Looking at a machine like the Honda Pilot, it’s easy to forget that Honda got their start building small engines, small cars and motorcycles. Pilot takes a place as the largest SUV in Honda’s vehicle lineup, and its styling places it solidly as one of the more ‘truck-like’ sport utilities in its marketplace.
Pilot is a big machine-- with room for up to 8 passengers, plenty of storage and a spacious cabin. Towing capacity of over 2,000 kg should prove adequate for many buyers, and the Pilot was capable of handling moderate off-road situations, too.
That’s thanks in part to Honda's Variable Torque Management (VTM) 4x4 system, which operated in a front-drive configuration until the added traction of four wheel drive was needed. VTM worked without driver involvement, kicking in instantly as needed. The effect was decent fuel economy alongside automatic all-terrain traction.
The VTM system had a four-wheel ‘lock’ function for preemptive engagement of the four wheel drive system. There was no low-range offered though, so you may find Pilot’s off-road capabilities somewhat limited-- depending on your lifestyle. Note that later in the Pilot's life, a front-drive version was released, too. Mileage and price were more digestible, at the expense of traction and off-road ability.
Power came exclusively from a 3.5 litre V6 engine with Honda's Valve Timing Electronic Control (VTEC) system. The engine delivered adequate snap for most situations, though fans of V8-powered SUVs will likely want to look elsewhere. Output was rated at either 240 or 244 horsepowers depending on the year selected, and a five-speed automatic was standard.
Most owners love the room, capability and feeling of security the Pilot delivers on the road. A commanding driving position and reasonably responsive steering and brakes are appreciated, too. Perhaps the Pilot’s most commonly praised attribute is its room and space. Owners from all walks of life say the Pilot is always ready and willing to accommodate their day to day needs.
Finally, most owners say the Pilot has a nice, comfortable ride. This is probably due to Honda’s decision not to fit monstrous oversized wheels and low profile tires like many competitors.
Common gripes include durability issues with paint and interior materials. Some owners report paint that chips easily, and leather that is easily scuffed and damaged—especially in the rear seats. When checking out a used Pilot, be sure to have a look at the paint, leather and upholstery closely. If wear looks uncharacteristically high for the year and mileage of vehicle, call it into pricing negotiations.
Many owners wish the Pilot had a telescoping steering column and a more powerful stereo, too.
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| 2005 Honda Pilot |
Pilot is a big machine-- with room for up to 8 passengers, plenty of storage and a spacious cabin. Towing capacity of over 2,000 kg should prove adequate for many buyers, and the Pilot was capable of handling moderate off-road situations, too.
That’s thanks in part to Honda's Variable Torque Management (VTM) 4x4 system, which operated in a front-drive configuration until the added traction of four wheel drive was needed. VTM worked without driver involvement, kicking in instantly as needed. The effect was decent fuel economy alongside automatic all-terrain traction.
The VTM system had a four-wheel ‘lock’ function for preemptive engagement of the four wheel drive system. There was no low-range offered though, so you may find Pilot’s off-road capabilities somewhat limited-- depending on your lifestyle. Note that later in the Pilot's life, a front-drive version was released, too. Mileage and price were more digestible, at the expense of traction and off-road ability.
Power came exclusively from a 3.5 litre V6 engine with Honda's Valve Timing Electronic Control (VTEC) system. The engine delivered adequate snap for most situations, though fans of V8-powered SUVs will likely want to look elsewhere. Output was rated at either 240 or 244 horsepowers depending on the year selected, and a five-speed automatic was standard.
Most owners love the room, capability and feeling of security the Pilot delivers on the road. A commanding driving position and reasonably responsive steering and brakes are appreciated, too. Perhaps the Pilot’s most commonly praised attribute is its room and space. Owners from all walks of life say the Pilot is always ready and willing to accommodate their day to day needs.
Finally, most owners say the Pilot has a nice, comfortable ride. This is probably due to Honda’s decision not to fit monstrous oversized wheels and low profile tires like many competitors.
Common gripes include durability issues with paint and interior materials. Some owners report paint that chips easily, and leather that is easily scuffed and damaged—especially in the rear seats. When checking out a used Pilot, be sure to have a look at the paint, leather and upholstery closely. If wear looks uncharacteristically high for the year and mileage of vehicle, call it into pricing negotiations.
Many owners wish the Pilot had a telescoping steering column and a more powerful stereo, too.
 |
| 2005 Honda Pilot |