The best-selling midsize Honda Pilot SUV underwent its 2006 mid-cycle refreshing with the introduction of a new model and a number of upgrades.
The midlevel EX trim offers a VTEC-equipped 3.5-liter V6 producing 244 hp coupled to a five-speed automatic that flows power to Honda’s all-wheel-drive system, Variable Torque Management 4WD, which features an electronically locking rear differential. Most 4WD systems send power to the front wheels and shift it rearward when slippage occurs up front. Honda’s system, however, also sends some of the power to the rear wheels whenever the driver accelerates. In addition, the driver, via a push-button differential lock, can at any time send 50% of the available power to the rear wheels. The EPA rates this configuration for 17/22 mpg on regular fuel.
The EX trim line adds to the LX trim’s standard amenities an upgraded six-speaker audio system, automatic climate control, rear privacy glass, an in-dash 6-CD player, body-color side mirrors and door handles, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, a power driver’s seat, HomeLink universal garage/gate opener, outside temperature indicator, machined-alloy wheels, foglights, roof rails, and Vehicle Stability Assist – Honda’s stability control system.
Based on the midsize Accord sedan platform, the Pilot wins praise for its car-like agility, nimbleness, and balanced ride and handling characteristics. Stable at highway speeds, the Pilot can also handle winter-erupted, potholed city streets calmly and comfortably. The ABS disc brakes produce linear, smooth braking in panic stop simulations, and the rack-and-pinion steering provides good road feel.
The interior is simple and practical with spot-on ergonomics and Honda-level fit and finish. There’s a cupholder for every seat, and cubbies and storage pockets abound. The spacious midsize Pilot seats eight in relative comfort – reviewers can’t seem to agree what size humans fit in the third row. With the rear two rows folded flat into the floor, it offers 90.3 cubic feet of cargo space; its four-foot-wide cargo floor swallows full sheets of building materials. The Pilot’s cargo space exceeds that of the GMC Envoy, Ford Explorer, Nissan Murano, and the Toyota Highlander.
All Pilot trims come standard with dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags, front side-impact airbags, and, new for 2006, three-row curtain air bags. Brakes are ABS four-wheel discs with electronic brakeforce distribution. The EX trim also includes a vehicle stability control system. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration awarded the Pilot its five-star (highest) rating for side and frontal crash tests and four out of five stars for the rollover test.
