Vehicle Highlights
The 2009 Honda Pilot is redesigned, gaining passenger and cargo space and new styling. This midsize crossover SUV seats eight, with 60/40 split folding benches in the 2nd and 3rd rows. The 2009 Pilot grows one inch wider and almost three inches in overall length and wheelbase compared to the 2003-2008 model. LX, EX, EX-L, and upscale Touring models are offered, all with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The sole powertrain is a 250-hp 3.5-liter V6 and a 5-speed automatic transmission. All Pilots get Honda's Variable Cylinder Management cylinder deactivation, which shuts down cylinders while cruising to save fuel. AWD models have a switch that can lock in a 50/50 front/rear power split. Standard safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. A power tailgate, front and rear obstacle detection, wireless cell-phone link, and navigation system with rearview camera are exclusive to Touring models. DVD entertainment is available on EX-L and Touring.
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 choices are the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, GMC Acadia, Mazda CX-9, and Saturn Outlook. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Toyota Highlander.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Traverse, Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Kia Borrego, Nissan Murano, and Toyota Venza. The Hummer H3 adds a crew-cab pickup truck bodystyle for 2009, while the Dodge Durango adds a gas/electric hybrid model.
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