2009 Honda Pilot Las Vegas NV

November 18, 2009   By Jon Alain Guzik, Editor-in-Chief



2009 Honda Pilot
DriverSide Overview
When it comes to a full, or close to full-sized, SUV , there are more options out there than latte varieties at your local coffeehouse. Picking the exact one that is right for you is no easy task. Start with a list of things you want: plenty of seating, copious amounts of cargo room, power everything and a comfortable and airbag laden interior . Add to that good looks and great gas mileage and you’re onto something. Basically, you want what dating experts call ‘The Complete Package’. The car from the ground up, second generation 2009 Honda Pilot answers all of those demands and even provides some amenities you wouldn’t expect from a Honda. With its muscular exterior that’s anything but demure and an optional all-wheel drive system that’s ready to tackle wet roads, snow covered mountains and Costco parking lots, the Honda Pilot hits all the right notes. Of course, with gas mileage that’s more sedan than SUV-like and a fit and finish that’s Honda perfect, it’s hard to find fault with this Japanese automaker’s king of the hill SUV.








What’s to like
The Pilot gets up to 23 miles per gallon highway thanks to Honda’s Variable Cylinder Management, which shuts down up to half of the vehicle’s cylinders depending on power needs. This SUV also comes standard with a lockable all-wheel drive system for slippery situations like boat ramps or snowy driveways. Powerful brakes and a stable platform also make for a confident ride.

What’s not to like
While the 3.5-liter V-6 engine is peppy, the Pilot could use a little more in the gusto department when fully laden or while towing. Also, a large C-pillar makes for an uncomfortable blind spot in a vehicle this large. Adjustable pedals are only available in the more expensive Touring trim.

The Drive:
DriverSide Driving Impressions
With just the driver and one passenger, the Pilot’s drive is remarkably similar to a V-6 Accord , albeit, a lot larger. The SUV isn’t light on its feet by any means, but the engine provides ample enough power to get out of its own way in tight situations. While the expected body roll is there, it’s less than you would imagine for an SUV this size, making for a pleasing, easy-to-drive vehicle. While we’ve come to expect a certain amount of cabin noise in SUVs, the Pilot is remarkably quiet inside. Even in off-road situations, the Pilot was Honda-like – meaning safe, comfortable and quiet.

Engine and Drivetrain
The Pilot comes with a 3.5-liter aluminum V-6 engine, producing 250 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque. Those numbers are up by about 10 horsepower over last year’s figures. The engine is coupled to a 5-speed automatic transmission that provides smooth, quiet shifts coupled to either front- or all-wheel drive.

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