production)
  • AMI Auto World awarded the title of "World Family Vehicle of the Year" to the Pilot.
  • Kelley Blue Book named the Pilot one of the "Top 50 Most Popular Cars"

References

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External Links


This page uses content from Wikipedia; see Honda Pilot, which includes these contributors.