On the Road: Adequate and versatile is how I'd describe the redesigned 2009 Honda Pilot. I enjoyed my time behind the wheel checking out the varied road conditions one has to face in day-to-day commuting. I'm generally not a big fan of SUVs. But Honda made this one with people like me in mind.
Honda gets credit for creating the right-size SUV for the average consumer. Its new exterior design might be a safe play on Honda's part, but the fresh new face and defined outlines are just the right combo for those who want a midsize crossover with a rugged-traditional SUV shape without screaming "I'm an SUV." The Pilot EX I tested was equipped with a 250-hp, 3.5L i-VTEC V-6 engine with 253 lb-ft of torque at 4800 rpm, which provided more than enough oomph to zip through highway traffic without an overaggressive torque feel. It also held its speed as I climbed though the San Bernardino Mountains on the infamous Cajon pass. I didn't have to mash my foot to the floor to keep at a steady speed as I climbed to the 4000-ft elevation marks. I managed to maintain 25-27 mpg during highway and city driving. Honda rates the vehicle at 23 mpg on average.
The ride was smooth on asphalt without the boatlike floating feel. Its suspension reminded me of a lesser-tuned version of our long-term Acura RDX, where it hugs every bump in the road, but you don't feel it hit your guts with each passing jolt.
Honda provides the Pilot with lots of cargo room and a spacious third row. The seating configuration is flexible and easy to use. "Hey, I can fit" is the reaction I got from a buddy who had the honors of sandwiching himself in the third row of the 2008 Subaru Tribeca during an adventure we took last year. He was surprised at the room in the pilot's third row. With the help of siding second-row seats, it gave him the extra inches he needs to sit comfortably. The only problem I faced was in front of me; unfortunately, my knees were within 2.0 in. from the dash because of my 5'4" frames. The shape of the lower dash might be too round for those who have to sit close to the steering wheel. I love the new gauges within the dash; when backlit, they give off a soothing aquatic glow. And the center-console controls are laid out nicely and easy to use. I really dig the glassy frosted-green face that surrounds the controls.
Child seats are a loving nuisance in my morning routine. The Pilot's child safety-seat latches are easy to get to and make transferring the seat in and out a simple click. I was impressed to see the third row equipped with proper labels and latches to secure an additional child seat for those with larger families.
How Much: Base price, $27,595; as tested, $31,065
What's Hot: Sharp new looks with 4.1-cu-ft-more interior space than the previous generation that delivers what it promises
What's Not: 60-0-mph braking at 148 ft
Like this? Try These: Mazda CX-9, Subaru Forester, Toyota highlander
Bottom Line: Right size, right functions, and an all-around comfortable midsize SUV for active lifestyles