The 2012 Honda Pilot SUV receives a major front-end makeover, with more rounded edges, a softer grille and more chrome trim. EX and EX-L trims gain updated audio systems that include a 2GB CD library, Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity, and streaming audio, while the EX-L gains an 8-inch color Multi-Information Display. All trims see a 1 mpg increase in fuel economy.
For 2011, Honda's voice-activated satellite navigation system is now available on both the EX-L and Touring trims.
The Pilot is Honda's largest SUV offering and has earned a reputation for reliability, comfort and performance. Sharing a chassis with the Acura MDX has its benefits, and the Pilot sails into 2007 leading its class in just about every category. Although it offers seating for eight passengers, the Pilot is not nearly as bulky or cumbersome as most full-size SUVs and its silky-smooth V6 engine delivers strong performance coupled with superb fuel economy. The Pilot's uni-body construction permits the use of a sophisticated rear suspension that delivers an impressively smooth ride and agile handling. On the downside, this design limits the Pilot's tow rating to 4,500 pounds for boat trailers and 3,500 pounds for all others.
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why ads?By Smitty (Pennsylvania) on Wednesday, December 22, 2010
I own this car
overall rating 5 of 5rating detailsLikely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I would recommend this vehicle to anyone who works hard for their money and wants the most out of a family vehicle. We bought a new 2004 pilot after much argument from me but eventually gave into my wife's desires for a that vehicle. I've never been disappointed, we put 138,000 miles on that one with only normal maintenance so this year we bought a 2010 with leather and rear entertainment system for the kids and everyone loves it. I really can't describe how this one is different from our 2004 because I honestly didn't think it could get much better but this one feels as though it's running on rails, meaning it is a more solid driver and gives you a comfort level that is actually scary. We tow a camper which weights in a little over 4000lbs loaded and the 2010 pulls harder than our 2004 Pilot did. My only complaint is that fully loaded with the camper and gear the rear on both pilots squatted but to remedy this I installed air bag in the rear coils which when inflated makes it ride like a solid axle vehicle which is what you want for towing and when you deflate them you are back to the luxury factory ride. I understand most people won't have the need for the air bags but thought I'd mention it for those of you who want to tow heavier trailers and needed a way to keep the rear from swaying around under load. All around we use it fairly hard and both of them have never disappointed us. I'm a toolmaker by trade and can tell you that Honda builds things right and I do most of the maintenance so I see this first hand.It's the most enjoyable and dependable vehicle we have ever owned and highly recommend it."
30 people out of 30 found this review helpful
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By MammA (Fairfax, VA) on Friday, May 20, 2011
overall rating 5 of 5rating details
"Bought my 2011 Pilot 3 weeks ago and LOVE it. We are a family of 5 tall people and this car is perfect. Great for carting around our teenage son and his friends. Highly recommend buying this over a Highlander!!!! PROS-huge interior, fits in a normal parking space, great acceleration, ECO engine, plenty of room behind 3rd row(will fit 3 or more sets of football gear), LOTS of storage compartments, easy to fold seats(my 5 y.o. can do it), easy to clean, 360 AC vents, great turning, drives smooth like a car, rear windows roll all the way down CONS-dirt clings to plastic interior trim, rain drips in if window is cracked, driver cup holders could be moved in first slot, glove box too small, would be nice if center row reclined more, all 12V plugs turn off when car is off"
14 people out of 14 found this review helpful
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By Goride21 (MO) on Monday, July 11, 2011
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 31,000
overall rating 5 of 5rating detailsPros: "fun to drive, very versatile, many premium features"
Cons: "not gas friendly at current prices"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I think any bad review here is for those who should have bought a crossover. This is a full size SUV and not a gas sipper! For a full size SUV, it does everything I believe it should, and more. My wife owns a Highlander and immediately tried to take this car over from me. Why? Because it has that little bit of extra room and versatility that you would expect from a larger vehicle that suits a family. It's much tighter than her Highlander, and we have not had one issue compared to about 6 or 7 with the 08 Highlander, including some recalls. It gets about 1 mpg less, but the extra room in the 3rd row is what has paid for itself with us. We can comfortably use that 3rd row which is not honestly realistic with the Highlander. The options on my EX-L pretty much satisfied all on my wishlist. Backup camera, dual power seats, heated seats, accessory plugs, etc. Perfect vehicle. I have owned many cars, and drive an average of two rental cars/week, and I can honestly say this car deserves many accolades. Trading for a new one in a few weeks.!!!!"
8 people out of 8 found this review helpful
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