The 2015 Honda Pilot is considered by many to be the perfect family vehicle.
The only unfortunate situation is that — while the 2015 model is one of the best SUVs to date — a completely revised 2016 model is on the way. The larger, longer 2016 model is already appearing at auto shows, though it won't be out in the dealerships for some time.
It might, however, be a great time to negotiate on a 2015 model — it is somewhat more "utilitarian" in design than the 2016 model and some people might prefer it over the new version, which I think looks too much like a minivan.
Being a midsize SUV, the current Pilot is not too big, allowing it to easily handle heavy traffic or tight parking spaces. Yet it can still comfortably seat as many passengers as a full-size.
Competing against the likes of the Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder and Toyota Highlander, the Honda Pilot stands alone as the only one that can comfortably seat eight. However, the Pilot does lack some of the latest technological features available in its rivals.
New for 2015, Honda has added a new trim level to the Pilot lineup. Customers can select the Special Edition, which slots in between the base LX and the EX-L.
Design
The exterior of the Pilot is defined by its long wheelbase. It's upright and somewhat boxy, but its short overhangs allow for generous interior space. Overall, the look is not unpleasant and should not go out of style anytime soon. The "blocky" look gives it an off-road feel that isn't the current trend of new SUVs which favours softer, rounder corners.
Unique details include turn signals integrated into its halogen headlights, and available body-coloured heated power side mirrors with built in turn signals. Wheel choices range from 17-inch steel wheels up to 18-inch alloys with machined surfaces on Touring models.
Accessing the cargo area is made easy with the available power tailgate. Plus, the tailgate glass flips up independently for added versatility.
Like the outside, the inside of the Pilot is conservative, but its basic design is efficient and works well. The new Pilot Special Edition comes with sporty pewter gray alloy wheels, special SE badging, a one-touch-open power moonroof with tilt feature, Sirius XM radio, and a Honda DVD Rear Entertainment system.
Performance
All 2015 Pilots are powered by a refined and fuel-efficient 250 horsepower 3.5-litre V-6 with Variable Cylinder Management. The engine can operate on three, four, or all six cylinders to help make it one of the most efficient eight-passenger SUVs.
The engine is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The transmission has been engineered to optimize fuel economy with extra-wide gear ratios for good, low-end response and comfortable highway cruising.
And should you go off-road, the Pilot is equipped with Grade Logic Control to maintain the most appropriate gear when climbing or descending steep grades.
All trims are available with Honda's Variable Torque Management four-wheel drive system (VTM-4). In normal use, all the power goes through the front wheels, enhancing fuel economy on non-taxing drives. When extra traction is needed, the VTM-4 ECU engages the rear differential, seamlessly transferring power to the rear wheels. For maximum traction, VTM-4 Lock engages full four-wheel lock at low speeds.
Complementing the Pilot's powertrain is its rigid body structure and fully independent suspension, providing a smooth, controlled ride. Its rack-and-pinion steering gives stable and predictable handling, and easy manoeuvrability in tight spaces. Truth be told, the Pilot's high centre of gravity prevents it from high-speed cornering, but this is a family SUV and not a sports car.
The good thing about the current 2015 Pilot is that its handling has a great road feel in comparison to many of its rivals that have gone softer in feel over the years.
Environment
Comfort is the theme throughout the cabin of the Pilot. Whether you're sitting in either the front bucket seats or the two rows of three-person bench seats in the back, you will receive more than enough legroom. This is hard to find in a midsize SUV.
Functionality is also abundant as the theatre-style design of the second and third rows allows for easier access and improved sightlines. The tri-zone automatic climate control keeps everyone at a comfortable temperature.
Behind the third row, cargo space is roughly equivalent to the trunk of a large sedan. If that's not enough, there's an ample storage bin below the floor and plenty of roof space for the optional carrier rack.
The Pilot comes standard with an eight-inch multi-information display. Also standard is a rearview camera, which is welcome every time you are reversing.
Those unhappy with the original equipment stereo can opt for the available ten-speaker premium audio system. It has a 5.1 surround sound theatre mode, which nicely compliments the available DVD Rear Entertainment System with nine-inch display and wireless headsets.
Features
Ranging in price from $37,273 to $51,023, the Pilot is available in five trim levels. Standard equipment includes Bluetooth, 60/40 split folding second and third-row benches, three-zone automatic climate control, rearview camera, vehicle stability assist with traction control, electronic brakeforce distribution, and an integrated trailer hitch. Additional features, available as options or on higher trims, include heated front seats, heated second row, heated side mirrors, power tailgate, moonroof and a rear entertainment system.
Fuel efficiency numbers (l/100 km) are 13.3 city, 9.3 highway, and 11.5 combined.
Thumbs up
The Pilot's strength lies in its versatility. The second row not only reclines, but slides forward and back to accommodate passengers in the third row. Its overall feel is more SUV-like than others with a muscular feel.
Thumbs down
Those looking for the latest technological advances will need to look elsewhere. Also, if you always want the latest model, you might want to wait to see the 2016.
The bottom line
If you are looking for a midsize SUV, but need maximum seating capacity and flexibility, the Honda Pilot checks all the boxes with a great road feel.
Competitors
Ford Explorer No longer simply a rugged, truck-based SUV, the Explorer offers on-road refinement. While big and comfortable, it isn't the most nimble SUV on the market. Starting prices for the Explorer range from $30,749 to $48,049.
Nissan Pathfinder
The Pathfinder is a seven-passenger SUV with stylish looks, plush interior, and sporty driving dynamics. The 2015 Pathfinder is not as capable off-road as its ancestors, nor can it tow as much but it is smooth and comfortable. The Nissan Pathfinder starts at $29,998.
Toyota Highlander
While the 2014 Toyota Highlander is all-new, it retains its winning formula of offering comfortable, practical solution to SUV buyers. Across the board, the new Highlander is a nicer vehicle, but its overall driving character is too soft to differentiate itself from competitors - it feels too much like a minivan. The Toyota Highlander's starting prices range from $32,375 to $45,795.
editor@automotivepress.com
