2007 Honda Pilot: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Honda's midsize SUV is unchanged for 2007. Pilot shares its basic design with the 2001-2006 generation MDX from Honda's upscale Acura division. The MDX is redesigned for 2007. Pilot seats eight. It comes in LX and EX models, plus a top-line EX-L with leather upholstery and heated front seats. All are available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. A 244-hp V6 and a 5-speed automatic transmission is the only powertrain. The 2WD Pilots get Honda's Variable Cylinder Management cylinder deactivation. AWD models lack low-range gearing, but a dashboard button locks in a front/rear power split. All Pilots have ABS and traction/antiskid control. Standard are front side airbags and curtain side airbags that cover all seating rows and include rollover deployment. The 2nd and 3rd seating rows are 60/40 split folding benches. An available navigation system and DVD entertainment are exclusive to EX-L models.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to eight-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buy choice is the Honda Pilot. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Explorer, Ford Freestyle, Mazda CX-7, Nissan Murano, and Toyota Highlander.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Dodge Nitro, Ford Edge, GMC Acadia, Hyundai Santa Fe, Mazda CX-7, Mazda CX-9, Saturn Outlook, Suzuki XL-7, and Toyota FJ Cruiser.