2009 Honda Pilot

The Pilot is Honda's midsize 4WD replacement for the MR-V. The new-for-2009 SUV increases a bit in size while attempting to move slightly upscale with its available luxury options. An all-new look features slab-sided styling, and a weird new standard grille which can be replaced by an optional better-looking grille. The longer wheelbase adds second-row and third-row legroom as well as additional cargo space. It can supposedly seat eight people. New to the Pilot is Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) which allows the 3.5-litre V6 engine to operate on half the cylinders when power is not needed, improving fuel economy. Also standard is a 5-speed automatic. Based on the same platform as the Odyssey minivan, the Pilot claims to be an off-roader, but only succeeds moderately, with an all-wheel-drive system that can lock itself in a 50:50 front/rear power split, but with no low-range gearing. Standard safety features include ABS, traction control, stability control, front-side airbags and... Read More