2009 Honda Pilot: Road Test
2009 Honda Pilot 2WD LX
2009 Honda Pilot ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $27,695 - $40,095
- Invoice: $25,101 - $36,306
Reviews & Ratings
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Honda Pilot
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2009 Honda Pilot includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Honda Pilot from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Honda Pilot, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Honda Pilot help you decide if a 2009 Honda Pilot is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| 2WD LX | AWD Touring | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.4 |
Any Pilot has ample power and fine throttle response in both city and highway driving. The transmission is smooth and responsive, but occasionally hunts for the ideal gear.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2WD LX | AWD Touring | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4 |
In Consumer Guide Testing, AWD models averaged a frugal-for-the-class 18.2-19.7 mpg. Pilot uses regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2WD LX | AWD Touring | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.4 |
Pavement cracks and patches pass with little impact, though potholes register soundly. Pilot floats a bit and takes a moment to settle after big dips at highway speeds. It never loses its composure, however.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2WD LX | AWD Touring | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 4.5 |
Generally carlike driving feel, with fine low-speed maneuverability and city-friendly turning radius. The tires' tall sidewalls contribute to slightly lazy steering response in quick changes of direction. Pilot's high center of gravity means fair body lean in sharp turns, but no undue noseplow. The 2WD models too easily spin their front tires in rapid acceleration from a stop and are prone to modest torque steer. AWD models are better mannered in this regard and also cope easily with mild off-road trails. Braking is strong and stable, though simulated panic stops generate noticeable nosedive.
QUIETNESS
| 2WD LX | AWD Touring | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.6 |
Overall, Pilot is a quiet and solid crossover. Wind noise is generally muffled, though road roar from tires intrudes at highway speeds. The V6 never rises above a muted growl. Pilot's body is prone to drumming over rough surfaces.
CONTROLS
| 2WD LX | AWD Touring | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6.4 |
Gauges are well laid-out and easy to read. The dash-mounted shift lever is unconventional, but doesn't block access to controls and is simple to operate. Most controls are easy to use, but the center stack contains numerous buttons that require familiarization. The navigation system absorbs no audio or climate functions, which is a plus. However, its control knob and flanking button interface is more complicated to use than the touch screens used on most of Pilot's rivals. Comprehensive 2nd-row climate controls with separate LCD screen are a nice touch.
DETAILS
| 2WD LX | AWD Touring | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.5 |
Fit and finish are generally up to class standards, though Pilot's interior is awash in cheap-looking hard-plastic trim. LX and EX's cloth upholstery looks nice and feels sturdy. EX-L and Touring's leather interior feels only slightly more upscale. One test model suffered from several interior squeaks and rattles, particularly with the 3rd-row seat raised.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2WD LX | AWD Touring | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7.2 |
Supportive seats and generous room all-around. Thick rear roof pillars block the driver's view to the rear corners, but large windows and typically tall SUV driving stance mean good visibility otherwise. Pilot's truck-like ride height means a high step-in.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2WD LX | AWD Touring | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.3 |
Better than average 2nd-row space, with good room and comfort for adults. Tall step-in is a demerit for 2nd-row entry and exit. Third-row access is tricky for adults, though is helped by 2nd-row seats that slide far forward. Three-abreast seating in the 3rd row is for kids only, though two average-sized adults will be comfortable on short trips.
CARGO ROOM
| 2WD LX | AWD Touring | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 8.6 |
A Pilot strong point. Load volume becomes ample once you begin to fold down the seatbacks. Both rear rows drop easily to form a flat deck; 3rd-row latches are positioned rearward and are easily reached from the back of the vehicle. Opening liftgate glass adds versatility. There is space for a couple golf bags or a folded stroller behind the 3rd row. The built-in rear cargo net can be affixed to the side panels to form a second loading "hammock" for smaller, lightweight items. Ample small-items storage includes a versatile front console, two-tier front-seatback pouches, and plenty of compartments and cubbies.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2WD LX | AWD Touring | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 5.8 |
Though trucky on the outside, Pilot is as car-like as any vehicle in this class. That's a good thing, as this Best Buy's combination of performance, utility, and passenger accommodations make it a crossover you must test drive.
Total Score
| 2WD LX | AWD Touring | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 70 | 70 | 64.7 |
Total Score: 70
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
Next Step: Get a price quote from your local dealer ►
