The Honda Pilot grows almost three inches in length for 2009.
The new model sticks to the concept of the first-generation Pilot, which debuted for the 2003 model year. It retains the boxy, utilitarian body design of a traditional SUV, but also keeps its refined unibody inner structure, which helps provide better on-road ride and handling than a typical truck-based SUV.
The model lineup ascends through LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring trim levels, each with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. As before, three-row seating for eight is standard, but the 2009 Pilot grows one inch wider and almost three inches in overall length and wheelbase compared to the 2003-2008 model. Like the first-generation Pilot, the 2009 model is not engineered for extreme off-road conditions, but it can easily handle most anything the average family could throw at it. Ground clearance is a generous eight inches, and the approach and departure angles--measurements of front and rear clearance for off-road obstacles--are a trail-ready 27.8 and 24.5 degrees, respectively. All-wheel-drive models have a switch that locks in a 50/50 front/rear power split to help conquer mud and snow. All 2009 Pilots have a towing capacity of 4500 pounds, thanks to a standard integrated hitch and heavy-duty radiator.
Powertrain Polish
Pilot's sole powertrain remains a 3.5-liter V6, but horsepower is up six to 250 this year, while torque is up 13 lb-ft to 253. The engine features the latest generation of Honda's Variable Cylinder Management, a fuel-saving system that enables the engine to run six, four, or three cylinders as driving conditions permit. VCM is now included on all-wheel-drive as well as front-wheel-drive models. A dashboard "ECO" light notifies the driver when the engine is operating at maximum efficiency.
The VCM system operated seamlessly on our preview test drives, which also revealed that the new Pilot has adequate power for most any driving situation. Despite early rumors of a 6-speed automatic transmission, Pilot retains a 5-speed unit. It delivers the engine's power well enough, but we noticed a couple instances where the transmission seemed to be hunting for the ideal gear.
Pilot's 3.5-liter V6 gains six horsepower for 2009, boosting it to 250 horsepower.
On- and Off-Road Manners
The original Pilot was a benchmark for overall on-road handling refinement in its class, and the 2009 model maintains that status. Pilot's tight turning radius is a boon for parking-lot maneuverability, and the solid body structure provides a compliant and composed ride in both around-town and highway driving. Highway wind and engine noise are well muffled, though the relatively aggressively treaded tires emitted plenty of road roar on our preview test drive.
Our test drive included a short stint on a mild off-road trail, which an all-wheel-drive Pilot handled with little complaint. We also had the opportunity to test the Hill Start Assist, a new standard feature that prevents the vehicle from creeping backward when accelerating from a stop on steep grades. The system worked smoothly and seamlessly on a sharply inclined grassy hill, and we're sure the feature would be equally beneficial on hilly, urban roads.
Hauling People
As before, the Pilot offers eight-passenger seating, but the slightly larger overall dimensions help enhance accommodations for second- and third-row passengers. The second row is impressively spacious, with adequate room for three-abreast adult seating. The third row isn't as expansive--it's reasonably comfortable for two average-sized adults, but three is a bit of squeeze. Comprehensive second-row climate controls with a separate LCD screen are a nice touch, as are separate air vents for the third row. Access to all seating rows is hindered slightly by a high step-in height. Third-row entry and exit is helped by second-row seats that tilt and slide far forward, but it is still a tricky process best performed by the young and the nimble--or those who don't mind crouching and squeezing.
The dashboard contains copious buttons and switches, but they are well marked and easy enough to use after familiarization.
The laudable list of standard safety features includes antilock brakes, traction control, an antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags that cover all three seating rows. In addition, Pilot boasts four LATCH (Lower Anchor and Tether for CHildren) positions, three in the second row and one in the third row (most midsize SUVs have only two). Though having four car seats in the vehicle at one time is probably unlikely for most families, the extra LATCH positions nevertheless provide more passenger and cargo versatility.
Hauling Stuff
Cargo room, another Pilot strong point, is also improved for 2009. With all seats up, there is 3.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third-row seats--enough for a folded stroller or a pair of golf bags. Also included is a multi-function cargo net that affixes to the interior side panels to create a "hammock" for loading smaller, lightweight items. Both the second and third rows fold in a 60/40 split. With the second and third-row seats folded down, Pilot's cargo area can swallow a 4x8 sheet of plywood.
Thoughtful cargo area touches include an underfloor storage compartment, third-row seatback-mounted hooks for securing shopping bags, and third-row latches positioned far enough rearward so that the third-row seat can easily be folded from the rear of the vehicle. The tailgate now features separate-opening glass, and a power tailgate is available for the first time (on the Touring model only). The ample small-items storage spaces include two-tier front-seatback pockets and a particularly voluminous configurable console bin.
In sum, the new Pilot does an impressive job of retaining its distinct SUV flavor without sacrificing car-like road manners and overall refinement. Power, economy, and passenger/cargo accommodations are all enhanced over the outgoing model, making Pilot a midsize SUV must-see. Full pricing was not available in time for this report, but Honda projects a base price range of $27,500 to $40,000. The 2009 Pilot is set to arrive at Honda dealerships in May.
With the second and third-row seats folded down, Pilot's cargo area can swallow a 4x8 sheet of plywood.
04.23.2008
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