Honda Pilot (2009 - 2015) Reviews, Pricing & Specs

The Honda Pilot was redesigned in 2009 with a slightly boxer look with larger windows pillars that result in more blind spots than previous models. This is due to government regulation. Outward visibility is affected by the changes, but it is not as bad as newer vehicles. The 250HP 6 is as strong as the earlier model and acceleration times are not affected by the additional weight in this generation. The car is smoother and quieter than both the 1st and the 3rd generation models. Handling is very good as well and outshine the 3rd generation pilots. Interior volume with both rows folded is very good at 87 cubic feet. All pilots are spacious, with the first taking the edge with 91. The pluses of this car is reliability, repair simplicity good handling, quiet interior, and precise steering. The Pilot falls a little short in acceleration and fuel mileage. Typical city gas mileage is 17 mpg with the 2wd and 15.5 with the 4wd versions. Higgway is 21 at 80 mph, which is today's cruise speed. Unless the car is towing, the engine transmission and brakes dont get tired. This car is a 4 star car. It does most things well, Aug 20, 2025

This is my 2nd Pilot Touring (2nd generation also) my 2012 was totaled, RIP. The versatility of this vehicle and the ride on the highway especially made me really happy that I got a pilot back in 2012. Trips to Sams club , awesome. or a long distance road trip with 2 to 7 people comfortably, also a huge plus. Being a honda, its reputation for reliability always made me a customer. Ive also had accords before, being a car person, I love the handling of accords and even this large pilot handles very well! On my 2012 I put all-seasn high performance tires from continental, and akebono brake pads and nice rotors from rockauto...the handling and stopping power was even better! And handles rain and snow very well. And the hitch, put 4 bikes on there, easy! Also even though its old tech now, having a 15 GB had to store music is really nice, in addition to Bluetooth. The rear entertainment is a definite plus. Apple car play and android auto are nice in newer vehicles, but Im good with this systems the Touring comes with. My maintenance costs havent been high, and parts are readily available. Some can be found cheaper...and if you are into DIY maintenance, you can save even more! Definitely do the maintenance as close to the schedule as possible. My 2012 I bought in 2021 at 146k, I probably would have had it for even another 10 years, the way it was running. (Accident and totaled in 2024 at 207k miles, RIP). I believe this 2013 I bought last week, at 175k miles will give me atleast 8-10 years of good driving service. Im probably rambling...but yeah, this is a very good and versatile family vehicle. It is a bit wide for some people to get used to, but driving with 4 to 6 teens and pre-teens, this definitely is appreciated by all.Jul 29, 2024

I really wanted the 2012 Honda Pilot. Loved the older body style, the standard (and spacious) 3rd row seat, and 4WD. But have had a lot of issues with wheel bearings and suspension. Currently only has 110,000 miles with 4 new tires, new brakes, and 4 new wheel bearings but it still shimmy’s and shakes while breaking. Reading other reviews, looks like Honda has a lot of issues with suspension on this vehicle and is refusing to recall it. Disappointing that they are not going to stand by their work like they used too. My dads older Honda Odyssey with 80k miles has some engin issues Honda is also refusing to recall. Will not buy another Honda. Will pay more go back to the Toyota Highlander, 4Runner or Subaru. Aug 21, 2022

I love driving the 2013 Pilot. It handles great, is very comfortable on the interior, and fun to drive. Additional pros are that there is plenty of cargo space available, an automatic lift gate, tinted windows to keep you cooler when it's sunny outside, bluetooth connectivity, and the DVD player is great with kids. My only complaint is the MPGs averaging around 18-20... city and/or highway it seems.Jun 16, 2014